Psychiatrists in Knox County, ME

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Photo of Dolores Van Bourgondien - Open Door Wellness, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, ANP
Open Door Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, ANP
1 Endorsed
Rockland, ME 04841
My goal is to provide help and solutions to those clients suffering from burnout, compassion fatigue, anxiety, depression and PTSD especially those who use maladaptive behaviors to cope. Together we will discover and expose the root causes and create concrete and positive strategies to increase coping and resilience. In addition to being a PMHNP I am also trauma trained and continue to add additional training yearly. I can provide medication management to alleviate symptoms while we do therapy to uncover the root causes. You will learn concrete take home tools to increase resiliency and coping.
My goal is to provide help and solutions to those clients suffering from burnout, compassion fatigue, anxiety, depression and PTSD especially those who use maladaptive behaviors to cope. Together we will discover and expose the root causes and create concrete and positive strategies to increase coping and resilience. In addition to being a PMHNP I am also trauma trained and continue to add additional training yearly. I can provide medication management to alleviate symptoms while we do therapy to uncover the root causes. You will learn concrete take home tools to increase resiliency and coping.
(207) 835-3593 View (207) 835-3593
Photo of Alicia Jeannette Snow - Alicia Snow, LLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP, CHom
Alicia Snow, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP, CHom
Camden, ME 04843
I have a special love and a particular skill set for helping folks with issues around anxiety and depression. I offer a spectrum of choices from meditation and yoga techniques, to homeopathic, herbal and supplemental support, all the way to pharmaceutical management - depending on the preferences and beliefs of the client. I find homeopathy to be particularly effective at shifting the mental and emotional patterns that can bind up a persons ability to think and to have a sense of well-being. However, addressing systemic health on the physical plane is equally important and all to often neglected by the Western model.
I have a special love and a particular skill set for helping folks with issues around anxiety and depression. I offer a spectrum of choices from meditation and yoga techniques, to homeopathic, herbal and supplemental support, all the way to pharmaceutical management - depending on the preferences and beliefs of the client. I find homeopathy to be particularly effective at shifting the mental and emotional patterns that can bind up a persons ability to think and to have a sense of well-being. However, addressing systemic health on the physical plane is equally important and all to often neglected by the Western model.
(207) 481-4502 View (207) 481-4502
Photo of Dr. Nicole Brynes, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Dr. Nicole Brynes
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
4 Endorsed
Rockland, ME 04841
Dr. Nicole Brynes, DNP, PMHNP-BC, provides psychiatric medication management, consultation & diagnostic evaluations for children, adolescents & adults to help you achieve your highest potential. Perhaps you are interested in learning what medications might be options for you or your loved one, want a second opinion, or are ready to start regular medication management with an experienced provider. Please note that in accordance with the Ryan-Haight Act, she does not prescribe controlled substances (including stimulants or benzodiazepines) to those outside of Pennsylvania or Maine. She is licensed currently in PA, MD, RI, VT, and ME.
Dr. Nicole Brynes, DNP, PMHNP-BC, provides psychiatric medication management, consultation & diagnostic evaluations for children, adolescents & adults to help you achieve your highest potential. Perhaps you are interested in learning what medications might be options for you or your loved one, want a second opinion, or are ready to start regular medication management with an experienced provider. Please note that in accordance with the Ryan-Haight Act, she does not prescribe controlled substances (including stimulants or benzodiazepines) to those outside of Pennsylvania or Maine. She is licensed currently in PA, MD, RI, VT, and ME.
(412) 838-3773 View (412) 838-3773
Photo of Dr. Tiney Ray, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD, DNP, FNP-c, PMHNP-c
Dr. Tiney Ray
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD, DNP, FNP-c, PMHNP-c
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Are you feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or like you’ve lost yourself while carrying the weight of others? Life transitions—motherhood, grief, relationship shifts, career changes—can leave you emotionally and spiritually depleted. You’re not alone. I offer a safe, supportive space to be seen and heard without judgment. As a dual-certified NP, I provide therapy and medication management rooted in trauma-informed care, cultural humility, and deep respect for your journey. Let’s help you reconnect with your inner calm—and make room for joy again.
Are you feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or like you’ve lost yourself while carrying the weight of others? Life transitions—motherhood, grief, relationship shifts, career changes—can leave you emotionally and spiritually depleted. You’re not alone. I offer a safe, supportive space to be seen and heard without judgment. As a dual-certified NP, I provide therapy and medication management rooted in trauma-informed care, cultural humility, and deep respect for your journey. Let’s help you reconnect with your inner calm—and make room for joy again.
(802) 880-8593 View (802) 880-8593
Photo of Dr. Denise Vanacore Chase X, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP-BC, PMHNP, PhD
Dr. Denise Vanacore Chase X
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP-BC, PMHNP, PhD
Serves Area
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.
(207) 492-4296 View (207) 492-4296
Photo of Robert King, Psychiatrist, MD
Robert King
Psychiatrist, MD
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

