Psychiatrists in Waldo County, ME
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.
I have a special love and a particular skill set for helping folks with issues around anxiety and depression. I offer a spectrum of choices from meditation and yoga techniques, to homeopathic, herbal and supplemental support, all the way to pharmaceutical management - depending on the preferences and beliefs of the client. I find homeopathy to be particularly effective at shifting the mental and emotional patterns that can bind up a persons ability to think and to have a sense of well-being. However, addressing systemic health on the physical plane is equally important and all to often neglected by the Western model.
I have a special love and a particular skill set for helping folks with issues around anxiety and depression. I offer a spectrum of choices from meditation and yoga techniques, to homeopathic, herbal and supplemental support, all the way to pharmaceutical management - depending on the preferences and beliefs of the client. I find homeopathy to be particularly effective at shifting the mental and emotional patterns that can bind up a persons ability to think and to have a sense of well-being. However, addressing systemic health on the physical plane is equally important and all to often neglected by the Western model.
Online Psychiatrists
Dr. Kevin DiCesare is a board-certified psychiatrist, treating adults. He received his undergraduate degree at Harvard University, his medical degree at the University of Massachusetts Medical School, and then went on to train at Maine Medical Center for his psychiatric residency. He has 22 years of expertise in diagnosing and treating psychiatric conditions, including depression, anxiety, Bipolar spectrum disorders, adjustment problems, ADHD and other disorders.
Dr. Kevin DiCesare is a board-certified psychiatrist, treating adults. He received his undergraduate degree at Harvard University, his medical degree at the University of Massachusetts Medical School, and then went on to train at Maine Medical Center for his psychiatric residency. He has 22 years of expertise in diagnosing and treating psychiatric conditions, including depression, anxiety, Bipolar spectrum disorders, adjustment problems, ADHD and other disorders.
Hello, my name is Juan Mateo. I am a Bilingual (English/Spanish) Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I have close to 10 years of medical experience both in medical and psychiatric settings. I have treated a host of psychiatric disorders including Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar, Schizophrenia, Personality disorders, and other psychological ailments. I know that life can be unfair, erratic, and unpredictable. Together as a team we can navigate these personal obstacles and volatilities, by enriching your ego, relationship, and career through multiple modalities.
Hello, my name is Juan Mateo. I am a Bilingual (English/Spanish) Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I have close to 10 years of medical experience both in medical and psychiatric settings. I have treated a host of psychiatric disorders including Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar, Schizophrenia, Personality disorders, and other psychological ailments. I know that life can be unfair, erratic, and unpredictable. Together as a team we can navigate these personal obstacles and volatilities, by enriching your ego, relationship, and career through multiple modalities.
Dr. Danielle Trenelli
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP-BC, PMHNP, PhD
Verified Verified
Portland, ME 04101 (Online Only)
Hello, I'm Dani, a Family Nurse Practitioner with certifications in Geriatrics and Counseling. My goal is to ensure that patients have easy and immediate access to healthcare. When requested by my patients, I combine conventional medications with functional and integrative medicine approaches to address concerns like anxiety, depression, and ADHD. I'm passionate about empowering individuals to find their own motivation for a healthy life. In addition to addressing behavioral health, I am capable of treating a wide range of conditions, both acute (skin and respiratory infections) and chronic (pre-diabetes, diabetes, HTN, and pain)
Hello, I'm Dani, a Family Nurse Practitioner with certifications in Geriatrics and Counseling. My goal is to ensure that patients have easy and immediate access to healthcare. When requested by my patients, I combine conventional medications with functional and integrative medicine approaches to address concerns like anxiety, depression, and ADHD. I'm passionate about empowering individuals to find their own motivation for a healthy life. In addition to addressing behavioral health, I am capable of treating a wide range of conditions, both acute (skin and respiratory infections) and chronic (pre-diabetes, diabetes, HTN, and pain)
I have been practicing as a psychiatric nurse practitioner for more than 20 years. I employ evidence based treatments to serve adults with depression, anxiety, panic disorder, OCD, bipolar disorder, psychosis, PTSD, ADHD, and other conditions. Medication management is a substantial focus of my practice, but I also offer psychotherapy in the setting of a 30 minute visit or in the more traditional 45 minute session.
