Psychiatrists in Narragansett, RI
![Photo of Sana Kalra - ME Psychotherapy, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cb265e8a-cf15-4645-aa14-a9a592ae5171/1/320x400.png)
ME Psychotherapy
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Narragansett, RI 02882
I specialize in serving clients who are navigating a range of challenges, from managing stress, anxiety, and depression to coping with life transitions, trauma, ADHD, and other disorders. Their needs are multifaceted; they require a safe space to express themselves openly without judgment and seek guidance in developing a regimen that may include medications, coping strategies, and effective management of their condition. Their journey may involve the need for medications alongside psychotherapy. I can assist them in managing this aspect of care with comprehensive psychiatric evaluations and ongoing treatment monitoring.
I specialize in serving clients who are navigating a range of challenges, from managing stress, anxiety, and depression to coping with life transitions, trauma, ADHD, and other disorders. Their needs are multifaceted; they require a safe space to express themselves openly without judgment and seek guidance in developing a regimen that may include medications, coping strategies, and effective management of their condition. Their journey may involve the need for medications alongside psychotherapy. I can assist them in managing this aspect of care with comprehensive psychiatric evaluations and ongoing treatment monitoring.
![Photo of Kate J Reilly, APRN, PMHNP, MSN, RN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8cad4c59-1cc3-4668-9e3b-8eb88293db71/2/320x400.png)
Kate J Reilly
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, MSN, RN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Narragansett, RI 02882
My goal is to create a safe space for clients to work through life's stressors with mood disorders, anxiety, panic, depression, low self-esteem, attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder and past traumas.
My goal is to create a safe space for clients to work through life's stressors with mood disorders, anxiety, panic, depression, low self-esteem, attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder and past traumas.
![Photo of Elizabeth Niemiec, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/79ab501c-1a08-4a2f-ab0c-cf08ca688c3c/2/320x400.jpeg)
As a board certified adult psychiatrist, I specialize in prescribing medication and providing psychotherapy for anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, trauma, sleep disturbances and other emotional conditions. I studied at Harvard, Brown and Cornell Universities, and I am certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. Patients often come to me when they are struggling to find the right psychiatric medication to manage their symptoms. It can be difficult to find a medication that offers relief without burdensome side effects. Together, we can find a regimen that works for you.
As a board certified adult psychiatrist, I specialize in prescribing medication and providing psychotherapy for anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, trauma, sleep disturbances and other emotional conditions. I studied at Harvard, Brown and Cornell Universities, and I am certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. Patients often come to me when they are struggling to find the right psychiatric medication to manage their symptoms. It can be difficult to find a medication that offers relief without burdensome side effects. Together, we can find a regimen that works for you.
![Photo of Anthony Gallo, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/54b03736-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
I am proud to say that I am a general psychiatrist with extensive experience in the treatment of psychiatric illness, including mood disorder, anxiety, ADHD, and cognitive disorders.
I am proud to say that I am a general psychiatrist with extensive experience in the treatment of psychiatric illness, including mood disorder, anxiety, ADHD, and cognitive disorders.
![Photo of Nicole Sanchez, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5dc046ba-1309-4789-8dc8-8ec02512b64a/1/320x400.png)
Hello, my name is Nicole Sanchez. I became a nurse practitioner because I genuinely love to help people. I was born on the beautiful island of Puerto Rico and raised in Providence, Rhode Island. I started my journey to become a registered nurse because I felt a calling to help people in need and when they are at their worst. I graduated from National University College in Arecibo, Puerto Rico with a Bachelor’s Degree in Nursing in 2011. I am fluent in Spanish and English. I have worked as an inpatient psychiatric nurse for over 6 years.
Hello, my name is Nicole Sanchez. I became a nurse practitioner because I genuinely love to help people. I was born on the beautiful island of Puerto Rico and raised in Providence, Rhode Island. I started my journey to become a registered nurse because I felt a calling to help people in need and when they are at their worst. I graduated from National University College in Arecibo, Puerto Rico with a Bachelor’s Degree in Nursing in 2011. I am fluent in Spanish and English. I have worked as an inpatient psychiatric nurse for over 6 years.