Online Psychiatrists

Photo of Shannon Grose, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP-BC
Shannon Grose
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP-BC
Lewiston, ME 04240
Shannon Grose is a board-certified family nurse practitioner. She attended Dabney S Lancaster Community College where she obtained her associate's degree in nursing and Frontier Nursing University where she obtained her graduate degree in nursing. She started her career as a registered nurse working in both the emergency department and correctional facility settings. As a family nurse practitioner, she has gained experience serving a diverse population of all ages via in-person and virtual care settings. Start working on an improved journey to a healthier lifestyle today.
Shannon Grose is a board-certified family nurse practitioner. She attended Dabney S Lancaster Community College where she obtained her associate's degree in nursing and Frontier Nursing University where she obtained her graduate degree in nursing. She started her career as a registered nurse working in both the emergency department and correctional facility settings. As a family nurse practitioner, she has gained experience serving a diverse population of all ages via in-person and virtual care settings. Start working on an improved journey to a healthier lifestyle today.
(207) 690-5628 View (207) 690-5628
Photo of Sylvia Park, Psychiatrist, MD
Sylvia Park
Psychiatrist, MD
Portland, ME 04101
It is the brave person who allows him or herself to feel vulnerable, admit there is a problem, and take steps to find the right help. Loneliness, sadness, anxiety, depression, irritability, anger and/or mood swings are common experiences. Some have experienced trauma in the past, which may continue to cause problems today. I am committed to help people live their best lives. I completed a medical degree from the University of Vermont College of Medicine, and am board-certified in Psychiatry and Preventive Medicine.
It is the brave person who allows him or herself to feel vulnerable, admit there is a problem, and take steps to find the right help. Loneliness, sadness, anxiety, depression, irritability, anger and/or mood swings are common experiences. Some have experienced trauma in the past, which may continue to cause problems today. I am committed to help people live their best lives. I completed a medical degree from the University of Vermont College of Medicine, and am board-certified in Psychiatry and Preventive Medicine.
(207) 407-5174 View (207) 407-5174
Photo of Dr. Andrés Abreu, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Andrés Abreu
Psychiatrist, MD
2 Endorsed
Online Only
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.
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 Juan C Mateo, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Juan C Mateo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Online Only
Hello, my name is Juan Mateo. I am a Bilingual (English/Spanish) Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I have close to 10 years of medical experience both in medical and psychiatric settings. I have treated a host of psychiatric disorders including Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar, Schizophrenia, Personality disorders, and other psychological ailments. I know that life can be unfair, erratic, and unpredictable. Together as a team we can navigate these personal obstacles and volatilities, by enriching your ego, relationship, and career through multiple modalities.
Hello, my name is Juan Mateo. I am a Bilingual (English/Spanish) Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I have close to 10 years of medical experience both in medical and psychiatric settings. I have treated a host of psychiatric disorders including Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar, Schizophrenia, Personality disorders, and other psychological ailments. I know that life can be unfair, erratic, and unpredictable. Together as a team we can navigate these personal obstacles and volatilities, by enriching your ego, relationship, and career through multiple modalities.
(207) 656-1844 View (207) 656-1844
Photo of Valerie A Hart - Dr Valerie A. Hart, Psychiatric Nurse, EdD, PMHCNS, BC
Dr Valerie A. Hart
Psychiatric Nurse, EdD, PMHCNS, BC
Online Only
I have maintained a continuous psychotherapy practice since 1979. In addition to clinical practice I taught in the graduate program for Psychiatric Nurse Practitioners at the University of Southern Maine - retired as Professor Emeritus in 2017. My background is in psychodynamic therapy which acknowledges the importance that family of origin plays in our life as well as the role of the unconscious in determining our decisions. I accompany my clients on a journey of self-discovery and self-awareness which leads to symptom reduction and a more fulfilling life. My practice consists of individual, couples and family therapy- I do not prescribe in my practice.
I have maintained a continuous psychotherapy practice since 1979. In addition to clinical practice I taught in the graduate program for Psychiatric Nurse Practitioners at the University of Southern Maine - retired as Professor Emeritus in 2017. My background is in psychodynamic therapy which acknowledges the importance that family of origin plays in our life as well as the role of the unconscious in determining our decisions. I accompany my clients on a journey of self-discovery and self-awareness which leads to symptom reduction and a more fulfilling life. My practice consists of individual, couples and family therapy- I do not prescribe in my practice.
(207) 747-3146 View (207) 747-3146
South of Boston Psychiatric
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Richmond, ME 04357
