Psychiatrists in 04347

Photo of Theresa Rush, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Theresa Rush
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
A Grateful Mind LLC: As a Maine-based telehealth Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I provide high-quality psychiatric evaluations and medication management to clients statewide. My practice emphasizes tailored care based on thorough assessments and evidence-based practices to support your mental health and well-being. Please note that while I offer comprehensive psychiatric care, I do not prescribe or manage stimulants or benzodiazepines. This focus allows me to concentrate on other areas of mental health treatment, ensuring personalized and effective care.
A Grateful Mind LLC: As a Maine-based telehealth Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I provide high-quality psychiatric evaluations and medication management to clients statewide. My practice emphasizes tailored care based on thorough assessments and evidence-based practices to support your mental health and well-being. Please note that while I offer comprehensive psychiatric care, I do not prescribe or manage stimulants or benzodiazepines. This focus allows me to concentrate on other areas of mental health treatment, ensuring personalized and effective care.
(207) 804-5978 View (207) 804-5978

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Jan Lorenz, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Jan Lorenz
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Hello! My name is Jan Lorenz. I have been a psychiatric nurse practitioner for past 20 years. With that experience, I’ve been able to help make people feel better, and function better, with medication and education.
Hello! My name is Jan Lorenz. I have been a psychiatric nurse practitioner for past 20 years. With that experience, I’ve been able to help make people feel better, and function better, with medication and education.
(877) 536-9577 View (877) 536-9577
Photo of Lauren Buchheim - Empower Psychiatry Solutions , MD, Psychiatrist
Empower Psychiatry Solutions
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
No matter where you are on your mental health recovery journey, Empower Psychiatry Solutions, PLLC is here for you. Let us help you identify and take steps towards achieving your goals, starting today. Our vision: a world where mental health care is prioritized for all, free from stigma, patient-centered, evidence based, integrative and holistic. Our mission: mental health care that is personalized, empathic, warm, and holds you in the highest and most positive regard at all times, free from judgment.
No matter where you are on your mental health recovery journey, Empower Psychiatry Solutions, PLLC is here for you. Let us help you identify and take steps towards achieving your goals, starting today. Our vision: a world where mental health care is prioritized for all, free from stigma, patient-centered, evidence based, integrative and holistic. Our mission: mental health care that is personalized, empathic, warm, and holds you in the highest and most positive regard at all times, free from judgment.
(207) 483-5162 View (207) 483-5162
Photo of Shannon Grose, FNP-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Shannon Grose
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, 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.
(207) 690-5628 View (207) 690-5628
Photo of Allison Baird, PMH NP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Allison Baird
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMH NP, BC
Verified Verified
Brunswick, ME 04011
Hello! Welcome to my practice. I work with child and adult psychiatry. Mental health issues have a profound effect on home life, school, work, and friendships. I am passionate about working with families and systems to overcome these negative effects and help children and adults achieve their true potential. I am currently accepting new referrals. Most visits are in person at this time. Telehealth will continue to be available on an as needed basis. I am in private practice, which means that we, not the insurance company, get to decide the path that is best for you.
Hello! Welcome to my practice. I work with child and adult psychiatry. Mental health issues have a profound effect on home life, school, work, and friendships. I am passionate about working with families and systems to overcome these negative effects and help children and adults achieve their true potential. I am currently accepting new referrals. Most visits are in person at this time. Telehealth will continue to be available on an as needed basis. I am in private practice, which means that we, not the insurance company, get to decide the path that is best for you.
(207) 962-1491 View (207) 962-1491
Photo of Jennifer Ferguson, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Jennifer Ferguson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
My name is Jennifer Ferguson, I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. Seeking the right support to guide you through Is of most importance. I offer a compassionate experience that is also accessible and convenient.
My name is Jennifer Ferguson, I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. Seeking the right support to guide you through Is of most importance. I offer a compassionate experience that is also accessible and convenient.
(866) 730-8704 View (866) 730-8704
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 Julia Gallant, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Julia Gallant
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Welcome to Eastern Sky Wellness, a telepsychiatry practice for adult residents of Maine. I offer diagnostic and medication services for adults with conditions such as anxiety, depression, trauma, bipolar spectrum, ADHD, and neurodivergence. Clients who come to me are often feeling overwhelmed, stressed, and are looking for support. They might be on medication that isn't working and want another opinion, or perhaps want to explore the idea of discontinuing current long-term medication(s). Many are doing well with their medication and just need a new prescriber. Regardless, everyone wants to feel and function at their best.
