New to Oregon? Your Guide to Finding Mental Health Support
Welcome to Oregon! Moving to a new state is exciting, but it can also be overwhelming — especially if you’re trying to find trusted mental health support. As a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner (PMHNP) offering telehealth psychiatric services in Portland, Oregon and throughout the state, I often meet patients who are new here and unsure where to start. This guide will walk you through how to get connected to the care you need.
Step 1 — Get to Know Oregon’s Healthcare Landscape
Oregon offers a variety of mental health resources, from community clinics to private practices. If you have insurance like PacificSource, Moda, Regence, or Samaritan, you can start by checking their provider directories for in-network mental health professionals.
Step 2 — Consider Telehealth for Flexibility and Access
If you’re still getting settled in, telehealth psychiatric services can be a convenient and effective way to access care. Research shows that telehealth is just as effective as in-person psychiatric care for many mental health conditions, including depression and anxiety. Learn more in this review from the VA and this BMJ article.
Step 3 — Build Your Local Support Network
Even if you’re meeting with a PMHNP via telehealth, having a local support network makes a big difference. Consider connecting with:
• Therapists in your area
• Primary care providers
• Support groups for mental health or recovery
• Community organizations offering wellness programs
Step 4 — Coordinate Care for the Best Outcomes
As a PMHNP, I work closely with my patients’ therapists, doctors, and other care providers to make sure treatment is comprehensive and coordinated. If you’re new to Oregon, ask your mental health provider if they can help connect you with other trusted professionals.
Getting Started
If you’re new to Oregon and looking for compassionate, evidence-based psychiatric care, I’m here to help. I offer telehealth appointments for patients across the state, and I’m in-network with several major insurance providers.