Psychiatrists in Portsmouth, RI

Photo of Elizabeth Niemiec, MD, Psychiatrist
Elizabeth Niemiec
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Portsmouth, RI 02871
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
Healing Minds Psychiatry, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portsmouth, RI 02871
Healing Minds Psychiatry is committed to providing holistic care and treatment options to our clients utilizing current evidence-based research, and continued education. The practice aims to improve the lives of community members through empathetic care, administering counseling, medication, and promotion of patient wellness practices in a calm, welcoming environment.
Healing Minds Psychiatry is committed to providing holistic care and treatment options to our clients utilizing current evidence-based research, and continued education. The practice aims to improve the lives of community members through empathetic care, administering counseling, medication, and promotion of patient wellness practices in a calm, welcoming environment.
(401) 681-3994 View (401) 681-3994
Photo of Ike Uzowulu, FPMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Ike Uzowulu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FPMHNP
Verified Verified
Portsmouth, RI 02871  (Online Only)
I am a board-certified family psychiatric nurse practitioner. I have a master's degree in psychiatric nursing specializing in mental and behavioral health medicine. I have verifiable experience in treating variety of psychiatric disorders such as; mood disorders including resistant depression and anxiety related disorders. Substance use disorder/MAT, ADHD, PTSD, Acute stress and sleep related disorders
I am a board-certified family psychiatric nurse practitioner. I have a master's degree in psychiatric nursing specializing in mental and behavioral health medicine. I have verifiable experience in treating variety of psychiatric disorders such as; mood disorders including resistant depression and anxiety related disorders. Substance use disorder/MAT, ADHD, PTSD, Acute stress and sleep related disorders
(401) 208-0884 View (401) 208-0884
Claire Cayer
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, Claire Cayer, APRN
Verified Verified
Portsmouth, RI 02871
(401) 205-3531 View (401) 205-3531

