Psychiatrists in Warwick, RI

Photo of Kaitlyn Boyer, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Kaitlyn Boyer
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
2 Endorsed
Warwick, RI 02886
As a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over a decade of mental health experience, I’ve had the privilege of supporting individuals of all ages—from teens to older adults—in both inpatient and emergency psychiatric settings. I take a biopsychosocial approach to care, thoughtfully tailoring each treatment plan to meet the unique needs of each individual I work with. Upon leaving my office, I aim to ensure that you feel truly understood, empowered, and confident in managing your treatment and the road ahead.
As a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over a decade of mental health experience, I’ve had the privilege of supporting individuals of all ages—from teens to older adults—in both inpatient and emergency psychiatric settings. I take a biopsychosocial approach to care, thoughtfully tailoring each treatment plan to meet the unique needs of each individual I work with. Upon leaving my office, I aim to ensure that you feel truly understood, empowered, and confident in managing your treatment and the road ahead.
(401) 307-5772 View (401) 307-5772
Photo of Ryan Andrews, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Ryan Andrews
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Warwick, RI 02888
Ryan Andrews, PMHNP, serves patients across Rhode Island through LifeStance Health, specializing in medication management and comprehensive mental health care for adults aged 18 and older. He believes in taking a collaborative approach to treatment, ensuring that patients feel heard and valued throughout their journey to wellness. By combining evidence-based medication management with therapeutic concepts, Ryan helps individuals struggling with anxiety, depression, grief, bipolar disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), and trauma-related issues such as PTSD.
Ryan Andrews, PMHNP, serves patients across Rhode Island through LifeStance Health, specializing in medication management and comprehensive mental health care for adults aged 18 and older. He believes in taking a collaborative approach to treatment, ensuring that patients feel heard and valued throughout their journey to wellness. By combining evidence-based medication management with therapeutic concepts, Ryan helps individuals struggling with anxiety, depression, grief, bipolar disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), and trauma-related issues such as PTSD.
(401) 409-8975 View (401) 409-8975
Photo of Alyssa Kortschinsky, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Alyssa Kortschinsky
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Warwick, RI 02886
I help adult clients who are looking for medication management for various mental health conditions including anxiety, depression, ADHD, OCD, PTSD, and bipolar.
I help adult clients who are looking for medication management for various mental health conditions including anxiety, depression, ADHD, OCD, PTSD, and bipolar.
(401) 589-5568 View (401) 589-5568
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 Arielle Rounds - West Bay Psychiatric Associates, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Arielle Rounds - West Bay Psychiatric Associates
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Warwick, RI 02886
I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with extensive experience in providing evidence-based psychiatric medication management for a wide range of mental health conditions, including ADHD, anxiety disorders, mood disorders, and bipolar spectrum disorders. My clinical approach is rooted in the belief that effective mental health care must be both personalized and collaborative, ensuring that each client receives a treatment plan tailored to their unique needs, preferences, and goals.
I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with extensive experience in providing evidence-based psychiatric medication management for a wide range of mental health conditions, including ADHD, anxiety disorders, mood disorders, and bipolar spectrum disorders. My clinical approach is rooted in the belief that effective mental health care must be both personalized and collaborative, ensuring that each client receives a treatment plan tailored to their unique needs, preferences, and goals.
(401) 208-2750 View (401) 208-2750
Photo of Katie Thayer, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Katie Thayer
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Warwick, RI 02886
Hello! My name is Katie and I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who provides medication management services for preteens, adolescents, and adults. I work in treating psychiatric disorders such as anxiety, depression, ADHD, and mood disorders. In addition to providing medication I provide a holistic approach to mental health treatment that includes patient and family centered care to promote wellness.
Hello! My name is Katie and I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who provides medication management services for preteens, adolescents, and adults. I work in treating psychiatric disorders such as anxiety, depression, ADHD, and mood disorders. In addition to providing medication I provide a holistic approach to mental health treatment that includes patient and family centered care to promote wellness.
(401) 208-0891 View (401) 208-0891
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 Irene Dematteo, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, BC
Irene Dematteo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, BC
Warwick, RI 02886
My approach is to hear your story and evaluate your symptoms. We are all different and come to treatment with varying circumstances. I have been a nurse for over 40 years and have been prescribing medications for over 20 years. I welcome the opportunity to be your partner in helping you and find your peace and best self.
