Psychiatrists in Cranston, RI

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.

Brown University Adult Psychiatry Residency completed June 2008 New York College of Osteopathic Medicine completed 2004 Columbia University Post-Baccalaureate Pre-Medical Program completed 2000 University of Rhode Island undergraduate degree in Psychology class of 1997
Brown University Adult Psychiatry Residency completed June 2008 New York College of Osteopathic Medicine completed 2004 Columbia University Post-Baccalaureate Pre-Medical Program completed 2000 University of Rhode Island undergraduate degree in Psychology class of 1997

Are you considering starting medication but are apprehensive about the options? Are you already on medications but are struggling with side effects or the medication not working? Are you just not feeling like yourself? Let's work together to find the best treatment plan for you. My approach to care is conversational rather than clinical. I like to get to know you, as a person, not just a diagnosis. We will work together to find a treatment plan that feels comfortable. While my specialty is medication management, I focus on using the least amount of medication possible and reducing the use of multiple medications whenever able.
Are you considering starting medication but are apprehensive about the options? Are you already on medications but are struggling with side effects or the medication not working? Are you just not feeling like yourself? Let's work together to find the best treatment plan for you. My approach to care is conversational rather than clinical. I like to get to know you, as a person, not just a diagnosis. We will work together to find a treatment plan that feels comfortable. While my specialty is medication management, I focus on using the least amount of medication possible and reducing the use of multiple medications whenever able.

Gillian Cooperstein
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, CNP
Verified Verified
Cranston, RI 02910
Gillian Cooperstein is a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who specializes in the psychiatric treatment of children, adolescents and young adults. She is a graduate of Northeastern University in Boston, MA. Her specialties of treatment include Depression, Anxiety Disorders, Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder, Autism, Oppositional Defiance and Mood Disorders. She especially enjoys treating adolescents and young adults. Gillian is thoughtful when making decisions about medication options and approaches care with her patients as a team.
Gillian Cooperstein is a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who specializes in the psychiatric treatment of children, adolescents and young adults. She is a graduate of Northeastern University in Boston, MA. Her specialties of treatment include Depression, Anxiety Disorders, Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder, Autism, Oppositional Defiance and Mood Disorders. She especially enjoys treating adolescents and young adults. Gillian is thoughtful when making decisions about medication options and approaches care with her patients as a team.

Nice to meet you! I am currently accepting new patients! I have extensive experience treating ADHD, Anxiety Disorders, Mood Disorders, PTSD, and co-occurring substance use disorders. I have worked in psychiatry for over 17 years and I also have a diverse medical background. I consider many factors that can lead to mood symptoms including life circumstances as well as medical causes. I offer options and approaches that can be used to address your specific needs. I embrace a holistic approach to care, and I am knowledgeable with supplementation for additional support.
Nice to meet you! I am currently accepting new patients! I have extensive experience treating ADHD, Anxiety Disorders, Mood Disorders, PTSD, and co-occurring substance use disorders. I have worked in psychiatry for over 17 years and I also have a diverse medical background. I consider many factors that can lead to mood symptoms including life circumstances as well as medical causes. I offer options and approaches that can be used to address your specific needs. I embrace a holistic approach to care, and I am knowledgeable with supplementation for additional support.

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.

I am Board Certified by the Rhode Island Board of Nursing as an Advanced Practice Nurse Practitioner with a specialization in Psychiatry and Mental Health. I am bilingual and fluent in Spanish and English. I believe that each person has a unique problem and treatment is tailored specifically to their mental health concerns. I aim to provide patients compassionate and judgment-free care using advanced technology (telehealth) to help enhance their quality of life for those that are affected with a mental health disorder. I look forward to working with you, providing care to you, and allowing me to work with you. Estoy para ayudarlos,
I am Board Certified by the Rhode Island Board of Nursing as an Advanced Practice Nurse Practitioner with a specialization in Psychiatry and Mental Health. I am bilingual and fluent in Spanish and English. I believe that each person has a unique problem and treatment is tailored specifically to their mental health concerns. I aim to provide patients compassionate and judgment-free care using advanced technology (telehealth) to help enhance their quality of life for those that are affected with a mental health disorder. I look forward to working with you, providing care to you, and allowing me to work with you. Estoy para ayudarlos,

