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Portland, Maine

Online psychiatrist for depression in Portland

Board certified, physician led depression care for adults in Portland, Maine, by secure video.

Medically reviewed by Shariq Refai, MD, MBA, FAPA, board certified psychiatrist · Last reviewed June 29, 2026 · Editorial policy

Board Certified Clinicians
HIPAA Compliant visits
No controlled substances
Same clinician over time

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Depression in Portland

Depression help in Portland, Maine

When depression takes hold, waiting weeks or months for a psychiatrist is not a real option. For people in Portland, online care closes that gap.

Portland is the commercial and medical hub of the region. Its residents, longtime Mainers, port and service workers, college students, and a growing number of remote professionals, deserve psychiatric care that does not require a long drive or a long wait. shrinkMD is licensed across Maine and serves Portland by secure video.

Our approach

How we treat depression

Depression can look like low mood, loss of interest in things you used to enjoy, fatigue, changes in sleep or appetite, trouble concentrating, or a heavy hopelessness that will not lift. We look past the label to what is actually going on, sleep, stress, medical factors, then treat with non-controlled medication when appropriate and a plan that rebuilds momentum step by step. We do not prescribe controlled substances. Depression care here relies on evidence-based, non-controlled medication and consistent follow-up, which is what actually moves the needle over time.

Why timely care matters

Getting depression care in Portland without the wait

Portland is home to about 70,000 residents, the largest city in Maine. Many residents live hours from the nearest psychiatrist, and rural Maine has long faced a shortage of mental health providers. So even here, a timely in-person psychiatry appointment can be hard to come by, and that is the gap online depression care fills for Portland adults.

Care that fits

Online depression care that fits Portland life

Telepsychiatry suits Portland well: no commute, no waiting room, and the same board certified clinician over time, which is what makes depression treatment actually stick. shrinkMD is opening to patients first in Maine. Join the waitlist and we will reach out the day intake opens, or read how to start care first. You can also see our broader depression care or depression care across Maine.

★★★★★

“My visits are always very transparent with Dr. Refai. He is receptive to what my needs are and helps me understand my own mental health and how it works.”

Verified patient

Individual experiences. Outcomes vary. Care is personalized to each patient.

Frequently asked questions

Good questions, clear answers

Is online treatment effective for depression?

Yes. Studies consistently find virtual psychiatric care matches in-person care for depression, with the added benefit of easier, more consistent follow-up.

What medications might be used?

Non-controlled options such as SSRIs, SNRIs, and other evidence-based antidepressants, chosen and monitored for your situation. We do not prescribe controlled substances.

How quickly can I be seen?

shrinkMD is designed for timely access instead of long waitlists. Actual timing depends on your state and clinician availability.

Do I have to live in Portland to be seen?

You need to be located in Maine during your visits, since that is where we are licensed. Portland and the surrounding area are covered.

Is online depression care as good as in person in Portland?

For most adults, yes. Research shows video-based psychiatric care matches in-person care for depression, and it is often easier to keep up with from Portland.

How much does an online psychiatrist cost without insurance?

Initial evaluations start at $295 and follow-ups run $110 to $215, with an optional $49 per month membership. shrinkMD is cash pay and provides a superbill on request.

Do I need a referral to see an online psychiatrist?

No referral is needed. You complete a secure intake and book once care is open in your state.

Medical Disclaimer: This content is provided for general educational and informational purposes only. It is not medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Reading this content does not create a doctor-patient relationship with shrinkMD, Dr. Shariq Refai, or any affiliated clinician. Always seek the advice of a qualified healthcare professional regarding questions about a medical or mental health condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking care because of something you have read on this website. If you are experiencing a medical or mental health emergency, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room.

Start depression care in Portland

Get a full evaluation and a real plan from a board certified clinician, by secure video, cash pay, with no controlled substances. Join the waitlist and we will reach out the day intake opens.

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