Psychiatrists in 04073

Photo of Jennifer Lynn Ferguson - Art of Wellness Mental Health Care, LLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Art of Wellness Mental Health Care, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Online Only
Imagine yourself facing the challenges of ADHD, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, or other mental health issues, seeking the right support to guide you through. You need care that’s not only compassionate and experienced but also accessible and convenient. With tele-visits from the comfort of your home, I’m here to provide the affordable, effective mental health care you deserve, helping you achieve a more balanced, fulfilling life.
Imagine yourself facing the challenges of ADHD, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, or other mental health issues, seeking the right support to guide you through. You need care that’s not only compassionate and experienced but also accessible and convenient. With tele-visits from the comfort of your home, I’m here to provide the affordable, effective mental health care you deserve, helping you achieve a more balanced, fulfilling life.
(207) 492-7456 View (207) 492-7456

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Shannon M Grose, FNP-BC, Psychiatric Nurse
Shannon M Grose
Psychiatric Nurse, FNP-BC
Verified Verified
Online Only
Shannon Grose is a board-certified family nurse practitioner. She attended Dabney S Lancaster Community College where she obtained her associate's degree in nursing and Frontier Nursing University where she obtained her graduate degree in nursing. She started her career as a registered nurse working in both the emergency department and correctional facility settings. As a family nurse practitioner, she has gained experience serving a diverse population of all ages via in-person and virtual care settings. Start working on an improved journey to a healthier lifestyle today.
Shannon Grose is a board-certified family nurse practitioner. She attended Dabney S Lancaster Community College where she obtained her associate's degree in nursing and Frontier Nursing University where she obtained her graduate degree in nursing. She started her career as a registered nurse working in both the emergency department and correctional facility settings. As a family nurse practitioner, she has gained experience serving a diverse population of all ages via in-person and virtual care settings. Start working on an improved journey to a healthier lifestyle today.
(970) 591-9019 View (970) 591-9019
Photo of Suzanne Mallouk - Suzanne Mallouk, M.D., MD, Psychiatrist
Suzanne Mallouk, M.D.
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I am a board certified psychiatrist. I am also a psychoanalyst trained at the William Alanson White Institute. I specialize in psychoanalytically informed psychotherapy, which means we can work on looking at the underlying issues, that you may be unconscious of, that cause problems in daily living and contribute to unhappiness and lack of fulfillment. I am also a medical doctor so can evaluate you for the use of medications if needed. I am licensed in NY, NJ, CT, ME and FL. I offer tele-psychiatry on SecureVideo, a HIPPA compliant platform. Please call me to make an appointment.
I am a board certified psychiatrist. I am also a psychoanalyst trained at the William Alanson White Institute. I specialize in psychoanalytically informed psychotherapy, which means we can work on looking at the underlying issues, that you may be unconscious of, that cause problems in daily living and contribute to unhappiness and lack of fulfillment. I am also a medical doctor so can evaluate you for the use of medications if needed. I am licensed in NY, NJ, CT, ME and FL. I offer tele-psychiatry on SecureVideo, a HIPPA compliant platform. Please call me to make an appointment.
(646) 502-8545 View (646) 502-8545
Photo of Bobby Morton, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Bobby Morton
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Hello, my name is Bobby Morton, I am a Doctor of Nursing Practice and a certified Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I utilize evidence-based approaches to help people manage their mental health struggles. In addition to medication management, I also provide Behavioral Activation Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, as well as other supportive therapies. I work with patients between the ages of 13 and 65. I treat most conditions including depression, anxiety, mood disorders, and thought disorders.
Hello, my name is Bobby Morton, I am a Doctor of Nursing Practice and a certified Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I utilize evidence-based approaches to help people manage their mental health struggles. In addition to medication management, I also provide Behavioral Activation Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, as well as other supportive therapies. I work with patients between the ages of 13 and 65. I treat most conditions including depression, anxiety, mood disorders, and thought disorders.
(207) 414-5800 View (207) 414-5800
Photo of Carin Seadler, PMHNP-C, RN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Carin Seadler
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-C, RN
