Psychiatrists in Brunswick, ME

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 Micaela Brooke Strevay, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Micaela Brooke Strevay
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Verified Verified
Online Only
Hi there! I'm a certified psychiatric nurse practitioner, and I've worked with patients in various inpatient and outpatient settings. My expertise lies in helping individuals dealing with substance abuse, addiction, depression, anxiety, ADHD, and PTSD. I rely on the latest DSM diagnostic guidelines and evidence-based treatments to support my patients in regaining their well-being. I firmly believe that mental health holds the same significance as physical health, and my objective is to eliminate the stigma surrounding mental illness while encouraging others to prioritize their mental well-being.
Hi there! I'm a certified psychiatric nurse practitioner, and I've worked with patients in various inpatient and outpatient settings. My expertise lies in helping individuals dealing with substance abuse, addiction, depression, anxiety, ADHD, and PTSD. I rely on the latest DSM diagnostic guidelines and evidence-based treatments to support my patients in regaining their well-being. I firmly believe that mental health holds the same significance as physical health, and my objective is to eliminate the stigma surrounding mental illness while encouraging others to prioritize their mental well-being.
(207) 865-8840 View (207) 865-8840
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 Josh Hamilton - Brightside Health, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Brightside Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
It gets much better from here. No matter what you're going through, our expert providers are here to help with online mental health care tailored to you. Brightside Health offers personalized psychiatry, proven therapy, or both to help you feel better. Get started right from home, with appointments in as little as 2 days.
It gets much better from here. No matter what you're going through, our expert providers are here to help with online mental health care tailored to you. Brightside Health offers personalized psychiatry, proven therapy, or both to help you feel better. Get started right from home, with appointments in as little as 2 days.
(207) 204-3829 View (207) 204-3829
Photo of Dr. Andrés Abreu, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Andrés Abreu
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Currently, I am accepting new patients into my practice for those interested in weekly psychotherapy and psychotropic medication supervision in a psychodynamic frame. The focus of my practice is on establishing meaningful and longitudinal therapeutic relationships with patients seeking to explore their problems in living. Through a relational and integrative approach, I focus on the thoughts and feelings that emerge in the therapeutic relationship to elucidate and interpret the challenges patients face in the wider world.
Currently, I am accepting new patients into my practice for those interested in weekly psychotherapy and psychotropic medication supervision in a psychodynamic frame. The focus of my practice is on establishing meaningful and longitudinal therapeutic relationships with patients seeking to explore their problems in living. Through a relational and integrative approach, I focus on the thoughts and feelings that emerge in the therapeutic relationship to elucidate and interpret the challenges patients face in the wider world.
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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
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Vicki Chandler is licensed and board certified as both a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner and a family nurse practitioner. She received her 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. We provide personalized treatment plans tailored to each patient's specific needs. We also offer outpatient therapy services.
Vicki Chandler is licensed and board certified as both a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner and a family nurse practitioner. She received her 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. We provide personalized treatment plans tailored to each patient's specific needs. We also offer outpatient therapy services.
(207) 865-8642 View (207) 865-8642
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
Serves Area
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 Mary Kate Grady, MD, Psychiatrist
Mary Kate Grady
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I provide psychiatric care for adults, age 18 and older. I take a wholistic approach to psychiatric care, focusing on the physical, psychological, emotional and social well-being of each patient. I provide both therapy and medication management, integrating an evidence based approach to nutrition, joyful movement, and social connection.
I provide psychiatric care for adults, age 18 and older. I take a wholistic approach to psychiatric care, focusing on the physical, psychological, emotional and social well-being of each patient. I provide both therapy and medication management, integrating an evidence based approach to nutrition, joyful movement, and social connection.
(207) 223-7653 View (207) 223-7653
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 Robert King, MD, Psychiatrist
Robert King
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I provide psychiatric care for adults, age 18 and above. Treatments for mental illness are not a one-size-fits-all, and I approach each patient as a unique individual. Using contemporary, evidence-based treatments, I aim to relieve suffering and improve quality of life. Following an accurate diagnosis, it is often important to consider how lifestyle modification, therapy, medications, and other treatments can provide benefit. I employ various psychotherapeutic techniques, including psychodynamic and cognitive behavioral, and am adept in medication management.
I provide psychiatric care for adults, age 18 and above. Treatments for mental illness are not a one-size-fits-all, and I approach each patient as a unique individual. Using contemporary, evidence-based treatments, I aim to relieve suffering and improve quality of life. Following an accurate diagnosis, it is often important to consider how lifestyle modification, therapy, medications, and other treatments can provide benefit. I employ various psychotherapeutic techniques, including psychodynamic and cognitive behavioral, and am adept in medication management.
(207) 607-4022 x400 View (207) 607-4022 x400
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