Garden City Psychiatry, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, CNS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cranston, RI 02920
Our practice is exclusive to medication management only. We specialize in providing medication management to adults diagnosed with mental health issues including but not limited to depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, traumatic events, panic attacks, and life stressors. Each patient will receive a comprehensive initial evaluation, medication management, personalized attention, 24/7 on call coverage and coordination with your healthcare providers as needed. Melanie Koehler, APRN and Adele Palazzo, APRN treat the adult population only.
Our practice is exclusive to medication management only. We specialize in providing medication management to adults diagnosed with mental health issues including but not limited to depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, traumatic events, panic attacks, and life stressors. Each patient will receive a comprehensive initial evaluation, medication management, personalized attention, 24/7 on call coverage and coordination with your healthcare providers as needed. Melanie Koehler, APRN and Adele Palazzo, APRN treat the adult population only.

First Seed Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cranston, RI 02920
Welcome to First Seed Psychiatry – Growing Wellness, One Mind at a Time.
At First Seed Psychiatry, we believe that mental health is the foundation for a fulfilling life. Just like a seed needs the right environment to grow, we provide compassionate, expert care to help you thrive.
Our outpatient mental health practice offers both in-person and telehealth appointments, making high-quality psychiatric care accessible, convenient, to your needs. Whether you're navigating anxiety, depression, ADHD, trauma, or other mental health challenges, we are here to support you with evidence-based treatment and personalized approaches.
Welcome to First Seed Psychiatry – Growing Wellness, One Mind at a Time.
At First Seed Psychiatry, we believe that mental health is the foundation for a fulfilling life. Just like a seed needs the right environment to grow, we provide compassionate, expert care to help you thrive.
Our outpatient mental health practice offers both in-person and telehealth appointments, making high-quality psychiatric care accessible, convenient, to your needs. Whether you're navigating anxiety, depression, ADHD, trauma, or other mental health challenges, we are here to support you with evidence-based treatment and personalized approaches.

Hello! I am a psych PA which means I focus on medication management but I try to be as thorough and comprehensive as possible with treatment plans. I schedule 1 hour intakes to try to get to know you the best I can because the better I can know you, the better I can help you. You will outline in the beginning what your goals are and what you have been feeling. From there we will cover your psychiatric and medical history, the range of all mental health symptoms you have experienced, talk about substance use, social history, labs, and together develop a plan that feels right, ensuring time to answer all your questions and concerns.
Hello! I am a psych PA which means I focus on medication management but I try to be as thorough and comprehensive as possible with treatment plans. I schedule 1 hour intakes to try to get to know you the best I can because the better I can know you, the better I can help you. You will outline in the beginning what your goals are and what you have been feeling. From there we will cover your psychiatric and medical history, the range of all mental health symptoms you have experienced, talk about substance use, social history, labs, and together develop a plan that feels right, ensuring time to answer all your questions and concerns.

Mind Over Matters Therapeutic & Wellness Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN, MSN
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Cranston, RI 02920
We understand that mental health is personal, and finding the right provider makes all the difference. Whether you're struggling with anxiety, depression, ADHD, life transitions, self-esteem, or stress management, we offer compassionate, personalized care tailored to your needs. Our holistic approach blends clinical expertise with genuine support to help you feel heard, understood, and empowered. With telehealth and in-person options available, we make care flexible and accessible. Take the first step toward healing—you don’t have to do this alone.
We understand that mental health is personal, and finding the right provider makes all the difference. Whether you're struggling with anxiety, depression, ADHD, life transitions, self-esteem, or stress management, we offer compassionate, personalized care tailored to your needs. Our holistic approach blends clinical expertise with genuine support to help you feel heard, understood, and empowered. With telehealth and in-person options available, we make care flexible and accessible. Take the first step toward healing—you don’t have to do this alone.
Meet Our Psychiatrists

