Psychiatrists in 02882

Photo of Sana Kalra - ME Psychotherapy, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
ME Psychotherapy
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I specialize in serving clients who are navigating a range of challenges, from managing stress, anxiety, and depression to coping with life transitions, trauma, ADHD, and other disorders. Their needs are multifaceted; they require a safe space to express themselves openly without judgment and seek guidance in developing a regimen that may include medications, coping strategies, and effective management of their condition. Their journey may involve the need for medications alongside psychotherapy. I can assist them in managing this aspect of care with comprehensive psychiatric evaluations and ongoing treatment monitoring.
I specialize in serving clients who are navigating a range of challenges, from managing stress, anxiety, and depression to coping with life transitions, trauma, ADHD, and other disorders. Their needs are multifaceted; they require a safe space to express themselves openly without judgment and seek guidance in developing a regimen that may include medications, coping strategies, and effective management of their condition. Their journey may involve the need for medications alongside psychotherapy. I can assist them in managing this aspect of care with comprehensive psychiatric evaluations and ongoing treatment monitoring.
(401) 420-6676 View (401) 420-6676
Photo of Elizabeth Niemiec, MD, Psychiatrist
Elizabeth Niemiec
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Narragansett, RI 02882
As a board certified adult psychiatrist, I specialize in prescribing medication and providing psychotherapy for anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, trauma, sleep disturbances and other emotional conditions. I studied at Harvard, Brown and Cornell Universities, and I am certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. Patients often come to me when they are struggling to find the right psychiatric medication to manage their symptoms. It can be difficult to find a medication that offers relief without burdensome side effects. Together, we can find a regimen that works for you.
As a board certified adult psychiatrist, I specialize in prescribing medication and providing psychotherapy for anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, trauma, sleep disturbances and other emotional conditions. I studied at Harvard, Brown and Cornell Universities, and I am certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. Patients often come to me when they are struggling to find the right psychiatric medication to manage their symptoms. It can be difficult to find a medication that offers relief without burdensome side effects. Together, we can find a regimen that works for you.
(401) 205-0287 View (401) 205-0287
Photo of Gloria M Mazza - North Road Psychiatry, APRN, PMHNP, AGNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
North Road Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, AGNP
Verified Verified
Narragansett, RI 02882
North Road Psychiatry is a small private practice focusing on working with young adults through elders to feel and function better in their lives and relationships. I look forward to learning about my patients, working together to find the best diagnosis and choosing treatment tools like medications, therapy and lifestyle changes that are best tailored to them.
North Road Psychiatry is a small private practice focusing on working with young adults through elders to feel and function better in their lives and relationships. I look forward to learning about my patients, working together to find the best diagnosis and choosing treatment tools like medications, therapy and lifestyle changes that are best tailored to them.
(401) 271-4924 View (401) 271-4924
Photo of Michael Trazi, PMHCS, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Michael Trazi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHCS, BC
Verified Verified
Online Only
Mike has 30+ years working in Psych and 7+ years of prescribing experience and services adolescence from 5-17 years old. He takes a holistic approach to treatment and he understand that one's mental health affects the entire family unit and not just you alone. He has decades of experience working at Bradley Children's Hospital, The Brown Center for Children and Families, and is knowledgeable of community resources available to you. He understands the importance of therapy, medication, and good behavior modification skills.
Mike has 30+ years working in Psych and 7+ years of prescribing experience and services adolescence from 5-17 years old. He takes a holistic approach to treatment and he understand that one's mental health affects the entire family unit and not just you alone. He has decades of experience working at Bradley Children's Hospital, The Brown Center for Children and Families, and is knowledgeable of community resources available to you. He understands the importance of therapy, medication, and good behavior modification skills.
(401) 593-3562 View (401) 593-3562
Photo of Mary M. Santa Teresa, MD, Psychiatrist
Mary M. Santa Teresa
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Narragansett, RI 02882