Verified Verified
Serves Area
As a family psychiatric nurse practitioner, I am able to assess, diagnose and provide medication management. Currently, I am only taking middle school children through adulthood. When prescribing medication, to best serve the individual it is important to differentiate between what medical, psychiatric or areas that need other modalities. I provide counseling for the adult clients who I see for med management, should they want it. By working collaboratively with clients with their medication management, clients feel heard and more involved with their care.
As a family psychiatric nurse practitioner, I am able to assess, diagnose and provide medication management. Currently, I am only taking middle school children through adulthood. When prescribing medication, to best serve the individual it is important to differentiate between what medical, psychiatric or areas that need other modalities. I provide counseling for the adult clients who I see for med management, should they want it. By working collaboratively with clients with their medication management, clients feel heard and more involved with their care.
(207) 598-4005 View (207) 598-4005
Photo of Maggie S Murphy, PMH-NP, BC, LLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Maggie S Murphy
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMH-NP, BC, LLC
Verified Verified
York, ME 03909
Welcome! Since becoming a registered nurse in 1985, I’ve had the opportunity to work in healthcare settings including critical care, hospice and behavioral health. In 2001, I graduated from Northeastern University with my MSN and became Board Certified and licensed to practice as a psychiatric nurse practitioner. I love what I do and feel fortunate to have deepened my psychotherapy and medication management skills working with some excellent mentors over the years. While I'm proud of my practice as a whole, psychotherapy is what I love the most about my work.
Welcome! Since becoming a registered nurse in 1985, I’ve had the opportunity to work in healthcare settings including critical care, hospice and behavioral health. In 2001, I graduated from Northeastern University with my MSN and became Board Certified and licensed to practice as a psychiatric nurse practitioner. I love what I do and feel fortunate to have deepened my psychotherapy and medication management skills working with some excellent mentors over the years. While I'm proud of my practice as a whole, psychotherapy is what I love the most about my work.
(207) 613-2247 View (207) 613-2247
Photo of Alicia Soucy - Your Journey Behavioral and Mental Health, PLLC, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Your Journey Behavioral and Mental Health, PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
My name is Alicia Soucy and I provide medication management services to individuals over the age of 18. At this time, I am not providing intensive therapy or therapy only. I provide treatment for all mental disorders including depressive disorders, bipolar disorders, anxiety disorders, and trauma disorders. I am dedicated to providing exceptional, compassionate, personalized and evidence-based care. I emphasize the importance of developing a trusting relationship to help all clients reach their health goals.
My name is Alicia Soucy and I provide medication management services to individuals over the age of 18. At this time, I am not providing intensive therapy or therapy only. I provide treatment for all mental disorders including depressive disorders, bipolar disorders, anxiety disorders, and trauma disorders. I am dedicated to providing exceptional, compassionate, personalized and evidence-based care. I emphasize the importance of developing a trusting relationship to help all clients reach their health goals.
(207) 355-7442 View (207) 355-7442
Photo of Latrice Markison, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Latrice Markison
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Hi there! My name is Latrice Markison, and I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner working with patients statewide via telehealth. I believe in holistic, whole-person care. I work with adult patients managing various mental health conditions. I feel that communication is fluid and varies based on goals and situational factors. I have over ten years of experience working in outpatient and inpatient behavioral health. While goals are essential to growth, goal setting and timeframes depend on patient preferences. An open opportunity to openly discuss concerns and desires related to care.
Hi there! My name is Latrice Markison, and I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner working with patients statewide via telehealth. I believe in holistic, whole-person care. I work with adult patients managing various mental health conditions. I feel that communication is fluid and varies based on goals and situational factors. I have over ten years of experience working in outpatient and inpatient behavioral health. While goals are essential to growth, goal setting and timeframes depend on patient preferences. An open opportunity to openly discuss concerns and desires related to care.
(877) 713-2591 View (877) 713-2591
