Rebecca Houlihan, MSN, APRN, FNP-BC, Joins Optima Dermatology’s Scarborough, ME Practice 

October 2025

Optima is Excited to Welcome a Board-Certified Physician Assistant, Rebecca Houlihan to the Scarborough Team 

Rebecca has been providing medical dermatology services to patients of all ages since 2021. 

Rebecca earned her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences (MCPHS), where she graduated Summa Cum Laude, and her Bachelor of Science in Biobehavioral Health with a minor in Neuroscience from Penn State University. She then went on to earn her Master of Science in Nursing from Simmons University.  

Before transitioning to dermatology, Rebecca gained experience in urgent care and emergency medicine, working primarily in the emergency department at Addison Gilbert Hospital and Beverly Hospital, which are both part of the Beth Israel Lahey Health system. She also delivered care at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute in Massachusetts. 

Rebecca looks forward to providing expert dermatology care in Scarborough and the surrounding towns of the greater Portland region and southern Maine. She is committed to delivering an unparalleled patient experience and providing the highest quality of care. 

We recently had the opportunity to learn more about Rebecca, her approach, and the path that led her to become a board-certified nurse practitioner. 

What made you decide to pursue a career in dermatology? What did the path to get there look like for you?    

In my previous career as an ER nurse, I had a special interest in patients who came to the ER with skin-related concerns. I went back to school at Simmons University and pursued a master’s in nursing to continue my education. 

I ultimately chose dermatology because of the ability to treat a variety of acute and chronic conditions, prioritize skin cancer detection and prevention, and have the opportunity to learn both medical and aesthetic aspects of care.  

What is your favorite aspect of being a nurse practitioner?  

My favorite aspect of being a nurse practitioner is collaborating with my patients to find a treatment plan that works for them and helping them see it through. I love helping my patients feel better in their skin. I also value working in a field where I am constantly being challenged and learning.  

What is your approach to treating your patients?  

I like to treat my patients as if they were friends or family. I believe in shared decision-making and make an effort to educate and include my patients in decisions about their care.  

What is your number one tip when it comes to taking care of your skin?  

When it comes to taking care of your skin, my number one tip is to use sun protection! Regular use of sunscreen and sun protective clothing will reduce the risk of skin cancer and premature aging of your skin. I always tell my patients that their future selves will be grateful.  

What is one thing you want your patients to know about you?   

Outside of work, the most important part of my life is my family. My husband and I have two small children as well as a golden retriever named Augie. We’re busy in this season of life, but we are loving every minute!    

What do you like to do when you are not in the office treating patients?  

When I’m not in the office treating patients, I enjoy spending time outside in nature. My family spends as many weekends at Lake Winnipesaukee as we can, and we love boating and being on the water.      

What to Expect From Dermatological Care Delivered by Rebecca and Her Team 

Patients visiting with Rebecca and her team at Optima Dermatology will receive the highest quality of care backed by advanced training and experience. 

Rebecca is currently accepting new patients at our Scarborough, ME location. Request an appointment online or give us a call at 855-277-9689.