Psychiatrists in Roselle, IL

Photo of Marlene Tang, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Roselle, IL
Marlene Tang
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP-C
Verified Verified
Roselle, IL 60172
It is through empathy that we are able to see in the eyes of another, listen with the ears of another and feel with the heart of another ( Alfred Adler). I am a board-certified and licensed Psychiatry-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I take pride in taking my time to get to know my patient's concerns and goals for the visits, offering mental health evaluations & medication management. My practice is open to clients 16-64 yo with particular interest in anxiety, mood disorders, ADHD & Suboxone maintenance treatment.
It is through empathy that we are able to see in the eyes of another, listen with the ears of another and feel with the heart of another ( Alfred Adler). I am a board-certified and licensed Psychiatry-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I take pride in taking my time to get to know my patient's concerns and goals for the visits, offering mental health evaluations & medication management. My practice is open to clients 16-64 yo with particular interest in anxiety, mood disorders, ADHD & Suboxone maintenance treatment.
(224) 505-1571 View (224) 505-1571

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Gary A Casaccio, Psychiatrist in Roselle, IL
Gary A Casaccio
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Wheaton, IL 60187
I work primarily with adults but will see adolescents 16 years old and above.
I work primarily with adults but will see adolescents 16 years old and above.
(888) 725-4642 View (888) 725-4642
Photo of Ana Mirica, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Roselle, IL
Ana Mirica
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Verified Verified
Winfield, IL 60190
I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and have been providing mental health services for 11 years in outpatient and in home settings. I see Individuals and I address Anxiety, Depression, hyperactive disorder (ADD / ADHD), sleep disorders.
I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and have been providing mental health services for 11 years in outpatient and in home settings. I see Individuals and I address Anxiety, Depression, hyperactive disorder (ADD / ADHD), sleep disorders.
(630) 491-5669 View (630) 491-5669
Photo of Tandem Psychiatric and Family Practice, PLLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Roselle, IL
Tandem Psychiatric and Family Practice, PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Verified Verified
Carol Stream, IL 60128
If you are an individual who is privately suffering from mental health illness or a loved one who is privately suffering with them, there is help for you. At Tandem Psychiatric and Family Practice, the focus is to integrate the most current and accurate treatment along with psychotherapy that centers on aiding the individual to feel whole again. I come from a Christian background and I firmly believe that every human being has the dignity of God, which comes with a purpose in life. This is the premise from which I approach treatment, so that hopefully every client can be given the means to reach their God given potential.
If you are an individual who is privately suffering from mental health illness or a loved one who is privately suffering with them, there is help for you. At Tandem Psychiatric and Family Practice, the focus is to integrate the most current and accurate treatment along with psychotherapy that centers on aiding the individual to feel whole again. I come from a Christian background and I firmly believe that every human being has the dignity of God, which comes with a purpose in life. This is the premise from which I approach treatment, so that hopefully every client can be given the means to reach their God given potential.
(346) 449-4832 View (346) 449-4832
Photo of Heta Shah, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Roselle, IL
Heta Shah
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Hoffman Estates, IL 60192
Heta Shah is accepting new patients. Heta is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with experience in treating children, adolescents and adults with a wide range of mental health conditions. She is known for her compassionate and patient-centered approach, taking the time to listen to her patients’ concerns and develop individualized treatment plans that meet their unique needs. Her comprehensive assessments, evidence-based treatment plans, and ongoing support aim to promote mental wellness and improve the overall quality of life for her patients.
Heta Shah is accepting new patients. Heta is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with experience in treating children, adolescents and adults with a wide range of mental health conditions. She is known for her compassionate and patient-centered approach, taking the time to listen to her patients’ concerns and develop individualized treatment plans that meet their unique needs. Her comprehensive assessments, evidence-based treatment plans, and ongoing support aim to promote mental wellness and improve the overall quality of life for her patients.
(224) 344-2113 View (224) 344-2113
Photo of Dominique Holmes, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Roselle, IL
Dominique Holmes
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Schaumburg, IL 60159
As a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner I understand the importance of treating the whole person. Sometimes life can feel so complex that we forget laughter can be the best medicine. What makes you laugh? For me it’s a good stand up comedy show with one of my favorite comedians. What makes you happy? For me it’s a clear schedule and my comfy couch. What motivates you? For me it’s touching lives one by one even it’s it’s via tele-visit.
