Psychiatrists in South Berwick, ME
![Photo of Stephanie Johnson - Stephanie Johnson PMHNP, LLC, PMHNPBC, MSN, BSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/38d1617a-80f0-4a8a-a866-2feacbd7e323/2/320x400.jpeg)
Stephanie Johnson PMHNP, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC, MSN, BSN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
South Berwick, ME 03908
Medication Management for Children and Adolescents. I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who specializes in the treatment of children and adolescents with various concerns including, but not limited to depression, anxiety, ADHD, and autism.
Medication Management for Children and Adolescents. I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who specializes in the treatment of children and adolescents with various concerns including, but not limited to depression, anxiety, ADHD, and autism.
More Psychiatrists Nearby
![Photo of Stephen Morley, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fa5e13d0-7cac-4047-8bd0-89f0edbd57ae/2/320x400.jpeg)
Stephen Morley is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. Licensed in both Maine and New Hampshire, Stephen works with virtually all ages—from mid-adolescents to adults—and offers his patients both in-office and remote teletherapy options. With a true affinity for the humanistic, health-promoting principles of nursing, Stephen is dedicated to providing each client with compassionate, supportive care. He strives to create a collaborative healthcare experience for every client, offering holistic, patient-centered care that respects and supports individual autonomy.
Stephen Morley is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. Licensed in both Maine and New Hampshire, Stephen works with virtually all ages—from mid-adolescents to adults—and offers his patients both in-office and remote teletherapy options. With a true affinity for the humanistic, health-promoting principles of nursing, Stephen is dedicated to providing each client with compassionate, supportive care. He strives to create a collaborative healthcare experience for every client, offering holistic, patient-centered care that respects and supports individual autonomy.
![Photo of Maggie S Murphy, PMH-NP, BC, LLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/275b9ae8-4e44-4c69-b66b-0f5353200fac/1/320x400.png)
Welcome! Since becoming a registered nurse in 1985, I’ve had the opportunity to work in healthcare settings including critical care, hospice and behavioral health. In 2001, I graduated from Northeastern University with my MSN and became Board Certified and licensed to practice as a psychiatric nurse practitioner. I love what I do and feel fortunate to have deepened my psychotherapy and medication management skills working with some excellent supervisors over the years. While I'm proud of my practice as a whole, I’ll admit that psychotherapy is what I love the most about my work.
Welcome! Since becoming a registered nurse in 1985, I’ve had the opportunity to work in healthcare settings including critical care, hospice and behavioral health. In 2001, I graduated from Northeastern University with my MSN and became Board Certified and licensed to practice as a psychiatric nurse practitioner. I love what I do and feel fortunate to have deepened my psychotherapy and medication management skills working with some excellent supervisors over the years. While I'm proud of my practice as a whole, I’ll admit that psychotherapy is what I love the most about my work.
![Photo of Theresa Rush, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/91891ee1-e87b-40d4-b216-e1fbde9a501a/2/320x400.jpeg)
Theresa Rush
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Ogunquit, ME 03907 (Online Only)
A Grateful Mind LLC: As a Maine-based telehealth Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I provide high-quality psychiatric evaluations and medication management to clients statewide. My practice emphasizes tailored care based on thorough assessments and evidence-based practices to support your mental health and well-being. Please note that while I offer comprehensive psychiatric care, I do not prescribe or manage stimulants or benzodiazepines. This focus allows me to concentrate on other areas of mental health treatment, ensuring personalized and effective care.
A Grateful Mind LLC: As a Maine-based telehealth Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I provide high-quality psychiatric evaluations and medication management to clients statewide. My practice emphasizes tailored care based on thorough assessments and evidence-based practices to support your mental health and well-being. Please note that while I offer comprehensive psychiatric care, I do not prescribe or manage stimulants or benzodiazepines. This focus allows me to concentrate on other areas of mental health treatment, ensuring personalized and effective care.
Online Psychiatrists
![Photo of Mark Shaughnessy, MSN, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0922f1fc-d495-478a-b153-76a037e6184a/1/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Jennifer Sims, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/30e2323c-86e6-48da-8130-6c56fa1edd4a/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jennifer Sims
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lewiston, ME 04240 (Online Only)
Ms. Jennifer Sims is a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who has over 25 years of experience in psychiatry and in a variety of settings including inpatient, academics, and outpatient. Ms. Sims received her Master’s in Psychiatric Mental Health Nursing from Indiana University. She is also a Psychiatric Clinical Nurse Specialist and has an MBA. Her clinical passion is Patient-Centered Care and working in collaboration with Clients to assist them with their mental health well-being. She treats a variety of psychiatric disorders to include, depression, anxiety, and mood disorders.
Ms. Jennifer Sims is a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who has over 25 years of experience in psychiatry and in a variety of settings including inpatient, academics, and outpatient. Ms. Sims received her Master’s in Psychiatric Mental Health Nursing from Indiana University. She is also a Psychiatric Clinical Nurse Specialist and has an MBA. Her clinical passion is Patient-Centered Care and working in collaboration with Clients to assist them with their mental health well-being. She treats a variety of psychiatric disorders to include, depression, anxiety, and mood disorders.
