Psychiatrists in Providence, RI

Photo of Cassandra Pierre, APRN (C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Cassandra Pierre
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN (C
Verified Verified
Providence, RI 02906
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.
(401) 425-3147 View (401) 425-3147
Photo of Jeanne Marie Knight, APRN, FNP, PMHNP , Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Jeanne Marie Knight
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, FNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Providence, RI 02904
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.
(401) 227-8208 View (401) 227-8208
Photo of Phina Services Mayu - Afya Services LLC, APRN, AGNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse
Afya Services LLC
Psychiatric Nurse, APRN, AGNP-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Providence, RI 02906
Afya Services LLC is a private practice that offers both primary care and medication management to individuals 18 years of age and above. Are symptoms of anxiety, depression and ADHD impacting your daily life? Don't feel stuck and hopeless, I can help reduce the barriers that you are facing. Phina Mayu APRN has extensive years in mental health including MHW and tailor’s individual treatment plan in Anxiety, Depression, ADHD and MAT/Suboxone. I offer in office as well as Telehealth services. EVENING & WEEKEND HOURS also available. I diagnose, provide medication management, and refer to therapists as needed.
Afya Services LLC is a private practice that offers both primary care and medication management to individuals 18 years of age and above. Are symptoms of anxiety, depression and ADHD impacting your daily life? Don't feel stuck and hopeless, I can help reduce the barriers that you are facing. Phina Mayu APRN has extensive years in mental health including MHW and tailor’s individual treatment plan in Anxiety, Depression, ADHD and MAT/Suboxone. I offer in office as well as Telehealth services. EVENING & WEEKEND HOURS also available. I diagnose, provide medication management, and refer to therapists as needed.
(401) 561-8992 View (401) 561-8992
Photo of Pascale Kidane - VirtualPsychiatricCare.com, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
VirtualPsychiatricCare.com
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Providence, RI 02903  (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.
(774) 229-0229 View (774) 229-0229
Photo of Thomas John Dolan, MSN, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Thomas John Dolan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN
Verified Verified
Providence, RI 02906
I have over 11 years of experience in mental health treatment and medication management. I work with young to older adults who have experienced depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, sleep disorders, ADHD, OCD and PTSD.
I have over 11 years of experience in mental health treatment and medication management. I work with young to older adults who have experienced depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, sleep disorders, ADHD, OCD and PTSD.
(401) 337-8873 View (401) 337-8873
Photo of Akos Antwi - Revive Therapeutic Services, CRNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Revive Therapeutic Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Providence, RI 02904
Do you feel like you're not living the life you want to? Do you feel like there's something wrong with you, but you don't know what it is? At Revive Therapeutic Services, we specialize in helping people becoming there best. Our team of providers are ready to help with any condition or issue that might be holding you back from the life of your dreams—whether it's depression, anxiety, bipolar spectrum disorders, ADHD, PTSD, life transitions…the list goes on. Your life doesn't have to be defined by your mental health struggles anymore. Let us help!
Do you feel like you're not living the life you want to? Do you feel like there's something wrong with you, but you don't know what it is? At Revive Therapeutic Services, we specialize in helping people becoming there best. Our team of providers are ready to help with any condition or issue that might be holding you back from the life of your dreams—whether it's depression, anxiety, bipolar spectrum disorders, ADHD, PTSD, life transitions…the list goes on. Your life doesn't have to be defined by your mental health struggles anymore. Let us help!
(401) 208-0446 View (401) 208-0446
Photo of Paul Christopher, MD, Psychiatrist
Paul Christopher
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Providence, RI 02906
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.
(401) 234-0204 View (401) 234-0204
Photo of Jenna Callahan, FNP, CLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
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!
(401) 246-7194 View (401) 246-7194
Photo of Darryle Steinberg, MSN, PMHNP, CNM, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Darryle Steinberg
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, CNM
Verified Verified
Providence, RI 02906
Not accepting new clients
I am a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner specializing in the care of adult men and women working to overcome anxiety and/or depression. I hold an additional national certification as a certified nurse-midwife. I have extensive experience treating men and women with mood changes that can arise during the various stages of one's life. This includes, but is not limited to, addressing stressors related to life transitions, work, school, relationships, parenting, and care-taking of others. Seeking support at these challenging and vulnerable times is a brave and important step to feeling and functioning better in one's life.
I am a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner specializing in the care of adult men and women working to overcome anxiety and/or depression. I hold an additional national certification as a certified nurse-midwife. I have extensive experience treating men and women with mood changes that can arise during the various stages of one's life. This includes, but is not limited to, addressing stressors related to life transitions, work, school, relationships, parenting, and care-taking of others. Seeking support at these challenging and vulnerable times is a brave and important step to feeling and functioning better in one's life.
(401) 313-3275 View (401) 313-3275
Photo of Ike Uzowulu, FPMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
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
(401) 208-0884 View (401) 208-0884
Photo of David Kahn, MD, CGP, Psychiatrist
David Kahn
Psychiatrist, MD, CGP
Verified Verified
Providence, RI 02906
I am a licensed psychiatrist, with over 20 years' experience helping people succeed in living healthy and full lives. I received my medical degree from the University of Texas Medical School, and completed residencies in General Psychiatry and in Child & Adolescent Psychiatry at St. Vincent's Medical Center, New York City. Certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology, I maintain private practices in New York City and Providence, RI. I've trained and supervised clinicians and residents of Brown University Medical School. I offer the following: * Individual therapy * Group therapy * Family therapy * Children and adolescents * Couples' therapy * Medication.