As a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner I understand the importance of treating the whole person. Sometimes life can feel so complex that we forget laughter can be the best medicine. What makes you laugh? For me it’s a good stand up comedy show with one of my favorite comedians. What makes you happy? For me it’s a clear schedule and my comfy couch. What motivates you? For me it’s touching lives one by one even it’s it’s via tele-visit.
(708) 607-9551 View (708) 607-9551
Photo of Mariposa Psychiatric Center, Psychiatrist in Roselle, IL
Mariposa Psychiatric Center
Psychiatrist, MD, MPH
Verified Verified
Lombard, IL 60148
At Mariposa Psychiatric Center, Elizabeth Homan, MD, MPH is a ABPN Board Certified Psychiatrist, and Board Certified Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist who has expertise in treating children, adolescents, and young adults. Dr. Homan graduated from University of Illinois at Chicago College of Medicine in 2010, Psychiatry Residency Training at University of Miami/Jackson Memorial Hospital in 2013, and Child and Adolescent Psychiatry Fellowship at University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics in 2015. At Mariposa Psychiatric Center obtain the expertise to help your or loved one to adapt and soar.
At Mariposa Psychiatric Center, Elizabeth Homan, MD, MPH is a ABPN Board Certified Psychiatrist, and Board Certified Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist who has expertise in treating children, adolescents, and young adults. Dr. Homan graduated from University of Illinois at Chicago College of Medicine in 2010, Psychiatry Residency Training at University of Miami/Jackson Memorial Hospital in 2013, and Child and Adolescent Psychiatry Fellowship at University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics in 2015. At Mariposa Psychiatric Center obtain the expertise to help your or loved one to adapt and soar.
(319) 536-1964 View (319) 536-1964
Photo of Caitlin Strebing, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Roselle, IL
Caitlin Strebing
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, AGACNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Elmhurst, IL 60126
My focus primarily is helping patients with treatment-resistant depression and anxiety. Listening is a very important first step. I am here to witness patient stories and help assess what treatment route is best for you. My goal for each patient is to have them leave feeling better than when they walked in. I want every patient to feel supported and know that I will not give up on them.
My focus primarily is helping patients with treatment-resistant depression and anxiety. Listening is a very important first step. I am here to witness patient stories and help assess what treatment route is best for you. My goal for each patient is to have them leave feeling better than when they walked in. I want every patient to feel supported and know that I will not give up on them.
(847) 851-4120 View (847) 851-4120
Photo of Elizabeth Kelly, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Roselle, IL
Elizabeth Kelly
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, ANP-BC
Verified Verified
Elmhurst, IL 60126
During my time working in primary care I have observed significant deficits in access to quality mental health care for both the geriatric and adult populations including patients with dementia, major depressive disorder, anxiety, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia and substance use disorder. I’ve become focused on helping fill in those gaps in care. So often medications are quickly prescribed to manage complex issues that need an interdisciplinary and holistic approach. I obtained my buprenorphine waiver to help contribute to a solution of the opiate crisis which I have seen devastate the lives of people of all ages.
During my time working in primary care I have observed significant deficits in access to quality mental health care for both the geriatric and adult populations including patients with dementia, major depressive disorder, anxiety, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia and substance use disorder. I’ve become focused on helping fill in those gaps in care. So often medications are quickly prescribed to manage complex issues that need an interdisciplinary and holistic approach. I obtained my buprenorphine waiver to help contribute to a solution of the opiate crisis which I have seen devastate the lives of people of all ages.
(708) 726-5041 View (708) 726-5041
Photo of Amy M Batista, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Roselle, IL
Amy M Batista
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APN, ANP-BC
Verified Verified
Wheaton, IL 60187
As a Board Certified Nurse Practitioner at Meier Clinics, I provide assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of psychiatric conditions by integrating a holistic approach with a nondenominational Christian perspective and evidence-based medicine. I believe in treating clients with the utmost respect for individual differences, cultural backgrounds, and life experiences. I look forward to developing trusting, collaborative relationships with my clients to help them feel their best and live life to the fullest.
As a Board Certified Nurse Practitioner at Meier Clinics, I provide assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of psychiatric conditions by integrating a holistic approach with a nondenominational Christian perspective and evidence-based medicine. I believe in treating clients with the utmost respect for individual differences, cultural backgrounds, and life experiences. I look forward to developing trusting, collaborative relationships with my clients to help them feel their best and live life to the fullest.
(630) 354-0518 View (630) 354-0518
Photo of Armanda Keci, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Roselle, IL
Armanda Keci
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Schaumburg, IL 60173
Treating holistically, listening empathetically, and developing relationships are important in helping my patients with their journey in mental health.
Treating holistically, listening empathetically, and developing relationships are important in helping my patients with their journey in mental health.