Photo of Madeline Goodman - Madeline Goodman D.O., DO, Psychiatrist
Madeline Goodman D.O.
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
Online Only
Passionate about helping you succeed. I practice Psychiatry and Psychotherapy in southern Maine and have been practicing Psychiatry in Maine since 1998. My experience includes many areas of Psychiatry: Geriatric Psychiatry, General Adult Psychiatry, Medical Psychiatry, Psychotherapy, and Medication Management. My practice provides consultation as well as ongoing treatment.
Passionate about helping you succeed. I practice Psychiatry and Psychotherapy in southern Maine and have been practicing Psychiatry in Maine since 1998. My experience includes many areas of Psychiatry: Geriatric Psychiatry, General Adult Psychiatry, Medical Psychiatry, Psychotherapy, and Medication Management. My practice provides consultation as well as ongoing treatment.
(207) 280-8519 View (207) 280-8519
Photo of Jennifer Sims, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Jennifer Sims
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Ms. Jennifer Sims is a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who has over 25 years of experience in psychiatry and in a variety of settings including inpatient, academics, and outpatient. Ms. Sims received her Master’s in Psychiatric Mental Health Nursing from Indiana University. She is also a Psychiatric Clinical Nurse Specialist and has an MBA. Her clinical passion is Patient-Centered Care and working in collaboration with Clients to assist them with their mental health well-being. She treats a variety of psychiatric disorders to include, depression, anxiety, and mood disorders.
Ms. Jennifer Sims is a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who has over 25 years of experience in psychiatry and in a variety of settings including inpatient, academics, and outpatient. Ms. Sims received her Master’s in Psychiatric Mental Health Nursing from Indiana University. She is also a Psychiatric Clinical Nurse Specialist and has an MBA. Her clinical passion is Patient-Centered Care and working in collaboration with Clients to assist them with their mental health well-being. She treats a variety of psychiatric disorders to include, depression, anxiety, and mood disorders.
(207) 280-8774 View (207) 280-8774
Photo of Jennifer Snowden, MD, Psychiatrist
Jennifer Snowden
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Online Only
Dr. Jennifer Snowden completed medical school at the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences in Little Rock, Arkansas in 1995. She then completed a residency in general psychiatry at Emory University in Atlanta, Georgia followed by a fellowship in forensic psychiatry also at Emory University in Atlanta, Georgia from 1995-2000. She spent ten years practicing forensic psychiatry at a state hospital in Atlanta. She then decided that she wanted to travel and spent eighteen months as a locum tenens psychiatrist primarily practicing in New England.
Dr. Jennifer Snowden completed medical school at the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences in Little Rock, Arkansas in 1995. She then completed a residency in general psychiatry at Emory University in Atlanta, Georgia followed by a fellowship in forensic psychiatry also at Emory University in Atlanta, Georgia from 1995-2000. She spent ten years practicing forensic psychiatry at a state hospital in Atlanta. She then decided that she wanted to travel and spent eighteen months as a locum tenens psychiatrist primarily practicing in New England.
(207) 386-8693 View (207) 386-8693
Photo of Paula A. Gentile, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Paula A. Gentile
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
You deserve to be heard and understood so that improvement happens in ways that are meaningful to you. My private practice offers a comfortable setting which allows time and space for individualized care and the discovery of relevant factors, in lieu of conventional approaches of rushed appointments that only leave time to graze the surface. As a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I provide psychiatric diagnosis and evaluation, medication management, and therapy. The opportunity to serve in this role is a genuine privilege and I look forward to the chance to work collaboratively with you in my private practice.
You deserve to be heard and understood so that improvement happens in ways that are meaningful to you. My private practice offers a comfortable setting which allows time and space for individualized care and the discovery of relevant factors, in lieu of conventional approaches of rushed appointments that only leave time to graze the surface. As a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I provide psychiatric diagnosis and evaluation, medication management, and therapy. The opportunity to serve in this role is a genuine privilege and I look forward to the chance to work collaboratively with you in my private practice.
(207) 263-0837 View (207) 263-0837
Photo of Dr. Nicolas Sikaczowski, Psychiatrist
Dr. Nicolas Sikaczowski
Psychiatrist
Verified Verified
Saco, ME 04072