Dr. Mary M. Santa Teresa is a Psychiatrist in Rhode Island who has been practicing since 2003. She earned degrees at the University of the East Ramon Magsaysay Memorial Medical Center, Mt. Sinai Medical Center/North General Hospital, and The Cambridge Hospital/Harvard Medical School. Dr. Santa Teresa would like to help you be the best you can be, try your best and master your coping skills. With a psychopharmacologic assessment and treatment plan, you and Dr. Santa Teresa can discover how symptoms develop and set goals so that you can take charge of your life and be healthy.
Dr. Mary M. Santa Teresa is a Psychiatrist in Rhode Island who has been practicing since 2003. She earned degrees at the University of the East Ramon Magsaysay Memorial Medical Center, Mt. Sinai Medical Center/North General Hospital, and The Cambridge Hospital/Harvard Medical School. Dr. Santa Teresa would like to help you be the best you can be, try your best and master your coping skills. With a psychopharmacologic assessment and treatment plan, you and Dr. Santa Teresa can discover how symptoms develop and set goals so that you can take charge of your life and be healthy.
(401) 375-9885 View (401) 375-9885
Photo of Dr. Mary Santa Teresa - LifeStance Health, MD, Psychiatrist
LifeStance Health
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Narragansett, RI 02882
Making your first appointment can be one of the most challenging steps in your mental health journey. At LifeStance, we make it simple by offering both online and in-person therapy and psychiatry services, covered by major insurance plans.
Making your first appointment can be one of the most challenging steps in your mental health journey. At LifeStance, we make it simple by offering both online and in-person therapy and psychiatry services, covered by major insurance plans.
(866) 316-1889 View (866) 316-1889
Photo of Nicole Sanchez, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Nicole Sanchez
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Narragansett, RI 02882
Hello, my name is Nicole Sanchez. I became a nurse practitioner because I genuinely love to help people. I was born on the beautiful island of Puerto Rico and raised in Providence, Rhode Island. I started my journey to become a registered nurse because I felt a calling to help people in need and when they are at their worst. I graduated from National University College in Arecibo, Puerto Rico with a Bachelor’s Degree in Nursing in 2011. I am fluent in Spanish and English. I have worked as an inpatient psychiatric nurse for over 6 years.
Hello, my name is Nicole Sanchez. I became a nurse practitioner because I genuinely love to help people. I was born on the beautiful island of Puerto Rico and raised in Providence, Rhode Island. I started my journey to become a registered nurse because I felt a calling to help people in need and when they are at their worst. I graduated from National University College in Arecibo, Puerto Rico with a Bachelor’s Degree in Nursing in 2011. I am fluent in Spanish and English. I have worked as an inpatient psychiatric nurse for over 6 years.
(401) 289-1014 View (401) 289-1014
Photo of Laura Davidson, DNP,  PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Laura Davidson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Narragansett, RI 02882
Dr. Laura Davidson is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Rhode Island who has been practicing since 2011. She earned a Bachelor’s of Nursing at University of Arizona, a Master’s of Nursing with PMHNP at Arizona State University, and a Doctorate of Nursing Practice at Arizona State University. Behavioral health medications work best when combined with self-kindness, adequate sleep, and setting aside a little special time just for you. In Dr. Davidson’s experience, people seem to struggle the most with self-kindness. When we are struggling with low mood and anxiety, our inner critic becomes louder and meaner.
Dr. Laura Davidson is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Rhode Island who has been practicing since 2011. She earned a Bachelor’s of Nursing at University of Arizona, a Master’s of Nursing with PMHNP at Arizona State University, and a Doctorate of Nursing Practice at Arizona State University. Behavioral health medications work best when combined with self-kindness, adequate sleep, and setting aside a little special time just for you. In Dr. Davidson’s experience, people seem to struggle the most with self-kindness. When we are struggling with low mood and anxiety, our inner critic becomes louder and meaner.
(401) 227-8195 View (401) 227-8195
Michael Trazi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHCNS-
Verified Verified
Narragansett, RI 02882
Mike has 30+ years working in Psych and 7+ years of prescribing experience and services adolescence from 5-17 years old. He takes a holistic approach to treatment and he understand that one's mental health affects the entire family unit and not just you alone. He has decades of experience working at Bradley Children's Hospital, The Brown Center for Children and Families, and is knowledgeable of community resources available to you. He understands the importance of therapy, medication, and good behavior modification skills.
Mike has 30+ years working in Psych and 7+ years of prescribing experience and services adolescence from 5-17 years old. He takes a holistic approach to treatment and he understand that one's mental health affects the entire family unit and not just you alone. He has decades of experience working at Bradley Children's Hospital, The Brown Center for Children and Families, and is knowledgeable of community resources available to you. He understands the importance of therapy, medication, and good behavior modification skills.
(401) 420-5585 View (401) 420-5585

