Psychiatrists in Cranston, RI
![Photo of Roseanne Dolan, APRN-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e6183a30-8a77-46c6-b069-17793f386858/1/320x400.jpeg)
Roseanne, a psychotherapist (LICSW) & nurse practitioner (APRN-BC), values a comprehensive approach to mental health. She earned her B.A. in Psychology from the College of the Holy Cross, and graduated with an MSN from the Massachusetts General Hospital Institute for Health Professions. She is a member of the nursing honor society, Sigma Theta Tau. Her focus is on helping individuals realize their positive attributes as they strive for improved health, wellness & healing.
Roseanne, a psychotherapist (LICSW) & nurse practitioner (APRN-BC), values a comprehensive approach to mental health. She earned her B.A. in Psychology from the College of the Holy Cross, and graduated with an MSN from the Massachusetts General Hospital Institute for Health Professions. She is a member of the nursing honor society, Sigma Theta Tau. Her focus is on helping individuals realize their positive attributes as they strive for improved health, wellness & healing.
![Photo of Ricardo Mendiola, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/51d3e4cb-9c6b-4e65-9efc-e486c23aed17/2/320x400.jpeg)
Ricardo Mendiola
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cranston, RI 02920
I am Board Certified by the Rhode Island Board of Nursing as an Advanced Practice Nurse Practitioner with a specialization in Psychiatry and Mental Health. I am bilingual and fluent in Spanish and English. I believe that each person has a unique problem and treatment is tailored specifically to their mental health concerns. I aim to provide patients compassionate and judgment-free care using advanced technology (telehealth) to help enhance their quality of life for those that are affected with a mental health disorder. I look forward to working with you, providing care to you, and allowing me to work with you. Estoy para ayudarlos,
I am Board Certified by the Rhode Island Board of Nursing as an Advanced Practice Nurse Practitioner with a specialization in Psychiatry and Mental Health. I am bilingual and fluent in Spanish and English. I believe that each person has a unique problem and treatment is tailored specifically to their mental health concerns. I aim to provide patients compassionate and judgment-free care using advanced technology (telehealth) to help enhance their quality of life for those that are affected with a mental health disorder. I look forward to working with you, providing care to you, and allowing me to work with you. Estoy para ayudarlos,
![Photo of Evan Stoler, PA-C, MPAS, CAQ-PSY, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cbdefca4-4e27-40c5-9c6d-c53ccd32df8f/1/320x400.jpeg)
Evan Stoler
Physician Assistant, PA-C, MPAS, CAQ-PSY
Verified Verified
Cranston, RI 02920 (Online Only)
Hello! I am a psych PA which means I focus on medication management but I try to be as thorough and comprehensive as possible with treatment plans. I schedule 1 hour intakes to try to get to know you the best I can because the better I can know you, the better I can help you. You will outline in the beginning what your goals are and what you have been feeling. From there we will cover your psychiatric and medical history, the range of all mental health symptoms you have experienced, talk about substance use, social history, labs, and together develop a plan that feels right, ensuring time to answer all your questions and concerns.
Hello! I am a psych PA which means I focus on medication management but I try to be as thorough and comprehensive as possible with treatment plans. I schedule 1 hour intakes to try to get to know you the best I can because the better I can know you, the better I can help you. You will outline in the beginning what your goals are and what you have been feeling. From there we will cover your psychiatric and medical history, the range of all mental health symptoms you have experienced, talk about substance use, social history, labs, and together develop a plan that feels right, ensuring time to answer all your questions and concerns.
![Photo of Andrea Davis, MSN, APRN, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/373687fd-75f3-4673-81da-f57ae92b4d5f/1/320x400.jpeg)
Andrea Davis
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, BC
Verified Verified
Cranston, RI 02905 (Online Only)
I specialize in medication management for individuals with mental health issues across the lifespan. Mental health issues I currently treat include but are not limited to mood disorders, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder/manic depressive illness, ADHD, PTSD, panic disorder, adjustment disorder, and stress management.
