Psychiatrists in Seattle, WA
Debra Peasley
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CNS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98107 (Online Only)
I am a Clinical Nurse Specialist in Psychiatric and Mental Health with 18 years experience providing individuals with care and treatment of acute and chronic mental health issues through Psychopharmacology and brief, supportive therapy. I have worked in a variety of settings including psychiatric hospitals, outpatient settings, community mental health clinics , telemedicine and as a psychiatric consultant in long term care. This makes me uniquely qualified to partner with individual adults ages 18 to 85 with medical issues impacting their mental health and well-being.
I am a Clinical Nurse Specialist in Psychiatric and Mental Health with 18 years experience providing individuals with care and treatment of acute and chronic mental health issues through Psychopharmacology and brief, supportive therapy. I have worked in a variety of settings including psychiatric hospitals, outpatient settings, community mental health clinics , telemedicine and as a psychiatric consultant in long term care. This makes me uniquely qualified to partner with individual adults ages 18 to 85 with medical issues impacting their mental health and well-being.
Edward Macias
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98104 (Online Only)
Blue Mountain Psychiatry is a distinguished mental health and psychiatry practice conveniently located in Seattle, Washington. Led by the experienced mental health nurse practitioner Edward Macias, PMHNP-BC, the dedicated team offers comprehensive, patient-centered care. They embrace a holistic philosophy that recognizes the intricate connections between physical, emotional, and social well-being. “Life isn't about waiting for the storm to pass...It's about learning to dance in the rain.” -Vivian Greene
Blue Mountain Psychiatry is a distinguished mental health and psychiatry practice conveniently located in Seattle, Washington. Led by the experienced mental health nurse practitioner Edward Macias, PMHNP-BC, the dedicated team offers comprehensive, patient-centered care. They embrace a holistic philosophy that recognizes the intricate connections between physical, emotional, and social well-being. “Life isn't about waiting for the storm to pass...It's about learning to dance in the rain.” -Vivian Greene
Jasmyne Lyons
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98110
I have 15 yeas of combined experience as a Psych NP & therapist. I conduct ADHD/executive function evaluations & Autism screening assessments. I work with all age groups 5 years old and up. I provide accommodation & intervention planning for adults in school or work & for child/adolescents school 504/IEP plans. I do not conduct assessments for SSDI/disability. My services include assessments, medication management, nutrition planning and solution focused behavioral modifications. I firmly believe medication is one element of the solution & holistic, supportive care is essential for overall well-being.
I have 15 yeas of combined experience as a Psych NP & therapist. I conduct ADHD/executive function evaluations & Autism screening assessments. I work with all age groups 5 years old and up. I provide accommodation & intervention planning for adults in school or work & for child/adolescents school 504/IEP plans. I do not conduct assessments for SSDI/disability. My services include assessments, medication management, nutrition planning and solution focused behavioral modifications. I firmly believe medication is one element of the solution & holistic, supportive care is essential for overall well-being.
Kelley Bitter
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98115 (Online Only)
Welcome to my profile, I'm Kelley Bitter, a dedicated mental health nurse practitioner with over two decades of rich experience in the healthcare realm. My educational path began at the University of Phoenix and reached its zenith at the University of Akron, where I achieved my APRN certification specializing in psychiatry. This journey has bestowed upon me a profound understanding and essential skills in nursing, which I apply daily in my practice. As an expert in mental health, my passion lies in supporting individuals through their emotional challenges and managing conditions like ADHD.
Welcome to my profile, I'm Kelley Bitter, a dedicated mental health nurse practitioner with over two decades of rich experience in the healthcare realm. My educational path began at the University of Phoenix and reached its zenith at the University of Akron, where I achieved my APRN certification specializing in psychiatry. This journey has bestowed upon me a profound understanding and essential skills in nursing, which I apply daily in my practice. As an expert in mental health, my passion lies in supporting individuals through their emotional challenges and managing conditions like ADHD.
Deidre McHugh
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98103 (Online Only)
My favorite part of being a psychiatric nurse practitioner is tailoring treatment to each individual’s needs, and watching each person grow and heal. It’s an honor to be a part of someone’s health journey. I enjoy Integrating emotional wellness techniques into a holistic health health perspective, utilizing elements of psychiatric medication management, solution-focused and mindfulness therapies, and personalized recommendations. I work with an amazing group of colleagues at Lavender, an online psychiatry and therapy office, where we believe psychiatric care shouldn't be expensive or impossible to access.
My favorite part of being a psychiatric nurse practitioner is tailoring treatment to each individual’s needs, and watching each person grow and heal. It’s an honor to be a part of someone’s health journey. I enjoy Integrating emotional wellness techniques into a holistic health health perspective, utilizing elements of psychiatric medication management, solution-focused and mindfulness therapies, and personalized recommendations. I work with an amazing group of colleagues at Lavender, an online psychiatry and therapy office, where we believe psychiatric care shouldn't be expensive or impossible to access.