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Joseph Allaire, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Joseph Allaire
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Newport, RI 02840  (Online Only)
Now Accepting New Patients! I'm a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with years of experience working in Psychiatry and Critical Care. I have experience treating various Psychiatric conditions and enjoy working with people in all life stages.
Now Accepting New Patients! I'm a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with years of experience working in Psychiatry and Critical Care. I have experience treating various Psychiatric conditions and enjoy working with people in all life stages.
(401) 307-4190 View (401) 307-4190
Photo of Kathleen Sullivan, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Kathleen Sullivan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Verified Verified
Newport, RI 02840  (Online Only)
AFFORDABLE CARE FROM THE PRIVACY OF YOUR HOME: APRN board certified for mental health services specializing in medication management and therapy services, 13 years old through the life span. Licensed for private practice in the states of Connecticut and Rhode Island working in Telepsychiatry 8 YRS. I offer a unique opportunity for clients to be seen from the comfort and privacy of their home on a Hippa Compliant computer platform. Telepsychiatry is proven to help people reach expert providers, while protecting your personal information, family situation, and/or career. Telepsychiatry saves your personal time and reduces stress.
AFFORDABLE CARE FROM THE PRIVACY OF YOUR HOME: APRN board certified for mental health services specializing in medication management and therapy services, 13 years old through the life span. Licensed for private practice in the states of Connecticut and Rhode Island working in Telepsychiatry 8 YRS. I offer a unique opportunity for clients to be seen from the comfort and privacy of their home on a Hippa Compliant computer platform. Telepsychiatry is proven to help people reach expert providers, while protecting your personal information, family situation, and/or career. Telepsychiatry saves your personal time and reduces stress.
(860) 460-1211 View (860) 460-1211
Photo of Randy Freeman, DO, MS, Psychiatrist
Randy Freeman
Psychiatrist, DO, MS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Newport, RI 02840
At times patients or families may not be able to fully discuss issues - that is okay. Dr. Freeman will meet you where you are at in this journey, temporarily lead you, and teach you to lead yourself. Children/Adolescents often benefit in using play to establish trust. Often more can be learned from a child playing a game together vs interviewing them. Dr. Freeman is experienced at listening to all ages and helping them discuss difficult issues. He expects a level of participation that is representative of where someone is at in their journey towards wellness. Are you ready to take a small step towards wellness?
At times patients or families may not be able to fully discuss issues - that is okay. Dr. Freeman will meet you where you are at in this journey, temporarily lead you, and teach you to lead yourself. Children/Adolescents often benefit in using play to establish trust. Often more can be learned from a child playing a game together vs interviewing them. Dr. Freeman is experienced at listening to all ages and helping them discuss difficult issues. He expects a level of participation that is representative of where someone is at in their journey towards wellness. Are you ready to take a small step towards wellness?
(401) 214-9681 View (401) 214-9681
Photo of Jacqueline Lebel, MD, JD, Psychiatrist
Jacqueline Lebel
Psychiatrist, MD, JD
Verified Verified
Newport, RI 02840
Hello! I am available to help those struggling with life transitions, relationships, their mood, anxiety, thoughts, family relationships, loneliness, academic issues, ADHD, developmental disabilities or autism spectrum disorder.
Hello! I am available to help those struggling with life transitions, relationships, their mood, anxiety, thoughts, family relationships, loneliness, academic issues, ADHD, developmental disabilities or autism spectrum disorder.
(508) 859-9524 View (508) 859-9524
Photo of Meredith Louise Arden - Arrow Behavioral Health, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Arrow Behavioral Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Middletown, RI 02842
Currently accepting new clients for in person or telehealth therapy, as well as telehealth medication management! We are booking clients within one week of outreach. Arrow Behavioral Health was founded with the intent to provide mental health services to diverse populations. We are dedicated to helping you on your journey to better mental health. Whether it is a recent concern or a long standing need, we are happy to assist you with finding the best solution.
Currently accepting new clients for in person or telehealth therapy, as well as telehealth medication management! We are booking clients within one week of outreach. Arrow Behavioral Health was founded with the intent to provide mental health services to diverse populations. We are dedicated to helping you on your journey to better mental health. Whether it is a recent concern or a long standing need, we are happy to assist you with finding the best solution.
(401) 420-7947 View (401) 420-7947
Photo of Sarah Xavier, Psychiatrist
Sarah Xavier
Psychiatrist
Verified Verified
Newport, RI 02840
