Psychiatrists in Cumberland County, ME

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Photo of Mark Shaughnessy - LifeStance Health, APRN (C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
LifeStance Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN (C
Verified Verified
Portland, ME 04101
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) 375-8658 View (888) 375-8658
Photo of Julie Smith, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Julie Smith
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Yarmouth, ME 04096
Not accepting new clients
I am not currently accepting new patients. As a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I specialize in medication management, offering a personalized experience that integrates the latest evidence-based approaches to support you on your journey to health and well-being. My goal is not only to aid in stabilization and recovery but also to witness your flourishing and thriving. I take a holistic approach to treatment, conducting comprehensive evaluations and establishing a clear diagnostic framework, all while considering the impact of social, cultural, interpersonal, and financial influence.
I am not currently accepting new patients. As a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I specialize in medication management, offering a personalized experience that integrates the latest evidence-based approaches to support you on your journey to health and well-being. My goal is not only to aid in stabilization and recovery but also to witness your flourishing and thriving. I take a holistic approach to treatment, conducting comprehensive evaluations and establishing a clear diagnostic framework, all while considering the impact of social, cultural, interpersonal, and financial influence.
(207) 614-2845 View (207) 614-2845
Photo of Mary Kate Grady, MD, Psychiatrist
Mary Kate Grady
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, ME 04101
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 x400 View (207) 223-7653 x400
Psychiatry of Maine
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Online Only
I am a Board Certified Psychiatrist specializing in Child/Adolescent Psychiatry and Adult Psychiatry. My services include the diagnosis and treatment of all mental illnesses in children/adolescents/adult including but not limited to ADHD, Depression, OCD, Anxiety, Autism Spectrum, Bipolar Disorder, Personality Disorder and PTSD. I am also interested in treating women who are pregnant/postpartum and nursing. I am comfortable in the setting of treating co-morbid medical and psychiatric concerns. I only utilize medication when necessary.
I am a Board Certified Psychiatrist specializing in Child/Adolescent Psychiatry and Adult Psychiatry. My services include the diagnosis and treatment of all mental illnesses in children/adolescents/adult including but not limited to ADHD, Depression, OCD, Anxiety, Autism Spectrum, Bipolar Disorder, Personality Disorder and PTSD. I am also interested in treating women who are pregnant/postpartum and nursing. I am comfortable in the setting of treating co-morbid medical and psychiatric concerns. I only utilize medication when necessary.
(207) 230-6411 View (207) 230-6411
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
Freeport, ME 04032
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 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 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
Yarmouth, ME 04096
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
Portland, ME 04101
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 George Nnamchi, APRN, PMHNP, BC, MSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
George Nnamchi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, BC, MSN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
George Nnamchi is a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner-Board Certified (PMHNP-BC) committed to helping clients explore their thoughts, behaviors, and experiences to gain control of their conditions. The clients are motivated to engage in treatment, open to discussing their thoughts and feelings, and willing to work with me to develop and follow through with a treatment plan.
George Nnamchi is a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner-Board Certified (PMHNP-BC) committed to helping clients explore their thoughts, behaviors, and experiences to gain control of their conditions. The clients are motivated to engage in treatment, open to discussing their thoughts and feelings, and willing to work with me to develop and follow through with a treatment plan.
(207) 477-9777 View (207) 477-9777
Photo of Claudine Grange, BA, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse
Claudine Grange
Psychiatric Nurse, BA, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Portland, ME 04102
I treat psychiatric illness by listening to one's life story. Individuals are a harmony of thoughts and feelings; mind and body. Medications are sometimes necessary to help a person manage their day to day life but they are not sufficient. I prescribe medication if necessary and provide therapies that are suited to the individual patient. The focus is primarily on lifestyle therapy and daily practice. Lifestyle medicine includes diet, exercise, meditation, and stress reduction along with therapy. I know with the right support, knowledge and practice a person can experience joy, continue to grow and love.
I treat psychiatric illness by listening to one's life story. Individuals are a harmony of thoughts and feelings; mind and body. Medications are sometimes necessary to help a person manage their day to day life but they are not sufficient. I prescribe medication if necessary and provide therapies that are suited to the individual patient. The focus is primarily on lifestyle therapy and daily practice. Lifestyle medicine includes diet, exercise, meditation, and stress reduction along with therapy. I know with the right support, knowledge and practice a person can experience joy, continue to grow and love.
(207) 517-2874 View (207) 517-2874
Photo of Carin Seadler, PMHNP-C, RN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Carin Seadler
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-C, RN
Verified Verified
Portland, ME 04103
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 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 Samuel Grafton Kingsley - Saco Bay Mental Health, PLLC, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Saco Bay Mental Health, PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Scarborough, ME 04074
My name is Samuel G. Kingsley and I have been working in the mental health field for 8 years. I take a holistic approach to mental health treatment that combines the latest evidence based treatments with your lived experience. I believe that you are the expert on you and want to understand your goals and will work to combine the best treatments for you to be able to reach them.
My name is Samuel G. Kingsley and I have been working in the mental health field for 8 years. I take a holistic approach to mental health treatment that combines the latest evidence based treatments with your lived experience. I believe that you are the expert on you and want to understand your goals and will work to combine the best treatments for you to be able to reach them.
