Psychiatrists in Greenville, RI
![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.
More Psychiatrists Nearby
![Photo of Jenna Callahan, FNP, CLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a5676805-3dac-4131-bfc0-ff1cb002fff4/2/320x400.jpeg)
Jenna Callahan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP, CLC
Verified Verified
Providence, RI 02906
Not accepting new clients
I provide medication management and medical expertise around a multitude of issues including anxiety, depression, ADHD and acute illnesses for adults and children. I am a Family Nurse Practitioner starting a private practice on the beautiful East Side of Providence!
I provide medication management and medical expertise around a multitude of issues including anxiety, depression, ADHD and acute illnesses for adults and children. I am a Family Nurse Practitioner starting a private practice on the beautiful East Side of Providence!
![Photo of Camella Granara, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6043145e-5b80-4e20-9bcd-887ddd472313/1/320x400.jpeg)
Camella Granara
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Providence, RI 02902 (Online Only)
Currently accepting new private clients in NY, MA, RI. NH clients are seen by me through Womenkind Counseling Center, Concord and I am credentialed with most NH insurers through Womenkind too. If you are on PsychologyToday.com, you are most likely going through some difficult stuff and life is not as you want it to be. I am sorry that you are struggling. But, I want you to know that with some good steps forward, solid guidance and support, things can get a whole let better. This can happen sooner than you think too! Self schedule a consultation on my website. Mention Psychology today and your consult is free!
Currently accepting new private clients in NY, MA, RI. NH clients are seen by me through Womenkind Counseling Center, Concord and I am credentialed with most NH insurers through Womenkind too. If you are on PsychologyToday.com, you are most likely going through some difficult stuff and life is not as you want it to be. I am sorry that you are struggling. But, I want you to know that with some good steps forward, solid guidance and support, things can get a whole let better. This can happen sooner than you think too! Self schedule a consultation on my website. Mention Psychology today and your consult is free!
![Photo of Susie Draighan, APRN, PMHNP, PMH-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/dfee1dd1-e914-454e-9bfb-bc8bfa8f2499/1/320x400.jpeg)
Susie Draighan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, PMH-C
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Providence, RI 02909
Waitlist for new clients
As a Vanderbilt-educated psychiatric nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC) trained in the integrated model of care and certified in perinatal mental health (PMH-C), I understand that the mind and body are interconnected. I am passionate about helping individuals find peace and balance in their lives through a combination of traditional psychiatric treatments and the integration of mindfulness and movement practices. I prescribe thoughtfully, using the lowest effective doses of medication for the shortest necessary amount of time.
As a Vanderbilt-educated psychiatric nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC) trained in the integrated model of care and certified in perinatal mental health (PMH-C), I understand that the mind and body are interconnected. I am passionate about helping individuals find peace and balance in their lives through a combination of traditional psychiatric treatments and the integration of mindfulness and movement practices. I prescribe thoughtfully, using the lowest effective doses of medication for the shortest necessary amount of time.
![Photo of Roseline Ekema, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9c633a66-3fac-4144-84f3-a3903e5a49e0/1/320x400.png)
Roseline Ekema
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Providence, RI 02908 (Online Only)
My name is Roseline Eko, PMHNP, and I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner offering medication management to children and adults.
My name is Roseline Eko, PMHNP, and I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner offering medication management to children and adults.
![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 Meredith Louise Arden - Arrow Behavioral Health, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6ff6db10-d6d0-4913-b55d-090cf623e485/2/320x400.jpeg)
Arrow Behavioral Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Providence, RI 02905
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.
![Photo of Hannah Creta, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/50d21c3a-5f5c-43cf-ab75-d3a0562953da/1/320x400.jpeg)
Accepting new patients for consultation and medication management. Our office uses a holistic approach to treating the whole patient and not just the symptoms. We use a team based approach to coordinate care between both behavioral health and medical providers. I am passionate about working with women who struggle with hormones, fertility, and life changes, with adults in the LGBTQQ+ community, veterans and their families, first responders, and individuals that struggle with mood, trauma, and anxiety concerns. Patients that are motivated for change and interested in being part of their treatment team are always welcome.
Accepting new patients for consultation and medication management. Our office uses a holistic approach to treating the whole patient and not just the symptoms. We use a team based approach to coordinate care between both behavioral health and medical providers. I am passionate about working with women who struggle with hormones, fertility, and life changes, with adults in the LGBTQQ+ community, veterans and their families, first responders, and individuals that struggle with mood, trauma, and anxiety concerns. Patients that are motivated for change and interested in being part of their treatment team are always welcome.
