Psychiatrists in Portland, ME

Photo of Pascale Kidane - VirtualPsychiatricCare.com, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, CNP
VirtualPsychiatricCare.com
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, CNP
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 Michael Gordon Workman, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMNHP
Michael Gordon Workman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMNHP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Great to meet you! I see patients in the State of Maine. I am a board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner. I have worked in the mental health field for 30+ years. Patient's describe me as "easy to talk to" and stated, "I feel like you listen to me." I work with patients struggling with depression, grief/loss, anxiety, anger issues, ADHD, and life transitions. Life can be hard, let me help you turn things around in the direction you want things to go! I provide medication management as well as supportive therapy.
Great to meet you! I see patients in the State of Maine. I am a board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner. I have worked in the mental health field for 30+ years. Patient's describe me as "easy to talk to" and stated, "I feel like you listen to me." I work with patients struggling with depression, grief/loss, anxiety, anger issues, ADHD, and life transitions. Life can be hard, let me help you turn things around in the direction you want things to go! I provide medication management as well as supportive therapy.
(207) 203-6869 View (207) 203-6869
Photo of Erin L Belfort, Psychiatrist, MD, DFAACAP
Erin L Belfort
Psychiatrist, MD, DFAACAP
1 Endorsed
Portland, ME 04101
I am a Harvard trained psychiatrist practicing in Portland, Maine with more than ten years of experience working with patients of all ages. I am board certified in general psychiatry and child & adolescent psychiatry and have additional training in family therapy. You can find more details on my website: ErinBelfortMD.com
I am a Harvard trained psychiatrist practicing in Portland, Maine with more than ten years of experience working with patients of all ages. I am board certified in general psychiatry and child & adolescent psychiatry and have additional training in family therapy. You can find more details on my website: ErinBelfortMD.com
(207) 496-1856 View (207) 496-1856
Photo of Robert King, Psychiatrist, MD
Robert King
Psychiatrist, MD
1 Endorsed
Portland, ME 04103
I provide psychiatric care for adults, age 18 and above. Treatments for mental illness are not a one-size-fits-all, and I approach each patient as a unique individual. Using contemporary, evidence-based treatments, I aim to relieve suffering and improve quality of life. Following an accurate diagnosis, it is often important to consider how lifestyle modification, therapy, medications, and other treatments can provide benefit. I employ various psychotherapeutic techniques, including psychodynamic and cognitive behavioral, and am adept in medication management.
I provide psychiatric care for adults, age 18 and above. Treatments for mental illness are not a one-size-fits-all, and I approach each patient as a unique individual. Using contemporary, evidence-based treatments, I aim to relieve suffering and improve quality of life. Following an accurate diagnosis, it is often important to consider how lifestyle modification, therapy, medications, and other treatments can provide benefit. I employ various psychotherapeutic techniques, including psychodynamic and cognitive behavioral, and am adept in medication management.
(207) 607-4022 x400 View (207) 607-4022 x400
Photo of Dr. Amir W. Raad, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP
Dr. Amir W. Raad
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP
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
Photo of Dr. Christine Emmanuel, Psychiatrist, DO
Dr. Christine Emmanuel
Psychiatrist, DO
Portland, ME 04103
I am a collaborative and patient-centered psychiatrist who values shared decision-making to deliver individualized, compassionate, and evidence-based care. In a supportive environment, I work hand-in-hand with patients to explore mental health concerns and build treatment plans that align with their goals and life circumstances. I provide care for adults (18+) across a range of mental health conditions, specializing in anxiety and mood disorders. My treatment integrates both medication management and psychotherapy—blending cognitive-behavioral and psychodynamic approaches in every session.
I am a collaborative and patient-centered psychiatrist who values shared decision-making to deliver individualized, compassionate, and evidence-based care. In a supportive environment, I work hand-in-hand with patients to explore mental health concerns and build treatment plans that align with their goals and life circumstances. I provide care for adults (18+) across a range of mental health conditions, specializing in anxiety and mood disorders. My treatment integrates both medication management and psychotherapy—blending cognitive-behavioral and psychodynamic approaches in every session.
(207) 656-5654 View (207) 656-5654
