Psychiatrists in Spokane, WA
Elizabeth J Mitchell
Psychiatric Nurse, PhD, ARNP, ND
Verified Verified
Spokane, WA 99205
It is one of my greatest joys to see each of my client's life restored and improved. I consider this work my life's calling. I have expertise with a variety of mental-health conditions including: Mood Disorders (Bipolar Disorder / Depression); Anxiety Disorders; Grieving; and various life adjustments. I am Nationally Board Certified to do individual, marital, and family counseling as well as prescribe psychiatric medication. I do enjoy helping people with chronic health conditions and also am a certified naturopath to work with diet, herbs, and supplements which I can incorporate into treatment if the client desires.
It is one of my greatest joys to see each of my client's life restored and improved. I consider this work my life's calling. I have expertise with a variety of mental-health conditions including: Mood Disorders (Bipolar Disorder / Depression); Anxiety Disorders; Grieving; and various life adjustments. I am Nationally Board Certified to do individual, marital, and family counseling as well as prescribe psychiatric medication. I do enjoy helping people with chronic health conditions and also am a certified naturopath to work with diet, herbs, and supplements which I can incorporate into treatment if the client desires.
Jenny Shaw
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, -BC, ARNP, MSN, BSN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Spokane, WA 99204
Hi, my name is Jenny Shaw. I am a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with over 20 years of nursing experience. I enjoy collaborating with clients across the lifespan providing psychiatric evaluations, diagnoses, and medication management. I look forward to working with you!
Hi, my name is Jenny Shaw. I am a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with over 20 years of nursing experience. I enjoy collaborating with clients across the lifespan providing psychiatric evaluations, diagnoses, and medication management. I look forward to working with you!
Panoramic Psychiatry LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, ARNP
Verified Verified
Spokane, WA 99204
We are current accepting new clients at our Spokane office. At Panoramic Psychiatry, we specialize in providing psychiatric evaluations and providing/managing psychiatric medications with compassion and care. We treat attention deficient/hyperactivity disorder, depression, anxiety, mood disorders, thought disorders and eating disorders in children, adolescents and adults. With our team of six psychiatric nurse practitioners, we can help you get an appointment quickly with a provider who aligns with your treatment needs and communication style.
We are current accepting new clients at our Spokane office. At Panoramic Psychiatry, we specialize in providing psychiatric evaluations and providing/managing psychiatric medications with compassion and care. We treat attention deficient/hyperactivity disorder, depression, anxiety, mood disorders, thought disorders and eating disorders in children, adolescents and adults. With our team of six psychiatric nurse practitioners, we can help you get an appointment quickly with a provider who aligns with your treatment needs and communication style.
Heramba Mental Healthcare, PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP , ARNP, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Spokane, WA 99201
We accept new clients every day throughout the year. We are opened Mondays through Saturdays. We accept all insurances, Medicaid, and Medicare. We do have telepsychiatry, telemedicine, or telehealth availability. We are opened every day, include Saturdays and Sundays. Mental health disorders impact people from a broad spectrum of the population. We love to help and support people. We are passionate about our patients’ psychiatric health and wellbeing. We spend time listening to our clients. We take into considerations our clients’ preferences and complaints.
We accept new clients every day throughout the year. We are opened Mondays through Saturdays. We accept all insurances, Medicaid, and Medicare. We do have telepsychiatry, telemedicine, or telehealth availability. We are opened every day, include Saturdays and Sundays. Mental health disorders impact people from a broad spectrum of the population. We love to help and support people. We are passionate about our patients’ psychiatric health and wellbeing. We spend time listening to our clients. We take into considerations our clients’ preferences and complaints.
Justine Jones
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMH-NP,, MSN, BSN
Verified Verified
Spokane, WA 99201
Hi, my name is Justine Jones and I am a board certified Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with 15 years of nursing experience. I treat patients throughout the lifespan and particularly enjoy working with children, adolescents, and young adults. I specialize in mood disorders including ODD, DMDD, bipolar, depression, and anxiety, and am an advocate for the LGBTQIA+ community. I also have personal experience with the foster care system and with adoption. I believe in care with compassion and equality and in finding the good in every person. I will be in private practice and my business is InfluencingGrowth.