(207) 962-2290 View (207) 962-2290
Photo of Dr. Robert Vinton McCarley, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Robert Vinton McCarley
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Scarborough, ME 04074
Not accepting new clients
I am an adult psychiatrist whom has resided and worked in Maine for 20 years, trained in Boston at the Harvard Longwood Adult Psychiatry Residency Program, and have lived in New England my whole life. I have a small adult psychiatric practice that is individual focused and located in Scarborough Maine.
I am an adult psychiatrist whom has resided and worked in Maine for 20 years, trained in Boston at the Harvard Longwood Adult Psychiatry Residency Program, and have lived in New England my whole life. I have a small adult psychiatric practice that is individual focused and located in Scarborough Maine.
(207) 417-4983 View (207) 417-4983
Photo of Sarah Street Taylor, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Sarah Street Taylor
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
Scarborough, ME 04074
I am a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with over 20 years of experience caring for adults with depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD and schizophrenia. I offer a compassionate and individualized approach that includes medication, supportive therapy and practical recommendations to promote your wellness (nutrition and exercise among others). Mine is a small practice that does not accept insurance, allowing more time to focus on your care. I will provide the necessary documentation and assistance so you can submit a claim to your insurance for reimbursement. I offer both in person and telehealth appointments.
I am a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with over 20 years of experience caring for adults with depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD and schizophrenia. I offer a compassionate and individualized approach that includes medication, supportive therapy and practical recommendations to promote your wellness (nutrition and exercise among others). Mine is a small practice that does not accept insurance, allowing more time to focus on your care. I will provide the necessary documentation and assistance so you can submit a claim to your insurance for reimbursement. I offer both in person and telehealth appointments.
(207) 804-5825 View (207) 804-5825
Photo of Peggy Ouellette, FPMH-NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Peggy Ouellette
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FPMH-NP
Verified Verified
Portland, ME 04103
Are you a caregiver looking to create a healthier and happier lifestyle for your entire family? Do you feel overwhelmed by the emotional and physical demands of balancing everything? Concerned about the long-term impact of medications on your child's physical and emotional health? Worried about the financial strain of medical bills? Feeling isolated and alone in your experience especially when others don't understand? Are you ready to rejuvenate your mind and body, and embark on a transformative journey towards optimal well-being?
Are you a caregiver looking to create a healthier and happier lifestyle for your entire family? Do you feel overwhelmed by the emotional and physical demands of balancing everything? Concerned about the long-term impact of medications on your child's physical and emotional health? Worried about the financial strain of medical bills? Feeling isolated and alone in your experience especially when others don't understand? Are you ready to rejuvenate your mind and body, and embark on a transformative journey towards optimal well-being?
(207) 716-0604 View (207) 716-0604
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 Mark Shaughnessy, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Mark Shaughnessy
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Scarborough, ME 04074
I have been practicing as a psychiatric nurse practitioner for more than 20 years. I employ evidence based treatments to serve adults with depression, anxiety, panic disorder, OCD, bipolar disorder, psychosis, PTSD, ADHD, and other conditions. Medication management is a substantial focus of my practice, but I also offer psychotherapy in the setting of a 30 minute visit or in the more traditional 45 minute session.
I have been practicing as a psychiatric nurse practitioner for more than 20 years. I employ evidence based treatments to serve adults with depression, anxiety, panic disorder, OCD, bipolar disorder, psychosis, PTSD, ADHD, and other conditions. Medication management is a substantial focus of my practice, but I also offer psychotherapy in the setting of a 30 minute visit or in the more traditional 45 minute session.
(207) 358-3975 View (207) 358-3975
Photo of Erin Schwarz - Evergreen Psychiatric Care, DO, Psychiatrist
Evergreen Psychiatric Care
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
Online Only
Thank you for considering Evergreen Psychiatric Care for your mental health needs. As a board-certified psychiatrist, I am dedicated to delivering comprehensive treatment across Maine, catering to a broad spectrum of mental health challenges such as depression, anxiety, and trauma. I have a particular interest in women's mental health including providing compassionate care during and after pregnancy. In my private practice, I emphasize medication management while also offering brief therapy when appropriate. My goal is to create a safe and compassionate space, free of judgment, where you can openly discuss your concerns.
Thank you for considering Evergreen Psychiatric Care for your mental health needs. As a board-certified psychiatrist, I am dedicated to delivering comprehensive treatment across Maine, catering to a broad spectrum of mental health challenges such as depression, anxiety, and trauma. I have a particular interest in women's mental health including providing compassionate care during and after pregnancy. In my private practice, I emphasize medication management while also offering brief therapy when appropriate. My goal is to create a safe and compassionate space, free of judgment, where you can openly discuss your concerns.
(207) 223-3246 View (207) 223-3246
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
1

See more therapy options for Cumberland County

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Cumberland County, ME

100+

Average cost per session

$250

Psychiatrists in Cumberland County, ME who prioritize treating:

91% Depression
90% Anxiety
83% Bipolar Disorder
75% Trauma and PTSD
70% Medication Management
65% ADHD
63% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)

Average years in practice

11 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

73% Aetna
70% BlueCross and BlueShield
70% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH

How Psychiatrists in Cumberland County, ME see their clients

52% Online Only
48% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

74% Female
26% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Cumberland County?

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.