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Darryle Steinberg, MSN, PMHNP, CNM, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Darryle Steinberg
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, CNM
Verified Verified
Online Only
Not accepting new clients
I am a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner specializing in the care of adult men and women working to overcome anxiety and/or depression. I hold an additional national certification as a certified nurse-midwife. I have extensive experience treating men and women with mood changes that can arise during the various stages of one's life. This includes, but is not limited to, addressing stressors related to life transitions, work, school, relationships, parenting, and care-taking of others. Seeking support at these challenging and vulnerable times is a brave and important step to feeling and functioning better in one's life.
I am a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner specializing in the care of adult men and women working to overcome anxiety and/or depression. I hold an additional national certification as a certified nurse-midwife. I have extensive experience treating men and women with mood changes that can arise during the various stages of one's life. This includes, but is not limited to, addressing stressors related to life transitions, work, school, relationships, parenting, and care-taking of others. Seeking support at these challenging and vulnerable times is a brave and important step to feeling and functioning better in one's life.
(401) 313-3275 View (401) 313-3275
Photo of Chellee Furbert, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Chellee Furbert
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Hello, my name is Chellee. I am an ANCC dual-certified Family and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with twenty years of nursing experience in various care settings. I completed my graduate education at Indiana Wesleyan University in 2017, gaining expertise in emergency medicine, substance use disorder, and behavioral health. My diverse training and experience have taught me that every journey to optimal health is unique. I enjoy collaborating with clients to understand their needs, highlight their strengths, and incorporate a motivational approach to care.
Hello, my name is Chellee. I am an ANCC dual-certified Family and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with twenty years of nursing experience in various care settings. I completed my graduate education at Indiana Wesleyan University in 2017, gaining expertise in emergency medicine, substance use disorder, and behavioral health. My diverse training and experience have taught me that every journey to optimal health is unique. I enjoy collaborating with clients to understand their needs, highlight their strengths, and incorporate a motivational approach to care.
(401) 310-2445 View (401) 310-2445
Photo of Lila Flavin, MD, Psychiatrist
Lila Flavin
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Online Only
I am a board-certified psychiatrist with specialized training in trauma and addiction. I offer tele-psychiatry services in Rhode Island, Massachusetts, and New York. I can provide monthly medication management or weekly psychodynamic psychotherapy. In particular, I enjoy working with college-age individuals as well as creating an inviting space for LGBTQ+ individuals. I am a clinical psychiatrist at Massachusetts General Hospital in Boston where I see patients with addiction, mental illness, and pregnancy related concerns.
I am a board-certified psychiatrist with specialized training in trauma and addiction. I offer tele-psychiatry services in Rhode Island, Massachusetts, and New York. I can provide monthly medication management or weekly psychodynamic psychotherapy. In particular, I enjoy working with college-age individuals as well as creating an inviting space for LGBTQ+ individuals. I am a clinical psychiatrist at Massachusetts General Hospital in Boston where I see patients with addiction, mental illness, and pregnancy related concerns.
(401) 652-6333 View (401) 652-6333
Photo of Samantha Shawn-Marsh, DNP, MSN, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Samantha Shawn-Marsh
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, MSN, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
Westerly, RI 02891
Dr. Samantha Shawn-Marsh is a Doctoral and Board Certified Child and Adult Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who works with children and adults providing psychiatric evaluations and medication management to those experiencing bipolar disorder, posttraumatic stress disorder, depression, anxiety, and attention deficit hyperactivity disorders. She is the founder and owner of Remedy Wellness Center, Inc. and welcomes new patients at this time.
Dr. Samantha Shawn-Marsh is a Doctoral and Board Certified Child and Adult Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who works with children and adults providing psychiatric evaluations and medication management to those experiencing bipolar disorder, posttraumatic stress disorder, depression, anxiety, and attention deficit hyperactivity disorders. She is the founder and owner of Remedy Wellness Center, Inc. and welcomes new patients at this time.
(401) 205-8481 View (401) 205-8481
Photo of Chinwe Linda Osuagwu - MindHaven Behavioral Health Services , APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
MindHaven Behavioral Health Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Welcome to MindHaven Behavioral Health Services, and congratulations on taking this vital step toward improving your mental health! I’m so glad you’re here. At MindHaven, I believe in getting to know you as an individual, not just as a patient, because a strong therapeutic relationship is key to your progress. This is a supportive space to discuss your mental and emotional health openly. Together, we will address your concerns, including any questions about medication. Our collaborative approach will focus on building a treatment plan tailored specifically to your needs so you can live a more balanced life.
Welcome to MindHaven Behavioral Health Services, and congratulations on taking this vital step toward improving your mental health! I’m so glad you’re here. At MindHaven, I believe in getting to know you as an individual, not just as a patient, because a strong therapeutic relationship is key to your progress. This is a supportive space to discuss your mental and emotional health openly. Together, we will address your concerns, including any questions about medication. Our collaborative approach will focus on building a treatment plan tailored specifically to your needs so you can live a more balanced life.
(401) 386-4302 View (401) 386-4302
Photo of Dr. James A Gallo - James A Gallo, MD and Associates, MD, Psychiatrist
James A Gallo, MD and Associates
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Warwick, RI 02886