Brett Yamane
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98109
Not accepting new clients
My practice provides adults with psychotherapy and medication-based treatments for common conditions including anxiety disorders, stress, depression, and phase of life transitions. I believe in compassionate and collaborative care to help you achieve better function and alleviation of symptoms. My hope is our work together will both help you recognize your personal strengths as well as identify patterns that contribute to your symptoms. This can then lead to developing a wider range of coping skills, make more informed choices and take an active role in your life's course, and increase your sense of confidence and self-agency.
My practice provides adults with psychotherapy and medication-based treatments for common conditions including anxiety disorders, stress, depression, and phase of life transitions. I believe in compassionate and collaborative care to help you achieve better function and alleviation of symptoms. My hope is our work together will both help you recognize your personal strengths as well as identify patterns that contribute to your symptoms. This can then lead to developing a wider range of coping skills, make more informed choices and take an active role in your life's course, and increase your sense of confidence and self-agency.
Dr. Ronil Shah
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98101
Dr. Shah is welcoming new patients for video appointments. As a Board-certified M.D. psychiatrist, he specializes in assessing and treating anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, OCD, PTSD and other psychiatric issues. A holistic provider, he combines non-pharmacologic approaches - including psychodynamic psychotherapy and cognitive behavioral therapy - in addition to medication. He utilizes such therapeutic modalities in medication management appointments as well as dedicated therapy sessions. Consequently, patients benefit from well-integrated treatment that is both systematic and thorough.
Dr. Shah is welcoming new patients for video appointments. As a Board-certified M.D. psychiatrist, he specializes in assessing and treating anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, OCD, PTSD and other psychiatric issues. A holistic provider, he combines non-pharmacologic approaches - including psychodynamic psychotherapy and cognitive behavioral therapy - in addition to medication. He utilizes such therapeutic modalities in medication management appointments as well as dedicated therapy sessions. Consequently, patients benefit from well-integrated treatment that is both systematic and thorough.
Levi Williams
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98107
I believe that wherever you’re at with your mental health journey, either for yourself or a loved one, there is one thing everyone is looking for first: to be understood. In the busy world we live in, with what seems like access to everyone and everything right at our fingertips, we know what it is like to be heard; though, it is often difficult to experience meaningful connection, feel related to, and know an understanding has taken place beyond mere words. My goal is to connect in a calm and caring way with each person I meet, to understand where you are at in your journey, and to work together to identify your needs.
I believe that wherever you’re at with your mental health journey, either for yourself or a loved one, there is one thing everyone is looking for first: to be understood. In the busy world we live in, with what seems like access to everyone and everything right at our fingertips, we know what it is like to be heard; though, it is often difficult to experience meaningful connection, feel related to, and know an understanding has taken place beyond mere words. My goal is to connect in a calm and caring way with each person I meet, to understand where you are at in your journey, and to work together to identify your needs.
Catherine Terri Lee
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98112
My practice is oriented towards long-term insight-oriented psychotherapy with children, adolescents, and adults, sometimes including medication management as part of an overall treatment plan. I seek to provide non-critical, empathic, and respectful listening which will enable my patients to feel safe as we explore together the sources of their distress. As a person achieves greater self-understanding, greater self-acceptance and compassion towards oneself becomes possible, and this helps relieve suffering and affords greater personal freedom to become one's authentic self.
My practice is oriented towards long-term insight-oriented psychotherapy with children, adolescents, and adults, sometimes including medication management as part of an overall treatment plan. I seek to provide non-critical, empathic, and respectful listening which will enable my patients to feel safe as we explore together the sources of their distress. As a person achieves greater self-understanding, greater self-acceptance and compassion towards oneself becomes possible, and this helps relieve suffering and affords greater personal freedom to become one's authentic self.
Jinn Schladweiler
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MN, OEHN, PMHNP, ARNP
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98115 (Online Only)
I'm a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. I partner with Mindful Therapy Group to provide telehealth care. My focus is providing medication management for adults recovering from trauma, depression, bipolar disorder and anxiety disorders. I use a patient-centered, holistic approach to help patients meet their goals. I do not treat eating disorders, ADD/ADHD or pregnant or breastfeeding patients. I do not handle L&I or disability claims, or any claims intended legal purposes. I do not provide detailed evaluations. If you need weekly therapy, please look for a therapist.
I'm a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. I partner with Mindful Therapy Group to provide telehealth care. My focus is providing medication management for adults recovering from trauma, depression, bipolar disorder and anxiety disorders. I use a patient-centered, holistic approach to help patients meet their goals. I do not treat eating disorders, ADD/ADHD or pregnant or breastfeeding patients. I do not handle L&I or disability claims, or any claims intended legal purposes. I do not provide detailed evaluations. If you need weekly therapy, please look for a therapist.