![Photo of Gloria M Mazza - North Road Psychiatry, APRN, PMHNP, AGNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/734498d8-0f24-4a27-8e4a-80f85c4b58f3/1/320x400.jpeg)
North Road Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, AGNP
Verified Verified
Narragansett, RI 02882
North Road Psychiatry is a small private practice focusing on working with young adults through elders to feel and function better in their lives and relationships. I look forward to learning about my patients, working together to find the best diagnosis and choosing treatment tools like medications, therapy and lifestyle changes that are best tailored to them.
North Road Psychiatry is a small private practice focusing on working with young adults through elders to feel and function better in their lives and relationships. I look forward to learning about my patients, working together to find the best diagnosis and choosing treatment tools like medications, therapy and lifestyle changes that are best tailored to them.
![Photo of Mary M. Santa Teresa, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/530efc80-0678-4cc1-a8e3-4893549db5a3/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Mary M. Santa Teresa is a Psychiatrist in Rhode Island who has been practicing since 2003. She earned degrees at the University of the East Ramon Magsaysay Memorial Medical Center, Mt. Sinai Medical Center/North General Hospital, and The Cambridge Hospital/Harvard Medical School. Dr. Santa Teresa would like to help you be the best you can be, try your best and master your coping skills. With a psychopharmacologic assessment and treatment plan, you and Dr. Santa Teresa can discover how symptoms develop and set goals so that you can take charge of your life and be healthy.
Dr. Mary M. Santa Teresa is a Psychiatrist in Rhode Island who has been practicing since 2003. She earned degrees at the University of the East Ramon Magsaysay Memorial Medical Center, Mt. Sinai Medical Center/North General Hospital, and The Cambridge Hospital/Harvard Medical School. Dr. Santa Teresa would like to help you be the best you can be, try your best and master your coping skills. With a psychopharmacologic assessment and treatment plan, you and Dr. Santa Teresa can discover how symptoms develop and set goals so that you can take charge of your life and be healthy.
![Photo of Laura Davidson, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0e740dcb-d887-42d4-bbd8-02fbfae1e5cc/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Laura Davidson is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Rhode Island who has been practicing since 2011. She earned a Bachelor’s of Nursing at University of Arizona, a Master’s of Nursing with PMHNP at Arizona State University, and a Doctorate of Nursing Practice at Arizona State University. Behavioral health medications work best when combined with self-kindness, adequate sleep, and setting aside a little special time just for you. In Dr. Davidson’s experience, people seem to struggle the most with self-kindness. When we are struggling with low mood and anxiety, our inner critic becomes louder and meaner.
Dr. Laura Davidson is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Rhode Island who has been practicing since 2011. She earned a Bachelor’s of Nursing at University of Arizona, a Master’s of Nursing with PMHNP at Arizona State University, and a Doctorate of Nursing Practice at Arizona State University. Behavioral health medications work best when combined with self-kindness, adequate sleep, and setting aside a little special time just for you. In Dr. Davidson’s experience, people seem to struggle the most with self-kindness. When we are struggling with low mood and anxiety, our inner critic becomes louder and meaner.
![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
Narragansett, RI 02882 (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.
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.
More Psychiatrists Nearby
![Photo of Jeanne Marie Knight, APRN, FNP, PMHNP , Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8d7cc212-6ac2-4eef-a12f-f13819bdac8b/2/320x400.jpeg)
Jeanne Marie Knight
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, FNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Wakefield, RI 02879
I enjoy treating all clients with complex mental health issues. There is no ideal client as one comes from all different backgrounds, cultures, and socioeconomic backgrounds. I have learned to respect clients individually as they all have their own individual experiences that have caused them trauma, anxiety, depression, and possibly fears of specific situations or encounters. This affects their lives every day and my role is to understand them on all levels and imagine what it is like to be in that situation. I also have my own personal experience with anxiety and this allows me to have compassion in a humble manner.