Welcome to Eastern Sky Wellness, a telepsychiatry practice for adult residents of Maine. I offer diagnostic and medication services for adults with conditions such as anxiety, depression, trauma, bipolar spectrum, ADHD, and neurodivergence. Clients who come to me are often feeling overwhelmed, stressed, and are looking for support. They might be on medication that isn't working and want another opinion, or perhaps want to explore the idea of discontinuing current long-term medication(s). Many are doing well with their medication and just need a new prescriber. Regardless, everyone wants to feel and function at their best.
(207) 436-8941 View (207) 436-8941
Photo of Vicki Chandler - Vicki, Healthy Minds Counseling Inc, DNP, FNP-BC, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Vicki, Healthy Minds Counseling Inc
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP-BC, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Hello! My name is Vicki Chandler I'm licensed and board certified as both a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner and a family nurse practitioner. I received my doctorate in nursing from the University of Alabama, besides teaching for 17 years in graduate nursing programs at the University of Memphis and the University of Tennessee Health Sciences Center. Our practice offers a range of medication options for behavioral health issues in both adults and children. I provide personalized treatment plans tailored to each patient's specific needs. I also offer outpatient therapy services.
Hello! My name is Vicki Chandler I'm licensed and board certified as both a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner and a family nurse practitioner. I received my doctorate in nursing from the University of Alabama, besides teaching for 17 years in graduate nursing programs at the University of Memphis and the University of Tennessee Health Sciences Center. Our practice offers a range of medication options for behavioral health issues in both adults and children. I provide personalized treatment plans tailored to each patient's specific needs. I also offer outpatient therapy services.
(207) 355-7157 View (207) 355-7157
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 Kelly Ann Hoyt - LiveWell Psychiatry, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
LiveWell Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Please find additional information on my website: www.lwpsych.org. Welcome! Feeling depressed, anxious...wanting better? Chances are, if you have sought care through traditional channels, you've been prescribed an antidepressant or antianxiety medication and not much else. While medications can be helpful, there's usually more that goes into achieving optimal mental health. I help adults with anxiety, depression, and PTSD worry less, improve their mood, and engage more effectively in their daily lives.
Please find additional information on my website: www.lwpsych.org. Welcome! Feeling depressed, anxious...wanting better? Chances are, if you have sought care through traditional channels, you've been prescribed an antidepressant or antianxiety medication and not much else. While medications can be helpful, there's usually more that goes into achieving optimal mental health. I help adults with anxiety, depression, and PTSD worry less, improve their mood, and engage more effectively in their daily lives.
(207) 507-7406 View (207) 507-7406
Photo of Susan L Chase, APRN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Susan L Chase
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Brunswick, ME 04011
Welcome to my practice, Finding Peace of Mind, serving the mental health needs of adults ages 18 & over. At Finding Peace of Mind, I provide individualized, meaningful, mental healthcare, designed to help individuals achieve stability, healing, recovery and improved quality of life. I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with 21+ years of experience with psychiatric medications and mental healthcare, both in the in-patient & out-patient settings. I completed my Master's in Psychiatric Nursing at the University of So. Maine and obtained my Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner certification through a Post Master's program at Husson College.
Welcome to my practice, Finding Peace of Mind, serving the mental health needs of adults ages 18 & over. At Finding Peace of Mind, I provide individualized, meaningful, mental healthcare, designed to help individuals achieve stability, healing, recovery and improved quality of life. I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with 21+ years of experience with psychiatric medications and mental healthcare, both in the in-patient & out-patient settings. I completed my Master's in Psychiatric Nursing at the University of So. Maine and obtained my Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner certification through a Post Master's program at Husson College.
(207) 865-8638 View (207) 865-8638
Photo of Kathleen Ingellis, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Kathleen Ingellis
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
My name is Kat Ingellis and I am a board certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC). I am based in the Portland; Maine area and I work with clients statewide via TeleHealth. I provide psychiatric medication management services to children, adolescents, and adults with the purpose of symptomatic improvement in psychiatric disorders that include mood disorders, trauma, anxiety, panic disorder, neurodevelopmental disorders, psychotic disorders, substance use disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorders (OCD), and eating disorders.
My name is Kat Ingellis and I am a board certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC). I am based in the Portland; Maine area and I work with clients statewide via TeleHealth. I provide psychiatric medication management services to children, adolescents, and adults with the purpose of symptomatic improvement in psychiatric disorders that include mood disorders, trauma, anxiety, panic disorder, neurodevelopmental disorders, psychotic disorders, substance use disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorders (OCD), and eating disorders.
(888) 613-7279 View (888) 613-7279
Photo of Janet Zalanskas, PMH NP, PMH CS, APRN-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Janet Zalanskas
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMH NP, PMH CS, APRN-BC
Verified Verified
Waterville, ME 04901
Not accepting new clients
People looking to clarify diagnosis and for psychiatric medication. Helping patients to minimize side effects from medications.