I am a licensed psychiatrist, with over 20 years' experience helping people succeed in living healthy and full lives. I received my medical degree from the University of Texas Medical School, and completed residencies in General Psychiatry and in Child & Adolescent Psychiatry at St. Vincent's Medical Center, New York City. Certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology, I maintain private practices in New York City and Providence, RI. I've trained and supervised clinicians and residents of Brown University Medical School. I offer the following: * Individual therapy * Group therapy * Family therapy * Children and adolescents * Couples' therapy * Medication.
(401) 246-4063 View (401) 246-4063
Photo of Renata Sasson - Renata Sasson NP @PVD Ketamine & Wellness, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
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.
(401) 320-4247 View (401) 320-4247
Photo of Cheryl Haynes, MSN, APRN, PMH-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Cheryl Haynes
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMH-BC
Verified Verified
Providence, RI 02906  (Online Only)
My current practice model is directed toward ages 4-24, and women through age 55. I am board certified in both Psychiatric Mental Health and Women's Health. I have over 15 years of experience treating psychiatric disorders in children and adults, from very simple to severe and chronic. I am well versed in the treatment of ADHD, along with Autism Spectrum, Anxiety Disorders, OCD, mood disorders, and women specific issues (ie PMDD, perimenopausal issues, pregnancy, post-partum)
My current practice model is directed toward ages 4-24, and women through age 55. I am board certified in both Psychiatric Mental Health and Women's Health. I have over 15 years of experience treating psychiatric disorders in children and adults, from very simple to severe and chronic. I am well versed in the treatment of ADHD, along with Autism Spectrum, Anxiety Disorders, OCD, mood disorders, and women specific issues (ie PMDD, perimenopausal issues, pregnancy, post-partum)
(401) 200-3875 View (401) 200-3875
Photo of Gold Okoeka - Goldline Health and Wellness, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Goldline Health and Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Providence, RI 02906  (Online Only)
Group practice that specializes in medication management. We are accepting new clients in RI, MA & CT. Our practice is a medication management practice that provides med management services to children, adolescents and adults with anxiety, depression, ADHD, bipolar disorder, PTSD, thought disorders and other psychiatric conditions. We are a group of 3 nurse practitioners who specialize in psychiatric treatment, we are caring, compassionate and great listeners.
Group practice that specializes in medication management. We are accepting new clients in RI, MA & CT. Our practice is a medication management practice that provides med management services to children, adolescents and adults with anxiety, depression, ADHD, bipolar disorder, PTSD, thought disorders and other psychiatric conditions. We are a group of 3 nurse practitioners who specialize in psychiatric treatment, we are caring, compassionate and great listeners.
(401) 337-7493 View (401) 337-7493
Photo of Lamara Ford, MSW, MSN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Lamara Ford
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSW, MSN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Providence, RI 02906
I currently work with adults struggling with a multitude of mental health conditions including anxiety, depression, mood disorders, and trauma. I also have specialized training to care for pregnant or postpartum individuals experiencing depression, anxiety, grief, or loss. I partner with my clients to optimize their overall wellness because I have a passion for providing inclusive care, social justice, and promoting patient empowerment. We will create an integrative treatment plan together which may include medication, supportive therapy, supplement recommendations, or lifestyle changes.
I currently work with adults struggling with a multitude of mental health conditions including anxiety, depression, mood disorders, and trauma. I also have specialized training to care for pregnant or postpartum individuals experiencing depression, anxiety, grief, or loss. I partner with my clients to optimize their overall wellness because I have a passion for providing inclusive care, social justice, and promoting patient empowerment. We will create an integrative treatment plan together which may include medication, supportive therapy, supplement recommendations, or lifestyle changes.
(401) 358-6237 View (401) 358-6237
Photo of Joseph Allaire, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Joseph Allaire
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Providence, RI 02903  (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.
(401) 307-4190 View (401) 307-4190
Photo of Mark Gauthier, MSN, APRN, CNP, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Mark Gauthier
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, CNP, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Providence, RI 02906
* Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology, University of Massachusetts, Dartmouth * Bachelor of Science degree in Nursing, University of Massachusetts, Dartmouth * Master's degree in Nursing, Boston College * Board Certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner * Over 20 years experience in the field of Mental Health/Psychiatry * Over 10 years experience in acute, inpatient psychiatry. I work with ages 16-59 years old and specialize in Depression, Anxiety, ADHD and Bipolar Disorders. Though I am a medication provider, I believe in a holistic approach to mental health, which includes healthy lifestyle and habits.
* Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology, University of Massachusetts, Dartmouth * Bachelor of Science degree in Nursing, University of Massachusetts, Dartmouth * Master's degree in Nursing, Boston College * Board Certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner * Over 20 years experience in the field of Mental Health/Psychiatry * Over 10 years experience in acute, inpatient psychiatry. I work with ages 16-59 years old and specialize in Depression, Anxiety, ADHD and Bipolar Disorders. Though I am a medication provider, I believe in a holistic approach to mental health, which includes healthy lifestyle and habits.
(844) 452-5024 View (844) 452-5024
Photo of Susie Draighan, APRN, PMHNP, PMH-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
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.
(401) 756-0762 View (401) 756-0762
Photo of Alison Perry - Alison Perry PMHNP, LLC, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
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.
(401) 324-1745 View (401) 324-1745
Photo of Riviane Lafleur, RN, BSN, MSN, FNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Riviane Lafleur
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, RN, BSN, MSN, FNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Providence, RI 02906  (Online Only)
Please note: Hello! Thank you for visiting my page. I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over eight years of experience in mental health. I have cared for and treated client's with various mental health struggles across different age groups and practice settings, from hospitals to outpatient clinics, and crisis stabilization units. I specialize in treating PTSD, anxiety, and depression.
Please note: Hello! Thank you for visiting my page. I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over eight years of experience in mental health. I have cared for and treated client's with various mental health struggles across different age groups and practice settings, from hospitals to outpatient clinics, and crisis stabilization units. I specialize in treating PTSD, anxiety, and depression.
(401) 251-0355 View (401) 251-0355
1