I specialize in medication management for individuals with mental health issues across the lifespan. Mental health issues I currently treat include but are not limited to mood disorders, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder/manic depressive illness, ADHD, PTSD, panic disorder, adjustment disorder, and stress management.
![Photo of Melanie Koehler - Garden City Psychiatry, LLC, APRN, CNS, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/40494932-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Garden City Psychiatry, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, CNS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cranston, RI 02920
Our practice is exclusive to medication management only. We specialize in providing medication management to adults and children diagnosed with mental health issues including but not limited to depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, traumatic events, panic attacks, and life stressors. Each patient will receive a comprehensive initial evaluation, medication management, personalized attention, 24/7 on call coverage and coordination with your healthcare providers. Adele Palazzo, APRN and Melanie Koehler, APRN treat the adult population.
Our practice is exclusive to medication management only. We specialize in providing medication management to adults and children diagnosed with mental health issues including but not limited to depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, traumatic events, panic attacks, and life stressors. Each patient will receive a comprehensive initial evaluation, medication management, personalized attention, 24/7 on call coverage and coordination with your healthcare providers. Adele Palazzo, APRN and Melanie Koehler, APRN treat the adult population.
![Photo of Dr. Danielle Trenelli, PhD, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7d6cb410-0583-4c70-8289-a7fbf45ac341/1/320x400.png)
Dr. Danielle Trenelli
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
Cranston, RI 02905 (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
![Photo of Kelsey Sorensen, PA-C, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3ae5f72b-2a7b-45ab-ae98-2134360cbf11/2/320x400.jpeg)
Kelsey Sorensen
Physician Assistant, PA-C
Verified Verified
Cranston, RI 02920 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Are you considering starting medication but are apprehensive about the options? Are you already on medications but are struggling with side effects or the medication not working? Are you just not feeling like yourself? Let's work together to find the best treatment plan for you. My approach to care is conversational rather than clinical. I like to get to know you, as a person, not just a diagnosis. We will work together to find a treatment plan that feels comfortable. While my specialty is medication management, I focus on using the least amount of medication possible and reducing the use of multiple medications whenever able.
Are you considering starting medication but are apprehensive about the options? Are you already on medications but are struggling with side effects or the medication not working? Are you just not feeling like yourself? Let's work together to find the best treatment plan for you. My approach to care is conversational rather than clinical. I like to get to know you, as a person, not just a diagnosis. We will work together to find a treatment plan that feels comfortable. While my specialty is medication management, I focus on using the least amount of medication possible and reducing the use of multiple medications whenever able.
![Photo of Hilary Cerullo, DO, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/39d04855-a51d-44e5-bb2e-b2c0f2fdff8b/2/320x400.jpeg)
Brown University Adult Psychiatry Residency completed June 2008. New York College of Osteopathic Medicine completed 2004. Columbia University Post-Baccalaureate Pre-Medical Program completed 2000.
Brown University Adult Psychiatry Residency completed June 2008. New York College of Osteopathic Medicine completed 2004. Columbia University Post-Baccalaureate Pre-Medical Program completed 2000.
![Photo of Gillian Cooperstein, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/549bd7ca-9091-4cb2-9598-f3039d5435d6/1/320x400.png)
Gillian Cooperstein is a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who specializes in the psychiatric treatment and care for children, adolescents and young adults (ages 6-25). She most commonly treats depression, anxiety, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, autism, oppositional defiance and mood disorders. She believes in treating the whole person and is thoughtful when making decisions about medication options.
Gillian Cooperstein is a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who specializes in the psychiatric treatment and care for children, adolescents and young adults (ages 6-25). She most commonly treats depression, anxiety, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, autism, oppositional defiance and mood disorders. She believes in treating the whole person and is thoughtful when making decisions about medication options.
![Photo of Melanie Koehler, APRN, CNS, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3e2c754d-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Melanie Koehler
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, CNS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Cranston, RI 02920
With 20 years experience, I specialize in providing medication management to patients diagnosed with mental health issues including but not limited to depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, traumatic events, panic attacks, and life stressors. Each patient will receive a comprehensive initial evaluation, medication management, personalized attention, 24/7 on call coverage and coordination with your healthcare providers.