My approach is to hear your story and evaluate your symptoms. We are all different and come to treatment with varying circumstances. I have been a nurse for over 40 years and have been prescribing medications for over 20 years. I welcome the opportunity to be your partner in helping you and find your peace and best self.
(401) 361-3616 View (401) 361-3616
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
Photo of Sarah Gallo Weinreich, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN, RN
Sarah Gallo Weinreich
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN, RN
2 Endorsed
Warwick, RI 02886
Hi, I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with 8+ years of Mental Health experience in different roles. I have worked with children, adolescents and adults with mental illness, sensory processing and developmental delays in both inpatient and outpatient settings. I currently provide Medication Management for adults 18 years +, who live with a variety of mental health diagnoses. I utilize a Biopsychosocial model as well as a patient centered approach and my number one value is respect. I believe in the importance of collaboration with patients and providers to create an individualized plan of care.
Hi, I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with 8+ years of Mental Health experience in different roles. I have worked with children, adolescents and adults with mental illness, sensory processing and developmental delays in both inpatient and outpatient settings. I currently provide Medication Management for adults 18 years +, who live with a variety of mental health diagnoses. I utilize a Biopsychosocial model as well as a patient centered approach and my number one value is respect. I believe in the importance of collaboration with patients and providers to create an individualized plan of care.
(401) 496-8706 View (401) 496-8706
Photo of Amanda Ismail - Northeast Family Services, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Northeast Family Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
Amanda Ismail is a board-certified registered nurse practitioner specializing in mental health. She has a Bachelor's in Nursing degree from Frostburg State University and earned her Master's degree in Nursing from Eastern Kentucky University’s Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner program. She is trained to diagnose and treat various mental health issues with a primary focus on medication management of anxiety, depression, and ADHD. She only sees patients via telehealth and accepts most major insurances and Medicaid.
Amanda Ismail is a board-certified registered nurse practitioner specializing in mental health. She has a Bachelor's in Nursing degree from Frostburg State University and earned her Master's degree in Nursing from Eastern Kentucky University’s Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner program. She is trained to diagnose and treat various mental health issues with a primary focus on medication management of anxiety, depression, and ADHD. She only sees patients via telehealth and accepts most major insurances and Medicaid.
(401) 343-7672 View (401) 343-7672
Photo of Dr. James A Gallo - James A Gallo, MD and Associates, Psychiatrist, MD
James A Gallo, MD and Associates
Psychiatrist, MD
3 Endorsed
Warwick, RI 02886
Our practice focuses on medication management and Individual psychotherapy for major psychiatric problems. Depression, Anxiety, Panic Attacks, ADD, OCD, PTSD, Psychosis, and Addictions. I make sure the appropriate amount of quality time is spent with all of our patients. Our certified psychiatric nurse practitioners are caring and passionate and will work with you to find the right treatment for you. They have direct access and consult with me when needed. We see patients in the office and will use telehealth when needed.
Our practice focuses on medication management and Individual psychotherapy for major psychiatric problems. Depression, Anxiety, Panic Attacks, ADD, OCD, PTSD, Psychosis, and Addictions. I make sure the appropriate amount of quality time is spent with all of our patients. Our certified psychiatric nurse practitioners are caring and passionate and will work with you to find the right treatment for you. They have direct access and consult with me when needed. We see patients in the office and will use telehealth when needed.
(401) 425-6773 View (401) 425-6773
Photo of Jenna Campbell, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Jenna Campbell
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Warwick, RI 02886
I am a master prepared , board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner . I have had a passion for mental health for as long as I can remember. I love to work specifically with children,teens and young adults . There is something about working with this age group that feels like a calling of mine . I am currently apsychiatric nurse practitioner at Quality Behavioral Health in Warwick RI . My background is primarily in pediatrics as a registered nurse, including pediatric emegency nursing . I feel it is so important to look at the client as a whole person and figure out the best way that I can help them.
I am a master prepared , board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner . I have had a passion for mental health for as long as I can remember. I love to work specifically with children,teens and young adults . There is something about working with this age group that feels like a calling of mine . I am currently apsychiatric nurse practitioner at Quality Behavioral Health in Warwick RI . My background is primarily in pediatrics as a registered nurse, including pediatric emegency nursing . I feel it is so important to look at the client as a whole person and figure out the best way that I can help them.
(401) 389-3711 View (401) 389-3711
Photo of Ryan Andrews - LifeStance Health, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN (C
LifeStance Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN (C
Warwick, RI 02888
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.
(401) 468-0379 View (401) 468-0379
Photo of Susan Gagnon, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Susan Gagnon
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Warwick, RI 02889
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.
(401) 271-9922 View (401) 271-9922