![Photo of Tabitha Imondi- Samantha Heim - Partners in Psychiatry, APRN, PMHNP, MSN, RN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4a57161f-322b-478b-a84b-8fec97081685/1/320x400.jpeg)
Partners in Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, MSN, RN
Verified Verified
Johnston, RI 02919
Accepting new patients. We provide clinical evaluations and medication management for those aged 4-60 years old via telepsychiatry video sessions and in-office appointments. We offer expert treatment plans to ease your suffering and emotional pain using the biopsychosocial framework. While we believe psychotropic treatment can be both curative and beneficial for symptom management, we encourage our patients to engage meaningfully in their own treatment by participating in psychotherapy, exercise, mindfulness, and healthy nutrition.
Accepting new patients. We provide clinical evaluations and medication management for those aged 4-60 years old via telepsychiatry video sessions and in-office appointments. We offer expert treatment plans to ease your suffering and emotional pain using the biopsychosocial framework. While we believe psychotropic treatment can be both curative and beneficial for symptom management, we encourage our patients to engage meaningfully in their own treatment by participating in psychotherapy, exercise, mindfulness, and healthy nutrition.
![Photo of Juliana Igbinosun, DNP, APRN, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2a26c9c0-b8f6-4d47-8d32-e111d6877004/2/320x400.jpeg)
Juliana Igbinosun
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
Providence, RI 02903
Dr. Juliana envisions a society free of mental stigma and give everyone the freedom to live without being judged on their mental health struggles. We play our part by creating a judgment-free wellness space where the patients feel more comfortable and supported while they receive care.
Dr. Juliana envisions a society free of mental stigma and give everyone the freedom to live without being judged on their mental health struggles. We play our part by creating a judgment-free wellness space where the patients feel more comfortable and supported while they receive care.
![Photo of Alison Perry - Alison Perry PMHNP, LLC, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1be0d5d3-cf73-4bdf-8880-1f94b282ac3c/2/320x400.jpeg)
Alison Perry PMHNP, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Providence, RI 02906
I am a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner specializing in the care of adults working to overcome anxiety and/or depression. I hold an additional national certification as a family nurse practitioner and bring a holistic view of the intersection of physical and emotional wellbeing to my practice. I am experienced in treating individuals with mood changes that can arise during the various stages of one's life such as stressors related to life transitions, work, school, relationships, and caretaking. I have extensive experience working with women who seek to manage symptoms due to hormonal shifts and menopause.
I am a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner specializing in the care of adults working to overcome anxiety and/or depression. I hold an additional national certification as a family nurse practitioner and bring a holistic view of the intersection of physical and emotional wellbeing to my practice. I am experienced in treating individuals with mood changes that can arise during the various stages of one's life such as stressors related to life transitions, work, school, relationships, and caretaking. I have extensive experience working with women who seek to manage symptoms due to hormonal shifts and menopause.
![Photo of Cassandra Pierre, APRN (C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0e196496-8228-4a68-8613-fcaa3447de0a/1/320x400.jpeg)
Cassandra Pierre, PMHNP Cassandra Pierre is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Rhode Island who has been practicing since 2023. She has a Master of Science in Psychiatric Mental Health Nursing Practitioner from Regis College and a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Curry College. Cassandra has good communication skills among patients, family, and interdisciplinary teams, ensuring optimal care. Providing therapeutic communication, empathy, and emotional support allows a better understanding of patients' needs. Cassandra can prioritize and intervene in crisis response.
Cassandra Pierre, PMHNP Cassandra Pierre is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Rhode Island who has been practicing since 2023. She has a Master of Science in Psychiatric Mental Health Nursing Practitioner from Regis College and a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Curry College. Cassandra has good communication skills among patients, family, and interdisciplinary teams, ensuring optimal care. Providing therapeutic communication, empathy, and emotional support allows a better understanding of patients' needs. Cassandra can prioritize and intervene in crisis response.