Hi, my name is Justine Jones and I am a board certified Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with 15 years of nursing experience. I treat patients throughout the lifespan and particularly enjoy working with children, adolescents, and young adults. I specialize in mood disorders including ODD, DMDD, bipolar, depression, and anxiety, and am an advocate for the LGBTQIA+ community. I also have personal experience with the foster care system and with adoption. I believe in care with compassion and equality and in finding the good in every person. I will be in private practice and my business is InfluencingGrowth.
Mental Health For All Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, ARNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Spokane, WA 99201 (Online Only)
Mental Health For All is a diverse group of mental health professionals serving Washington through telehealth visits. Our mental health professionals see children, adolescents, and adults and specialize in a multitude of mental health diagnoses including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, sleep disorder, behavioral, schizophrenia, eating disorders, , and personality disorders and learning issues including ADHD.
Mental Health For All is a diverse group of mental health professionals serving Washington through telehealth visits. Our mental health professionals see children, adolescents, and adults and specialize in a multitude of mental health diagnoses including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, sleep disorder, behavioral, schizophrenia, eating disorders, , and personality disorders and learning issues including ADHD.
Restful Mind Mental Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN , APRN, FNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Spokane, WA 99201 (Online Only)
Allow me to provide you with experienced knowledgeable care in a friendly comfortable setting. As your partner in your mental health journey I can help you achieve a more peaceful, productive, enjoyable life with up to date treatments and the latest evidence based practice. Using a compassionate, and non judgmental approach creates a safe space to delve into your most difficult issues and realize sustained improvement of symptoms.
Allow me to provide you with experienced knowledgeable care in a friendly comfortable setting. As your partner in your mental health journey I can help you achieve a more peaceful, productive, enjoyable life with up to date treatments and the latest evidence based practice. Using a compassionate, and non judgmental approach creates a safe space to delve into your most difficult issues and realize sustained improvement of symptoms.
Colleen Moore
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, AGPCNP
Verified Verified
Spokane, WA 99201
My practice focuses on treatment-resistant depression and psychoeducation. I have expertise in interventional psychiatric approaches including esketamine and TMS therapy. I believe in building a strong relationship to work towards a common goal of mental wellness.
My practice focuses on treatment-resistant depression and psychoeducation. I have expertise in interventional psychiatric approaches including esketamine and TMS therapy. I believe in building a strong relationship to work towards a common goal of mental wellness.
Amber Pfeiffer
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MS, ARNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Spokane, WA 99201
Can be seen within 1-2 WEEKS for 1st TIME appointments! Book now at mentalhealthtodaywa.com. I believe true healing happens when we integrate the best of both worlds – the latest medical science and ancient healing wisdom and that this approach can help you achieve optimal health, vitality, and well-being. I aspire to support those who struggle with anxiety, depression or are in the midst of many of life’s transitions with compassion, curiosity, and holistic psychiatry that combines comprehensive methods including medication management, the use of botanicals, and psychotherapy.
Can be seen within 1-2 WEEKS for 1st TIME appointments! Book now at mentalhealthtodaywa.com. I believe true healing happens when we integrate the best of both worlds – the latest medical science and ancient healing wisdom and that this approach can help you achieve optimal health, vitality, and well-being. I aspire to support those who struggle with anxiety, depression or are in the midst of many of life’s transitions with compassion, curiosity, and holistic psychiatry that combines comprehensive methods including medication management, the use of botanicals, and psychotherapy.