I'm an Adult & Child Psychiatrist accepting new patients, with same month availability! I provide medication management and therapy for children, teens, and adults in-person in Saco and Portland Maine! AND via telehealth across Maine & Florida. I completed 5 years of residency/fellowship in General and Child & Adolescent Psychiatry after completing medical school. I provide unrushed, evidence-based treatment. I allocate 90 minutes for intake appointments and 30 minutes for follow-up visits as well as communication via direct message. I commonly treat ADHD, depression, anxiety, OCD, bipolar, eating disorders, & psychotic disorders.
I'm an Adult & Child Psychiatrist accepting new patients, with same month availability! I provide medication management and therapy for children, teens, and adults in-person in Saco and Portland Maine! AND via telehealth across Maine & Florida. I completed 5 years of residency/fellowship in General and Child & Adolescent Psychiatry after completing medical school. I provide unrushed, evidence-based treatment. I allocate 90 minutes for intake appointments and 30 minutes for follow-up visits as well as communication via direct message. I commonly treat ADHD, depression, anxiety, OCD, bipolar, eating disorders, & psychotic disorders.
(207) 690-6306 View (207) 690-6306
Photo of Jennifer Ferguson - Jennifer, Healthy Minds Counseling, Inc, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Jennifer, Healthy Minds Counseling, Inc
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
I am Jennifer Ferguson, an advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) specializing as a master's prepared psychiatric – mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP), and I have worked in healthcare for over 15 years. I am looking to utilize my ample knowledge and experience in treating adults and young adults with depression, mood disorders, anxiety disorders, psychotic disorders, personality disorders, and more.
I am Jennifer Ferguson, an advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) specializing as a master's prepared psychiatric – mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP), and I have worked in healthcare for over 15 years. I am looking to utilize my ample knowledge and experience in treating adults and young adults with depression, mood disorders, anxiety disorders, psychotic disorders, personality disorders, and more.
(207) 495-7801 View (207) 495-7801
Photo of Alison Moore Tetrault, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Alison Moore Tetrault
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Scarborough, ME 04074
I'm Ali, a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with a passion for health and well-being. Throughout my career, I've had the privilege of working with individuals facing various mental health challenges, including depression, anxiety, substance use disorders, post-traumatic stress, schizophrenia, and bipolar disorders in the inpatient and outpatient settings. In addition to traditional clinical settings, I thoroughly enjoy co-leading retreats focused on healing and empowerment.
I'm Ali, a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with a passion for health and well-being. Throughout my career, I've had the privilege of working with individuals facing various mental health challenges, including depression, anxiety, substance use disorders, post-traumatic stress, schizophrenia, and bipolar disorders in the inpatient and outpatient settings. In addition to traditional clinical settings, I thoroughly enjoy co-leading retreats focused on healing and empowerment.
(207) 598-4698 View (207) 598-4698
Photo of Henry Blanchette, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Henry Blanchette
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Not accepting new clients
The most common feedback I get from patients is gratitude for “really listening.” I think that properly understanding your experience is fundamental to providing effective care. I will work with you collaboratively and respectfully to improve your emotional well-being.  Together, we will clarify your personal goals, and work towards reaching them.  This process will consider the broader scope of your life experiences (biological, psychological, social, cultural, and spiritual context). Based on an accurate diagnosis, I utilize a variety of tools, including medication, therapy, and lifestyle modification to help you reach your goals.
The most common feedback I get from patients is gratitude for “really listening.” I think that properly understanding your experience is fundamental to providing effective care. I will work with you collaboratively and respectfully to improve your emotional well-being.  Together, we will clarify your personal goals, and work towards reaching them.  This process will consider the broader scope of your life experiences (biological, psychological, social, cultural, and spiritual context). Based on an accurate diagnosis, I utilize a variety of tools, including medication, therapy, and lifestyle modification to help you reach your goals.
(207) 515-8355 View (207) 515-8355
Photo of Alicia Soucy, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Alicia Soucy
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