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 Renata Sasson - Renata Sasson NP @PVD Ketamine & Wellness, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Renata Sasson NP @PVD Ketamine & Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Newport, RI 02840
Psychiatric nurse practitioner Renata Sasson is the owner and founder of PVD Ketamine & Wellness. She has been working as a Ketamine Practitioner since 2021 and has successfully treated hundreds of clients with sublingual ketamine. Her vision for PVD Ketamine & Wellness is to offer impactful non-traditional healing modalities, with ketamine being the first. She is a proponent of including meditation and mindfulness as part of a well-rounded therapeutic approach. As a proud member of the LGBTQIA+ community, Renata is committed to creating an inclusive, empowering, and person-centered healing space.
Psychiatric nurse practitioner Renata Sasson is the owner and founder of PVD Ketamine & Wellness. She has been working as a Ketamine Practitioner since 2021 and has successfully treated hundreds of clients with sublingual ketamine. Her vision for PVD Ketamine & Wellness is to offer impactful non-traditional healing modalities, with ketamine being the first. She is a proponent of including meditation and mindfulness as part of a well-rounded therapeutic approach. As a proud member of the LGBTQIA+ community, Renata is committed to creating an inclusive, empowering, and person-centered healing space.
(401) 320-4247 View (401) 320-4247
DP Behavioral Healthcare LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
Jamestown, RI 02835
Dr. Despina Prassas, Ph.D., PMHNP-BC is a Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who works with children, adolescents and adults struggling with ADHD, Obsessive-Compulsive disorders, anxiety and depression, and mood disorders. She provides medication management and psychotherapy.
Dr. Despina Prassas, Ph.D., PMHNP-BC is a Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who works with children, adolescents and adults struggling with ADHD, Obsessive-Compulsive disorders, anxiety and depression, and mood disorders. She provides medication management and psychotherapy.
(401) 267-1800 View (401) 267-1800
Photo of Dr. Denise Chase, FNP-BC, PMHNP, PhD, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dr. Denise Chase
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP-BC, PMHNP, PhD
Verified Verified
Newport, RI 02840  (Online Only)
With an extensive background in nursing and psychiatric care, I am a seasoned Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, dedicated to providing compassionate and comprehensive mental health services. My journey began with a solid foundation in nursing education at Gwynedd Mercy University, where I developed and revised curricula for various nurse practitioner programs, ensuring that future healthcare providers are well-equipped to meet the needs of their patients. My commitment to excellence in mental health care is reflected in my work as a consultant for various organizations, where I've played a key role in it.
With an extensive background in nursing and psychiatric care, I am a seasoned Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, dedicated to providing compassionate and comprehensive mental health services. My journey began with a solid foundation in nursing education at Gwynedd Mercy University, where I developed and revised curricula for various nurse practitioner programs, ensuring that future healthcare providers are well-equipped to meet the needs of their patients. My commitment to excellence in mental health care is reflected in my work as a consultant for various organizations, where I've played a key role in it.
(610) 819-4144 View (610) 819-4144
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
Tiverton, RI 02878  (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
Photo of Diane Marie Costa - A Knew You and Wellness LLC, PMHNP, APRN-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
A Knew You and Wellness LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN-BC
Verified Verified
Bristol, RI 02809  (Online Only)
Dr. Costa is a Board-Certified Nurse Practitioner who is qualified to practice in both primary care and psychiatry; diagnose, treat, and prescribe medication for children, adolescents, and adults. Some of her practice specialties include (but not limited to) ADHD, Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, Bipolar, Schizophrenia, Grief, Compulsive Disorders, Dementia/Cognitive Disorders, and Mood Disorders.
Dr. Costa is a Board-Certified Nurse Practitioner who is qualified to practice in both primary care and psychiatry; diagnose, treat, and prescribe medication for children, adolescents, and adults. Some of her practice specialties include (but not limited to) ADHD, Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, Bipolar, Schizophrenia, Grief, Compulsive Disorders, Dementia/Cognitive Disorders, and Mood Disorders.
(401) 655-2031 View (401) 655-2031
Photo of Jonathan L Crist, DO, Psychiatrist
Jonathan L Crist
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
Bristol, RI 02809  (Online Only)
I enjoy treating adults and college students who are interested in changing patterns of behavior that are detrimental in their relationships and work life. This is achieved through psychotherapy (and medication where indicated) so that you can obtain your full potential. I am trained in psychodynamic psychotherapy, an approach that looks comprehensively at an entire person's life, as well as cognitive and behavioral therapy. My psychotherapy training was through Leigh McCullough., a Harvard professor and clinician who also researched what causes true change in therapy. More recently I have studied AEDP a form of Positive Psychotherapy.
