Psychiatrists in North Kingstown, RI

Photo of Nicole Sanchez, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Nicole Sanchez
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
North Kingstown, RI 02852
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 Abby Cleland, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Abby Cleland
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
North Kingstown, RI 02852
Abby is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from the University of Rhode Island, where she later completed her training as a PMHNP. She is passionate about integrating psychiatric medication management with holistic lifestyle factors to support her clients in achieving better mental health. Her treatment philosophy is evidence-based, trauma-informed, and emphasizes the unique needs of each individual. She has experience working with clients from a variety of backgrounds, aged 15 through 55 years old.
Abby is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from the University of Rhode Island, where she later completed her training as a PMHNP. She is passionate about integrating psychiatric medication management with holistic lifestyle factors to support her clients in achieving better mental health. Her treatment philosophy is evidence-based, trauma-informed, and emphasizes the unique needs of each individual. She has experience working with clients from a variety of backgrounds, aged 15 through 55 years old.
(401) 593-3816 View (401) 593-3816
Photo of Anthony Gallo, Psychiatrist, MD
Anthony Gallo
Psychiatrist, MD
North Kingstown, RI 02852
I am proud to say that I am a general psychiatrist with extensive experience in the treatment of psychiatric illness, including mood disorder, anxiety, ADHD, and cognitive disorders.
I am proud to say that I am a general psychiatrist with extensive experience in the treatment of psychiatric illness, including mood disorder, anxiety, ADHD, and cognitive disorders.
(401) 329-3985 View (401) 329-3985
Photo of Ann Bisland, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, CPNP-PC, PMHS
Ann Bisland
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, CPNP-PC, PMHS
Serves Area
I am a pediatric nurse practitioner and mental health specialist with over 10 years of experience working with children, adolescents and young adults to foster academic success and mental wellness. I use an evidence-based integrative approach to evaluate and treat patients aged 3-21 years old. An integrative approach considers the biological, psychological and social factors to get to the root cause of each patient's condition and develop a personalized treatment plan. Plans include interventions such as medication management, behavior modification, 504plan/IEP support, and strategies to optimize nutrition and sleep.
I am a pediatric nurse practitioner and mental health specialist with over 10 years of experience working with children, adolescents and young adults to foster academic success and mental wellness. I use an evidence-based integrative approach to evaluate and treat patients aged 3-21 years old. An integrative approach considers the biological, psychological and social factors to get to the root cause of each patient's condition and develop a personalized treatment plan. Plans include interventions such as medication management, behavior modification, 504plan/IEP support, and strategies to optimize nutrition and sleep.
(401) 360-9011 View (401) 360-9011
Photo of Kaitlin Kelley - Kaitlin Kelley-Revive Therapeutic Services, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Kaitlin Kelley-Revive Therapeutic Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
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 just like you. 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 just like you. 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) 593-3496 View (401) 593-3496
Photo of Nicole Miele, Psychiatric Nurse, BA, MSN, PMHNP
Nicole Miele
Psychiatric Nurse, BA, MSN, PMHNP
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
My practice specializes in the treatment of women's mental health. I provide therapy and medication management services for perinatal depression, anxiety, and OCD. I also greatly enjoy working with women who are interested in utilizing integrative medicine approaches to treat symptoms of PMDD and perimenopause.
My practice specializes in the treatment of women's mental health. I provide therapy and medication management services for perinatal depression, anxiety, and OCD. I also greatly enjoy working with women who are interested in utilizing integrative medicine approaches to treat symptoms of PMDD and perimenopause.
(401) 648-2533 View (401) 648-2533

