Psychiatrists in Portland, ME

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?

Dr. Jane Eisen comes to Talkiatry from her previous position at McLean Hospital in Boston, where she was Clinical Director of the Depression and Anxiety Division. Clinically, she has experience working with people with significant mood and anxiety difficulties. Dr. Eisen's practice focuses on using an integrated approach to the understanding and treatment of individuals' psychosocial stresses and psychiatric symptoms. She frequently suggests including a family member or friend in at least one session to get a comprehensive sense of each person's strengths and challenges.
Dr. Jane Eisen comes to Talkiatry from her previous position at McLean Hospital in Boston, where she was Clinical Director of the Depression and Anxiety Division. Clinically, she has experience working with people with significant mood and anxiety difficulties. Dr. Eisen's practice focuses on using an integrated approach to the understanding and treatment of individuals' psychosocial stresses and psychiatric symptoms. She frequently suggests including a family member or friend in at least one session to get a comprehensive sense of each person's strengths and challenges.

Jennifer, Healthy Minds Counseling Inc
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
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.

Dr. Michael Fiori is Board Certified in Adult Psychiatry and Addiction Medicine. He has practiced general psychiatry for 40 years, and has also sub-specialized in Addiction Psychiatry for the past 20 years. Dr. Fiori's practice emphasizes Diagnostic Clarification, which is an ongoing process. He is highly trained and experienced in the biological and psychosocial underpinnings of psychiatric problems. He typically follows diagnostic evaluations with 20 minute follow up visits for medication adjustments and brief therapy. Dr. Fiori often enjoys collaborating with outside therapists when needed.
Dr. Michael Fiori is Board Certified in Adult Psychiatry and Addiction Medicine. He has practiced general psychiatry for 40 years, and has also sub-specialized in Addiction Psychiatry for the past 20 years. Dr. Fiori's practice emphasizes Diagnostic Clarification, which is an ongoing process. He is highly trained and experienced in the biological and psychosocial underpinnings of psychiatric problems. He typically follows diagnostic evaluations with 20 minute follow up visits for medication adjustments and brief therapy. Dr. Fiori often enjoys collaborating with outside therapists when needed.

Please visit my website at www.healthymindsrx.com - I offer medication services to help with depression, anxiety, ADHD, and other mood disorders in children, adolescents, and adults. While therapy is important, sometimes it's not enough as medication can be a crucial part of effective treatment.
Please visit my website at www.healthymindsrx.com - I offer medication services to help with depression, anxiety, ADHD, and other mood disorders in children, adolescents, and adults. While therapy is important, sometimes it's not enough as medication can be a crucial part of effective treatment.

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.

David Wright is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) in Portland, Maine who has been practicing since 2018. Prior to joining LifeStance Health, he worked in numerous psychiatric departments for many years, including Adult Outpatient; Adult Inpatient; Adolescent Inpatient; Inpatient Treatment for Substance Use, Abuse, and Addiction; Behavioral Emergency Department; and psychiatric consultation in hospital medical units. In his clinical work, David utilizes an integrative approach specifically designed to meet each individual's needs.
David Wright is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) in Portland, Maine who has been practicing since 2018. Prior to joining LifeStance Health, he worked in numerous psychiatric departments for many years, including Adult Outpatient; Adult Inpatient; Adolescent Inpatient; Inpatient Treatment for Substance Use, Abuse, and Addiction; Behavioral Emergency Department; and psychiatric consultation in hospital medical units. In his clinical work, David utilizes an integrative approach specifically designed to meet each individual's needs.

Welcome, my name is Dr. Dan Coleman. My practice provides a safe, confidential and caring environment and it is my sincere goal to be a source of healing in your life. We all experience pain. Sometimes though, the suffering that accompanies this pain overwhelms our coping abilities. You may feel stuck, cycling through frustration, anxiety, depression, loneliness or even hopelessness. Psychotherapy can be an effective and healing way out of these suffering experiences.
Welcome, my name is Dr. Dan Coleman. My practice provides a safe, confidential and caring environment and it is my sincere goal to be a source of healing in your life. We all experience pain. Sometimes though, the suffering that accompanies this pain overwhelms our coping abilities. You may feel stuck, cycling through frustration, anxiety, depression, loneliness or even hopelessness. Psychotherapy can be an effective and healing way out of these suffering experiences.