With 20 years experience, I specialize in providing medication management to patients diagnosed with mental health issues including but not limited to depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, traumatic events, panic attacks, and life stressors. Each patient will receive a comprehensive initial evaluation, medication management, personalized attention, 24/7 on call coverage and coordination with your healthcare providers.
![Photo of Pascale Kidane - VirtualPsychiatricCare.com, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ebf4a193-56c5-411f-9ab5-0450cf9c918c/2/320x400.jpeg)
VirtualPsychiatricCare.com
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Cranston, RI 02910 (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.
![Photo of Joseph Allaire, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d4a23583-1848-4938-95b7-ee3e6fdf2af4/3/320x400.jpeg)
Joseph Allaire
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Cranston, RI 02910 (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.
![Photo of Michael Trazi, PMHCS, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f33f25bf-56d9-4234-b6f2-8ad21b95ee3a/1/320x400.png)
Michael Trazi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHCS, BC
Verified Verified
Cranston, RI 02920 (Online Only)
Mike has 30+ years working in Psych and 7+ years of prescribing experience and services adolescence from 5-17 years old. He takes a holistic approach to treatment and he understand that one's mental health affects the entire family unit and not just you alone. He has decades of experience working at Bradley Children's Hospital, The Brown Center for Children and Families, and is knowledgeable of community resources available to you. He understands the importance of therapy, medication, and good behavior modification skills.
Mike has 30+ years working in Psych and 7+ years of prescribing experience and services adolescence from 5-17 years old. He takes a holistic approach to treatment and he understand that one's mental health affects the entire family unit and not just you alone. He has decades of experience working at Bradley Children's Hospital, The Brown Center for Children and Families, and is knowledgeable of community resources available to you. He understands the importance of therapy, medication, and good behavior modification skills.
![Photo of Ros Eko, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ed01bd15-9e4c-42bb-8025-e0438b8c9622/1/320x400.jpeg)
Ros Eko
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cranston, RI 02920 (Online Only)
Currently accepting new patients for both our Rhode Island and Maryland practices. We offer medication management services to young children, teenagers, and adults with ADHD, depression, anxiety, OCD, PTSD, bipolar disorder and many more. I offer a safe and non-judgmental therapeutic environment that fosters wellbeing and healing. My goal is to enhance safety and provide the highest quality of care in a collaborative treatment style between the patient and the provider.
Currently accepting new patients for both our Rhode Island and Maryland practices. We offer medication management services to young children, teenagers, and adults with ADHD, depression, anxiety, OCD, PTSD, bipolar disorder and many more. I offer a safe and non-judgmental therapeutic environment that fosters wellbeing and healing. My goal is to enhance safety and provide the highest quality of care in a collaborative treatment style between the patient and the provider.
![Photo of Alexander Scagnelli - Alexander Scagnelli MD PC, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/46c5d732-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Darryle Steinberg, MSN, PMHNP, CNM, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/857e61ea-1b11-4aee-95b3-be679957929a/1/320x400.jpeg)
Darryle Steinberg
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, CNM
Verified Verified
Cranston, RI 02905
Not accepting new clients
I am a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner specializing in the care of adult men and women working to overcome anxiety and/or depression. I hold an additional national certification as a certified nurse-midwife. I have extensive experience treating men and women with mood changes that can arise during the various stages of one's life. This includes, but is not limited to, addressing stressors related to life transitions, work, school, relationships, parenting, and care-taking of others. Seeking support at these challenging and vulnerable times is a brave and important step to feeling and functioning better in one's life.
I am a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner specializing in the care of adult men and women working to overcome anxiety and/or depression. I hold an additional national certification as a certified nurse-midwife. I have extensive experience treating men and women with mood changes that can arise during the various stages of one's life. This includes, but is not limited to, addressing stressors related to life transitions, work, school, relationships, parenting, and care-taking of others. Seeking support at these challenging and vulnerable times is a brave and important step to feeling and functioning better in one's life.
