Psychiatrists in York, ME
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.
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.
Stephanie Johnson PMHNP, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC, MSN, BSN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
York, ME 03909
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
Virginia Roper
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
South Berwick, ME 03908
Are you moody or anxious? Do you struggle with attention? Do you often feel distrustful of others or out of control? I am both a clinical psychologist and a psychiatric nurse practitioner and integrate both roles to help relieve symptoms of emotional distress and improve everyday functioning. I have been a psychiatric nurse practitioner for close to a decade, caring for patients with a wide variety of mental health conditions in community mental health and acute psychiatric settings. I presently specialize in medication management only services.
Are you moody or anxious? Do you struggle with attention? Do you often feel distrustful of others or out of control? I am both a clinical psychologist and a psychiatric nurse practitioner and integrate both roles to help relieve symptoms of emotional distress and improve everyday functioning. I have been a psychiatric nurse practitioner for close to a decade, caring for patients with a wide variety of mental health conditions in community mental health and acute psychiatric settings. I presently specialize in medication management only services.
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
Lina M Zapata Samarel
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP, MBA
Verified Verified
Lewiston, ME 04240 (Online Only)
Areas of interest include medication management and psychiatric evaluations for the diagnosis and treatment of depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, psychotic disorders, PTSD, OCD, and panic disorders. Lina’s approach to treating patients focuses on individual treatment plans and on integrative psychiatry by applying evidence-based psychopharmacological, therapeutic interventions, and lifestyle modifications. Lina will listen to you with empathy and will partner with you on your wellness journey.
Areas of interest include medication management and psychiatric evaluations for the diagnosis and treatment of depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, psychotic disorders, PTSD, OCD, and panic disorders. Lina’s approach to treating patients focuses on individual treatment plans and on integrative psychiatry by applying evidence-based psychopharmacological, therapeutic interventions, and lifestyle modifications. Lina will listen to you with empathy and will partner with you on your wellness journey.
Integrative Psychiatry of Maine, Linda Sillars
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, AMHNP-B
Verified Verified
Saco, ME 04072
I am a Psychotherapist and Medication Management Specialists with 30 years experience in psychiatry, 17 of those as a Nurse Practitioner. I specialize in treating patients with ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Insomnia, Mood Disorders and PTSD.
I am a Psychotherapist and Medication Management Specialists with 30 years experience in psychiatry, 17 of those as a Nurse Practitioner. I specialize in treating patients with ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Insomnia, Mood Disorders and PTSD.
Shannon Grose
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP-BC, PNP
Verified Verified
Portland, ME 04101 (Online Only)
Shannon Grose is a board-certified family nurse practitioner. She attended Dabney S Lancaster Community College where she obtained her associate's degree in nursing and Frontier Nursing University where she obtained her graduate degree in nursing. She started her career as a registered nurse working in both the emergency department and correctional facility settings. As a family nurse practitioner, she has gained experience serving a diverse population of all ages via in-person and virtual care settings. Start working on an improved journey to a healthier lifestyle today.
Shannon Grose is a board-certified family nurse practitioner. She attended Dabney S Lancaster Community College where she obtained her associate's degree in nursing and Frontier Nursing University where she obtained her graduate degree in nursing. She started her career as a registered nurse working in both the emergency department and correctional facility settings. As a family nurse practitioner, she has gained experience serving a diverse population of all ages via in-person and virtual care settings. Start working on an improved journey to a healthier lifestyle today.
The ideal client seeks a safe haven where their unique experiences are valued and understood. They desire a compassionate guide who recognizes the complexity of their struggles with conditions like depression, anxiety, or trauma. They crave validation and support, knowing that their journey towards healing requires tailored interventions. They seek collaborative discussions to explore their needs, ranging from therapy to medication and lifestyle adjustments. My commitment to holistic care assures them of a comprehensive approach that prioritizes their mental well-being.
The ideal client seeks a safe haven where their unique experiences are valued and understood. They desire a compassionate guide who recognizes the complexity of their struggles with conditions like depression, anxiety, or trauma. They crave validation and support, knowing that their journey towards healing requires tailored interventions. They seek collaborative discussions to explore their needs, ranging from therapy to medication and lifestyle adjustments. My commitment to holistic care assures them of a comprehensive approach that prioritizes their mental well-being.