Welcome to Serenity Psychiatry, LLC. As a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner, I provide evidence-based care through medication management, supportive psychotherapy, and personalized treatment to address mental health conditions such as anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, and OCD. My approach is holistic and collaborative, integrating medical expertise with a compassionate understanding of each individual’s unique experiences. I work closely with clients to strengthen coping skills, enhance emotional resilience, and support their journey toward lasting mental well-being.
Welcome to Serenity Psychiatry, LLC. As a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner, I provide evidence-based care through medication management, supportive psychotherapy, and personalized treatment to address mental health conditions such as anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, and OCD. My approach is holistic and collaborative, integrating medical expertise with a compassionate understanding of each individual’s unique experiences. I work closely with clients to strengthen coping skills, enhance emotional resilience, and support their journey toward lasting mental well-being.

Melanie Koehler
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, CNS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Cranston, RI 02920
With 20+ years experience, I specialize in providing medication management to patients diagnosed with mental health issues including but not limited to depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, traumatic events, panic attacks, and life stressors. Each patient will receive a comprehensive initial evaluation, medication management, personalized attention, 24/7 on call coverage and coordination with your healthcare providers.
With 20+ years experience, I specialize in providing medication management to patients diagnosed with mental health issues including but not limited to depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, traumatic events, panic attacks, and life stressors. Each patient will receive a comprehensive initial evaluation, medication management, personalized attention, 24/7 on call coverage and coordination with your healthcare providers.

My name is Dr. Chinwe Linda Osuagwu, and I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 16 years of experience in mental healthcare. I am licensed to provide services in Rhode Island. My focus is on delivering compassionate, patient-centered care to individuals. My goal is to address not only the symptoms but also the underlying factors affecting mental health, always with a compassionate and attentive approach.
My name is Dr. Chinwe Linda Osuagwu, and I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 16 years of experience in mental healthcare. I am licensed to provide services in Rhode Island. My focus is on delivering compassionate, patient-centered care to individuals. My goal is to address not only the symptoms but also the underlying factors affecting mental health, always with a compassionate and attentive approach.

Roseanne, a psychotherapist (LICSW) & nurse practitioner (APRN-BC), values a comprehensive approach to mental health. She earned her B.A. in Psychology from the College of the Holy Cross, and graduated with an MSN from the Massachusetts General Hospital Institute for Health Professions. She is a member of the nursing honor society, Sigma Theta Tau. Her focus is on helping individuals realize their positive attributes as they strive for improved health, wellness & healing.
Roseanne, a psychotherapist (LICSW) & nurse practitioner (APRN-BC), values a comprehensive approach to mental health. She earned her B.A. in Psychology from the College of the Holy Cross, and graduated with an MSN from the Massachusetts General Hospital Institute for Health Professions. She is a member of the nursing honor society, Sigma Theta Tau. Her focus is on helping individuals realize their positive attributes as they strive for improved health, wellness & healing.

I am Claudia Anukam, a dedicated and board-certified psychiatric and mental health nurse practitioner. My journey into this field was fueled by a deep passion for helping others and making a meaningful difference in their lives. I find it especially fulfilling to support individuals navigating mental health challenges, and I strive to provide care in a safe, compassionate, and nonjudgmental environment. I strive to provide care in a safe, compassionate, and nonjudgmental environment. In my practice, I collaborate with clients to create personalized treatment plans that align with their unique needs and goals.
I am Claudia Anukam, a dedicated and board-certified psychiatric and mental health nurse practitioner. My journey into this field was fueled by a deep passion for helping others and making a meaningful difference in their lives. I find it especially fulfilling to support individuals navigating mental health challenges, and I strive to provide care in a safe, compassionate, and nonjudgmental environment. I strive to provide care in a safe, compassionate, and nonjudgmental environment. In my practice, I collaborate with clients to create personalized treatment plans that align with their unique needs and goals.