(847) 750-3391 x816 View (847) 750-3391 x816
Photo of Margaret A. Tormay, Psychiatrist in Roselle, IL
Margaret A. Tormay
Psychiatrist, MD
Not Verified Not Verified
West Chicago, IL 60185
Margaret A. Tormay, MD Dr. Tormay has been practicing psychiatry for over 30 years. She was raised on the East coast, graduating from Mt. Holyoke College in Massachusetts and the University of Rochester School of Medicine in Rochester, New York. She moved to Chicago in1985 for her psychiatry Residency at the University of Illinois. Dr. Tormay’s practice of psychiatry has always been informed by the Biopsychosocial Model of wellness and medicine developed by psychiatrist, George Engel, at the University of Rochester School of Medicine.
Margaret A. Tormay, MD Dr. Tormay has been practicing psychiatry for over 30 years. She was raised on the East coast, graduating from Mt. Holyoke College in Massachusetts and the University of Rochester School of Medicine in Rochester, New York. She moved to Chicago in1985 for her psychiatry Residency at the University of Illinois. Dr. Tormay’s practice of psychiatry has always been informed by the Biopsychosocial Model of wellness and medicine developed by psychiatrist, George Engel, at the University of Rochester School of Medicine.
(331) 444-7625 View (331) 444-7625
Photo of Joanna Cunningham, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Roselle, IL
Joanna Cunningham
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARNP, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
Hoffman Estates, IL 60169
*I strive to provide compassionate, understanding and patient driven care, with each patient I see. Our goals are to help them reach their optimum mental health. We use the latest, most effective assessment and clinical tools to provide excellent, sound judgement in treatment protocols. I go to great lengths to listen and learn how to help each, specific patient along their journey. No one will be treated like a number.
*I strive to provide compassionate, understanding and patient driven care, with each patient I see. Our goals are to help them reach their optimum mental health. We use the latest, most effective assessment and clinical tools to provide excellent, sound judgement in treatment protocols. I go to great lengths to listen and learn how to help each, specific patient along their journey. No one will be treated like a number.
(847) 545-0862 View (847) 545-0862
Photo of Chiedza Nwakudu, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Roselle, IL
Chiedza Nwakudu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Elmhurst, IL 60126
I am a double board certified psychiatric mental health and primary care nurse practitioner experienced in medication management of psychiatric conditions including anxiety, mood, and eating disorders, substance abuse, anger and stress management, and ADHD. I completed a Master's in Nursing Science degree from Rush University in Chicago, and a Doctor of Nursing Practice degree from the University of Alabama at Birmingham, and the psychiatric mental health certificate from Lewis University in Illinois.
I am a double board certified psychiatric mental health and primary care nurse practitioner experienced in medication management of psychiatric conditions including anxiety, mood, and eating disorders, substance abuse, anger and stress management, and ADHD. I completed a Master's in Nursing Science degree from Rush University in Chicago, and a Doctor of Nursing Practice degree from the University of Alabama at Birmingham, and the psychiatric mental health certificate from Lewis University in Illinois.
(331) 210-9626 View (331) 210-9626
Photo of Lateef Kelani, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Roselle, IL
Lateef Kelani
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lombard, IL 60148
I provide therapeutic services to patients of diverse backgrounds with cultural sensitivity. My methods include utilizing a pharmacotherapeutic/ psychotherapeutic approach in providing beneficial mental health care. I understand that living with a psychiatric illness can be challenging, but a positive outlook on life can be achieved with the right psychiatric care approach, which involves patient teaching and collaboration. My goal is to make every patient I consult with realize that there is light at the end of the tunnel and a debilitating mental health disorder can be effectively treated.
I provide therapeutic services to patients of diverse backgrounds with cultural sensitivity. My methods include utilizing a pharmacotherapeutic/ psychotherapeutic approach in providing beneficial mental health care. I understand that living with a psychiatric illness can be challenging, but a positive outlook on life can be achieved with the right psychiatric care approach, which involves patient teaching and collaboration. My goal is to make every patient I consult with realize that there is light at the end of the tunnel and a debilitating mental health disorder can be effectively treated.
(331) 236-0220 x1 View (331) 236-0220 x1
Jacqueline Nabukeera
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Bloomingdale, IL 60108
If you're tired of struggling with depression, anxiety, or other conditions/issues that have been getting in your way of living life fully, I can help. I take a holistic and integrative treatment approach with my patients. I take a lot of time to fully understand my patients need and goals. Practicing psychiatry is more than just prescribing medications, it's about getting to the heart of the matter and finding which treatments work best for my patients, as well as educating them about safer and often more effective treatments that can successfully treat their issues and conditions. I welcome the opportunity to work together!
If you're tired of struggling with depression, anxiety, or other conditions/issues that have been getting in your way of living life fully, I can help. I take a holistic and integrative treatment approach with my patients. I take a lot of time to fully understand my patients need and goals. Practicing psychiatry is more than just prescribing medications, it's about getting to the heart of the matter and finding which treatments work best for my patients, as well as educating them about safer and often more effective treatments that can successfully treat their issues and conditions. I welcome the opportunity to work together!