Cedarwood
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Spokane, WA 99205 (Online Only)
A compassionate, dedicated Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner highly regarded for 3+ years of success providing advanced, comprehensive Nursing care with a high degree of accuracy. Are you tired of second-guessing yourself, feeling disorganized, or powerless? Are you ready to experience healthier relationships with others with a higher quality and balanced life? I specialize in helping people stay on track, clarify their goals, and co-create the life they want in a safe and healthy environment. We treat Depression, ADHD, PTSD, Bipolar, Anxiety, Eating Disorders. Virtual Appointments Only (Telehealth)
A compassionate, dedicated Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner highly regarded for 3+ years of success providing advanced, comprehensive Nursing care with a high degree of accuracy. Are you tired of second-guessing yourself, feeling disorganized, or powerless? Are you ready to experience healthier relationships with others with a higher quality and balanced life? I specialize in helping people stay on track, clarify their goals, and co-create the life they want in a safe and healthy environment. We treat Depression, ADHD, PTSD, Bipolar, Anxiety, Eating Disorders. Virtual Appointments Only (Telehealth)
Mike Colver
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Spokane, WA 99207
I am a psychiatric nurse practitioner with a passion for helping people improve their mental health and overall quality of life. With over 15 years of experience in the mental health field, I have honed my skills in treating a wide range of mental health conditions. At Persona Mental Health, I specialize in medication management for individuals dealing with depression, anxiety, psychosis, insomnia, ADHD, and substance use disorders. My approach is patient-centered, meaning that I take the time to understand each patient's unique situation and develop a personalized treatment plan that suits their specific needs and goals.
I am a psychiatric nurse practitioner with a passion for helping people improve their mental health and overall quality of life. With over 15 years of experience in the mental health field, I have honed my skills in treating a wide range of mental health conditions. At Persona Mental Health, I specialize in medication management for individuals dealing with depression, anxiety, psychosis, insomnia, ADHD, and substance use disorders. My approach is patient-centered, meaning that I take the time to understand each patient's unique situation and develop a personalized treatment plan that suits their specific needs and goals.
15 Second Videos
Amber Pfeiffer
Raelin Bright Wellness
Nancy Masters
Ronil Shah
Alecia White
Morna Agoki- Tween, Teen & Young Adult Psychiatry
Kelsey Martell - Mountain Psychiatry
Funmilola (Lola) Sijuade
Madeline Jacobs
CopeWell Psychiatry And Wellness
Dr Mark Chofla | Empathy Therapy
Emily Ketchel @ Acorn Psychiatry
Steven K Elrod
Marco Rudas-Garcia
Mental Health For All Services
At Your Service Psychiatry, PLLC
Jade Goodloe
At Your Service Psychiatry, PLLC
Tanner Rapp
Fatima Omar
Anna Long
Sommer Wright At Skybridge Counseling And Psychiatry
Victoria Abolarin
Heather Sanudo
Robert Garrard
Daniel Bristow
Bella Mente PLLC
Felicia Turner, APRN | Text #Enroll 503-925-6606
Michele Tulk
Olivier Djoumessi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
Spokane, WA 99201
Olivier is a compassionate, patient-focused, board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with nine years of experience providing mental health services in acute and outpatient settings. Mental health problems can affect your sleep, thoughts, processing information, perceiving events or other people, handling stress, making decisions, and interacting with your friends and loved ones. Your feelings are valid, so please do not feel shame or compare your struggle with anyone else's. Accepting new patients.....Book your Appointment.
Olivier is a compassionate, patient-focused, board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with nine years of experience providing mental health services in acute and outpatient settings. Mental health problems can affect your sleep, thoughts, processing information, perceiving events or other people, handling stress, making decisions, and interacting with your friends and loved ones. Your feelings are valid, so please do not feel shame or compare your struggle with anyone else's. Accepting new patients.....Book your Appointment.
Salient Health Services PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, Akosua, Obeng, DNP, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Spokane, WA 99201
I offer client-focused and compassionate mental health treatment for patients of varying ages, from 18 years and above. My area of expertise includes managing clients with Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Anxiety Disorders, PTSD, ADHD, Autism Schizophrenia, and more. My approach to the treatment of mental health illness is a collaborative approach with the patient. I take into consideration my clients' past experiences and treatments, remaining sensitive to the patient’s perspective and including them in the treatment approach. My treatment plans are client specific and tailored to each client’s specific needs and goals.