Hello! My name is Reagan and I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. My goal is to create an open space that emphasizes comfort and a judgment-free zone. My experience includes individuals who struggle with anxiety, depression, PTSD, trauma, addiction, OCD, Bipolar Disorder as well as Individuals with intellectual disabilities and neurocognitive disorders. My approach is to provide an open, empathic, and trusting environment that provides a safe space to talk about your innermost thoughts. Everyone experiences life differently, and it is important to be able to process those thoughts and feelings.
Hello! My name is Reagan and I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. My goal is to create an open space that emphasizes comfort and a judgment-free zone. My experience includes individuals who struggle with anxiety, depression, PTSD, trauma, addiction, OCD, Bipolar Disorder as well as Individuals with intellectual disabilities and neurocognitive disorders. My approach is to provide an open, empathic, and trusting environment that provides a safe space to talk about your innermost thoughts. Everyone experiences life differently, and it is important to be able to process those thoughts and feelings.

Hello; I’m Doctor Doreen Gendreau and I am a Board certified APRN-Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I believe in treating the patient holistically: Body, Mind & Spirit, & offer a unique approach to your treatment, focused on alleviating your symptoms, regain your quality of life. I incorporate medications, herbal & nutritional supplements & holistic modalities to bring you back to health. I create a respectful & non judge-mental, relaxed & nurturing tone. I believe healing is only possible when the patient feels safe, & trusts their provider. I offer compassionate expertise for all mental health & addiction diagnoses.
Hello; I’m Doctor Doreen Gendreau and I am a Board certified APRN-Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I believe in treating the patient holistically: Body, Mind & Spirit, & offer a unique approach to your treatment, focused on alleviating your symptoms, regain your quality of life. I incorporate medications, herbal & nutritional supplements & holistic modalities to bring you back to health. I create a respectful & non judge-mental, relaxed & nurturing tone. I believe healing is only possible when the patient feels safe, & trusts their provider. I offer compassionate expertise for all mental health & addiction diagnoses.

Haven Psychiatry and Wellness, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Verified Verified
Cranston, RI 02920
Welcome! We are a team of two nurse practitioners on a mission to bring compassionate, high-quality mental health care to RI. We specialize in medication management for adults ages 18-65, and we're proud to offer flexible evening hours to accommodate busy lives.
We understand that seeking mental health support may feel scary or intimidating. It takes courage to ask for help. We’re truly glad you're here— and we're ready to listen. Whether you're new to mental health care or have had frustrating experiences in the past, we're here to offer something different: thoughtful, individualized care that meets you where you are.
Welcome! We are a team of two nurse practitioners on a mission to bring compassionate, high-quality mental health care to RI. We specialize in medication management for adults ages 18-65, and we're proud to offer flexible evening hours to accommodate busy lives.
We understand that seeking mental health support may feel scary or intimidating. It takes courage to ask for help. We’re truly glad you're here— and we're ready to listen. Whether you're new to mental health care or have had frustrating experiences in the past, we're here to offer something different: thoughtful, individualized care that meets you where you are.

VirtualPsychiatricCare.com
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Accepting new patients via telehealth visits in Rhode Island for psychiatric evaluations and medication management. I treat anyone suffering with depression, anxiety, or other mental health issue adversely affecting optimal functioning at work, deterring their best social self, or preventing being fully present for loved ones. Our clients are looking to be properly diagnosed and treated using the safest prescribing principles. Make your appointment in our website today. Evening and weekend hours are available. We offer affordable out of pocket rates. Accepting some insurances.
Accepting new patients via telehealth visits in Rhode Island for psychiatric evaluations and medication management. I treat anyone suffering with depression, anxiety, or other mental health issue adversely affecting optimal functioning at work, deterring their best social self, or preventing being fully present for loved ones. Our clients are looking to be properly diagnosed and treated using the safest prescribing principles. Make your appointment in our website today. Evening and weekend hours are available. We offer affordable out of pocket rates. Accepting some insurances.
See more therapy options for Cranston
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Cranston, RI
30+
Average cost per session
$162
Psychiatrists in Cranston, RI who prioritize treating:
88% | Depression |
88% | Anxiety |
82% | ADHD |
76% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
76% | Medication Management |
68% | Bipolar Disorder |
62% | Trauma and PTSD |
Average years in practice
10 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
82% | Aetna |
82% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
79% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
How Psychiatrists in Cranston, RI see their clients
50% | In Person and Online | |
50% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
85% | Female | |
15% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Cranston?
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.