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Jeanne Marie Knight, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, FNP, PMHNP
Jeanne Marie Knight
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, FNP, PMHNP
Providence, RI 02904
I enjoy treating all clients with complex mental health issues. There is no ideal client as one comes from all different backgrounds, cultures, and socioeconomic backgrounds. I have learned to respect clients individually as they all have their own individual experiences that have caused them trauma, anxiety, depression, and possibly fears of specific situations or encounters. This affects their lives every day and my role is to understand them on all levels and imagine what it is like to be in that situation. I also have my own personal experience with anxiety and this allows me to have compassion in a humble manner.
I enjoy treating all clients with complex mental health issues. There is no ideal client as one comes from all different backgrounds, cultures, and socioeconomic backgrounds. I have learned to respect clients individually as they all have their own individual experiences that have caused them trauma, anxiety, depression, and possibly fears of specific situations or encounters. This affects their lives every day and my role is to understand them on all levels and imagine what it is like to be in that situation. I also have my own personal experience with anxiety and this allows me to have compassion in a humble manner.
(401) 227-8208 View (401) 227-8208
Photo of Gene Jacobs, Psychiatrist, DO
Gene Jacobs
Psychiatrist, DO
1 Endorsed
Warwick, RI 02886
Spent your whole life giving? Spent your whole life taking care of others? Divorced or just taken for granted? Hard to feel joy? Looking for meaning but not finding any? Angry? Resentful? Apprehensive? Or just exhausted and sad? I am so glad you found me. I know it is not easy and it takes courage to ask for help. I treat adolescents through adulthood. I specialize in choosing between medication, functional philosophy, soft coaching, intent based behavior therapy, and I am trained in osteopathic philosophy. This all means that I can help individuals in finding the balance of medications, meaning, behavior, and mind.
Spent your whole life giving? Spent your whole life taking care of others? Divorced or just taken for granted? Hard to feel joy? Looking for meaning but not finding any? Angry? Resentful? Apprehensive? Or just exhausted and sad? I am so glad you found me. I know it is not easy and it takes courage to ask for help. I treat adolescents through adulthood. I specialize in choosing between medication, functional philosophy, soft coaching, intent based behavior therapy, and I am trained in osteopathic philosophy. This all means that I can help individuals in finding the balance of medications, meaning, behavior, and mind.
(401) 310-2752 View (401) 310-2752
Photo of Laura Davidson, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Laura Davidson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
South Kingstown, RI 02879
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
Photo of Yolanda Williams, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Yolanda Williams
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
12 Endorsed
Online Only
A Beautiful Mind Mental Health Services (ABMMHS) is here to assist you with managing anxiety, depression, ADHD, mood disorders, and schizophrenia effectively. We will help identify uncomfortable feelings/issues, and together, find a resolution. It is our goal to advocate for you to be heard, and to manage your treatment with compassion, understanding, and personalized, tailored care for each client. Book here today!
A Beautiful Mind Mental Health Services (ABMMHS) is here to assist you with managing anxiety, depression, ADHD, mood disorders, and schizophrenia effectively. We will help identify uncomfortable feelings/issues, and together, find a resolution. It is our goal to advocate for you to be heard, and to manage your treatment with compassion, understanding, and personalized, tailored care for each client. Book here today!
(240) 219-9187 View (240) 219-9187
Photo of Sana Kalra - ME Psychotherapy, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
ME Psychotherapy
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
2 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 Susie Draighan, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, PMH-C
Susie Draighan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, PMH-C
3 Endorsed
Providence, RI 02909
As a Vanderbilt-educated psychiatric nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC) trained in the integrated model of care and certified in perinatal mental health (PMH-C), I understand that the mind and body are interconnected. I am passionate about helping individuals find peace and balance in their lives through a combination of traditional psychiatric treatments and the integration of mindfulness and movement practices. I prescribe thoughtfully, using the lowest effective doses of medication for the shortest necessary amount of time.