More Psychiatrists Nearby

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 Kayla Myers, MD, Psychiatrist
Kayla Myers
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Portland, ME 04103
As a licensed psychiatrist at the PSM Center for Psychiatry in Portland, I am deeply passionate about fostering mental wellbeing through a collaborative treatment approach. I believe in creating a safe, trusting space where individuals can openly explore their mental health challenges. My focus is on accurate diagnosis and evidence-based treatment to guide each patient’s journey toward healing and personal growth. Together, we develop personalized treatment plans that align with your unique goals, helping you move toward a life of balance and fulfillment.
As a licensed psychiatrist at the PSM Center for Psychiatry in Portland, I am deeply passionate about fostering mental wellbeing through a collaborative treatment approach. I believe in creating a safe, trusting space where individuals can openly explore their mental health challenges. My focus is on accurate diagnosis and evidence-based treatment to guide each patient’s journey toward healing and personal growth. Together, we develop personalized treatment plans that align with your unique goals, helping you move toward a life of balance and fulfillment.
(207) 640-7907 x400 View (207) 640-7907 x400
Photo of Stephen Morley, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Stephen Morley
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Stephen Morley is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. Licensed in both Maine and New Hampshire, Stephen works with virtually all ages—from mid-adolescents to adults—and offers his patients both in-office and remote teletherapy options. With a true affinity for the humanistic, health-promoting principles of nursing, Stephen is dedicated to providing each client with compassionate, supportive care. He strives to create a collaborative healthcare experience for every client, offering holistic, patient-centered care that respects and supports individual autonomy.
Stephen Morley is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. Licensed in both Maine and New Hampshire, Stephen works with virtually all ages—from mid-adolescents to adults—and offers his patients both in-office and remote teletherapy options. With a true affinity for the humanistic, health-promoting principles of nursing, Stephen is dedicated to providing each client with compassionate, supportive care. He strives to create a collaborative healthcare experience for every client, offering holistic, patient-centered care that respects and supports individual autonomy.
(207) 218-0029 View (207) 218-0029
Photo of Dr. Denise Chase, FNP-BC, PMHNP, PhD, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dr. Denise Chase
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP-BC, PMHNP, PhD
Verified Verified
Online Only
With an extensive background in nursing and psychiatric care, I am a seasoned Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, dedicated to providing compassionate and comprehensive mental health services. My journey began with a solid foundation in nursing education at Gwynedd Mercy University, where I developed and revised curricula for various nurse practitioner programs, ensuring that future healthcare providers are well-equipped to meet the needs of their patients. My commitment to excellence in mental health care is reflected in my work as a consultant for various organizations, where I've played a key role in it.
With an extensive background in nursing and psychiatric care, I am a seasoned Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, dedicated to providing compassionate and comprehensive mental health services. My journey began with a solid foundation in nursing education at Gwynedd Mercy University, where I developed and revised curricula for various nurse practitioner programs, ensuring that future healthcare providers are well-equipped to meet the needs of their patients. My commitment to excellence in mental health care is reflected in my work as a consultant for various organizations, where I've played a key role in it.
(272) 422-9752 View (272) 422-9752
LifeStance Health
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
South Portland, ME 04106
Making your first appointment can be one of the most challenging steps in your mental health journey. At LifeStance, we make it simple by offering both online and in-person therapy and psychiatry services, covered by major insurance plans.
Making your first appointment can be one of the most challenging steps in your mental health journey. At LifeStance, we make it simple by offering both online and in-person therapy and psychiatry services, covered by major insurance plans.
(888) 521-5044 View (888) 521-5044
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 Nicolas Sikaczowski - Peace Behavioral Health Portland , DO, Psychiatrist
Peace Behavioral Health Portland
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
Portland, ME 04102
Peace Behavioral Health is a small, boutique, locally owned, comprehensive Psychiatry and Psychology practice dedicated to providing unrushed evidence-based care. We have offices in Portland, ME and Saco, ME & provide services via telehealth throughout the state of ME and FL. We utilize ABPN Board-Certified Psychiatrists, and ABPN Board Certified Child & Adolescent Psychiatrists as well as PhD Psychologists. Our current clinicians are Dr. Nicolas Sikaczowski, DO, Dr. Stephon Martin, MD, Dr Robin Caron, DO, Dr. Ashley Shaw, PhD, Dr. Janaa Lehtien, PhD, Karen Kennedy, LCSW and Alix Buckvar, LCSW
Peace Behavioral Health is a small, boutique, locally owned, comprehensive Psychiatry and Psychology practice dedicated to providing unrushed evidence-based care. We have offices in Portland, ME and Saco, ME & provide services via telehealth throughout the state of ME and FL. We utilize ABPN Board-Certified Psychiatrists, and ABPN Board Certified Child & Adolescent Psychiatrists as well as PhD Psychologists. Our current clinicians are Dr. Nicolas Sikaczowski, DO, Dr. Stephon Martin, MD, Dr Robin Caron, DO, Dr. Ashley Shaw, PhD, Dr. Janaa Lehtien, PhD, Karen Kennedy, LCSW and Alix Buckvar, LCSW
(207) 962-1188 View (207) 962-1188
Photo of Dr. Misty Stafford, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Misty Stafford
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
South Portland, ME 04106
I am a child, adolescent and adult psychiatrist seeing patients for combined psychotherapy and medication management services. My practice is small and patient-focused with a tailored approach to meet every patient's unique needs. My approach to treatment is to provide a safe, comforting environment where patients feel able to express themselves emotionally without fear of judgment. I pride myself on being empathic, warm, and caring with an ability to personally connect with each of my patients and their families. I love what I do and I believe this reflects in the results I help my patients achieve.
I am a child, adolescent and adult psychiatrist seeing patients for combined psychotherapy and medication management services. My practice is small and patient-focused with a tailored approach to meet every patient's unique needs. My approach to treatment is to provide a safe, comforting environment where patients feel able to express themselves emotionally without fear of judgment. I pride myself on being empathic, warm, and caring with an ability to personally connect with each of my patients and their families. I love what I do and I believe this reflects in the results I help my patients achieve.
(207) 204-3578 View (207) 204-3578
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

See more therapy options for Brunswick

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Brunswick, ME

10+

Average cost per session

$287

Psychiatrists in Brunswick, ME who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
82% Anxiety
82% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
82% Bipolar Disorder
82% Medication Management
73% Trauma and PTSD
64% Grief

Average years in practice

13 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

67% BlueCross and BlueShield
67% Optum
67% Maine Community Health Options

How Psychiatrists in Brunswick, ME see their clients

64% In Person and Online
36% Online Only

Gender breakdown

75% Female
25% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Brunswick?

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.