Welcome, Our practice focuses on medication management and Individual psychotherapy for major psychiatric problems. Depression, Anxiety, Panic Attacks, ADD, OCD, PTSD, Psychosis, and Addictions. I make sure the appropriate amount of quality time is spent with all of our patients. Our certified psychiatric nurse practitioners work with me and all have direct access and consult with me when needed. We see patients in the office and on occasion will use telehealth.
Welcome, Our practice focuses on medication management and Individual psychotherapy for major psychiatric problems. Depression, Anxiety, Panic Attacks, ADD, OCD, PTSD, Psychosis, and Addictions. I make sure the appropriate amount of quality time is spent with all of our patients. Our certified psychiatric nurse practitioners work with me and all have direct access and consult with me when needed. We see patients in the office and on occasion will use telehealth.
(401) 425-6773 View (401) 425-6773
Photo of Akos Antwi - Revive Therapeutic Services, CRNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Revive Therapeutic Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Providence, RI 02904
Do you feel like you're not living the life you want to? Do you feel like there's something wrong with you, but you don't know what it is? At Revive Therapeutic Services, we specialize in helping people becoming there best. Our team of providers are ready to help with any condition or issue that might be holding you back from the life of your dreams—whether it's depression, anxiety, bipolar spectrum disorders, ADHD, PTSD, life transitions…the list goes on. Your life doesn't have to be defined by your mental health struggles anymore. Let us help!
Do you feel like you're not living the life you want to? Do you feel like there's something wrong with you, but you don't know what it is? At Revive Therapeutic Services, we specialize in helping people becoming there best. Our team of providers are ready to help with any condition or issue that might be holding you back from the life of your dreams—whether it's depression, anxiety, bipolar spectrum disorders, ADHD, PTSD, life transitions…the list goes on. Your life doesn't have to be defined by your mental health struggles anymore. Let us help!
(401) 208-0446 View (401) 208-0446
Photo of Dr. Hilary Cerullo - LifeStance Health, DO, Psychiatrist
LifeStance Health
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
Cranston, RI 02910
Making your first appointment can be one of the most challenging steps in your mental health journey. At LifeStance, we make it simple by offering both online and in-person therapy and psychiatry services, covered by major insurance plans.
Making your first appointment can be one of the most challenging steps in your mental health journey. At LifeStance, we make it simple by offering both online and in-person therapy and psychiatry services, covered by major insurance plans.
(866) 316-1889 View (866) 316-1889
Photo of Andrea Davis, MSN, APRN, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Andrea Davis
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, BC
Verified Verified
Online Only
I specialize in medication management for individuals with mental health issues across the lifespan. Mental health issues I currently treat include but are not limited to mood disorders, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder/manic depressive illness, ADHD, PTSD, panic disorder, adjustment disorder, and stress management.
I specialize in medication management for individuals with mental health issues across the lifespan. Mental health issues I currently treat include but are not limited to mood disorders, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder/manic depressive illness, ADHD, PTSD, panic disorder, adjustment disorder, and stress management.
(401) 399-4494 View (401) 399-4494
Photo of Adebola Adelaiye, DNP, FNP-BC, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Adebola Adelaiye
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP-BC, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Providence, RI 02903
Emmanuel Medical Services - PCP at home. We Provide Psychiatric and Primary Care at Home. Telehealth Care Services also available. Our psychiatric home visit service provides comprehensive mental health evaluations, diagnoses, and treatment plans for patients with mental health conditions such as anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia. Our primary care home visit service offers a range of medical services, including preventive care, health assessments, chronic disease management, and acute care for illnesses and injuries. Dr. Adebola Adelaiye DNP, FNP-BC, PMHNP-BC is here to help you with your healthcare needs.
Emmanuel Medical Services - PCP at home. We Provide Psychiatric and Primary Care at Home. Telehealth Care Services also available. Our psychiatric home visit service provides comprehensive mental health evaluations, diagnoses, and treatment plans for patients with mental health conditions such as anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia. Our primary care home visit service offers a range of medical services, including preventive care, health assessments, chronic disease management, and acute care for illnesses and injuries. Dr. Adebola Adelaiye DNP, FNP-BC, PMHNP-BC is here to help you with your healthcare needs.
(401) 358-6364 View (401) 358-6364
Photo of Doreen A Gendreau, EdD, MSN, APRN, CNP, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Doreen A Gendreau
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, EdD, MSN, APRN, CNP, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Online Only
I am called to serve those who have experienced the pain & suffering from Trauma, Mental health, grief & addictions. If you have been struggling with unexplained fear or anxiety, depression or mood fluctuations, grief, relationship or career issues, self image and negative self talk, overall hopelessness or despair-I imagine you are seeking relief from this pain. If you have experienced chronic trauma, you may have unshed emotions and have always wondered what's wrong with me-why cant I get my stuff together. If you are a mom or dad and are wondering if you make the grade-and are feeling overwhelmed- My mission is to help you heal!
I am called to serve those who have experienced the pain & suffering from Trauma, Mental health, grief & addictions. If you have been struggling with unexplained fear or anxiety, depression or mood fluctuations, grief, relationship or career issues, self image and negative self talk, overall hopelessness or despair-I imagine you are seeking relief from this pain. If you have experienced chronic trauma, you may have unshed emotions and have always wondered what's wrong with me-why cant I get my stuff together. If you are a mom or dad and are wondering if you make the grade-and are feeling overwhelmed- My mission is to help you heal!
(401) 382-3766 View (401) 382-3766