I enjoy treating all clients with complex mental health issues. There is no ideal client as one comes from all different backgrounds, cultures, and socioeconomic backgrounds. I have learned to respect clients individually as they all have their own individual experiences that have caused them trauma, anxiety, depression, and possibly fears of specific situations or encounters. This affects their lives every day and my role is to understand them on all levels and imagine what it is like to be in that situation. I also have my own personal experience with anxiety and this allows me to have compassion in a humble manner.
![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 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 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
Charlestown, RI 02813 (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.
DP Behavioral Healthcare LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
Jamestown, RI 02835
Dr. Despina Prassas, Ph.D., PMHNP-BC is a Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who works with children, adolescents and adults struggling with ADHD, Obsessive-Compulsive disorders, anxiety and depression, and mood disorders. She provides medication management and psychotherapy.
Dr. Despina Prassas, Ph.D., PMHNP-BC is a Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who works with children, adolescents and adults struggling with ADHD, Obsessive-Compulsive disorders, anxiety and depression, and mood disorders. She provides medication management and psychotherapy.
![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
South Kingstown, RI 02879 (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 Ann Bisland, MSN, CPNP-PC, PMHS, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7e251d2f-2937-4a09-9b2f-a7c7bc33d235/1/320x400.jpeg)
Ann Bisland
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, CPNP-PC, PMHS
Verified Verified
South Kingstown, RI 02879
I am a pediatric nurse practitioner and mental health specialist with over 10 years of experience working with young children, adolescents and young adults to foster academic success and mental wellness. I earned my Masters in Nursing at Yale University and am a current fellow of the Integrative Psychiatry Institute. I specialize in the diagnosis and management of ADHD, anxiety and depression in children that are struggling with their emotional regulation, impulsivity, attention and mood.
I am a pediatric nurse practitioner and mental health specialist with over 10 years of experience working with young children, adolescents and young adults to foster academic success and mental wellness. I earned my Masters in Nursing at Yale University and am a current fellow of the Integrative Psychiatry Institute. I specialize in the diagnosis and management of ADHD, anxiety and depression in children that are struggling with their emotional regulation, impulsivity, attention and mood.
Online Psychiatrists
![Photo of Alicia Pastore, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c6cb9ef3-b3ed-466f-9e83-7754ff6a8e85/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with prescriptive authority in Rhode Island. I have a focus on treating Anxiety, Depression, ADHD, PTSD, and OCD.
I am a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with prescriptive authority in Rhode Island. I have a focus on treating Anxiety, Depression, ADHD, PTSD, and OCD.
![Photo of Sarah Stern, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5b0bff5c-44db-4815-85a9-3a8f8a016c45/1/320x400.jpeg)
Sarah Stern
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Providence, RI 02906 (Online Only)
I work with pregnant and postpartum people as well as those experiencing hormonal shifts (PMDD, menopause), infertility and perinatal loss. I also treat women (including trans and non-binary people) throughout the lifespan who are struggling with a variety of mental health issues. I have particular expertise in treating pregnancy and postpartum OCD, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, sleep disorders, PTSD and birth trauma. My primary focus is medication management and to support patients through collaborative, integrative care, keeping in mind each patients individual needs, goals, cultures and values.
I work with pregnant and postpartum people as well as those experiencing hormonal shifts (PMDD, menopause), infertility and perinatal loss. I also treat women (including trans and non-binary people) throughout the lifespan who are struggling with a variety of mental health issues. I have particular expertise in treating pregnancy and postpartum OCD, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, sleep disorders, PTSD and birth trauma. My primary focus is medication management and to support patients through collaborative, integrative care, keeping in mind each patients individual needs, goals, cultures and values.
![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.
See more therapy options for Narragansett
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Narragansett, RI
10+
Average cost per session
$300
Psychiatrists in Narragansett, RI who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
100% | Medication Management |
80% | ADHD |
80% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
80% | Trauma and PTSD |
70% | Bipolar Disorder |
Average years in practice
1 Year
Top 3 insurances accepted
78% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
78% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
78% | Optum |
How Psychiatrists in Narragansett, RI see their clients
90% | In Person and Online | |
10% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
70% | Female | |
30% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Narragansett?
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.