Hi there! I'm a certified psychiatric nurse practitioner, and I've worked with patients in various inpatient and outpatient settings. My expertise lies in helping individuals dealing with substance abuse, addiction, depression, anxiety, ADHD, and PTSD. I rely on the latest DSM diagnostic guidelines and evidence-based treatments to support my patients in regaining their well-being. I firmly believe that mental health holds the same significance as physical health, and my objective is to eliminate the stigma surrounding mental illness while encouraging others to prioritize their mental well-being.
Hi there! I'm a certified psychiatric nurse practitioner, and I've worked with patients in various inpatient and outpatient settings. My expertise lies in helping individuals dealing with substance abuse, addiction, depression, anxiety, ADHD, and PTSD. I rely on the latest DSM diagnostic guidelines and evidence-based treatments to support my patients in regaining their well-being. I firmly believe that mental health holds the same significance as physical health, and my objective is to eliminate the stigma surrounding mental illness while encouraging others to prioritize their mental well-being.

Vicki, Healthy Minds Counseling, Inc
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP-BC, PMHNP-
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Hello! My name is Vicki Chandler I'm licensed and board certified as both a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner and a family nurse practitioner. She received her doctorate in nursing from the University of Alabama, besides teaching for 17 years in graduate nursing programs at the University of Memphis and the University of Tennessee Health Sciences Center. Our practice offers a range of medication options for behavioral health issues in both adults and children. We provide personalized treatment plans tailored to each patient's specific needs. We also offer outpatient therapy services.
Hello! My name is Vicki Chandler I'm licensed and board certified as both a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner and a family nurse practitioner. She received her doctorate in nursing from the University of Alabama, besides teaching for 17 years in graduate nursing programs at the University of Memphis and the University of Tennessee Health Sciences Center. Our practice offers a range of medication options for behavioral health issues in both adults and children. We provide personalized treatment plans tailored to each patient's specific needs. We also offer outpatient therapy services.

Jeremy Spiegel, MD, is available for psychiatric evaluations and medication management at his Portland, Maine office at Casco Bay Medical. He specializes in treatment of ADHD, anxiety, depression, PTSD, OCD, Panic Disorder, Social Anxiety and most other psychiatric disorders and conditions. New Treatment Offering: Brief Psychotherapy. Dr. Spiegel, as psychotherapist and collaborative problem solver, can help address your core psychological problem with weekly virtual visits over 12 sessions. Call the office for more details to see if you may be a candidate for this exciting approach.
Jeremy Spiegel, MD, is available for psychiatric evaluations and medication management at his Portland, Maine office at Casco Bay Medical. He specializes in treatment of ADHD, anxiety, depression, PTSD, OCD, Panic Disorder, Social Anxiety and most other psychiatric disorders and conditions. New Treatment Offering: Brief Psychotherapy. Dr. Spiegel, as psychotherapist and collaborative problem solver, can help address your core psychological problem with weekly virtual visits over 12 sessions. Call the office for more details to see if you may be a candidate for this exciting approach.
Meet Our Psychiatrists

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.

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.

Vicki, Healthy Minds Counseling Inc
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP-BC, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Online Only
Hello! My name is Vicki Chandler I'm licensed and board certified as both a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner and a family nurse practitioner. I received my doctorate in nursing from the University of Alabama, besides teaching for 17 years in graduate nursing programs at the University of Memphis and the University of Tennessee Health Sciences Center. Our practice offers a range of medication options for behavioral health issues in both adults and children. I provide personalized treatment plans tailored to each patient's specific needs. I also offer outpatient therapy services.
Hello! My name is Vicki Chandler I'm licensed and board certified as both a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner and a family nurse practitioner. I received my doctorate in nursing from the University of Alabama, besides teaching for 17 years in graduate nursing programs at the University of Memphis and the University of Tennessee Health Sciences Center. Our practice offers a range of medication options for behavioral health issues in both adults and children. I provide personalized treatment plans tailored to each patient's specific needs. I also offer outpatient therapy services.