I enjoy treating adults and college students who are interested in changing patterns of behavior that are detrimental in their relationships and work life. This is achieved through psychotherapy (and medication where indicated) so that you can obtain your full potential. I am trained in psychodynamic psychotherapy, an approach that looks comprehensively at an entire person's life, as well as cognitive and behavioral therapy. My psychotherapy training was through Leigh McCullough., a Harvard professor and clinician who also researched what causes true change in therapy. More recently I have studied AEDP a form of Positive Psychotherapy.
(401) 229-6078 View (401) 229-6078
Photo of Lilia Romero-Bosch, MD, Psychiatrist
Lilia Romero-Bosch
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Bristol, RI 02809
Not accepting new clients
Lilia Romero-Bosch, MD is a board certified psychiatrist that works with young children, adolescents and adults. She received training from Brown University in: General Pediatrics/General Adult Psychiatry/Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. Dr. Bosch is also one of the only physicians in southern New England to practice Functional Psychiatry, which focuses on helping you find your healthiest self and not just helping you treat a "diagnosis".
Lilia Romero-Bosch, MD is a board certified psychiatrist that works with young children, adolescents and adults. She received training from Brown University in: General Pediatrics/General Adult Psychiatry/Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. Dr. Bosch is also one of the only physicians in southern New England to practice Functional Psychiatry, which focuses on helping you find your healthiest self and not just helping you treat a "diagnosis".
(401) 213-3329 View (401) 213-3329
Photo of Pascale Kidane - VirtualPsychiatricCare.com, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
VirtualPsychiatricCare.com
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Warwick, RI 02887  (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.
(774) 229-0229 View (774) 229-0229
Photo of Mahreen Rashid - Spectrum Neuro Behavioral Care ( SNBCare ), MD, Psych , NP, LICSW, Psychiatrist
Spectrum Neuro Behavioral Care ( SNBCare )
Psychiatrist, MD, Psych , NP, LICSW
Verified Verified
Warwick, RI 02887  (Online Only)
Welcome to SNBCare: Your Path to Mental Wellness at SNBCare, we specialize in providing top-notch outpatient mental health services for adults, families, and couples. Our compassionate team offers Telemedicine, Teletherapy, and advanced TMS treatments. Accepting most insurances and new patients, we tailor personalized, evidence-based plans to meet your unique needs. With licensed Psychiatrists, PMHNPs, and Therapists, we’re dedicated to helping you achieve a balanced, fulfilling life. Take the first step to a healthier you with SNBCare today!
Welcome to SNBCare: Your Path to Mental Wellness at SNBCare, we specialize in providing top-notch outpatient mental health services for adults, families, and couples. Our compassionate team offers Telemedicine, Teletherapy, and advanced TMS treatments. Accepting most insurances and new patients, we tailor personalized, evidence-based plans to meet your unique needs. With licensed Psychiatrists, PMHNPs, and Therapists, we’re dedicated to helping you achieve a balanced, fulfilling life. Take the first step to a healthier you with SNBCare today!
(401) 307-4494 View (401) 307-4494
Photo of Amy Cosma - A Knew You and Wellness, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
A Knew You and Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bristol, RI 02809  (Online Only)
Hello! I am a board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner treating individuals across the lifespan, anyone age 5 and older. I specialize in treating autism, ADHD, anxiety, PTSD, depression and mood disorders. My goal is to help you navigate your current symptoms and concerns through medication management and therapeutic listening. I offer insight and suggestions for coping skills and strategies to overcome challenges associated with mental health disorders. I also offer short therapy sessions on a case by case basis.
Hello! I am a board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner treating individuals across the lifespan, anyone age 5 and older. I specialize in treating autism, ADHD, anxiety, PTSD, depression and mood disorders. My goal is to help you navigate your current symptoms and concerns through medication management and therapeutic listening. I offer insight and suggestions for coping skills and strategies to overcome challenges associated with mental health disorders. I also offer short therapy sessions on a case by case basis.
(401) 293-8521 View (401) 293-8521

See more therapy options for Portsmouth

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Portsmouth, RI

< 10

Psychiatrists in Portsmouth, RI who prioritize treating:

75% Depression
75% Anxiety
75% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
75% Trauma and PTSD
75% Bipolar Disorder
75% Sleep or Insomnia
75% Medication Management

Average years in practice

8 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
100% BlueCross and BlueShield
100% Cigna and Evernorth

How Psychiatrists in Portsmouth, RI see their clients

75% In Person and Online
25% Online Only

Gender breakdown

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

How can I find a psychiatrist in Portsmouth?

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.