Welcome! My name is Linda Sheppard-Reece, and I am board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner. Currently, I choose to work with young adults through retirement-aged adults. I take a holistic approach to helping individuals manage mental illness through psychopharmacological, psychotherapeutic and lifestyle interventions.
Welcome! My name is Linda Sheppard-Reece, and I am board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner. Currently, I choose to work with young adults through retirement-aged adults. I take a holistic approach to helping individuals manage mental illness through psychopharmacological, psychotherapeutic and lifestyle interventions.
(781) 384-5359 View (781) 384-5359
Photo of Laura Feaga, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN , PMHNP, BC
Laura Feaga
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN , PMHNP, BC
3 Endorsed
Dover Foxcroft, ME 04426
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 Tiffany Trowles, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Tiffany Trowles
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I understand that mental health is a journey, and finding the right support can make all the difference. Whether you’re navigating anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, ADHD, or other mental health concerns, I’m here to work collaboratively with you to find the right treatment plan tailored to your needs. My approach is patient-centered, meaning I take the time to listen, educate, and empower you to make informed decisions about your care.
I understand that mental health is a journey, and finding the right support can make all the difference. Whether you’re navigating anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, ADHD, or other mental health concerns, I’m here to work collaboratively with you to find the right treatment plan tailored to your needs. My approach is patient-centered, meaning I take the time to listen, educate, and empower you to make informed decisions about your care.
(207) 762-7966 View (207) 762-7966
Photo of Mary Kate Grady, Psychiatrist, MD
Mary Kate Grady
Psychiatrist, MD
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
Photo of Allison Baird, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMH NP, BC
Allison Baird
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMH NP, BC
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
Psychiatry of Maine
Psychiatrist, MD
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 Jennifer Ferguson - Jennifer, Healthy Minds Counseling, Inc, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Jennifer, Healthy Minds Counseling, Inc
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
I am Jennifer Ferguson, an advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) specializing as a master's prepared psychiatric – mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP), and I have worked in healthcare for over 15 years. I am looking to utilize my ample knowledge and experience in treating adults and young adults with depression, mood disorders, anxiety disorders, psychotic disorders, personality disorders, and more.
I am Jennifer Ferguson, an advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) specializing as a master's prepared psychiatric – mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP), and I have worked in healthcare for over 15 years. I am looking to utilize my ample knowledge and experience in treating adults and young adults with depression, mood disorders, anxiety disorders, psychotic disorders, personality disorders, and more.
(207) 495-7801 View (207) 495-7801
Photo of George Nnamchi, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, BC, MSN
George Nnamchi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, BC, MSN
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 Jennifer Ferguson - Jennifer, Healthy Minds Counseling Inc, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Jennifer, Healthy Minds Counseling Inc
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
I am Jennifer Ferguson, an advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) specializing as a master's prepared psychiatric – mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP), and I have worked in healthcare for over 15 years. I am looking to utilize my ample knowledge and experience in treating adults and young adults with depression, mood disorders, anxiety disorders, psychotic disorders, personality disorders, and more.
I am Jennifer Ferguson, an advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) specializing as a master's prepared psychiatric – mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP), and I have worked in healthcare for over 15 years. I am looking to utilize my ample knowledge and experience in treating adults and young adults with depression, mood disorders, anxiety disorders, psychotic disorders, personality disorders, and more.
(877) 741-9015 View (877) 741-9015

See more therapy options for Knox County

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Knox County, ME

< 10

Psychiatrists in Knox County, ME who prioritize treating:

83% Anxiety
83% Trauma and PTSD
83% Bipolar Disorder
83% Medication Management
67% Depression
50% Eating Disorders
50% Behavioral Issues

Average years in practice

9 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

80% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH
60% Aetna
60% BlueCross and BlueShield

How Psychiatrists in Knox County, ME see their clients

83% In Person and Online
17% Online Only

Gender breakdown

100% Female
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Knox 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.