(708) 905-2705 View (708) 905-2705
Photo of Ejaz Jafri, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Roselle, IL
Ejaz Jafri
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
Wheaton, IL 60187  (Online Only)
Having an extensive experience as a psychiatric provider, I take time to listen to my clients’ concerns and symptoms. I believe in helping clients with mental health issues achieve better outcomes by developing individualized treatment plans in a holistic and centered approach to care. I take time to listen to my clients’ concerns and symptoms.. Helping clients to achieve better outcomes in a centered and holistic approach that's my motivation.
Having an extensive experience as a psychiatric provider, I take time to listen to my clients’ concerns and symptoms. I believe in helping clients with mental health issues achieve better outcomes by developing individualized treatment plans in a holistic and centered approach to care. I take time to listen to my clients’ concerns and symptoms.. Helping clients to achieve better outcomes in a centered and holistic approach that's my motivation.
(630) 526-7463 View (630) 526-7463
Photo of Amy Drescher-Crumpley, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Roselle, IL
Amy Drescher-Crumpley
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, CNM, PMHNP, FPA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Glen Ellyn, IL 60137
As a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, (PMHNP-BC). My goal is to build a strong alliance with patients and provide them with hope, knowledge and tools to participate effectively in their own unique healing process. I can address a broad range of mental health issues while working in partnership with other members of the clinical team when appropriate. My scope of practice includes men and women 13 years old and up. I have over 20 years’ experience in health care including my years as a nurse midwife.
As a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, (PMHNP-BC). My goal is to build a strong alliance with patients and provide them with hope, knowledge and tools to participate effectively in their own unique healing process. I can address a broad range of mental health issues while working in partnership with other members of the clinical team when appropriate. My scope of practice includes men and women 13 years old and up. I have over 20 years’ experience in health care including my years as a nurse midwife.
(331) 244-5330 View (331) 244-5330
Photo of Pooja J Patel, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Roselle, IL
Pooja J Patel
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Schaumburg, IL 60173
I have been working in a psychiatric setting for a few years now. I have experienced in both inpatient and outpatient settings. I am skilled in providing individual and comprehensive care including prescribing medications and therapeutic approaches. I believe, mental health is just as important as any other medical issue. It plays an important role in the way we deal with daily life stress, how we relate to others, and the decisions we make. I believe in giving the best quality of care that my patient desires. I am friendly and approachable, with my warm nature I am easily get connected with children and adults.
I have been working in a psychiatric setting for a few years now. I have experienced in both inpatient and outpatient settings. I am skilled in providing individual and comprehensive care including prescribing medications and therapeutic approaches. I believe, mental health is just as important as any other medical issue. It plays an important role in the way we deal with daily life stress, how we relate to others, and the decisions we make. I believe in giving the best quality of care that my patient desires. I am friendly and approachable, with my warm nature I am easily get connected with children and adults.
(630) 354-0752 View (630) 354-0752
Photo of JOSEPH Spagnola, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Roselle, IL
JOSEPH Spagnola
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC, NP, FPA
Verified Verified
Elmhurst, IL 60126
Joseph Spagnola III, delivers extensive and holistic psychiatric care for those who are 16 years old and older. Joseph works carefully with each of his clients to ensure that they are meeting their unique health and wellness goals. Joseph pioneers the increasing of awareness for behavioral and mental health disorders. Joseph is a clinical preceptor supervising nurse practitioner PMHNP students at universities such as NKU, EKU, Walden University, and Herzing University.
Joseph Spagnola III, delivers extensive and holistic psychiatric care for those who are 16 years old and older. Joseph works carefully with each of his clients to ensure that they are meeting their unique health and wellness goals. Joseph pioneers the increasing of awareness for behavioral and mental health disorders. Joseph is a clinical preceptor supervising nurse practitioner PMHNP students at universities such as NKU, EKU, Walden University, and Herzing University.
(331) 219-6981 View (331) 219-6981

See more therapy options for Roselle

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Roselle, IL

< 10

Psychiatrists in Roselle, IL who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
100% ADHD
100% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
100% Trauma and PTSD
100% Sleep or Insomnia
100% Chronic Impulsivity

Average years in practice

17 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
100% BlueCross and BlueShield
100% Cigna and Evernorth

How Psychiatrists in Roselle, IL see their clients

100% In Person and Online

Gender breakdown

100% Female
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Roselle?

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.