Psychiatrists in 04101
![Photo of Davonna Wilson, CRNP, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c7926b2b-b777-4881-a4c5-21ad9e5d3011/1/320x400.jpeg)
Davonna Wilson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Portland, ME 04101 (Online Only)
Are you experiencing overwhelming negative emotions? Sadness, worry, shame, or guilt? You know you are ready for a change but you are unsure of how to start feeling better. Clients come to me looking for a provider who can offer a safe space to overcome individual challenges. Sessions with me will involve a true connection, this is my favorite part of working in mental health. I will earn your trust and together, we will develop a treatment plan that propels you towards wellness. As a nurse practitioner trained in both physical and mental health, your treatment plan will include personalized care for your whole being.
Are you experiencing overwhelming negative emotions? Sadness, worry, shame, or guilt? You know you are ready for a change but you are unsure of how to start feeling better. Clients come to me looking for a provider who can offer a safe space to overcome individual challenges. Sessions with me will involve a true connection, this is my favorite part of working in mental health. I will earn your trust and together, we will develop a treatment plan that propels you towards wellness. As a nurse practitioner trained in both physical and mental health, your treatment plan will include personalized care for your whole being.
![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 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 Micaela Brooke Strevay, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cfc6b936-886a-4595-8a09-802a6cd3eb5b/1/320x400.png)
Hi there! I'm a certified psychiatric nurse practitioner, and I've worked with patients in various inpatient and outpatient settings. My expertise lies in helping individuals dealing with substance abuse, addiction, depression, anxiety, ADHD, and PTSD. I rely on the latest DSM diagnostic guidelines and evidence-based treatments to support my patients in regaining their well-being. I firmly believe that mental health holds the same significance as physical health, and my objective is to eliminate the stigma surrounding mental illness while encouraging others to prioritize their mental well-being.
Hi there! I'm a certified psychiatric nurse practitioner, and I've worked with patients in various inpatient and outpatient settings. My expertise lies in helping individuals dealing with substance abuse, addiction, depression, anxiety, ADHD, and PTSD. I rely on the latest DSM diagnostic guidelines and evidence-based treatments to support my patients in regaining their well-being. I firmly believe that mental health holds the same significance as physical health, and my objective is to eliminate the stigma surrounding mental illness while encouraging others to prioritize their mental well-being.
![Photo of Sylvia Park, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cd3ca2c9-539d-4ed3-ac31-232bcad87dfe/2/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Pascale Kidane - VirtualPsychiatricCare.com, MSN, APRN, CNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2ada93f1-2538-4944-904c-9e98088b515c/2/320x400.jpeg)
VirtualPsychiatricCare.com
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, CNP
Verified Verified
Portland, ME 04101 (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.
![Photo of Jeremy Spiegel, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/62b2968e-ff66-4f53-bded-accb52a017da/2/320x400.jpeg)
Jeremy Spiegel, MD, is available for psychiatric evaluations and medication management at his Portland, Maine office at Casco Bay Medical. He specializes in treatment of ADHD, anxiety, depression, PTSD, OCD, Panic Disorder, Social Anxiety and most other psychiatric disorders and conditions. New Treatment Offering: Brief Psychotherapy. Dr. Spiegel, as psychotherapist and collaborative problem solver, can help address your core psychological problem with weekly virtual visits over 12 sessions. Call the office for more details to see if you may be a candidate for this exciting approach.
Jeremy Spiegel, MD, is available for psychiatric evaluations and medication management at his Portland, Maine office at Casco Bay Medical. He specializes in treatment of ADHD, anxiety, depression, PTSD, OCD, Panic Disorder, Social Anxiety and most other psychiatric disorders and conditions. New Treatment Offering: Brief Psychotherapy. Dr. Spiegel, as psychotherapist and collaborative problem solver, can help address your core psychological problem with weekly virtual visits over 12 sessions. Call the office for more details to see if you may be a candidate for this exciting approach.