I offer client-focused and compassionate mental health treatment for patients of varying ages, from 18 years and above. My area of expertise includes managing clients with Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Anxiety Disorders, PTSD, ADHD, Autism Schizophrenia, and more. My approach to the treatment of mental health illness is a collaborative approach with the patient. I take into consideration my clients' past experiences and treatments, remaining sensitive to the patient’s perspective and including them in the treatment approach. My treatment plans are client specific and tailored to each client’s specific needs and goals.
Joy Powell
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSW
Verified Verified
Spokane, WA 99223
Making changes in anyone’s life is hard, but I believe that everybody deserves to feel the best they can. Daily stressors and traumatic events can create a whole cascade of other symptoms that impact us over the short and long term. Whether you are just beginning to seek help for your symptoms through psychotherapy, have questions about a previous or current diagnosis, or wish to start or stop psychiatric medications, I can help you consider your options and the risks/benefits of various decisions. Let's get you feeling better!
Making changes in anyone’s life is hard, but I believe that everybody deserves to feel the best they can. Daily stressors and traumatic events can create a whole cascade of other symptoms that impact us over the short and long term. Whether you are just beginning to seek help for your symptoms through psychotherapy, have questions about a previous or current diagnosis, or wish to start or stop psychiatric medications, I can help you consider your options and the risks/benefits of various decisions. Let's get you feeling better!
Justin Bayley
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, DNP
Verified Verified
Spokane, WA 99201
I contract with Mindful Therapy Group local to Spokane. I work with clients whose ages range from 6 and up and treat various psychiatric concerns such as anxiety, depression, bipolar, schizophrenia, autism spectrum disorder, developmental disorders, behavioral issues, eating disorders, gender dysphoria, grief/loss, impulse control disorders, Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, obsessive compulsive disorder, panic, psychosis, PTSD/trauma, and have some experience in Traumatic Brain Injury when psychiatric concerns are relevant.
I contract with Mindful Therapy Group local to Spokane. I work with clients whose ages range from 6 and up and treat various psychiatric concerns such as anxiety, depression, bipolar, schizophrenia, autism spectrum disorder, developmental disorders, behavioral issues, eating disorders, gender dysphoria, grief/loss, impulse control disorders, Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, obsessive compulsive disorder, panic, psychosis, PTSD/trauma, and have some experience in Traumatic Brain Injury when psychiatric concerns are relevant.
Adam D Barnett
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, RN
Verified Verified
Spokane, WA 99201
My ideal client is open minded and willing to work with me to establish treatment goals tailored to their needs. They understand that health is a continuous process & not a destination. They want to work towards complete wellness & consider lifestyle change. Advanced practice nurses consider therapies alongside medicine including complimentary/alternative approaches, well studied supplementation, nutrition, exercise, general health & wellness. We examine and perform individual as well as interpersonal & group psychotherapy.
My ideal client is open minded and willing to work with me to establish treatment goals tailored to their needs. They understand that health is a continuous process & not a destination. They want to work towards complete wellness & consider lifestyle change. Advanced practice nurses consider therapies alongside medicine including complimentary/alternative approaches, well studied supplementation, nutrition, exercise, general health & wellness. We examine and perform individual as well as interpersonal & group psychotherapy.
Jeffrey Schack
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Spokane, WA 99201
Jeffrey is a graduate of The Chicago Medical School and completed his psychiatry residency from Wilford Hall USAF Medical Center. He believes in a cognitive behavioral orientation and provides pharmacotherapy or individual psychotherapy with pharmacotherapy. He works with patients 18 years or older and has experience treating ADHD, anxiety, bipolar disorder, grief/loss, medical conditions, OCD, post partum depression, PTSD and sleep disorders. In his spare time, he enjoys music, gardening and the outdoors.