![Photo of Laura Mayer, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d2fbfb3f-deea-4b56-b66c-93cb18977b45/1/320x400.jpeg)
Accepting NEW preconception planning, pregnant/postpartum ONLY at this time. Welcome! I'm a board certified psychiatrist with an MD from Brown University, fellowship training in Women's Mental Health, and a faculty member at Brown University. I aim to create a highly individualized care plan, tailored to each patient's goals and vision of care. My practice is designed to be small to allow for flexibility, accessibility and attentiveness to each of my patients. Our work together will be empathic, supportive and collaborative. I am now available to see patients in person or via telehealth in RI and virtually for those in MA.
Accepting NEW preconception planning, pregnant/postpartum ONLY at this time. Welcome! I'm a board certified psychiatrist with an MD from Brown University, fellowship training in Women's Mental Health, and a faculty member at Brown University. I aim to create a highly individualized care plan, tailored to each patient's goals and vision of care. My practice is designed to be small to allow for flexibility, accessibility and attentiveness to each of my patients. Our work together will be empathic, supportive and collaborative. I am now available to see patients in person or via telehealth in RI and virtually for those in MA.
![Photo of Mahreen Rashid - Spectrum Neuro Behavioral Care ( SNBCare ), MD, Psych , NP, LICSW, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5384e935-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Spectrum Neuro Behavioral Care ( SNBCare )
Psychiatrist, MD, Psych , NP, LICSW
Verified Verified
North Smithfield, RI 02896 (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!
![Photo of Renata Sasson - Renata Sasson NP @PVD Ketamine & Wellness, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8ba7a232-c528-46ef-bf80-75eb9d1a47aa/2/320x400.jpeg)
Renata Sasson NP @PVD Ketamine & Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Providence, RI 02909
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.
![Photo of Timothy Pepin, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5dd21bdc-fd1b-46c0-bb88-7ab784c97ce5/1/320x400.jpeg)
Timothy Pepin
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
North Smithfield, RI 02896 (Online Only)
Timothy’s core philosophy is patient centered. He is a fierce patient advocate and believer in the patient’s right to autonomy first and foremost. He believes in a multidisciplinary approach to psychiatric care including the involvement of therapists, nurses, social workers, physicians, and psychologists to implement therapy, dietary changes, exercise, psychopharmacology, and genetic testing within a holistic care model. He performs comprehensive assessments and develops realistic treatment plans that include the needs of patients and their families.
Timothy’s core philosophy is patient centered. He is a fierce patient advocate and believer in the patient’s right to autonomy first and foremost. He believes in a multidisciplinary approach to psychiatric care including the involvement of therapists, nurses, social workers, physicians, and psychologists to implement therapy, dietary changes, exercise, psychopharmacology, and genetic testing within a holistic care model. He performs comprehensive assessments and develops realistic treatment plans that include the needs of patients and their families.
![Photo of Ingrid Suazo, DrHA, PMHNPBC, MSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9d83cacf-3c84-4a51-a3ae-d067cd270be3/1/320x400.png)
Ingrid Suazo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DrHA, PMHNPBC, MSN
Verified Verified
Clayville, RI 02815
Ingrid Maria Suazo, DrHA, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-BC, is a board-certified Family Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and has been practicing in the field of mental health for over 25 years. Driven by her passion and a strong commitment to helping people achieve their life goals and potential, she takes pride in providing the best quality care for her clients to transform their mindset to live their best lives.
Ingrid Maria Suazo, DrHA, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-BC, is a board-certified Family Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and has been practicing in the field of mental health for over 25 years. Driven by her passion and a strong commitment to helping people achieve their life goals and potential, she takes pride in providing the best quality care for her clients to transform their mindset to live their best lives.
![Photo of Veronica Weatherspoon, ARNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c31a60ce-808d-4980-a771-7989bc23ac1f/2/320x400.jpeg)
I provide expert treatment of Alcohol Use Disorders using Naltrexone. Abstinence is not required.
I provide expert treatment of Alcohol Use Disorders using Naltrexone. Abstinence is not required.
![Photo of Ike Uzowulu, FPMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7730daa7-a786-416c-81cb-ade988cf998b/2/320x400.png)
Ike Uzowulu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FPMHNP
Verified Verified
Providence, RI 02903 (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
![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.
See more therapy options for Greenville
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Greenville, RI
< 10
Psychiatrists in Greenville, RI who prioritize treating:
100% | Medication Management |
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
100% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
100% | Cigna and Evernorth |
How Psychiatrists in Greenville, RI see their clients
100% | In Person and Online |
Gender breakdown
100% | Female |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Greenville?
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.