See more therapy options for Providence

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Providence, RI

80+

Average cost per session

$225

Psychiatrists in Providence, RI who prioritize treating:

96% Depression
95% Anxiety
85% ADHD
83% Medication Management
78% Bipolar Disorder
70% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
68% Trauma and PTSD

Average years in practice

9 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

91% BlueCross and BlueShield
82% Aetna
76% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Psychiatrists in Providence, RI see their clients

70% In Person and Online
30% Online Only

Gender breakdown

78% Female
22% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Providence?

The Psychology Today Directory enables users to search specifically for psychiatrists by selecting the provider type from the drop-down menu, and filtering results by city, zip code, or the psychiatrist's name. The search results feature detailed profiles that outline each professional's treatment approach, areas of expertise, credentials, fees, payment options, and accepted insurance. Results include both psychiatrists (MDs) and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs), who hold advanced practice nursing degrees. Users can refine their search for a specific type of psychiatric provider using the "Provider Type" filter.

What is the difference between a psychiatrist and a psychologist?

Psychiatrists are medical specialists dedicated to understanding, diagnosing, and treating brain disorders and mental health conditions. As physicians, they are trained to identify the often subtle biological factors underlying mental disorders and to monitor how mental health treatments may impact other physical conditions, such as heart disease. Psychiatrists are licensed to prescribe medication and typically conduct shorter sessions that focus on medication management rather than intensive psychotherapy.

In contrast, psychologists are particularly attuned to the impact of early experiences on development, behavior, emotions, and cognitive processes. They often take a holistic approach to assessing and treating clients, considering aspects of personality and social functioning. Although psychologists cannot prescribe medication, they are frequently skilled in administering psychological tests—such as IQ tests, personality assessments, and behavioral evaluations—to assess an individual's functioning. Psychologists often engage in longer, more psychotherapy-focused sessions compared to psychiatrists.

What is a psychiatric nurse practitioner and what is the difference with a psychiatrist?

A psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP), also known as a mental health nurse practitioner or psychiatric nurse practitioner, is an advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) who has completed advanced training in psychiatric care, earning at least a master’s degree in psychiatric nursing. To become Board-Certified (PMHNP-BC), psychiatric nurse practitioners must also pass a national exam that tests their clinical psychiatric knowledge.