As a Vanderbilt-educated psychiatric nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC) trained in the integrated model of care and certified in perinatal mental health (PMH-C), I understand that the mind and body are interconnected. I am passionate about helping individuals find peace and balance in their lives through a combination of traditional psychiatric treatments and the integration of mindfulness and movement practices. I prescribe thoughtfully, using the lowest effective doses of medication for the shortest necessary amount of time.
(401) 756-0762 View (401) 756-0762
Photo of Kendra Palumbo, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP-
Kendra Palumbo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP-
East Greenwich, RI 02818
Kendra Palumbo is a Nurse Practitioner in Rhode Island who has been practicing since 2024. As a health care professional, Kendra understands how difficult accessing quality health care can be. Her aim as a provider is to provide an open and welcoming environment to all clients. Kendra is here to provide clients with a thorough psychiatric assessment while working alongside the client and/or their families to formulate a treatment plan that best fits their needs. When treating different psychiatric disorders, she utilizes different medications to target each clients specific needs.
Kendra Palumbo is a Nurse Practitioner in Rhode Island who has been practicing since 2024. As a health care professional, Kendra understands how difficult accessing quality health care can be. Her aim as a provider is to provide an open and welcoming environment to all clients. Kendra is here to provide clients with a thorough psychiatric assessment while working alongside the client and/or their families to formulate a treatment plan that best fits their needs. When treating different psychiatric disorders, she utilizes different medications to target each clients specific needs.
(401) 593-6610 View (401) 593-6610
Photo of Nicole Traub, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Nicole Traub
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
East Greenwich, RI 02818
Hello! My name is Niki Traub, I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner providing services to adolescents and adults. My background includes working with clients facing a variety of challenges including: depression, anxiety, ADHD, eating disorders, LGBTQIA+ related issues, OCD, PTSD, and sleep disorders. I provide compassionate and judgement-free care as well as a thorough psychiatric evaluation that considers your goals, current symptoms, prior experiences, medical history, lifestyle and health habits.
Hello! My name is Niki Traub, I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner providing services to adolescents and adults. My background includes working with clients facing a variety of challenges including: depression, anxiety, ADHD, eating disorders, LGBTQIA+ related issues, OCD, PTSD, and sleep disorders. I provide compassionate and judgement-free care as well as a thorough psychiatric evaluation that considers your goals, current symptoms, prior experiences, medical history, lifestyle and health habits.
(401) 240-1260 View (401) 240-1260
Photo of Pedro Tactacan, Psychiatrist, MD
Pedro Tactacan
Psychiatrist, MD
East Greenwich, RI 02818
Dr. Pedro F. Tactacan is a Psychiatrist in Rhode Island who has been practicing since 1999. He completed his Medical School at University of Santo Tomas, his Residency in Psychiatry at State University of New York at Stony Brook, and his Fellowship in Consultation-Liaison Psychiatry (Psychosomatic Medicine) at State University of New York at Stony Brook. Dr. Tactacan does diagnostic assessments and treatment of psychiatric illnesses. Outside of work, Dr. Tactacan enjoys listening to music, traveling and hanging out with family and friends, gardening, landscaping, and working out.
Dr. Pedro F. Tactacan is a Psychiatrist in Rhode Island who has been practicing since 1999. He completed his Medical School at University of Santo Tomas, his Residency in Psychiatry at State University of New York at Stony Brook, and his Fellowship in Consultation-Liaison Psychiatry (Psychosomatic Medicine) at State University of New York at Stony Brook. Dr. Tactacan does diagnostic assessments and treatment of psychiatric illnesses. Outside of work, Dr. Tactacan enjoys listening to music, traveling and hanging out with family and friends, gardening, landscaping, and working out.
(401) 409-5118 View (401) 409-5118
Photo of Samantha Shawn-Marsh, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, MSN, PMHNP-B
Samantha Shawn-Marsh
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, MSN, PMHNP-B
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 Natalie Austin, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Natalie Austin
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Narragansett, RI 02882
I have experience in outpatient settings working with a variety of clients with a wide range of mental health concerns, such as anxiety disorders, mood disorders, OCD, and more. I treat adolescents, adults, and am particularly passionate about working with college-aged students and young adults. I enjoy working with clients who may be struggling with anxiety, mood disturbances, life transitions, self-esteem, perfectionism, work/school stress, and other daily stressors of life.