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 02882

< 10

Psychiatrists in 02882 who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
100% Medication Management
89% Trauma and PTSD
78% ADHD
78% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
78% Sleep or Insomnia

Average years in practice

1 Year

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Cigna and Evernorth
88% BlueCross and BlueShield
88% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Psychiatrists in 02882 see their clients

78% In Person and Online
22% Online Only

Gender breakdown

75% Female
25% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 02882?

The Psychology Today Directory enables users to search specifically for psychiatrists by selecting the provider type from the drop-down menu, and filtering results by city, zip code, or the psychiatrist's name. The search results feature detailed profiles that outline each professional's treatment approach, areas of expertise, credentials, fees, payment options, and accepted insurance. Results include both psychiatrists (MDs) and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs), who hold advanced practice nursing degrees. Users can refine their search for a specific type of psychiatric provider using the "Provider Type" filter.

What is the difference between a psychiatrist and a psychologist?

Psychiatrists are medical specialists dedicated to understanding, diagnosing, and treating brain disorders and mental health conditions. As physicians, they are trained to identify the often subtle biological factors underlying mental disorders and to monitor how mental health treatments may impact other physical conditions, such as heart disease. Psychiatrists are licensed to prescribe medication and typically conduct shorter sessions that focus on medication management rather than intensive psychotherapy.

In contrast, psychologists are particularly attuned to the impact of early experiences on development, behavior, emotions, and cognitive processes. They often take a holistic approach to assessing and treating clients, considering aspects of personality and social functioning. Although psychologists cannot prescribe medication, they are frequently skilled in administering psychological tests—such as IQ tests, personality assessments, and behavioral evaluations—to assess an individual's functioning. Psychologists often engage in longer, more psychotherapy-focused sessions compared to psychiatrists.

What is a psychiatric nurse practitioner and what is the difference with a psychiatrist?

A psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP), also known as a mental health nurse practitioner or psychiatric nurse practitioner, is an advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) who has completed advanced training in psychiatric care, earning at least a master’s degree in psychiatric nursing. To become Board-Certified (PMHNP-BC), psychiatric nurse practitioners must also pass a national exam that tests their clinical psychiatric knowledge.