Jeffrey is a graduate of The Chicago Medical School and completed his psychiatry residency from Wilford Hall USAF Medical Center. He believes in a cognitive behavioral orientation and provides pharmacotherapy or individual psychotherapy with pharmacotherapy. He works with patients 18 years or older and has experience treating ADHD, anxiety, bipolar disorder, grief/loss, medical conditions, OCD, post partum depression, PTSD and sleep disorders. In his spare time, he enjoys music, gardening and the outdoors.
Candice Barnett
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Spokane, WA 99201
My diverse training background provides a perspective and treatment that goes beyond the individual psyche. Not only is each individual created with unique talents, abilities, and purpose, but each individual also needs to be connected to something bigger. My mission is to assist the individual, child or adult to thrive, which can sometimes require therapy, medications, or both. I have been trained in family structural therapy that can provide surprising results through family involvement even without medications. Let's collaborate and cultivate your new life together.
My diverse training background provides a perspective and treatment that goes beyond the individual psyche. Not only is each individual created with unique talents, abilities, and purpose, but each individual also needs to be connected to something bigger. My mission is to assist the individual, child or adult to thrive, which can sometimes require therapy, medications, or both. I have been trained in family structural therapy that can provide surprising results through family involvement even without medications. Let's collaborate and cultivate your new life together.
Raelin Bright Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Spokane, WA 99201 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Tired of ER visits due to panic attacks? Do you feel anxious, sad, out of control, or overwhelmed? Do you have racing thoughts, nightmares or trouble sleeping, or trouble relaxing? Are you feeling sad, like a dark cloud is over you or experiencing trauma responses? Do you feel treated as a number, not a person, when seeking help? I provide mental health treatment that is tailored to fit your needs. My approach is person-centered; I have mastered listening and recognizing people’s needs. I treat with evidence-based practices and believe in medication reduction as much as possible to avoid people being on too many medications.
Tired of ER visits due to panic attacks? Do you feel anxious, sad, out of control, or overwhelmed? Do you have racing thoughts, nightmares or trouble sleeping, or trouble relaxing? Are you feeling sad, like a dark cloud is over you or experiencing trauma responses? Do you feel treated as a number, not a person, when seeking help? I provide mental health treatment that is tailored to fit your needs. My approach is person-centered; I have mastered listening and recognizing people’s needs. I treat with evidence-based practices and believe in medication reduction as much as possible to avoid people being on too many medications.
Emerald Behavioral Health LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, MSN, APRN, MA, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Spokane, WA 99201
We are accepting new patients, we are a board certified mental health Nurse practitioner. We evaluate, diagnose and manage various mental health conditions such as ADHD, personality disorders, mood disorders and anxiety in both children and adults. Our goal is to bridge the gap in mental health and enhance access to treatment. We are dedicated to the wellbeing of our generation, therefore we are dedicated to both young and old with needs for mental health treatment. You don't have to suffer alone, come let us get you the best care you deserve.
We are accepting new patients, we are a board certified mental health Nurse practitioner. We evaluate, diagnose and manage various mental health conditions such as ADHD, personality disorders, mood disorders and anxiety in both children and adults. Our goal is to bridge the gap in mental health and enhance access to treatment. We are dedicated to the wellbeing of our generation, therefore we are dedicated to both young and old with needs for mental health treatment. You don't have to suffer alone, come let us get you the best care you deserve.
See more therapy options for Spokane
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Spokane, WA
100+
Average cost per session
$222
Psychiatrists in Spokane, WA who prioritize treating:
94% | Depression |
93% | Anxiety |
84% | Medication Management |
79% | ADHD |
77% | Trauma and PTSD |
76% | Bipolar Disorder |
72% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
Average years in practice
7 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
90% | Aetna |
83% | Cigna and Evernorth |
80% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Psychiatrists in Spokane, WA see their clients
50% | In Person and Online | |
50% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
78% | Female | |
21% | Male | |
1% | Non-Binary |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Spokane?