![Photo of Michael Robustelli - Mood Clinic, PLLC, FNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bf287844-e168-428b-996f-371382847151/1/320x400.png)
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.
![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 Davonna Wilson - Balance Psychiatric Services, CRNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4d6cff8f-d262-47a0-ab62-ff569ca78a1b/1/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Alyson Maloy, MD, FAPA, DABIHM, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/46d79bd0-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
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.
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Davonna Wilson
Balance Psychiatric Services
Danielle Trenelli
Saco Bay Mental Health, PLLC
![Photo of Madeleine Reyes, APRN, PMHNP, DNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/29ed4f02-aa9a-4aee-9675-dee610c8e817/1/320x400.jpeg)
Madeleine Reyes
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, DNP
Verified Verified
Portland, ME 04101 (Online Only)
Welcome to Salvaje Minds Associates! My name is Dr. Madeleine “Salvaje” Reyes, a Psychiatric Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN) who is board certified to see individuals across the lifespan. I completed my Master of Science in Nursing- Advanced Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner from Florida International University (FIU) in 2017 and my Doctorate in Nursing Practice in the mental health field in 2019.
Welcome to Salvaje Minds Associates! My name is Dr. Madeleine “Salvaje” Reyes, a Psychiatric Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN) who is board certified to see individuals across the lifespan. I completed my Master of Science in Nursing- Advanced Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner from Florida International University (FIU) in 2017 and my Doctorate in Nursing Practice in the mental health field in 2019.
![Photo of Ruth Frydman, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/be5196cc-e3b7-4242-aaa9-511d4f3311cd/1/320x400.png)
My approach is to work with you collaboratively and respectfully to improve your emotional well-being. Together we will clarify your personal goals in a safe and caring space, and work towards reaching them. This process will take into account the "big picture" of your unique experiences (biological, psychological, social, cultural, and spiritual) and help you move forward with your life. I bring extensive experience in treating people in a variety of settings for over 25 years.
My approach is to work with you collaboratively and respectfully to improve your emotional well-being. Together we will clarify your personal goals in a safe and caring space, and work towards reaching them. This process will take into account the "big picture" of your unique experiences (biological, psychological, social, cultural, and spiritual) and help you move forward with your life. I bring extensive experience in treating people in a variety of settings for over 25 years.
![Photo of Jennifer Snowden, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/df5f2a26-9eb6-4f97-85e5-f7ff5afbfc73/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Jennifer Snowden completed medical school at the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences in Little Rock, Arkansas in 1995. She then completed a residency in general psychiatry at Emory University in Atlanta, Georgia followed by a fellowship in forensic psychiatry also at Emory University in Atlanta, Georgia from 1995-2000. She spent ten years practicing forensic psychiatry at a state hospital in Atlanta. She then decided that she wanted to travel and spent eighteen months as a locum tenens psychiatrist primarily practicing in New England.
Dr. Jennifer Snowden completed medical school at the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences in Little Rock, Arkansas in 1995. She then completed a residency in general psychiatry at Emory University in Atlanta, Georgia followed by a fellowship in forensic psychiatry also at Emory University in Atlanta, Georgia from 1995-2000. She spent ten years practicing forensic psychiatry at a state hospital in Atlanta. She then decided that she wanted to travel and spent eighteen months as a locum tenens psychiatrist primarily practicing in New England.
![Photo of Robbie King - PSM Center for Psychiatry, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5158147e-e473-4a79-92b0-6560c586d487/1/320x400.png)
We are a group of experienced psychiatrists dedicated to providing compassionate and comprehensive mental health care to adults, teens, and children. We are committed to helping our patients achieve optimal mental well-being and lead fulfilling lives. Our team of providers work collaboratively with patients, tailoring treatment plans to address their specific challenges and goals. We focus on evidence-based practices, staying up-to-date with the latest research and advancements in psychiatry to ensure the best possible outcomes.