Balance Psychiatric Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Portland, ME 04101 (Online Only)
We understand that you are coming to us at one of the most vulnerable and difficult times in your life. We will listen to your concerns without judgement and offer a safe space to overcome your unique challenges. We are here to help if you are struggling with overwhelming feelings of sadness, irritability, anxious thoughts, or chaotic shifts in your mood. We can assess for ADHD if you feel unable to focus or struggle with completing tasks without distraction. We are experienced in providing trauma informed care.
We understand that you are coming to us at one of the most vulnerable and difficult times in your life. We will listen to your concerns without judgement and offer a safe space to overcome your unique challenges. We are here to help if you are struggling with overwhelming feelings of sadness, irritability, anxious thoughts, or chaotic shifts in your mood. We can assess for ADHD if you feel unable to focus or struggle with completing tasks without distraction. We are experienced in providing trauma informed care.
Welcome to my practice, Finding Peace of Mind, serving the mental health needs of adults ages 18 & over. At Finding Peace of Mind, I provide individualized, meaningful, mental healthcare, designed to help individuals achieve stability, healing, recovery and improved quality of life. I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with 21+ years of experience with psychiatric medications and mental healthcare, both in the in-patient & out-patient settings. I completed my Master's in Psychiatric Nursing at the University of So. Maine and obtained my Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner certification through a Post Master's program at Husson College.
Welcome to my practice, Finding Peace of Mind, serving the mental health needs of adults ages 18 & over. At Finding Peace of Mind, I provide individualized, meaningful, mental healthcare, designed to help individuals achieve stability, healing, recovery and improved quality of life. I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with 21+ years of experience with psychiatric medications and mental healthcare, both in the in-patient & out-patient settings. I completed my Master's in Psychiatric Nursing at the University of So. Maine and obtained my Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner certification through a Post Master's program at Husson College.
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.
Alison Moore Tetrault
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, ME 04103
Any client that needs help and is ready to start exploring options is ideal. I would like to help with mental health issues to include depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, substance use disorders, eating disorders, post traumatic stress disorder, as well as schizophrenia and psychosis. An ideal client for is ready to consider the possible treatment options recommended and work with me to find a plan that works for them. I can offer supportive psychotherapy as well as medication management, TMS and integrative holistic approaches to care.
Any client that needs help and is ready to start exploring options is ideal. I would like to help with mental health issues to include depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, substance use disorders, eating disorders, post traumatic stress disorder, as well as schizophrenia and psychosis. An ideal client for is ready to consider the possible treatment options recommended and work with me to find a plan that works for them. I can offer supportive psychotherapy as well as medication management, TMS and integrative holistic approaches to care.
Tired of mental illness pushing you around? Ready to win the struggle with anxiety, mood swings, depression? Starting today, we can help you take the first step toward transformation. According to the National Alliance on Mental Health - over 50% of adults with mental illness went untreated last year, but there's no need for that to be you. Starting today you can take the first step toward transformation. At Mood Clinic, we believe in treating you as whole person. Our integrated approach, combines both medications and talk therapy in session- ensuring you receive personalized treatment designed for you and delivered with care.
Tired of mental illness pushing you around? Ready to win the struggle with anxiety, mood swings, depression? Starting today, we can help you take the first step toward transformation. According to the National Alliance on Mental Health - over 50% of adults with mental illness went untreated last year, but there's no need for that to be you. Starting today you can take the first step toward transformation. At Mood Clinic, we believe in treating you as whole person. Our integrated approach, combines both medications and talk therapy in session- ensuring you receive personalized treatment designed for you and delivered with care.
Bobby Morton
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Portland, ME 04103 (Online Only)
Hello, my name is Bobby Morton, I am a Doctor of Nursing Practice and a certified Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I utilize evidence-based approaches to help people manage their mental health struggles. In addition to medication management, I also provide Behavioral Activation Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, as well as other supportive therapies. I work with patients between the ages of 13 and 65. I treat most conditions including depression, anxiety, mood disorders, and thought disorders.