The Psychology Today Directory enables you to search specifically for psychiatrists, using the drop down provider menu in the navigation bar, by city or zip code, or by the name of the psychiatrist. Search results provide detailed profiles of professionals, including their treatment approach and areas of expertise. In addition, listings provide important information about each psychiatrist’s credentials, fees, payment options, and insurance affiliations. Directory users can select psychiatrists who meet an array of personally-desired criteria, such as familiarity with a specific community or condition.
What is the difference between a psychiatrist and a psychologist?
Psychiatrists are medical specialists who focus on understanding, diagnosing, and treating diseases of the brain and disorders of the mind and behavior. As physicians, psychiatrists are trained to recognize the often-subtle biological causes of mental disorders and to monitor the effects of mental disturbances on physical conditions, such as heart disease. Psychologists are especially attuned to the influence of early experience on development and behavior, emotional and cognitive processes, the nature of personality, and social functioning. They are also trained to deploy an array of psychological tests—IQ tests, personality tests, behavioral assessments—to gauge a person’s functioning.
What is a psychiatric nurse practitioner?
A psychiatric nurse practitioner, also known as a mental health nurse practitioner, is a registered nurse who completes advanced training in psychiatric care, earning either a master’s or doctoral degree in psychiatric nursing, and in the U.S., passes a national certification exam. Like psychiatrists, psychiatric nurse practitioners are trained to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions. In some locales, psychiatric nurse practitioners can offer the full range of psychiatric care, including prescribing and managing medication. In other places, they must work in collaboration with a physician.
Is everyone in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory a licensed psychiatrist?
The Psychology Today directory lists providers who offer legitimate mental health services to the public, including psychiatrists, psychologists, social workers, and counselors. All psychiatrists listed in the directory have a valid license issued by the state(s) in which they practice and are certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. Providers whose license or primary credential has been verified by Psychology Today are signified by a “Verified” symbol. Some individuals or organizations provide services for which their state or country does not offer licenses, such as pastoral counseling. They may be selectively included without the “Verified” seal.
Can a psychiatrist prescribe medication?
Psychiatrists are licensed medical doctors who are trained to recognize the many ways body processes affect the functioning of the brain and mind. As physicians, they can prescribe medication. Patients who are prescribed medications will typically need to continue to see a psychiatrist so that the effects of the medication can be monitored. For many psychiatric conditions, including common disorders such as anxiety and depression, the preferred treatment is combination therapy—medication accompanied by psychotherapy.
Do psychiatrists offer therapy?
Psychiatrists are generally trained in a number of treatment modalities, including psychotherapy, pharmacotherapy, and, increasingly, somatic therapies. Typically, psychiatrists 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 sessions with a psychiatrist may only be 15-20 minutes in length and are largely focused on medication management. Many psychiatrists who do not offer psychotherapy work collaboratively with psychologists and other mental health clinicians and can refer clients seeking talk therapy to those providers.
How do I know if I need a psychiatrist 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. One way many people learn which type of care is best for them is by seeing their primary care provider first. Depending on the nature and severity of the symptoms, the physician may review their medical history or perform medical tests to determine whether biological factors are involved before making a referral. It is not necessary for a person to know precisely what type of care they need in order to seek help. Many psychiatrists and psychologists refer clients to each other depending on client needs.
Do I need a referral to see a psychiatrist?
A referral to a psychiatrist is often not required. However, seeing your primary care physician first can be helpful and actually prove to be a shortcut to getting what you need. Your PCP may have a clear idea whether psychiatric help is needed and/or which kind of mental health care would be most beneficial and refer you to the right type of practitioner. For that reason alone, some psychiatrists require a referral. Further, many insurance plans require a referral from a PCP if they cover all of part of the cost of seeing a specialist; if, however, you are paying out of pocket, you may not need a referral. In any case, a referral may speed the process of securing an appointment with a psychiatrist, especially in areas where there is a shortage of mental health specialists and new patients face long waits for appointments.