Photo of Chellee Furbert, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Chellee Furbert
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Hello, my name is Chellee. I am an ANCC dual-certified Family and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with twenty years of nursing experience in various care settings. I completed my graduate education at Indiana Wesleyan University in 2017, gaining expertise in emergency medicine, substance use disorder, and behavioral health. My diverse training and experience have taught me that every journey to optimal health is unique. I enjoy collaborating with clients to understand their needs, highlight their strengths, and incorporate a motivational approach to care.
Hello, my name is Chellee. I am an ANCC dual-certified Family and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with twenty years of nursing experience in various care settings. I completed my graduate education at Indiana Wesleyan University in 2017, gaining expertise in emergency medicine, substance use disorder, and behavioral health. My diverse training and experience have taught me that every journey to optimal health is unique. I enjoy collaborating with clients to understand their needs, highlight their strengths, and incorporate a motivational approach to care.
(401) 310-2445 View (401) 310-2445
Photo of Samuel Kaufman - EquanimityRI - Spravato (esketamine) Clinic, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN
EquanimityRI - Spravato (esketamine) Clinic
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN
Serves Area
At EquanimityRI, we strive to provide a comfortable space for Spravato treatment, focusing on a personalized approach that nurtures healing and promotes well-being. Our patients receive one-on-one care in comfortable rooms with reclining chairs and a quiet atmosphere designed to support healing. The prioritization of individualized attention, support and therapeutic integration allows us to offer exceptional mental health services grounded in a holistic, patient-centered ideology.
At EquanimityRI, we strive to provide a comfortable space for Spravato treatment, focusing on a personalized approach that nurtures healing and promotes well-being. Our patients receive one-on-one care in comfortable rooms with reclining chairs and a quiet atmosphere designed to support healing. The prioritization of individualized attention, support and therapeutic integration allows us to offer exceptional mental health services grounded in a holistic, patient-centered ideology.
(401) 235-4986 View (401) 235-4986
Photo of Julianne Abramson - Haven Psychiatry and Wellness, LLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Haven Psychiatry and Wellness, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Serves Area
Maybe you're feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or simply not like yourself. 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. We provide holistic, evidence-based mental health care in Rhode Island. We see adults ages 18-65, and we're proud to offer flexible evening hours to accommodate busy lives.
Maybe you're feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or simply not like yourself. 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. We provide holistic, evidence-based mental health care in Rhode Island. We see adults ages 18-65, and we're proud to offer flexible evening hours to accommodate busy lives.
(401) 386-3081 View (401) 386-3081
New View Health and Wellness, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Serves Area
New View Health and Wellness, LLC is currently accepting new clients beginning at age 5 and up for in-person and virtual visits for medication management and solution-focused therapy to be your best self! To become a new client, go to our website an fill out the information for "new patient". We offer a variety of Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioners and can provide a PMHNP who speaks Spanish and Portugese as well as English. Meet our PMHNPs on our website: Lorrie MacDonald, DHS, PMHNP-BC, CNP Edith Claros, PhD, PMHNP-BC, CNP Patricia Hogan, DNP, PMHNP-BC, CNP
New View Health and Wellness, LLC is currently accepting new clients beginning at age 5 and up for in-person and virtual visits for medication management and solution-focused therapy to be your best self! To become a new client, go to our website an fill out the information for "new patient". We offer a variety of Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioners and can provide a PMHNP who speaks Spanish and Portugese as well as English. Meet our PMHNPs on our website: Lorrie MacDonald, DHS, PMHNP-BC, CNP Edith Claros, PhD, PMHNP-BC, CNP Patricia Hogan, DNP, PMHNP-BC, CNP
(774) 261-8011 View (774) 261-8011
Photo of Bolanle Ahazie, Psychiatric Nurse, NP
Bolanle Ahazie
Psychiatric Nurse, NP
Online Only
My name is Bolanle Ahazie, NP and I am a licensed nurse practitioner offering online behavioral health services to adults and children. I treat an array of conditions, however, my specializations include depression, anxiety, insomnia, bipolar disorder, and PTSD.
My name is Bolanle Ahazie, NP and I am a licensed nurse practitioner offering online behavioral health services to adults and children. I treat an array of conditions, however, my specializations include depression, anxiety, insomnia, bipolar disorder, and PTSD.
(551) 288-7016 View (551) 288-7016

See more therapy options for Warwick

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Warwick, RI

30+

Average cost per session

$225

Psychiatrists in Warwick, RI who prioritize treating:

87% Depression
87% Anxiety
80% ADHD
80% Medication Management
70% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
70% Trauma and PTSD
70% Bipolar Disorder

Average years in practice

10 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

89% BlueCross and BlueShield
89% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH
74% Optum

How Psychiatrists in Warwick, RI see their clients

73% In Person and Online
27% Online Only

Gender breakdown

81% Female
19% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Warwick?

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.