Photo of Dr. Delane Casiano, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Delane Casiano
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
Dr. Delane Casiano is a board-certified adult psychiatrist with specialized interest and expertise in cultural psychiatry. She earned her undergraduate degree from Brown University and her medical degree from Morehouse School of Medicine. She completed psychiatry residency and research fellowship at the University of Pennsylvania. Such organizations as the American Psychiatric Association, National Institute of Mental Health, and Philadelphia Department of Behavioral Health have recognized her research examining cultural influences on mental health beliefs and service utilization.
Dr. Delane Casiano is a board-certified adult psychiatrist with specialized interest and expertise in cultural psychiatry. She earned her undergraduate degree from Brown University and her medical degree from Morehouse School of Medicine. She completed psychiatry residency and research fellowship at the University of Pennsylvania. Such organizations as the American Psychiatric Association, National Institute of Mental Health, and Philadelphia Department of Behavioral Health have recognized her research examining cultural influences on mental health beliefs and service utilization.
(833) 749-5700 View (833) 749-5700
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 Claudine Grange, Psychiatric Nurse, BA, MSN, PMHNP
Claudine Grange
Psychiatric Nurse, BA, MSN, PMHNP
Portland, ME 04102
I treat psychiatric illness by listening to one's life story. Individuals are a harmony of thoughts and feelings; mind and body. Medications are sometimes necessary to help a person manage their day to day life but they are not sufficient. I prescribe medication if necessary and provide therapies that are suited to the individual patient. The focus is primarily on lifestyle therapy and daily practice. Lifestyle medicine includes diet, exercise, meditation, and stress reduction along with therapy. I know with the right support, knowledge and practice a person can experience joy, continue to grow and love.
I treat psychiatric illness by listening to one's life story. Individuals are a harmony of thoughts and feelings; mind and body. Medications are sometimes necessary to help a person manage their day to day life but they are not sufficient. I prescribe medication if necessary and provide therapies that are suited to the individual patient. The focus is primarily on lifestyle therapy and daily practice. Lifestyle medicine includes diet, exercise, meditation, and stress reduction along with therapy. I know with the right support, knowledge and practice a person can experience joy, continue to grow and love.
(207) 517-2874 View (207) 517-2874
Photo of Dr. Tasia Henderson, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP
Dr. Tasia Henderson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP
Portland, ME 04101
I work with individuals who feels overstimulated by life’s demands yet deeply motivated to understand themselves and grow. Individuals who may struggle with anxiety, attention challenges, mood swings, or difficulty setting boundaries while trying to maintain success in school, work, or relationships. Individuals who want to feel more grounded, confident, and in control of their emotional health.
I work with individuals who feels overstimulated by life’s demands yet deeply motivated to understand themselves and grow. Individuals who may struggle with anxiety, attention challenges, mood swings, or difficulty setting boundaries while trying to maintain success in school, work, or relationships. Individuals who want to feel more grounded, confident, and in control of their emotional health.
(207) 309-5473 View (207) 309-5473
Photo of Andaria Linn, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Andaria Linn
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Portland, ME 04101
Reaching out for mental health support can feel like a big step, and finding the right fit matters. I’m a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner at Awaken Mental Health Clinic, where I provide individualized care tailored to each person’s unique needs. I work with adults navigating a range of mental health concerns, including depression, anxiety, trauma, and ADHD. My approach is collaborative, compassionate, and grounded in understanding your lived experience. I take the time to learn about your history, challenges, and goals so that treatment feels thoughtful, supportive, and aligned with what matters most to you.
Reaching out for mental health support can feel like a big step, and finding the right fit matters. I’m a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner at Awaken Mental Health Clinic, where I provide individualized care tailored to each person’s unique needs. I work with adults navigating a range of mental health concerns, including depression, anxiety, trauma, and ADHD. My approach is collaborative, compassionate, and grounded in understanding your lived experience. I take the time to learn about your history, challenges, and goals so that treatment feels thoughtful, supportive, and aligned with what matters most to you.
(207) 631-2383 View (207) 631-2383