![Photo of Alison Moore Tetrault, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/904c5441-2957-4aa6-bcbd-a9e3c28aca89/1/320x400.png)
I'm Ali, a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with a passion for health and well-being. Throughout my career, I've had the privilege of working with individuals facing various mental health challenges, including depression, anxiety, substance use disorders, post-traumatic stress, schizophrenia, and bipolar disorders in the inpatient and outpatient settings. In addition to traditional clinical settings, I thoroughly enjoy co-leading retreats focused on healing and empowerment.
I'm Ali, a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with a passion for health and well-being. Throughout my career, I've had the privilege of working with individuals facing various mental health challenges, including depression, anxiety, substance use disorders, post-traumatic stress, schizophrenia, and bipolar disorders in the inpatient and outpatient settings. In addition to traditional clinical settings, I thoroughly enjoy co-leading retreats focused on healing and empowerment.
![Photo of Valerie A Hart - Dr Valerie A. Hart, EdD, PMHCNS, BC, Psychiatric Nurse](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3e4eaa9d-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr Valerie A. Hart
Psychiatric Nurse, EdD, PMHCNS, BC
Verified Verified
Portland, ME 04103 (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.
![Photo of Paula A. Gentile, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5a91cf5d-9daf-4cad-a65e-fd2fd4222fed/1/320x400.jpeg)
Paula A. Gentile
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
South Portland, ME 04106
Waitlist for new clients
As a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I provide psychiatric diagnosis and evaluation, medication management, and psychotherapy. I consider the opportunity to serve in this role as a genuine privilege and I look forward to the chance to work collaboratively with you in my private practice. I offer a setting which allows time and space for personalized care and discovery of root causes, instead of rushed appointments that only leave time to graze the surface. You deserve to be heard and understood so that improvement happens in ways that are meaningful to you.
As a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I provide psychiatric diagnosis and evaluation, medication management, and psychotherapy. I consider the opportunity to serve in this role as a genuine privilege and I look forward to the chance to work collaboratively with you in my private practice. I offer a setting which allows time and space for personalized care and discovery of root causes, instead of rushed appointments that only leave time to graze the surface. You deserve to be heard and understood so that improvement happens in ways that are meaningful to you.
![Photo of Lisa Hagberg, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/718c9114-bd50-4b1e-8854-d19049bb72be/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Lisa Hagberg is a board-certified psychiatrist with 20 years of experience treating patients with a wide range of diagnoses, in particular, depression, anxiety, Bipolar Disorder and PTSD. Dr. Hagberg brings a holistic approach to her practice exploring mental health in a multidimensional way, addressing the causes, not just the symptoms of one's condition. She incorporates supportive and insight-oriented psychotherapy to patient care, although at times she may recommend patients add an individual therapist to the treatment team.
Dr. Lisa Hagberg is a board-certified psychiatrist with 20 years of experience treating patients with a wide range of diagnoses, in particular, depression, anxiety, Bipolar Disorder and PTSD. Dr. Hagberg brings a holistic approach to her practice exploring mental health in a multidimensional way, addressing the causes, not just the symptoms of one's condition. She incorporates supportive and insight-oriented psychotherapy to patient care, although at times she may recommend patients add an individual therapist to the treatment team.
![Photo of Erin L Belfort, MD, DFAACAP, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7c62b6b2-631a-4788-b5b1-f14a4451d6ea/1/320x400.png)
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
![Photo of Hollie-Anne Stanwood, APRN (C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6b0f5a88-d0ec-4c63-89f9-02963c5d5dc2/1/320x400.jpeg)
Hollie-Anne Stanwood received her Undergraduate at University of Maine Fort Kent. Upon completion of her board exam she worked in multiple acute care settings over the course of 5 years. These include, Acute Cardiac Care, ICU, ED, PACU, Outpatient Surgery along with settling as a RN in a psychiatric outpatient medication management clinic before finishing her masters. During this time Hollie-Anne attended Walden University where she completed her Master's of Nursing degree. Hollie-Anne now practices as a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in the State of Maine.
Hollie-Anne Stanwood received her Undergraduate at University of Maine Fort Kent. Upon completion of her board exam she worked in multiple acute care settings over the course of 5 years. These include, Acute Cardiac Care, ICU, ED, PACU, Outpatient Surgery along with settling as a RN in a psychiatric outpatient medication management clinic before finishing her masters. During this time Hollie-Anne attended Walden University where she completed her Master's of Nursing degree. Hollie-Anne now practices as a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in the State of Maine.
![Photo of Scott M. Albin, DO, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3c92103f-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Albin is a Board Certified in Child, Adolescent, and Adult Psychiatrist. He completed his residency and fellowship at the Mayo Clinic, and currently provides evaluation and management of mental health issues with psychotherapy and medication management in private practice.