We are a group of experienced psychiatrists dedicated to providing compassionate and comprehensive mental health care to adults, teens, and children. We are committed to helping our patients achieve optimal mental well-being and lead fulfilling lives. Our team of providers work collaboratively with patients, tailoring treatment plans to address their specific challenges and goals. We focus on evidence-based practices, staying up-to-date with the latest research and advancements in psychiatry to ensure the best possible outcomes.
![Photo of David Wright, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5130a157-7c6a-4c3f-b288-0ce1a5228c4c/1/320x400.jpeg)
David Wright is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) in Portland, Maine who has been practicing since 2018. Prior to joining LifeStance Health, he worked in numerous psychiatric departments for many years, including Adult Outpatient; Adult Inpatient; Adolescent Inpatient; Inpatient Treatment for Substance Use, Abuse, and Addiction; Behavioral Emergency Department; and psychiatric consultation in hospital medical units. In his clinical work, David utilizes an integrative approach specifically designed to meet each individual's needs.
David Wright is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) in Portland, Maine who has been practicing since 2018. Prior to joining LifeStance Health, he worked in numerous psychiatric departments for many years, including Adult Outpatient; Adult Inpatient; Adolescent Inpatient; Inpatient Treatment for Substance Use, Abuse, and Addiction; Behavioral Emergency Department; and psychiatric consultation in hospital medical units. In his clinical work, David utilizes an integrative approach specifically designed to meet each individual's needs.
![Photo of Barbara Howaniec, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5385eb66-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am passionate in my belief that every person can better their life with careful introspection and exploration. My compassion and empathy provide my clients with a safe and nurturing environment in which they may explore their lives allowing them to move into a happier more functional future.
I am passionate in my belief that every person can better their life with careful introspection and exploration. My compassion and empathy provide my clients with a safe and nurturing environment in which they may explore their lives allowing them to move into a happier more functional future.
![Photo of Robert King, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f4d388ee-43e3-4074-87c7-819f3bb32629/2/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Dylan McKenney, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c308d7b5-de92-4eca-a725-860d2a8f898e/2/320x400.jpeg)
My Practice is located at Touchstone Associates in Portland's Old Port. I specialize in Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy (KAP). In addition to my medical and psychiatric training I have trained with California Institute of Integral Studies, Psychedelic Therapy and Research Program. Ketamine treatment is available in many different forms which can be applied to various conditions. What I practice is specifically meant to help further the work of psychotherapy. I require that clients are currently working with a therapist and I prefer that the therapist reach out to make a referral to me. Following that, I will reach out to you.
My Practice is located at Touchstone Associates in Portland's Old Port. I specialize in Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy (KAP). In addition to my medical and psychiatric training I have trained with California Institute of Integral Studies, Psychedelic Therapy and Research Program. Ketamine treatment is available in many different forms which can be applied to various conditions. What I practice is specifically meant to help further the work of psychotherapy. I require that clients are currently working with a therapist and I prefer that the therapist reach out to make a referral to me. Following that, I will reach out to you.
![Photo of Mary Kate Grady, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d793389b-133d-429d-a674-17cf46dab100/1/320x400.png)
I provide psychiatric care for adults, age 18 and older. I take a wholistic approach to psychiatric care, focusing on the physical, psychological, emotional and social well-being of each patient. I provide both therapy and medication management, integrating an evidence based approach to nutrition, joyful movement, and social connection.
I provide psychiatric care for adults, age 18 and older. I take a wholistic approach to psychiatric care, focusing on the physical, psychological, emotional and social well-being of each patient. I provide both therapy and medication management, integrating an evidence based approach to nutrition, joyful movement, and social connection.
See more therapy options for 04101
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in 04101
40+
Average cost per session
$275
Psychiatrists in 04101 who prioritize treating:
94% | Depression |
94% | Anxiety |
89% | Medication Management |
85% | Trauma and PTSD |
83% | Bipolar Disorder |
70% | ADHD |
66% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
Average years in practice
12 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
86% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
74% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
74% | Cigna and Evernorth |
How Psychiatrists in 04101 see their clients
71% | In Person and Online | |
29% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
71% | Female | |
29% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in 04101?
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.