I have experience in outpatient settings working with a variety of clients with a wide range of mental health concerns, such as anxiety disorders, mood disorders, OCD, and more. I treat adolescents, adults, and am particularly passionate about working with college-aged students and young adults. I enjoy working with clients who may be struggling with anxiety, mood disturbances, life transitions, self-esteem, perfectionism, work/school stress, and other daily stressors of life.
(401) 313-4153 View (401) 313-4153
Photo of Sarah Xavier, Psychiatrist
Sarah Xavier
Psychiatrist
1 Endorsed
East Greenwich, RI 02818
Dr. Xavier is a Yale trained psychiatrist with advanced training in Child, Adolescent, Adult and Forensic Psychiatry. She has been a physician for over twenty years. She has worked extensively with clients in a variety of settings (hospital/office) and roles (medical director/consultant) in order to bring an extensive toolkit of treatment options into her private practice. Dr. Xavier develops compassionate, comprehensive, goal oriented treatment plans that are tailored to one's ability and motivation level.
Dr. Xavier is a Yale trained psychiatrist with advanced training in Child, Adolescent, Adult and Forensic Psychiatry. She has been a physician for over twenty years. She has worked extensively with clients in a variety of settings (hospital/office) and roles (medical director/consultant) in order to bring an extensive toolkit of treatment options into her private practice. Dr. Xavier develops compassionate, comprehensive, goal oriented treatment plans that are tailored to one's ability and motivation level.
(401) 262-4316 View (401) 262-4316
Photo of Alexander Scagnelli - Alexander Scagnelli MD PC, Psychiatrist, MD
Alexander Scagnelli MD PC
Psychiatrist, MD
Warwick, RI 02886
We are a mental health office that provides medication management to children, adolescents and adults for a variety of diagnoses including ADHD, GAD, MDD, PTSD, and OCD. We also offer Psychological Testing. Our staff consists of Dr. Alexander Scagnelli MD, Anna Flaherty, RNP, Susan Perry, RNP, Brett Michelson, RNP, and Allison Silvers, LMHC, Psy.D. To book a new client appointment please call 401-821-4100.
We are a mental health office that provides medication management to children, adolescents and adults for a variety of diagnoses including ADHD, GAD, MDD, PTSD, and OCD. We also offer Psychological Testing. Our staff consists of Dr. Alexander Scagnelli MD, Anna Flaherty, RNP, Susan Perry, RNP, Brett Michelson, RNP, and Allison Silvers, LMHC, Psy.D. To book a new client appointment please call 401-821-4100.
(401) 217-4253 View (401) 217-4253
Photo of Jennifer Ugbah - Evolve Psychiatry, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, CNS, RN
Evolve Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, CNS, RN
Online Only
Same week appointment availability for new patients evaluation. Jennifer Ugbah MSN, PMHNP, CNS, APRN, RN, is a dual board certified bilingual psychiatric nurse practitioner with over 10 years of experience in the field of mental health. She received her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from The University of Rhode Island and went on to earn a Master of Science in Nursing with a specialization in child and adolescent psychiatric-mental health from The University of Rhode Island. In addition, she also obtained her nurse practitioner certification for patients across the lifespan from the University of Saint Joseph.
Same week appointment availability for new patients evaluation. Jennifer Ugbah MSN, PMHNP, CNS, APRN, RN, is a dual board certified bilingual psychiatric nurse practitioner with over 10 years of experience in the field of mental health. She received her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from The University of Rhode Island and went on to earn a Master of Science in Nursing with a specialization in child and adolescent psychiatric-mental health from The University of Rhode Island. In addition, she also obtained her nurse practitioner certification for patients across the lifespan from the University of Saint Joseph.
(401) 293-2568 View (401) 293-2568

See more therapy options for North Kingstown

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in North Kingstown, RI

< 10

Psychiatrists in North Kingstown, RI who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
83% ADHD
83% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
83% Medication Management
67% Trauma and PTSD
67% Women's Issues

Average years in practice

10 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% BlueCross and BlueShield
67% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH
50% Aetna

How Psychiatrists in North Kingstown, RI see their clients

84% In Person and Online
16% Online Only

Gender breakdown

84% Female
16% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in North Kingstown?

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.