Like psychiatrists, PMHNPs are trained to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions. However, PMHNPs and psychiatrists differ in their training experience. While PMHNPs can complete their credentialing requirements (full bachelor's and master's degree training) in as few as 6 years, psychiatrists often spend upwards of 12 years to complete their bachelor's, medical doctorate degree, and residency training requirements. Because of training differences, some states require PMHNPs to be supervised by or enter into a collaborative agreement with a physician in order to prescribe medication.

When deciding to work with a psychiatrist or PMHNP, clients should consider factors such therapeutic fit, cost, and availability. Psychiatrists may have more substantial training in treating more severe psychiatric conditions, as well as in providing more specialized treatment services, such as child psychiatry. However, psychiatrists may be inaccessible to some clients, as their cost and availability may be prohibitive. It can often be easier for clients to find a PMHNP with openings for new clients when compared to psychiatrists, and PMHNPs may also offer lower cost treatment options for clients looking to minimize out-of-pocket costs.

Can a psychiatrist or a PMHNP prescribe medication?

The Psychology Today directory features two primary types of psychiatric professionals: psychiatrists and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs). Both are generally authorized to prescribe psychiatric medications. In 28 states, PMHNPs have full practice authority, allowing them to provide the complete spectrum of psychiatric care, including independent medication prescribing and management. In other states, however, PMHNPs are required to work under the supervision or in collaboration with a physician to prescribe medication. Both psychiatrists and PMHNPs may also offer additional services, such as psychotherapy, counseling, and care coordination, for clients seeking psychiatric care.

Do psychiatrists or PMHNPs offer therapy?

Both psychiatrists and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs) are generally trained in a number of treatment modalities, including traditional psychotherapy, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), pharmacotherapy, and, occasionally, various somatic therapies. Typically, psychiatrists and PMHNPs make a diagnosis and determine a course of treatment based on chemical or biological factors, using lab tests, brain scans and physical and psychological evaluations.

While psychotherapy may be used in the first session to aid in diagnosis, it is not typically utilized in subsequent visits. In fact, after the introductory session, most psychiatry sessions may only be 15-20 minutes in length and are largely focused on medication management; this is frequently the case for both psychiatrists and PMHNPs. However, medication providers who do not offer psychotherapy usually work collaboratively with psychologists and other mental health clinicians who do offer these services, and they can refer clients seeking more traditional psychotherapy services to their care.

How do I know if I need a psychiatrist, a PMHNP, or a therapist?

It is not always easy to know which type of mental health practitioner to choose. Many people are unaware of the root of their mental or behavioral problem and may be unaware of the differences in support provided by various mental health professionals. One way many people learn which type of care is best for them is by seeing their primary care provider (PCP) first. Depending on the nature and severity of the symptoms, the PCP may review their medical history and provide guidance or a referral to the appropriate type of provider.

A referral to a psychiatrist or PMHNP is most often made when a client is in need of psychiatric medication management or assessment. These professionals are specifically trained to prescribe psychiatric medications, when necessary, for a client; however, they generally do not provide supportive psychotherapy on an ongoing basis. A therapist or psychologist, in contrast, can provide supportive psychotherapy but is unable to prescribe medications. Because of their unique roles, some clients see both a medication prescriber (either a psychiatrist or PMHNP) and a therapist at the same time to address their psychiatric concerns holistically. Many psychiatrists and psychologists are very open to referring clients to other professionals if unable to meet the client's needs or if they think the client could use additional support from a different type of professional.

Do I need a referral to see a psychiatrist or a PMHNP?

A referral to a psychiatrist or psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) is often not required. However, consulting your primary care physician (PCP) first can be beneficial and may streamline the process of getting the care you need. Your PCP can help determine whether psychiatric care is necessary or if another type of mental health support might be more appropriate. Additionally, some insurance plans require a PCP referral to cover part or all of the costs associated with seeing a specialist. Obtaining a referral can also expedite the appointment process, particularly in areas with provider shortages or for clients seeking specialists in fields like child psychiatry.

Is everyone in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory a licensed professional?

Yes, all professionals listed in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory are licensed to provide mental health services in the state(s) where they practice. The directory includes a variety of providers such as psychiatrists, psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners (PMHNPs), physician assistants, psychologists, social workers, and counselors. Each provider must hold a valid license issued by their state regulatory body to be listed. In addition, Psychology Today offers a verification process for certain providers, signified by a 'Verified' symbol next to their profile. This badge indicates that the provider’s primary credential or license has been independently verified by Psychology Today.