![Photo of Alyssa Kortschinsky, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/06046de0-4bd7-4ef9-8e2a-35ea18e85da0/2/320x400.jpeg)
Alyssa Kortschinsky
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cranston, RI 02907
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.
![Photo of Lynetta Loveland, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f8ce3e20-20f1-4d37-9402-1d6ceec51f0c/1/320x400.jpeg)
Lynetta Loveland
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Cranston, RI 02920 (Online Only)
My model of mental health care puts patients in the middle. First and foremost, I believe in listening to the patient. So much can be learned by listening, watching, and truly hearing what a patient tells me is happening with them and their body. I conduct psychiatric assessments and make recommendations for treatment with psychiatric medications.
My model of mental health care puts patients in the middle. First and foremost, I believe in listening to the patient. So much can be learned by listening, watching, and truly hearing what a patient tells me is happening with them and their body. I conduct psychiatric assessments and make recommendations for treatment with psychiatric medications.
![Photo of Effiem King - PVD Cares Wellness Center, FNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c8921ae5-6561-4eaf-ba13-d28e17082af5/3/320x400.jpeg)
PVD Cares Wellness Center
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Cranston, RI 02910 (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Effiem has over a decade of mental health experience. Effiem is dual certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner and as such, every client treatment is individualized and holistic at the same time. Her mission is to provide the highest quality care with an emphasis on evidence-based practice and patient -centered care. Effiem has extensive knowledge and experience with medication management to a wide variety of people dealing with mood disorders, trauma, and ADHD.
Effiem has over a decade of mental health experience. Effiem is dual certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner and as such, every client treatment is individualized and holistic at the same time. Her mission is to provide the highest quality care with an emphasis on evidence-based practice and patient -centered care. Effiem has extensive knowledge and experience with medication management to a wide variety of people dealing with mood disorders, trauma, and ADHD.
![Photo of Arielle Rounds - West Bay Psychiatric Associates, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f52d7366-0eff-4dd7-a7e1-44f5e0b27192/1/320x400.jpeg)
Arielle Rounds - West Bay Psychiatric Associates
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Cranston, RI 02905
I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) providing psychiatric medication management for variety of mental health disorders including ADHD, anxiety disorders, mood and bipolar spectrum disorders, among others. I work together with my clients to establish a tailored treatment plan specific to their unique needs.
I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) providing psychiatric medication management for variety of mental health disorders including ADHD, anxiety disorders, mood and bipolar spectrum disorders, among others. I work together with my clients to establish a tailored treatment plan specific to their unique needs.
See more therapy options for Cranston
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Cranston, RI
20+
Average cost per session
$150
Psychiatrists in Cranston, RI who prioritize treating:
91% | Medication Management |
87% | Depression |
87% | Anxiety |
83% | ADHD |
65% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
65% | Trauma and PTSD |
61% | Sleep or Insomnia |
Average years in practice
10 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
96% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
78% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
74% | Aetna |
How Psychiatrists in Cranston, RI see their clients
53% | In Person and Online | |
47% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
72% | Female | |
28% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Cranston?
The Psychology Today Directory enables users to search specifically for psychiatrists by selecting the provider type from the drop-down menu, and filtering results by city, zip code, or the psychiatrist's name. The search results feature detailed profiles that outline each professional's treatment approach, areas of expertise, credentials, fees, payment options, and accepted insurance. Results include both psychiatrists (MDs) and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs), who hold advanced practice nursing degrees. Users can refine their search for a specific type of psychiatric provider using the "Provider Type" filter.
What is the difference between a psychiatrist and a psychologist?
Psychiatrists are medical specialists dedicated to understanding, diagnosing, and treating brain disorders and mental health conditions. As physicians, they are trained to identify the often subtle biological factors underlying mental disorders and to monitor how mental health treatments may impact other physical conditions, such as heart disease. Psychiatrists are licensed to prescribe medication and typically conduct shorter sessions that focus on medication management rather than intensive psychotherapy.