I have been practicing as a psychiatric nurse practitioner for more than 20 years. I employ evidence based treatments to serve adults with depression, anxiety, panic disorder, OCD, bipolar disorder, psychosis, PTSD, ADHD, and other conditions. Medication management is a substantial focus of my practice, but I also offer psychotherapy in the setting of a 30 minute visit or in the more traditional 45 minute session.
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.
Dr. Denise Vanacore Chase
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP-BC, PMHNP, PhD
Not Verified Not Verified
Yarmouth, ME 04096 (Online Only)
With an extensive background in nursing and psychiatric care, I am a seasoned Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, dedicated to providing compassionate and comprehensive mental health services. My journey began with a solid foundation in nursing education at Gwynedd Mercy University, where I developed and revised curricula for various nurse practitioner programs, ensuring that future healthcare providers are well-equipped to meet the needs of their patients. My commitment to excellence in mental health care is reflected in my work as a consultant for various organizations, where I've played a key role in it.
With an extensive background in nursing and psychiatric care, I am a seasoned Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, dedicated to providing compassionate and comprehensive mental health services. My journey began with a solid foundation in nursing education at Gwynedd Mercy University, where I developed and revised curricula for various nurse practitioner programs, ensuring that future healthcare providers are well-equipped to meet the needs of their patients. My commitment to excellence in mental health care is reflected in my work as a consultant for various organizations, where I've played a key role in it.
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
Janet Zalanskas
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMH NP, PMH CS, APRN-BC
Verified Verified
Waterville, ME 04901
Waitlist for new clients
People looking to clarify diagnosis and for psychiatric medication. Helping patients to minimize side effects from medications.
People looking to clarify diagnosis and for psychiatric medication. Helping patients to minimize side effects from medications.
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.
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.
Theresa Rush
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Hallowell, ME 04347 (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.
Alicia Soucy
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Bangor, ME 04401 (Online Only)
I provide medication management services to individuals over the age of 18. At this time, I am not providing intensive therapy or therapy only. I provide treatment for all mental disorders including depressive disorders, bipolar disorders, anxiety disorders, and trauma disorders. I am dedicated to providing exceptional, compassionate, personalized and evidence-based care. I emphasize the importance of developing a trusting relationship to help all clients reach their health goals.
I provide medication management services to individuals over the age of 18. At this time, I am not providing intensive therapy or therapy only. I provide treatment for all mental disorders including depressive disorders, bipolar disorders, anxiety disorders, and trauma disorders. I am dedicated to providing exceptional, compassionate, personalized and evidence-based care. I emphasize the importance of developing a trusting relationship to help all clients reach their health goals.
Welcome, my name is Dr. Dan Coleman. My practice provides a safe, confidential and caring environment and it is my sincere goal to be a source of healing in your life. We all experience pain. Sometimes though, the suffering that accompanies this pain overwhelms our coping abilities. You may feel stuck, cycling through frustration, anxiety, depression, loneliness or even hopelessness. Psychotherapy can be an effective and healing way out of these suffering experiences.
Welcome, my name is Dr. Dan Coleman. My practice provides a safe, confidential and caring environment and it is my sincere goal to be a source of healing in your life. We all experience pain. Sometimes though, the suffering that accompanies this pain overwhelms our coping abilities. You may feel stuck, cycling through frustration, anxiety, depression, loneliness or even hopelessness. Psychotherapy can be an effective and healing way out of these suffering experiences.