Dr. Albin is a Board Certified in Child, Adolescent, and Adult Psychiatrist. He completed his residency and fellowship at the Mayo Clinic, and currently provides evaluation and management of mental health issues with psychotherapy and medication management in private practice.
![Photo of Jennifer Foresman, CRNP, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c181f666-f071-48f3-943d-70d15139de07/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jennifer Foresman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
South Portland, ME 04106 (Online Only)
Do you feel like you’ve tried everything to overcome your mental illness? Are you suffering from persistent feelings of sadness, chaotic mood swings, or debilitating anxiety? You might not remember a time when you didn’t feel this way. You are desperate for relief but beginning to wonder if there is hope of feeling better. Clients come to me looking for a provider with the experience and knowledge to manage challenging chronic symptoms, because mental health treatment does not need to be a constant unconquerable quest.
Do you feel like you’ve tried everything to overcome your mental illness? Are you suffering from persistent feelings of sadness, chaotic mood swings, or debilitating anxiety? You might not remember a time when you didn’t feel this way. You are desperate for relief but beginning to wonder if there is hope of feeling better. Clients come to me looking for a provider with the experience and knowledge to manage challenging chronic symptoms, because mental health treatment does not need to be a constant unconquerable quest.
![Photo of Juliana Pires, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/feaee127-a17e-4e59-b6dd-9e2b1fc3d832/1/320x400.png)
Juliana Pires
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
South Portland, ME 04106 (Online Only)
I have helped people who reported anxiety that "comes unannounced from nowhere", or had been feeling low and having difficulty finding motivation, or who were just not feeling like themselves for different reasons including poor sleep, low energy, inability to stop worrying, and inability to concentrate to complete tasks.
I have helped people who reported anxiety that "comes unannounced from nowhere", or had been feeling low and having difficulty finding motivation, or who were just not feeling like themselves for different reasons including poor sleep, low energy, inability to stop worrying, and inability to concentrate to complete tasks.
![Photo of Kate E Klein - Coaching with Kate, RN, CLC, Psychiatric Nurse](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f401d4d2-d6ac-46e9-8989-373516d9c99b/1/320x400.jpeg)
We all crave success in our personal and professional lives. The relationship we have with our past or current situation can either debilitate OR completely empower us in taking action forward toward living the ways we truly desire. Each life journey is packed with experiences we often think define us, but it's really how we think now about our past, present, and future that defines us. The best news is that every individual is fully capable and worthy of creating their dream life. Life Coaching offers practical concepts and action-based tools for individuals to solve their problems, define their future, and take action.
We all crave success in our personal and professional lives. The relationship we have with our past or current situation can either debilitate OR completely empower us in taking action forward toward living the ways we truly desire. Each life journey is packed with experiences we often think define us, but it's really how we think now about our past, present, and future that defines us. The best news is that every individual is fully capable and worthy of creating their dream life. Life Coaching offers practical concepts and action-based tools for individuals to solve their problems, define their future, and take action.
![Photo of Allison Baird, PMH NP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f58dc2f3-f625-4a30-9179-46ed91fa4974/2/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Dr. Amir W. Raad, DNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4d88a07c-8736-4019-991c-9b995f25d408/1/320x400.png)
Dr. Amir W. Raad
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP
Verified Verified
Portland, ME 04101 (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.
![Photo of Dr. Andrés Abreu, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cfba0698-fe68-4598-b31d-999a4ccbe25d/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Andrés Abreu
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brunswick, ME 04011 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
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.
![Photo of Patricia Seely, FNP-C, PMHNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/019b7a2a-26e7-4884-b916-7aa0e5f94a43/2/320x400.jpeg)
Patricia Seely
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP-C, PMHNP-C
Verified Verified
Kennebunk, ME 04043 (Online Only)
My primary goal is to help individuals find wholeness through therapy. I am not prescribing in Massachusetts at this time. I work with adults and have experience working with people struggling with depression, anxiety, mood disorders, individuals in recovery and those struggling with chronic health issues. As a veteran myself working with military active duty, their spouses and veterans is a special interest. I do prescribe in Maine but do not prescribe stimulants or benzodiazepines at this time.
My primary goal is to help individuals find wholeness through therapy. I am not prescribing in Massachusetts at this time. I work with adults and have experience working with people struggling with depression, anxiety, mood disorders, individuals in recovery and those struggling with chronic health issues. As a veteran myself working with military active duty, their spouses and veterans is a special interest. I do prescribe in Maine but do not prescribe stimulants or benzodiazepines at this time.
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Number of Psychiatrists in South Berwick, ME
< 10
Psychiatrists in South Berwick, ME who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
100% | Child |
100% | ADHD |
100% | Autism |
100% | Behavioral Issues |
100% | Medication Management |
Gender breakdown
100% | Female |
How Psychiatrists in South Berwick, ME see their clients
100% | In Person and Online |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in South Berwick?
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.