In contrast, psychologists are particularly attuned to the impact of early experiences on development, behavior, emotions, and cognitive processes. They often take a holistic approach to assessing and treating clients, considering aspects of personality and social functioning. Although psychologists cannot prescribe medication, they are frequently skilled in administering psychological tests—such as IQ tests, personality assessments, and behavioral evaluations—to assess an individual's functioning. Psychologists often engage in longer, more psychotherapy-focused sessions compared to psychiatrists.
In contrast, psychologists are particularly attuned to the impact of early experiences on development, behavior, emotions, and cognitive processes. They often take a holistic approach to assessing and treating clients, considering aspects of personality and social functioning. Although psychologists cannot prescribe medication, they are frequently skilled in administering psychological tests—such as IQ tests, personality assessments, and behavioral evaluations—to assess an individual's functioning. Psychologists often engage in longer, more psychotherapy-focused sessions compared to psychiatrists.
What is a psychiatric nurse practitioner and what is the difference with a psychiatrist?
A psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP), also known as a mental health nurse practitioner or psychiatric nurse practitioner, is an advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) who has completed advanced training in psychiatric care, earning at least a master’s degree in psychiatric nursing. To become Board-Certified (PMHNP-BC), psychiatric nurse practitioners must also pass a national exam that tests their clinical psychiatric knowledge.
Like psychiatrists, PMHNPs are trained to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions. However, PMHNPs and psychiatrists differ in their training experience. While PMHNPs can complete their credentialing requirements (full bachelor's and master's degree training) in as few as 6 years, psychiatrists often spend upwards of 12 years to complete their bachelor's, medical doctorate degree, and residency training requirements. Because of training differences, some states require PMHNPs to be supervised by or enter into a collaborative agreement with a physician in order to prescribe medication.
When deciding to work with a psychiatrist or PMHNP, clients should consider factors such therapeutic fit, cost, and availability. Psychiatrists may have more substantial training in treating more severe psychiatric conditions, as well as in providing more specialized treatment services, such as child psychiatry. However, psychiatrists may be inaccessible to some clients, as their cost and availability may be prohibitive. It can often be easier for clients to find a PMHNP with openings for new clients when compared to psychiatrists, and PMHNPs may also offer lower cost treatment options for clients looking to minimize out-of-pocket costs.
Like psychiatrists, PMHNPs are trained to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions. However, PMHNPs and psychiatrists differ in their training experience. While PMHNPs can complete their credentialing requirements (full bachelor's and master's degree training) in as few as 6 years, psychiatrists often spend upwards of 12 years to complete their bachelor's, medical doctorate degree, and residency training requirements. Because of training differences, some states require PMHNPs to be supervised by or enter into a collaborative agreement with a physician in order to prescribe medication.
When deciding to work with a psychiatrist or PMHNP, clients should consider factors such therapeutic fit, cost, and availability. Psychiatrists may have more substantial training in treating more severe psychiatric conditions, as well as in providing more specialized treatment services, such as child psychiatry. However, psychiatrists may be inaccessible to some clients, as their cost and availability may be prohibitive. It can often be easier for clients to find a PMHNP with openings for new clients when compared to psychiatrists, and PMHNPs may also offer lower cost treatment options for clients looking to minimize out-of-pocket costs.
Can a psychiatrist or a PMHNP prescribe medication?
The Psychology Today directory features two primary types of psychiatric professionals: psychiatrists and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs). Both are generally authorized to prescribe psychiatric medications. In 28 states, PMHNPs have full practice authority, allowing them to provide the complete spectrum of psychiatric care, including independent medication prescribing and management. In other states, however, PMHNPs are required to work under the supervision or in collaboration with a physician to prescribe medication. Both psychiatrists and PMHNPs may also offer additional services, such as psychotherapy, counseling, and care coordination, for clients seeking psychiatric care.
Do psychiatrists or PMHNPs offer therapy?
