Psychiatrists in Hallowell, ME

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 Pascale Kidane - VirtualPsychiatricCare.com, MSN, APRN, CNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
VirtualPsychiatricCare.com
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, CNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Accepting new patients via telehealth visits for entire state for psychiatric evaluations and medication management. We treat anyone suffering with depression, anxiety, or other mental health issue adversely affecting optimal functioning at work, deterring their best social self, or preventing being fully present for loved ones. Our clients are looking to be properly diagnosed and treated using the safest prescribing principles. Make your appointment on our website. Evening and weekend hours are available. We offer affordable rates-Initial Psychiatric Eval $199, Follow-ups are $99. Accepting Optum/UHC/UBH insurances.
Accepting new patients via telehealth visits for entire state for psychiatric evaluations and medication management. We treat anyone suffering with depression, anxiety, or other mental health issue adversely affecting optimal functioning at work, deterring their best social self, or preventing being fully present for loved ones. Our clients are looking to be properly diagnosed and treated using the safest prescribing principles. Make your appointment on our website. Evening and weekend hours are available. We offer affordable rates-Initial Psychiatric Eval $199, Follow-ups are $99. Accepting Optum/UHC/UBH insurances.
(517) 743-0945 View (517) 743-0945
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 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 Adam Horn, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Adam Horn
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Adam is a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner specializing in psychological trauma, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, and addiction issues. He has more than 25 years of experience in mental health, as a psychotherapist with a Cognitive Behavioral approach and as a nurse practitioner. He has helped people from all walks of life, all sorts of life experiences, from the coasts of Washington State to hills of Tennessee and Virginia; urban and rural. He believes our pasts do not dictate our futures; and through a combination of psychotherapy and psychopharmacology, we are all capable of change and creating a better life.
Adam is a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner specializing in psychological trauma, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, and addiction issues. He has more than 25 years of experience in mental health, as a psychotherapist with a Cognitive Behavioral approach and as a nurse practitioner. He has helped people from all walks of life, all sorts of life experiences, from the coasts of Washington State to hills of Tennessee and Virginia; urban and rural. He believes our pasts do not dictate our futures; and through a combination of psychotherapy and psychopharmacology, we are all capable of change and creating a better life.
(207) 222-7094 View (207) 222-7094
Photo of Alicia Soucy - Your Journey Behavioral and Mental Health, PLLC, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Your Journey Behavioral and Mental Health, PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
My name is Alicia Soucy and I provide medication management services to individuals over the age of 18. At this time, I am not providing intensive therapy or therapy only. I provide treatment for all mental disorders including depressive disorders, bipolar disorders, anxiety disorders, and trauma disorders. I am dedicated to providing exceptional, compassionate, personalized and evidence-based care. I emphasize the importance of developing a trusting relationship to help all clients reach their health goals.
My name is Alicia Soucy and I provide medication management services to individuals over the age of 18. At this time, I am not providing intensive therapy or therapy only. I provide treatment for all mental disorders including depressive disorders, bipolar disorders, anxiety disorders, and trauma disorders. I am dedicated to providing exceptional, compassionate, personalized and evidence-based care. I emphasize the importance of developing a trusting relationship to help all clients reach their health goals.
(207) 355-7442 View (207) 355-7442
Photo of 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 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 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 Anastasia Mikel Tereschuk, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Anastasia Mikel Tereschuk
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Welcome! My name is Mikel. I have been a practicing Nurse Practitioner for 15 years, and I have been working exclusively in Mental Health since 2021. I offer comprehensive treatment with medications and brief therapies for such struggles as ADHD, depression and anxiety, including panic, social anxiety, and PTSD. I also assist patients in managing other concerns such as grief, sleep issues, low energy/motivation, poor focus/concentration and stress.
Welcome! My name is Mikel. I have been a practicing Nurse Practitioner for 15 years, and I have been working exclusively in Mental Health since 2021. I offer comprehensive treatment with medications and brief therapies for such struggles as ADHD, depression and anxiety, including panic, social anxiety, and PTSD. I also assist patients in managing other concerns such as grief, sleep issues, low energy/motivation, poor focus/concentration and stress.
(855) 589-7401 View (855) 589-7401
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 Shelly Miller, MSN, AGPCNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Shelly Miller
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, AGPCNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
As a psychiatric nurse practitioner I provide medication management for a variety of mental health concerns. By providing sensitive, compassionate care and education, I partner with clients to move toward a better state of wellness. I have a particular interest in professional burn out, cancer survivorship and end of life treatment Please note- I am unable to take on any new clients for controlled substances via telehealth until the DEA rules surrounding this are finalized. This includes stimulant treatment for ADHD and benzodiazepines for anxiety
As a psychiatric nurse practitioner I provide medication management for a variety of mental health concerns. By providing sensitive, compassionate care and education, I partner with clients to move toward a better state of wellness. I have a particular interest in professional burn out, cancer survivorship and end of life treatment Please note- I am unable to take on any new clients for controlled substances via telehealth until the DEA rules surrounding this are finalized. This includes stimulant treatment for ADHD and benzodiazepines for anxiety
