Psychiatrists in Kent County, RI
![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 Gene Jacobs, DO, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ec9b5856-5032-40af-9362-d52568b5231f/1/320x400.jpeg)
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? 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/ psychopharmacology, functional philosophy, soft coaching, intent based behavior therapy, and I am trained in osteopathic philosophy. This all means that I can aid 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? 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/ psychopharmacology, functional philosophy, soft coaching, intent based behavior therapy, and I am trained in osteopathic philosophy. This all means that I can aid individuals in finding the balance of medications, meaning, behavior, and mind.
![Photo of Dr. James A Gallo - James A Gallo, MD and Associates, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bdc051f1-9606-4a6b-a7e8-85b375163f1b/1/320x400.jpeg)
Welcome, 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 work with me and all have direct access and consult with me when needed. We see patients in the office and on occasion will use telehealth.
Welcome, 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 work with me and all have direct access and consult with me when needed. We see patients in the office and on occasion will use telehealth.
![Photo of Christopher A. Hicks, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/921e2906-82af-4731-b2a6-3f0eb917be78/1/320x400.jpeg)
Christopher A. Hicks
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
East Greenwich, RI 02818
Christopher A. Hicks is a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with more than 9 years of direct clinical experience providing patient care across the life span. He specializes in the assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of a variety of psychiatric disorders including mood disorders, anxiety disorders, psychotic disorders, substance use disorders, PTSD, and ADHD, with expertise in psychopharmacological and neuromodulation treatment modalities as well as individual psychotherapy.
Christopher A. Hicks is a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with more than 9 years of direct clinical experience providing patient care across the life span. He specializes in the assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of a variety of psychiatric disorders including mood disorders, anxiety disorders, psychotic disorders, substance use disorders, PTSD, and ADHD, with expertise in psychopharmacological and neuromodulation treatment modalities as well as individual psychotherapy.
![Photo of Katie Thayer - West Bay Psychiatric Associates, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/84719df5-e1fb-432b-a8b1-1498ad16f714/2/320x400.jpeg)
Katie Thayer - West Bay Psychiatric Associates
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
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.
![Photo of Nicole Miele, BA, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b714734f-7a68-449a-b21d-29f0b69accf0/1/320x400.jpeg)
Nicole Miele
Psychiatric Nurse, BA, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Warwick, RI 02888 (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.
![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
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.
![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
Warwick, RI 02886
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.
![Photo of Sarah Xavier, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/40c3515e-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Xavier is a Yale trained psychiatrist with advanced training in Child, Adolescent, Adult and Forensic Psychiatry. She has been a physician for over twenty years. She has worked extensively with clients in a variety of settings (hospital/office) and roles (medical director/consultant) in order to bring an extensive toolkit of treatment options into her private practice. Dr. Xavier develops compassionate, comprehensive, goal oriented treatment plans that are tailored to one's ability and motivation level.
Dr. Xavier is a Yale trained psychiatrist with advanced training in Child, Adolescent, Adult and Forensic Psychiatry. She has been a physician for over twenty years. She has worked extensively with clients in a variety of settings (hospital/office) and roles (medical director/consultant) in order to bring an extensive toolkit of treatment options into her private practice. Dr. Xavier develops compassionate, comprehensive, goal oriented treatment plans that are tailored to one's ability and motivation level.
![Photo of Kendra Palumbo, MSN, PMHNP-, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/89dab7e5-dc15-4baa-a4ce-460c74616ccc/1/320x400.jpeg)
Kendra Palumbo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP-
Verified Verified
East Greenwich, RI 02818
Kendra Palumbo is a Nurse Practitioner in Rhode Island who has been practicing since 2024. As a health care professional, Kendra understands how difficult accessing quality health care can be. Her aim as a provider is to provide an open and welcoming environment to all clients. Kendra is here to provide clients with a thorough psychiatric assessment while working alongside the client and/or their families to formulate a treatment plan that best fits their needs. When treating different psychiatric disorders, she utilizes different medications to target each clients specific needs.
Kendra Palumbo is a Nurse Practitioner in Rhode Island who has been practicing since 2024. As a health care professional, Kendra understands how difficult accessing quality health care can be. Her aim as a provider is to provide an open and welcoming environment to all clients. Kendra is here to provide clients with a thorough psychiatric assessment while working alongside the client and/or their families to formulate a treatment plan that best fits their needs. When treating different psychiatric disorders, she utilizes different medications to target each clients specific needs.
![Photo of Nicole Traub, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a4444c57-7248-4e0c-ac92-a18980b353f6/1/320x400.jpeg)
Hello! My name is Niki Traub, I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner providing services to adolescents and adults. My background includes working with clients facing a variety of challenges including: depression, anxiety, ADHD, eating disorders, LGBTQIA+ related issues, OCD, PTSD, and sleep disorders. I provide compassionate and judgement-free care as well as a thorough psychiatric evaluation that considers your goals, current symptoms, prior experiences, medical history, lifestyle and health habits.