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.

Dr. Shawn Faust, DNP, PMHNP-BC is a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who brings a unique and patient-centric approach to the field of mental health. His philosophy centers around the belief that individuals are experts in their own experiences, and collaboration between the patient and their mental health provider is essential for effective and personalized treatment. He believes that informed patients are better equipped to navigate their unique mental health challenges. Thus, treatment with Dr. Faust often involves teaching patients about their diagnosis and discussing the pros and cons of various treatment options.
Dr. Shawn Faust, DNP, PMHNP-BC is a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who brings a unique and patient-centric approach to the field of mental health. His philosophy centers around the belief that individuals are experts in their own experiences, and collaboration between the patient and their mental health provider is essential for effective and personalized treatment. He believes that informed patients are better equipped to navigate their unique mental health challenges. Thus, treatment with Dr. Faust often involves teaching patients about their diagnosis and discussing the pros and cons of various treatment options.

We are a group of experienced board certified psychiatrists dedicated to providing compassionate and comprehensive mental health care to adults. We are committed to helping our patients achieve optimal mental well-being and lead fulfilling lives. Our team of providers work collaboratively with patients, tailoring treatment plans to address their specific challenges and goals. We focus on evidence-based practices, staying up-to-date with the latest research and advancements in psychiatry to ensure the best possible outcomes.
We are a group of experienced board certified psychiatrists dedicated to providing compassionate and comprehensive mental health care to adults. We are committed to helping our patients achieve optimal mental well-being and lead fulfilling lives. Our team of providers work collaboratively with patients, tailoring treatment plans to address their specific challenges and goals. We focus on evidence-based practices, staying up-to-date with the latest research and advancements in psychiatry to ensure the best possible outcomes.

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.

Dr. Jennifer Snowden completed medical school at the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences in Little Rock, Arkansas in 1995. She then completed a residency in general psychiatry at Emory University in Atlanta, Georgia followed by a fellowship in forensic psychiatry also at Emory University in Atlanta, Georgia from 1995-2000. She spent ten years practicing forensic psychiatry at a state hospital in Atlanta. She then decided that she wanted to travel and spent eighteen months as a locum tenens psychiatrist primarily practicing in New England.
Dr. Jennifer Snowden completed medical school at the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences in Little Rock, Arkansas in 1995. She then completed a residency in general psychiatry at Emory University in Atlanta, Georgia followed by a fellowship in forensic psychiatry also at Emory University in Atlanta, Georgia from 1995-2000. She spent ten years practicing forensic psychiatry at a state hospital in Atlanta. She then decided that she wanted to travel and spent eighteen months as a locum tenens psychiatrist primarily practicing in New England.

Mark Shaughnessy, PMHNP, is dedicated to providing evidence-based pharmacologic treatment of mental disorders, considering the entirety of each patient's circumstances. Serving the state of Maine, he collaborates closely with his clients to ensure comprehensive and personalized care. Mark's approach is holistic, integrating medication management with an understanding of the individual's life context to foster meaningful improvements in mental health. Specializing in ADHD, anxiety, and depression, Mark uses his extensive expertise to support adults through various life stages.
Mark Shaughnessy, PMHNP, is dedicated to providing evidence-based pharmacologic treatment of mental disorders, considering the entirety of each patient's circumstances. Serving the state of Maine, he collaborates closely with his clients to ensure comprehensive and personalized care. Mark's approach is holistic, integrating medication management with an understanding of the individual's life context to foster meaningful improvements in mental health. Specializing in ADHD, anxiety, and depression, Mark uses his extensive expertise to support adults through various life stages.
See more therapy options for Portland
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Portland, ME
90+
Average cost per session
$225
Psychiatrists in Portland, ME who prioritize treating:
90% | Depression |
90% | Anxiety |
81% | Bipolar Disorder |
78% | Trauma and PTSD |
72% | ADHD |
68% | Medication Management |
64% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
Average years in practice
10 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
78% | Aetna |
71% | Cigna and Evernorth |
70% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
How Psychiatrists in Portland, ME see their clients
52% | Online Only | |
48% | In Person and Online |
Gender breakdown
75% | Female | |
25% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Portland?
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.