People looking to clarify diagnosis and for psychiatric medication. Helping patients to minimize side effects from medications.
(207) 255-7770 View (207) 255-7770
Photo of Joanna Kass - Cousins Island Counseling and Psychiatry, MS, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Cousins Island Counseling and Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MS, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Not accepting new clients
My professional passions include treating mood and anxiety disorders, substance use disorders, and supporting the development of insight and self-efficacy. It is a gift to observe human resilience in my work. Within my practice, I aim to nurture awareness into the connections between the body and brain and provide information about the tools we have to support ourselves in feeling well.
My professional passions include treating mood and anxiety disorders, substance use disorders, and supporting the development of insight and self-efficacy. It is a gift to observe human resilience in my work. Within my practice, I aim to nurture awareness into the connections between the body and brain and provide information about the tools we have to support ourselves in feeling well.
(207) 204-3546 View (207) 204-3546
Photo of Dr. Amir W. Raad, DNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dr. Amir W. Raad
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Dr. Amir Raad is a doctoral-prepared board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. He relies on evidence-based research and clinical practice in treating and understanding psychiatric disorders. His practice philosophy recognizes mental health disparities to effectively promote culturally sensitive, high-quality patient-centered care. Dr. Raad believes in helping patients discover a healthy stability, balance, and meaning in their lives. He strives to bring awareness, compassion, and professionalism in understanding the patient as a whole person.
Dr. Amir Raad is a doctoral-prepared board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. He relies on evidence-based research and clinical practice in treating and understanding psychiatric disorders. His practice philosophy recognizes mental health disparities to effectively promote culturally sensitive, high-quality patient-centered care. Dr. Raad believes in helping patients discover a healthy stability, balance, and meaning in their lives. He strives to bring awareness, compassion, and professionalism in understanding the patient as a whole person.
(207) 345-6513 View (207) 345-6513
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 Alyson Maloy, MD, FAPA, DABIHM, Psychiatrist
Alyson Maloy
Psychiatrist, MD, FAPA, DABIHM
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Thank you for visiting my profile. I founded Portland Cognitive and Behavioral Neurology in 2017 to create a comfortable, responsive setting for patients needing cognitive and behavioral neurologic services and general psychiatric care. I am triple board-certified in psychiatry, neurology, and integrative holistic medicine. I am fellowship trained in autonomic disorders and, more recently, in polyvagal theory. I enjoy understanding and synthesizing all factors contributing to your current condition. From this broad and in-depth foundation, we can address each problem and restore your quality of life.
Thank you for visiting my profile. I founded Portland Cognitive and Behavioral Neurology in 2017 to create a comfortable, responsive setting for patients needing cognitive and behavioral neurologic services and general psychiatric care. I am triple board-certified in psychiatry, neurology, and integrative holistic medicine. I am fellowship trained in autonomic disorders and, more recently, in polyvagal theory. I enjoy understanding and synthesizing all factors contributing to your current condition. From this broad and in-depth foundation, we can address each problem and restore your quality of life.
(207) 222-3021 View (207) 222-3021
Photo of Heriberto Sierra, MSN, RN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Heriberto Sierra
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, RN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Our mission at Serenity Health Telepsychiatry, LLC. is to provide children, adolescents, and adults who do not have the ability or opportunity to see healthcare providers the chance to be seen by a mental health professional. Our focus and goals are to provide the best evidence-based care and treatment to our patients.
Our mission at Serenity Health Telepsychiatry, LLC. is to provide children, adolescents, and adults who do not have the ability or opportunity to see healthcare providers the chance to be seen by a mental health professional. Our focus and goals are to provide the best evidence-based care and treatment to our patients.
(302) 307-9640 View (302) 307-9640
Photo of Robert King - PSM Center for Psychiatry, MD, Psychiatrist
PSM Center for Psychiatry
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
We are a group of experienced board certified psychiatrists dedicated to providing compassionate and comprehensive mental health care to adults. We are committed to helping our patients achieve optimal mental well-being and lead fulfilling lives. Our team of providers work collaboratively with patients, tailoring treatment plans to address their specific challenges and goals. We focus on evidence-based practices, staying up-to-date with the latest research and advancements in psychiatry to ensure the best possible outcomes.
We are a group of experienced board certified psychiatrists dedicated to providing compassionate and comprehensive mental health care to adults. We are committed to helping our patients achieve optimal mental well-being and lead fulfilling lives. Our team of providers work collaboratively with patients, tailoring treatment plans to address their specific challenges and goals. We focus on evidence-based practices, staying up-to-date with the latest research and advancements in psychiatry to ensure the best possible outcomes.
(207) 802-7033 View (207) 802-7033

See more therapy options for 04347

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in 04347

< 10

Psychiatrists in 04347 who prioritize treating:

100% Medication Management

Average years in practice

4 Years

Gender breakdown

100% Female

How Psychiatrists in 04347 see their clients

100% Online Only
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in 04347?

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.