Photo of Caterina Goldberg-Dunnett, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Caterina Goldberg-Dunnett
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
Caterina Goldberg-Dunnett, PMHNP-BC, FNP-C, is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner. She earned her Doctor of Nursing Practice with psychiatric certification from the University of North Florida, graduating with honors as a commencement speaker, and her MSN (FNP) from South University with highest honors. With over a decade of experience, she cares for adult and geriatric patients with complex medical and psychiatric needs, specializing in ADHD, bipolar disorder, panic symptoms, insomnia, and cognitive disorders including dementia.
Caterina Goldberg-Dunnett, PMHNP-BC, FNP-C, is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner. She earned her Doctor of Nursing Practice with psychiatric certification from the University of North Florida, graduating with honors as a commencement speaker, and her MSN (FNP) from South University with highest honors. With over a decade of experience, she cares for adult and geriatric patients with complex medical and psychiatric needs, specializing in ADHD, bipolar disorder, panic symptoms, insomnia, and cognitive disorders including dementia.
(207) 808-7301 View (207) 808-7301
Photo of Mary Kate Grady, Psychiatrist, MD
Mary Kate Grady
Psychiatrist, MD
1 Endorsed
Portland, ME 04103
I have new openings weekly and accept many insurance plans. 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 have new openings weekly and accept many insurance plans. 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 Paula A. Gentile, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Paula A. Gentile
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
2 Endorsed
Portland, ME 04103
Not accepting new clients
Many adults who manage significant demands find that anxiety becomes persistent or difficult to manage, contributing to self-doubt and chronic stress. These challenges may show up as difficulty with concentration, energy, and sleep. Many function well externally while feeling unsettled internally, increasing risk for burnout and relationship strain. My approach emphasizes comprehensive evaluation, thoughtful medication management, and insight-oriented care to promote meaningful and lasting change.
Many adults who manage significant demands find that anxiety becomes persistent or difficult to manage, contributing to self-doubt and chronic stress. These challenges may show up as difficulty with concentration, energy, and sleep. Many function well externally while feeling unsettled internally, increasing risk for burnout and relationship strain. My approach emphasizes comprehensive evaluation, thoughtful medication management, and insight-oriented care to promote meaningful and lasting change.
(207) 263-0837 View (207) 263-0837
Photo of Jeremy Spiegel, Psychiatrist, MD
Jeremy Spiegel
Psychiatrist, MD
1 Endorsed
Portland, ME 04101
Jeremy Spiegel, MD, is available for psychiatric evaluations and medication management at his Portland, Maine office at Casco Bay Medical. Virtual appointments available. He treats adults and adolescents, 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.
Jeremy Spiegel, MD, is available for psychiatric evaluations and medication management at his Portland, Maine office at Casco Bay Medical. Virtual appointments available. He treats adults and adolescents, 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.
(207) 808-7352 View (207) 808-7352
Photo of Christoforos Iraklis Giakoumatos, Psychiatrist, MD
Christoforos Iraklis Giakoumatos
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
Harvard-trained psychiatrist providing psychotherapy +/- medication management. Allow me to help you get closer to your goals! I believe in individualizing treatment based on each person's needs. Background/Training Instructor in Psychiatry at Harvard Medical School Adult psychiatry residency training; Harvard South Shore Program Addiction psychiatry fellowship training; Mass General Brigham Program -Massachusetts General Hospital (MGH), McLean Hospital and Brigham and Women's Hospital- in affiliation with Harvard Medical School Medical School; National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Greece
Harvard-trained psychiatrist providing psychotherapy +/- medication management. Allow me to help you get closer to your goals! I believe in individualizing treatment based on each person's needs. Background/Training Instructor in Psychiatry at Harvard Medical School Adult psychiatry residency training; Harvard South Shore Program Addiction psychiatry fellowship training; Mass General Brigham Program -Massachusetts General Hospital (MGH), McLean Hospital and Brigham and Women's Hospital- in affiliation with Harvard Medical School Medical School; National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Greece
(207) 687-1197 View (207) 687-1197
Photo of Sonya Hawkins - Inner Balance Mental Health, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Inner Balance Mental Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Portland, ME 04103