(844) 698-3436 View (844) 698-3436
Photo of Latrice Markison, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Latrice Markison
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Hi there! My name is Latrice Markison, and I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner working with patients statewide via telehealth. I believe in holistic, whole-person care. I work with adult patients managing various mental health conditions. I feel that communication is fluid and varies based on goals and situational factors. I have over ten years of experience working in outpatient and inpatient behavioral health. While goals are essential to growth, goal setting and timeframes depend on patient preferences. An open opportunity to openly discuss concerns and desires related to care.
Hi there! My name is Latrice Markison, and I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner working with patients statewide via telehealth. I believe in holistic, whole-person care. I work with adult patients managing various mental health conditions. I feel that communication is fluid and varies based on goals and situational factors. I have over ten years of experience working in outpatient and inpatient behavioral health. While goals are essential to growth, goal setting and timeframes depend on patient preferences. An open opportunity to openly discuss concerns and desires related to care.
(877) 713-2591 View (877) 713-2591
Photo of Jacquel McCadney, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Jacquel McCadney
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Hello! My name is Jacquel McCadney, and I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner! My approach is patient focused, with having a teamwork thought process. I look forward to working with you!
Hello! My name is Jacquel McCadney, and I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner! My approach is patient focused, with having a teamwork thought process. I look forward to working with you!
(888) 629-6141 View (888) 629-6141
Photo of Laura Feaga, MSN , PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Laura Feaga
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN , PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Serves Area
I specialize in the psychiatric care of the public safety community. I provide crisis intervention and stabilization, medications, supportive therapy, and complementary and alternative treatments to help with sleep, anxiety, trauma and mood. My practice incorporates polyvagal strategies, alpha stim, nutrition, and mindfulness in ways that are culturally appropriate for first responders and military veterans to help you understand and learn to control your nervous system. I also do trainings for departments on wellness, resilience, and stress as well as critical incident stress management.
I specialize in the psychiatric care of the public safety community. I provide crisis intervention and stabilization, medications, supportive therapy, and complementary and alternative treatments to help with sleep, anxiety, trauma and mood. My practice incorporates polyvagal strategies, alpha stim, nutrition, and mindfulness in ways that are culturally appropriate for first responders and military veterans to help you understand and learn to control your nervous system. I also do trainings for departments on wellness, resilience, and stress as well as critical incident stress management.
(207) 387-8202 View (207) 387-8202
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 Sarah Jirinzu - Contigo Integrated Behavioral Health, MSN, PMHNP, CC, Psychiatric Nurse
Contigo Integrated Behavioral Health
Psychiatric Nurse, MSN, PMHNP, CC
Verified Verified
Online Only
Now accepting new virtual patients with same-week appointments throughout Texas, Vermont, Kansas, Nevada, Minnesota, Arizona and Washington State. We work to empower person's going through a negative season that may be a result of anxiety, lack of physical engagement, infertility, immigration trauma, instability weight control, depression, insomnia, unhealthy coping skills, and/or financial stressors can be discouraging.
Now accepting new virtual patients with same-week appointments throughout Texas, Vermont, Kansas, Nevada, Minnesota, Arizona and Washington State. We work to empower person's going through a negative season that may be a result of anxiety, lack of physical engagement, infertility, immigration trauma, instability weight control, depression, insomnia, unhealthy coping skills, and/or financial stressors can be discouraging.
(346) 605-8904 View (346) 605-8904
Photo of Michelle Breton, EdD, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Michelle Breton
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, EdD, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Waterville, ME 04901
If you are struggling with your mental health, and you are looking for a provider who listens non-judgmentally and with empathy, I can help. My philosophy is to listen closely to your preferences and to work collaboratively with you to address your concerns. I will do whatever I can to honor your preferences, while also offering my opinion and expertise to help guide you. I believe my lived experiences allow me to identify deeply with those I work with, while still wearing my professional hat. Whenever possible, I work to identify and address root causes rather than just symptoms. I work with all ages from children to older adults.
If you are struggling with your mental health, and you are looking for a provider who listens non-judgmentally and with empathy, I can help. My philosophy is to listen closely to your preferences and to work collaboratively with you to address your concerns. I will do whatever I can to honor your preferences, while also offering my opinion and expertise to help guide you. I believe my lived experiences allow me to identify deeply with those I work with, while still wearing my professional hat. Whenever possible, I work to identify and address root causes rather than just symptoms. I work with all ages from children to older adults.
(207) 817-2613 View (207) 817-2613
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

See more therapy options for Hallowell

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Hallowell, ME

< 10

Psychiatrists in Hallowell, ME who prioritize treating:

100% Medication Management

Average years in practice

4 Years

Gender breakdown

100% Female

How Psychiatrists in Hallowell, ME see their clients

100% Online Only
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Hallowell?

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.