Dr. Laurie Deerfield, DO

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Get to know Psychiatrist Dr. Laurie Deerfield, who serves patients in Ellsworth, Maine.

Recognized as a well-known psychiatrist, Dr. Deerfield has recently assumed the role of Medical Director and Psychiatrist at AMHC (Aroostook Mental Health Center), marking a significant addition to the institution’s healthcare team. With a background steeped in extensive knowledge and practical experience, she arrives with a steadfast commitment to supporting individuals navigating mental health and substance use challenges.

Prior to joining AMHC, she established herself in private practice in New Jersey, specializing in general and addiction psychiatry. In her practice, she dedicated herself to the care of patients diagnosed with a spectrum of disorders, ranging from anger management and anxiety/panic disorders to depression and chemical dependency/substance use. Her expertise extended beyond clinical practice as she assumed roles such as medical director and provider for substance use treatment and recovery centers.

Throughout her academic career, Dr. Deerfield’s educational journey commenced at Carroll College, where she earned her Bachelor of Science in Psychology. Her academic journey also includes a pre-medical program at the University of Central Florida, where she laid the groundwork for her medical career. Prior to her medical studies, she pursued a Doctor of Psychology degree from Marquette University. Finally, she earned her Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine degree from Nova Southeastern University.

Passionate about her profession, the doctor is board-certified by the American Board of Addiction Medicine (ABAM), which provides assurance to the American public that addiction medicine physicians have the knowledge and skills to prevent, recognize, and treat addiction.

Moreover, Dr. Deerfield is board-certified by the American Board of Family Medicine (ABFM), and by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology (ABPN). 

She served as an independent contractor and medical consultant to various professional boards and organizations, including the Professional Assistance Program of New Jersey, Board of Medicine, Board of Nursing, and other health and legal boards. 

Now stationed at AMHC’s Ellsworth Outpatient Office, Dr. Deerfield will extend her reach through telehealth, engaging with clients and staff across the agency. Reflecting on her new role, she expressed her excitement, saying, “I am very excited to be with AMHC and delighted to find such a diversely talented but universally welcoming group of individuals.”

Psychiatry is the medical specialty devoted to the diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of mental disorders. These include various maladaptations related to mood, behavior, cognition, and perceptions. Psychiatrists evaluate, diagnose, and treat patients with mental, emotional, and behavioral disorders. They conduct thorough psychiatric evaluations, develop treatment plans, prescribe medication, and evaluate treatment results.

On a more personal note, Dr. Deerfield finds solace in the outdoors, often spending her spare time exploring nature with her dogs.

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