I provide medication management services to individuals over the age of 18. At this time, I am not providing intensive therapy or therapy only. I provide treatment for all mental disorders including depressive disorders, bipolar disorders, anxiety disorders, and trauma disorders. I am dedicated to providing exceptional, compassionate, personalized and evidence-based care. I emphasize the importance of developing a trusting relationship to help all clients reach their health goals.
I provide medication management services to individuals over the age of 18. At this time, I am not providing intensive therapy or therapy only. I provide treatment for all mental disorders including depressive disorders, bipolar disorders, anxiety disorders, and trauma disorders. I am dedicated to providing exceptional, compassionate, personalized and evidence-based care. I emphasize the importance of developing a trusting relationship to help all clients reach their health goals.
(207) 230-6251 View (207) 230-6251
Photo of Juliana Pires, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Juliana Pires
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I have helped people who reported anxiety that "comes unannounced from nowhere", or had been feeling low and having difficulty finding motivation, or who were just not feeling like themselves for different reasons including poor sleep, low energy, inability to stop worrying, and inability to concentrate to complete tasks.
I have helped people who reported anxiety that "comes unannounced from nowhere", or had been feeling low and having difficulty finding motivation, or who were just not feeling like themselves for different reasons including poor sleep, low energy, inability to stop worrying, and inability to concentrate to complete tasks.
(801) 845-2115 View (801) 845-2115
Photo of Shawn Faust, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Shawn Faust
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Dr. Shawn Faust, DNP, PMHNP-BC is a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who brings a unique and patient-centric approach to the field of mental health. His philosophy centers around the belief that individuals are experts in their own experiences, and collaboration between the patient and their mental health provider is essential for effective and personalized treatment. He believes that informed patients are better equipped to navigate their unique mental health challenges. Thus, treatment with Dr. Faust often involves teaching patients about their diagnosis and discussing the pros and cons of various treatment options.
Dr. Shawn Faust, DNP, PMHNP-BC is a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who brings a unique and patient-centric approach to the field of mental health. His philosophy centers around the belief that individuals are experts in their own experiences, and collaboration between the patient and their mental health provider is essential for effective and personalized treatment. He believes that informed patients are better equipped to navigate their unique mental health challenges. Thus, treatment with Dr. Faust often involves teaching patients about their diagnosis and discussing the pros and cons of various treatment options.
(336) 515-1193 View (336) 515-1193
Photo of Patricia Seely, FNP-C, PMHNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Patricia Seely
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP-C, PMHNP-C
Verified Verified
Online Only
My primary goal is to help individuals find wholeness through therapy and medication. I am not prescribing in Massachusetts at this time but do provide therapy. I am prescribing and doing therapy in Maine now. I work with adults and have experience working with people struggling with depression, anxiety, mood disorders, individuals in recovery and those struggling with chronic health issues. As a veteran myself working with military active duty, their spouses and veterans is a special interest. I enjoy working with first responders. I do prescribe in Maine but do not prescribe benzodiazepines at this time.
My primary goal is to help individuals find wholeness through therapy and medication. I am not prescribing in Massachusetts at this time but do provide therapy. I am prescribing and doing therapy in Maine now. I work with adults and have experience working with people struggling with depression, anxiety, mood disorders, individuals in recovery and those struggling with chronic health issues. As a veteran myself working with military active duty, their spouses and veterans is a special interest. I enjoy working with first responders. I do prescribe in Maine but do not prescribe benzodiazepines at this time.
(207) 817-2702 View (207) 817-2702

See more therapy options for 04073

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 04073

< 10

Psychiatrists in 04073 who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
100% ADHD
100% Eating Disorders
100% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
100% Psychosis
100% Bipolar Disorder

Average years in practice

3 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
100% Cigna and Evernorth
100% Harvard Pilgrim

How Psychiatrists in 04073 see their clients

100% Online Only

Gender breakdown

100% Female
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 04073?

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.