Like psychiatrists, PMHNPs are trained to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions. However, PMHNPs and psychiatrists differ in their training experience. While PMHNPs can complete their credentialing requirements (full bachelor's and master's degree training) in as few as 6 years, psychiatrists often spend upwards of 12 years to complete their bachelor's, medical doctorate degree, and residency training requirements. Because of training differences, some states require PMHNPs to be supervised by or enter into a collaborative agreement with a physician in order to prescribe medication.

When deciding to work with a psychiatrist or PMHNP, clients should consider factors such therapeutic fit, cost, and availability. Psychiatrists may have more substantial training in treating more severe psychiatric conditions, as well as in providing more specialized treatment services, such as child psychiatry. However, psychiatrists may be inaccessible to some clients, as their cost and availability may be prohibitive. It can often be easier for clients to find a PMHNP with openings for new clients when compared to psychiatrists, and PMHNPs may also offer lower cost treatment options for clients looking to minimize out-of-pocket costs.

Can a psychiatrist or a PMHNP prescribe medication?

The Psychology Today directory features two primary types of psychiatric professionals: psychiatrists and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs). Both are generally authorized to prescribe psychiatric medications. In 28 states, PMHNPs have full practice authority, allowing them to provide the complete spectrum of psychiatric care, including independent medication prescribing and management. In other states, however, PMHNPs are required to work under the supervision or in collaboration with a physician to prescribe medication. Both psychiatrists and PMHNPs may also offer additional services, such as psychotherapy, counseling, and care coordination, for clients seeking psychiatric care.

Do psychiatrists or PMHNPs offer therapy?

Both psychiatrists and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs) are generally trained in a number of treatment modalities, including traditional psychotherapy, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), pharmacotherapy, and, occasionally, various somatic therapies. Typically, psychiatrists and PMHNPs make a diagnosis and determine a course of treatment based on chemical or biological factors, using lab tests, brain scans and physical and psychological evaluations.

While psychotherapy may be used in the first session to aid in diagnosis, it is not typically utilized in subsequent visits. In fact, after the introductory session, most psychiatry sessions may only be 15-20 minutes in length and are largely focused on medication management; this is frequently the case for both psychiatrists and PMHNPs. However, medication providers who do not offer psychotherapy usually work collaboratively with psychologists and other mental health clinicians who do offer these services, and they can refer clients seeking more traditional psychotherapy services to their care.

How do I know if I need a psychiatrist, a PMHNP, or a therapist?

It is not always easy to know which type of mental health practitioner to choose. Many people are unaware of the root of their mental or behavioral problem and may be unaware of the differences in support provided by various mental health professionals. One way many people learn which type of care is best for them is by seeing their primary care provider (PCP) first. Depending on the nature and severity of the symptoms, the PCP may review their medical history and provide guidance or a referral to the appropriate type of provider.

A referral to a psychiatrist or PMHNP is most often made when a client is in need of psychiatric medication management or assessment. These professionals are specifically trained to prescribe psychiatric medications, when necessary, for a client; however, they generally do not provide supportive psychotherapy on an ongoing basis. A therapist or psychologist, in contrast, can provide supportive psychotherapy but is unable to prescribe medications. Because of their unique roles, some clients see both a medication prescriber (either a psychiatrist or PMHNP) and a therapist at the same time to address their psychiatric concerns holistically. Many psychiatrists and psychologists are very open to referring clients to other professionals if unable to meet the client's needs or if they think the client could use additional support from a different type of professional.

Do I need a referral to see a psychiatrist or a PMHNP?

A referral to a psychiatrist or psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) is often not required. However, consulting your primary care physician (PCP) first can be beneficial and may streamline the process of getting the care you need. Your PCP can help determine whether psychiatric care is necessary or if another type of mental health support might be more appropriate. Additionally, some insurance plans require a PCP referral to cover part or all of the costs associated with seeing a specialist. Obtaining a referral can also expedite the appointment process, particularly in areas with provider shortages or for clients seeking specialists in fields like child psychiatry.

Is everyone in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory a licensed professional?

Yes, all professionals listed in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory are licensed to provide mental health services in the state(s) where they practice. The directory includes a variety of providers such as psychiatrists, psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs), physician assistants, psychologists, social workers, and counselors. Each provider must hold a valid license issued by their state regulatory body to be listed. In addition, Psychology Today offers a verification process for certain providers, signified by a 'Verified' symbol next to their profile. This badge indicates that the provider’s primary credential or license has been independently verified by Psychology Today.