Both psychiatrists and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs) are generally trained in a number of treatment modalities, including traditional psychotherapy, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), pharmacotherapy, and, occasionally, various somatic therapies. Typically, psychiatrists and PMHNPs make a diagnosis and determine a course of treatment based on chemical or biological factors, using lab tests, brain scans and physical and psychological evaluations.
While psychotherapy may be used in the first session to aid in diagnosis, it is not typically utilized in subsequent visits. In fact, after the introductory session, most psychiatry sessions may only be 15-20 minutes in length and are largely focused on medication management; this is frequently the case for both psychiatrists and PMHNPs. However, medication providers who do not offer psychotherapy usually work collaboratively with psychologists and other mental health clinicians who do offer these services, and they can refer clients seeking more traditional psychotherapy services to their care.
While psychotherapy may be used in the first session to aid in diagnosis, it is not typically utilized in subsequent visits. In fact, after the introductory session, most psychiatry sessions may only be 15-20 minutes in length and are largely focused on medication management; this is frequently the case for both psychiatrists and PMHNPs. However, medication providers who do not offer psychotherapy usually work collaboratively with psychologists and other mental health clinicians who do offer these services, and they can refer clients seeking more traditional psychotherapy services to their care.
How do I know if I need a psychiatrist, a PMHNP, or a therapist?
It is not always easy to know which type of mental health practitioner to choose. Many people are unaware of the root of their mental or behavioral problem and may be unaware of the differences in support provided by various mental health professionals. One way many people learn which type of care is best for them is by seeing their primary care provider (PCP) first. Depending on the nature and severity of the symptoms, the PCP may review their medical history and provide guidance or a referral to the appropriate type of provider.
A referral to a psychiatrist or PMHNP is most often made when a client is in need of psychiatric medication management or assessment. These professionals are specifically trained to prescribe psychiatric medications, when necessary, for a client; however, they generally do not provide supportive psychotherapy on an ongoing basis. A therapist or psychologist, in contrast, can provide supportive psychotherapy but is unable to prescribe medications. Because of their unique roles, some clients see both a medication prescriber (either a psychiatrist or PMHNP) and a therapist at the same time to address their psychiatric concerns holistically. Many psychiatrists and psychologists are very open to referring clients to other professionals if unable to meet the client's needs or if they think the client could use additional support from a different type of professional.
A referral to a psychiatrist or PMHNP is most often made when a client is in need of psychiatric medication management or assessment. These professionals are specifically trained to prescribe psychiatric medications, when necessary, for a client; however, they generally do not provide supportive psychotherapy on an ongoing basis. A therapist or psychologist, in contrast, can provide supportive psychotherapy but is unable to prescribe medications. Because of their unique roles, some clients see both a medication prescriber (either a psychiatrist or PMHNP) and a therapist at the same time to address their psychiatric concerns holistically. Many psychiatrists and psychologists are very open to referring clients to other professionals if unable to meet the client's needs or if they think the client could use additional support from a different type of professional.
Do I need a referral to see a psychiatrist or a PMHNP?
A referral to a psychiatrist or psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) is often not required. However, consulting your primary care physician (PCP) first can be beneficial and may streamline the process of getting the care you need. Your PCP can help determine whether psychiatric care is necessary or if another type of mental health support might be more appropriate. Additionally, some insurance plans require a PCP referral to cover part or all of the costs associated with seeing a specialist. Obtaining a referral can also expedite the appointment process, particularly in areas with provider shortages or for clients seeking specialists in fields like child psychiatry.
Is everyone in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory a licensed professional?
Yes, all professionals listed in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory are licensed to provide mental health services in the state(s) where they practice. The directory includes a variety of providers such as psychiatrists, psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs), physician assistants, psychologists, social workers, and counselors. Each provider must hold a valid license issued by their state regulatory body to be listed. In addition, Psychology Today offers a verification process for certain providers, signified by a 'Verified' symbol next to their profile. This badge indicates that the provider’s primary credential or license has been independently verified by Psychology Today.