Understanding that everyone's path to mental wellness is different, we meet individuals where they are, providing support and guidance at every step. Our goal is not only to alleviate symptoms but to empower individuals to lead fulfilling lives. Driven by a passion for mental health advocacy, we are dedicated to making a difference in the lives of those we serve.
Understanding that everyone's path to mental wellness is different, we meet individuals where they are, providing support and guidance at every step. Our goal is not only to alleviate symptoms but to empower individuals to lead fulfilling lives. Driven by a passion for mental health advocacy, we are dedicated to making a difference in the lives of those we serve.
(207) 389-3644 View (207) 389-3644
Photo of Denise Fuhrmann - Denise APRN, PMHNP, Healthy Minds Counseling Inc., Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Denise APRN, PMHNP, Healthy Minds Counseling Inc.
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
I have proudly called Maine home for the past 35 years and have practiced as a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner for the past 18 years. My children and grandchildren have grown up here, and I value the strong sense of community that comes with living and working in the state. I bring compassion, respect, and a nonjudgmental approach to every patient I meet, providing individualized, evidence-based medication management tailored to each person's unique needs. My areas of special interest include mood disorders, anxiety disorders, life transitions, geriatric mental health, and providing affirming care for the LGBTQ+ community.
I have proudly called Maine home for the past 35 years and have practiced as a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner for the past 18 years. My children and grandchildren have grown up here, and I value the strong sense of community that comes with living and working in the state. I bring compassion, respect, and a nonjudgmental approach to every patient I meet, providing individualized, evidence-based medication management tailored to each person's unique needs. My areas of special interest include mood disorders, anxiety disorders, life transitions, geriatric mental health, and providing affirming care for the LGBTQ+ community.
(207) 300-9555 View (207) 300-9555
Photo of Michael Robustelli - Mood Clinic, PLLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP, PMHNP
Mood Clinic, PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP, PMHNP
Portland, ME 04101
Waitlist for new clients
Michael Robustelli is dual board-certified as a Family and Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, specializing in adult psychiatry. With years of experience, he is an expert in ADHD, mood disorders, and anxiety. Recognized for his empathy and collaboration with patients, compassionate healing is provided in a holistic, personalized manner, focused on improving overall well being
Michael Robustelli is dual board-certified as a Family and Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, specializing in adult psychiatry. With years of experience, he is an expert in ADHD, mood disorders, and anxiety. Recognized for his empathy and collaboration with patients, compassionate healing is provided in a holistic, personalized manner, focused on improving overall well being
(207) 605-8405 View (207) 605-8405
Photo of Tangular Barnes, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Tangular Barnes
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Online Only
I am currently accepting new patients at this time. My approach is collaborative and non-directive, and I act as someone who can help identify possible routes through the challenges of your life but will not insist that you must choose a particular path. I am a consultant for you and what troubles you, and together we can identify what it is you care about in life and makes it worth living, what is standing in the way, and how medications and psychotherapy might be able to help you pursue the former and overcome the later.
I am currently accepting new patients at this time. My approach is collaborative and non-directive, and I act as someone who can help identify possible routes through the challenges of your life but will not insist that you must choose a particular path. I am a consultant for you and what troubles you, and together we can identify what it is you care about in life and makes it worth living, what is standing in the way, and how medications and psychotherapy might be able to help you pursue the former and overcome the later.
(207) 539-7346 View (207) 539-7346

See more therapy options for Portland

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Portland, ME

100+

Average cost per session

$199

Psychiatrists in Portland, ME who prioritize treating:

93% Anxiety
90% Depression
75% Medication Management
73% Bipolar Disorder
72% Trauma and PTSD
71% ADHD
60% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)

Average years in practice

10 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

82% Aetna
64% Cigna and Evernorth
63% Anthem

How Psychiatrists in Portland, ME see their clients

53% Online Only
47% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

69% Female
31% 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.

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.