Hello, my name is Bobby Morton, I am a Doctor of Nursing Practice and a certified Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I utilize evidence-based approaches to help people manage their mental health struggles. In addition to medication management, I also provide Behavioral Activation Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, as well as other supportive therapies. I work with patients between the ages of 13 and 65. I treat most conditions including depression, anxiety, mood disorders, and thought disorders.
Thank you for visiting my profile. I founded Portland Cognitive and Behavioral Neurology in 2017 to create a comfortable, responsive setting for patients needing cognitive and behavioral neurologic services and general psychiatric care. I am triple board-certified in psychiatry, neurology, and integrative holistic medicine. I am trained to understand and synthesize all factors that are contributing to your current condition and can work with you to address each of them in order to restore your quality of life.
Thank you for visiting my profile. I founded Portland Cognitive and Behavioral Neurology in 2017 to create a comfortable, responsive setting for patients needing cognitive and behavioral neurologic services and general psychiatric care. I am triple board-certified in psychiatry, neurology, and integrative holistic medicine. I am trained to understand and synthesize all factors that are contributing to your current condition and can work with you to address each of them in order to restore your quality of life.
Jan C Lorenz PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, FNP, PMHNP-C
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Kennebunk, ME 04043 (Online Only)
Hello! First and foremost, I am a Christian. My faith enables me to be hopeful and believe that we are all created equally and to treat each other with respect and kindness. I believe each of us have different gifts, face different challenges, and have different needs. My philosophy is simple. I work for you. I accept -preteen, teens, parents, singles, people in relationships, and seniors. I'm not in favor of adding on medications to medications without benefit. I believe a holistic approach with emphasis on self-wellness, sleep hygiene, exercise, healthy diet, supplements, but sometimes medication(s) are necessary.
Hello! First and foremost, I am a Christian. My faith enables me to be hopeful and believe that we are all created equally and to treat each other with respect and kindness. I believe each of us have different gifts, face different challenges, and have different needs. My philosophy is simple. I work for you. I accept -preteen, teens, parents, singles, people in relationships, and seniors. I'm not in favor of adding on medications to medications without benefit. I believe a holistic approach with emphasis on self-wellness, sleep hygiene, exercise, healthy diet, supplements, but sometimes medication(s) are necessary.
I offer a compassionate and individualized approach toward the treatment of depression, anxiety, bipolar, PTSD and schizophrenia, among others. I am a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with over 20 years of experience caring for adults in Maine and have worked in variety of settings including hospitals, outpatient clinics and college health. Mine is a small practice that does not accept insurance. I will provide the necessary documentation and assistance so you can submit a claim to your insurance for reimbursement.
I offer a compassionate and individualized approach toward the treatment of depression, anxiety, bipolar, PTSD and schizophrenia, among others. I am a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with over 20 years of experience caring for adults in Maine and have worked in variety of settings including hospitals, outpatient clinics and college health. Mine is a small practice that does not accept insurance. I will provide the necessary documentation and assistance so you can submit a claim to your insurance for reimbursement.
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.
Brightside Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Brunswick, ME 04011 (Online Only)
It gets much better from here. No matter what you're going through, our expert providers are here to help with online mental health care tailored to you. Brightside Health offers personalized psychiatry, proven therapy, or both to help you feel better. Get started right from home, with appointments in as little as 2 days.
It gets much better from here. No matter what you're going through, our expert providers are here to help with online mental health care tailored to you. Brightside Health offers personalized psychiatry, proven therapy, or both to help you feel better. Get started right from home, with appointments in as little as 2 days.
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Nearby Searches for York
See More PsychiatristsHow does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in York, ME
< 10
Psychiatrists in York, ME who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
100% | ADHD |
100% | Medication Management |
67% | Grief |
67% | Trauma and PTSD |
67% | Bipolar Disorder |
Average years in practice
23 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
50% | Medicare |
50% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
50% | Optum |
How Psychiatrists in York, ME see their clients
100% | In Person and Online |
Gender breakdown
67% | Female | |
33% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in York?
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.