Hello! My name is Niki Traub, I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner providing services to adolescents and adults. My background includes working with clients facing a variety of challenges including: depression, anxiety, ADHD, eating disorders, LGBTQIA+ related issues, OCD, PTSD, and sleep disorders. I provide compassionate and judgement-free care as well as a thorough psychiatric evaluation that considers your goals, current symptoms, prior experiences, medical history, lifestyle and health habits.
![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
Warwick, RI 02886
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 Sarah Gallo Weinreich, PMHNP, MSN, RN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/37536692-d81d-4152-9a77-0d34c1a49e7b/1/320x400.jpeg)
Sarah Gallo Weinreich
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN, RN
Verified Verified
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.
![Photo of Paul Christopher, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/405f792c-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
I am a Brown-trained, board-certified psychiatrist who provides individually tailored psychotherapy to adults over eighteen. I also provide medication management, if needed, for those I see for psychotherapy. I have expertise in treating a range of problems including work and academic stress, relationship concerns, self-esteem issues, life transitions, as well as depression, anxiety, and grief.
I am a Brown-trained, board-certified psychiatrist who provides individually tailored psychotherapy to adults over eighteen. I also provide medication management, if needed, for those I see for psychotherapy. I have expertise in treating a range of problems including work and academic stress, relationship concerns, self-esteem issues, life transitions, as well as depression, anxiety, and grief.
![Photo of Lorrie MacDonald, DHS, MSN, PMHNPBC, CNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/99a746a9-fce0-4d42-9fbe-6b1d64f838c8/1/320x400.jpeg)
Lorrie MacDonald
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DHS, MSN, PMHNPBC, CNP
Verified Verified
Warwick, RI 02886
Currently accepting new clients ages 6-60 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".
Currently accepting new clients ages 6-60 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".
![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
Warwick, RI 02886
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 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
Warwick, RI 02887 (Online Only)
Accepting new patients via telehealth visits in Rhode Island for psychiatric evaluations and medication management. I treat anyone suffering with depression, anxiety, or other mental health issue adversely affecting optimal functioning at work, deterring their best social self, or preventing being fully present for loved ones. Our clients are looking to be properly diagnosed and treated using the safest prescribing principles. Make your appointment in our website today. Evening and weekend hours are available. We offer affordable out of pocket rates. Accepting some insurances.
Accepting new patients via telehealth visits in Rhode Island for psychiatric evaluations and medication management. I treat anyone suffering with depression, anxiety, or other mental health issue adversely affecting optimal functioning at work, deterring their best social self, or preventing being fully present for loved ones. Our clients are looking to be properly diagnosed and treated using the safest prescribing principles. Make your appointment in our website today. Evening and weekend hours are available. We offer affordable out of pocket rates. Accepting some insurances.
![Photo of Audra Beliveau - Cherry Tree Psychiatry, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3d9850a1-a6e5-43d5-bb61-f46c4c7a07ef/2/320x400.jpeg)
We are now accepting clients in Massachusetts and Rhode Island. We specialize in providing medication management to all adults with various diagnoses. We have completed extra training specifically for treating PMDD, pre and post natal depression, anxiety, and psychosis. Each client will receive a comprehensive assessment, personalized treatment plan, and 24/7 on call availability. Our mission is to provide quality care in a supportive and judgement free environment.
We are now accepting clients in Massachusetts and Rhode Island. We specialize in providing medication management to all adults with various diagnoses. We have completed extra training specifically for treating PMDD, pre and post natal depression, anxiety, and psychosis. Each client will receive a comprehensive assessment, personalized treatment plan, and 24/7 on call availability. Our mission is to provide quality care in a supportive and judgement free environment.
![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
Warwick, RI 02889 (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 Samantha Shawn-Marsh, DNP, MSN, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/edfc43ad-09fa-4587-b240-726d6eb503d2/1/320x400.jpeg)
Samantha Shawn-Marsh
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, MSN, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
East Greenwich, RI 02818
Dr. Samantha Shawn-Marsh is a Doctoral and Board Certified Child and Adult Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who works with children and adults providing psychiatric evaluations and medication management to those experiencing bipolar disorder, posttraumatic stress disorder, depression, anxiety, and attention deficit hyperactivity disorders. She is the founder and owner of Remedy Wellness Center, Inc. and welcomes new patients at this time.
Dr. Samantha Shawn-Marsh is a Doctoral and Board Certified Child and Adult Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who works with children and adults providing psychiatric evaluations and medication management to those experiencing bipolar disorder, posttraumatic stress disorder, depression, anxiety, and attention deficit hyperactivity disorders. She is the founder and owner of Remedy Wellness Center, Inc. and welcomes new patients at this time.
See more therapy options for Kent County
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Kent County, RI
30+
Average cost per session
$250
Psychiatrists in Kent County, RI who prioritize treating:
97% | Depression |
97% | Anxiety |
90% | Medication Management |
84% | ADHD |
77% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
77% | Trauma and PTSD |
74% | Bipolar Disorder |
Average years in practice
9 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
89% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
74% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
67% | Aetna |
How Psychiatrists in Kent County, RI see their clients
71% | In Person and Online | |
29% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
75% | Female | |
25% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Kent County?
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.