Laura Feaga
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN , PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Dover Foxcroft, ME 04426
I specialize in the psychiatric care of the public safety community. I provide crisis intervention and stabilization, medications, supportive therapy, and complementary and alternative treatments to help with sleep, anxiety, trauma and mood. My practice incorporates polyvagal strategies, alpha stim, nutrition, and mindfulness in ways that are culturally appropriate for first responders and military veterans to help you understand and learn to control your nervous system. I also do trainings for departments on wellness, resilience, and stress as well as critical incident stress management.
I specialize in the psychiatric care of the public safety community. I provide crisis intervention and stabilization, medications, supportive therapy, and complementary and alternative treatments to help with sleep, anxiety, trauma and mood. My practice incorporates polyvagal strategies, alpha stim, nutrition, and mindfulness in ways that are culturally appropriate for first responders and military veterans to help you understand and learn to control your nervous system. I also do trainings for departments on wellness, resilience, and stress as well as critical incident stress management.
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.
Scott Belanger
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Brewer, ME 04412 (Online Only)
I have always been in awe of the human experience as we move through our lives. The more I have practiced in mental health, the more humble I have become to all our journeys. I have come to realize at times we all need a partner to walk our path together. “your mind is like an unsafe neighborhood; don't go there alone.” ― Augusten Burroughs. Our thoughts can create wonderful, imaginative stories that we become attached to. Having another to hear your story, explore what is needed and what might need to be released, can help us find comfort in this journey.
I have always been in awe of the human experience as we move through our lives. The more I have practiced in mental health, the more humble I have become to all our journeys. I have come to realize at times we all need a partner to walk our path together. “your mind is like an unsafe neighborhood; don't go there alone.” ― Augusten Burroughs. Our thoughts can create wonderful, imaginative stories that we become attached to. Having another to hear your story, explore what is needed and what might need to be released, can help us find comfort in this journey.
I am a child, adolescent and adult psychiatrist seeing patients for combined psychotherapy and medication management services. My practice is small and patient-focused with a tailored approach to meet every patient's unique needs. My approach to treatment is to provide a safe, comforting environment where patients feel able to express themselves emotionally without fear of judgment. I pride myself on being empathic, warm, and caring with an ability to personally connect with each of my patients and their families. I love what I do and I believe this reflects in the results I help my patients achieve.
I am a child, adolescent and adult psychiatrist seeing patients for combined psychotherapy and medication management services. My practice is small and patient-focused with a tailored approach to meet every patient's unique needs. My approach to treatment is to provide a safe, comforting environment where patients feel able to express themselves emotionally without fear of judgment. I pride myself on being empathic, warm, and caring with an ability to personally connect with each of my patients and their families. I love what I do and I believe this reflects in the results I help my patients achieve.
Julie Smith
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Yarmouth, ME 04096
As a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I specialize in medication management, offering a personalized experience that integrates the latest evidence-based approaches to support you on your journey to health and well-being. My goal is not only to aid in stabilization and recovery but also to witness your flourishing and thriving. I take a holistic approach to treatment, conducting comprehensive evaluations and establishing a clear diagnostic framework, all while considering the impact of social, cultural, interpersonal, and financial influence.
As a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I specialize in medication management, offering a personalized experience that integrates the latest evidence-based approaches to support you on your journey to health and well-being. My goal is not only to aid in stabilization and recovery but also to witness your flourishing and thriving. I take a holistic approach to treatment, conducting comprehensive evaluations and establishing a clear diagnostic framework, all while considering the impact of social, cultural, interpersonal, and financial influence.
See more therapy options for Waldo County
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Waldo County, ME
< 10
Psychiatrists in Waldo County, ME who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | ADHD |
100% | Anger Management |
100% | School Issues |
100% | Behavioral Issues |
100% | Medication Management |
100% | Self Esteem |
Average years in practice
6 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
100% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
100% | Cigna and Evernorth |
How Psychiatrists in Waldo County, ME see their clients
50% | In Person and Online | |
50% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
100% | Female |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Waldo County?
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.