Colleen Coyne
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, ARNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98107
I am accepting new patients. My experience has taught me that healing is a journey we most often do not venture alone. Mental health, like physical health, is a lifelong journey. With life changes, some experience anxiety, grief, or trauma that hits with a sudden agony similar to breaking a bone. For others, depression parallels chronic pain, as a daily weight a person carries for years and yearns to set down. I see myself as a guide, providing insights, recommendations, and tools grounded in scientific evidence.
I am accepting new patients. My experience has taught me that healing is a journey we most often do not venture alone. Mental health, like physical health, is a lifelong journey. With life changes, some experience anxiety, grief, or trauma that hits with a sudden agony similar to breaking a bone. For others, depression parallels chronic pain, as a daily weight a person carries for years and yearns to set down. I see myself as a guide, providing insights, recommendations, and tools grounded in scientific evidence.
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Anna Long
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98103 (Online Only)
Hello, I look forward to meeting you! My name is Anna and I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner In the state of Washington. I specialize in Anxiety, Bipolar, College & Graduate Student Mental Health, Depression, Insomnia/Sleep Issues, LGBTQIA+ Care, Life Transitions, Loss/Grief, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Sexual Health/Dysfuntion, Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), Stress Management and Women's Issues. I work with an amazing group of colleagues at Lavender, an online psychiatry and therapy office, where we believe psychiatric care shouldn't be expensive nor impossible to access.
Hello, I look forward to meeting you! My name is Anna and I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner In the state of Washington. I specialize in Anxiety, Bipolar, College & Graduate Student Mental Health, Depression, Insomnia/Sleep Issues, LGBTQIA+ Care, Life Transitions, Loss/Grief, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Sexual Health/Dysfuntion, Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), Stress Management and Women's Issues. I work with an amazing group of colleagues at Lavender, an online psychiatry and therapy office, where we believe psychiatric care shouldn't be expensive nor impossible to access.
Chima Egwim
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98119
I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I am a compassionate and self-driven practitioner with a Master of Science in Psychiatric Mental Health Nursing, a Bachelor of Science in Nursing, and over 8 years of professional experience. My expertise includes evaluating health risk factors, stabilizing patients, minimizing complications, and providing physical and psychological support. I am adept in geriatric care management, mental health counseling, and managing psychiatric medications. I have experience in diagnosing and treating a variety of mental health disorders.
I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I am a compassionate and self-driven practitioner with a Master of Science in Psychiatric Mental Health Nursing, a Bachelor of Science in Nursing, and over 8 years of professional experience. My expertise includes evaluating health risk factors, stabilizing patients, minimizing complications, and providing physical and psychological support. I am adept in geriatric care management, mental health counseling, and managing psychiatric medications. I have experience in diagnosing and treating a variety of mental health disorders.
Kathryn (Kat) McNeil
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNPc, PMHNPbc
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98119
Do you think you have ADHD, but aren't sure? Well, I can help! I now offer computer-based, objective testing to help with ADHD diagnosis and treatment monitoring. These tests are used in combination with a clinical assessment and rating scale to help reduce bias and improve patient outcomes. If you believe you suffer from ADHD but have been met with skepticism about your symptoms, these tests can help you. Now taking cash-pay patients/consults for AZ, NV, OR and insurance-pay patients/consults for WA.
Do you think you have ADHD, but aren't sure? Well, I can help! I now offer computer-based, objective testing to help with ADHD diagnosis and treatment monitoring. These tests are used in combination with a clinical assessment and rating scale to help reduce bias and improve patient outcomes. If you believe you suffer from ADHD but have been met with skepticism about your symptoms, these tests can help you. Now taking cash-pay patients/consults for AZ, NV, OR and insurance-pay patients/consults for WA.
Heather Sanudo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, -BC, FNP-BC
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98103 (Online Only)
Hello, I look forward to meeting you! My name is Heather and I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner In the state of Washington. I specialize in medication management, depression and anxiety. I work with an amazing group of colleagues at Lavender, an online psychiatry and therapy office, where we believe psychiatric care shouldn't be expensive nor impossible to access.
Hello, I look forward to meeting you! My name is Heather and I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner In the state of Washington. I specialize in medication management, depression and anxiety. I work with an amazing group of colleagues at Lavender, an online psychiatry and therapy office, where we believe psychiatric care shouldn't be expensive nor impossible to access.
Hope Mental Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHCNS
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98104 (Online Only)
I am the owner/clinician of Hope Mental Health. We provide psych evaluations, medication and psychotherapy to all mental health conditions as needed, specializing in severe mental illness. When you schedule an appointment with me, you get a team of two. One of my interns will take a medical and psychiatric history and then I will come on and complete the evaluation and with you, my intern and myself, and we will make a treatment plan. On subsequent visits, the intern will follow you and will bring me on when medication or treatment plan needs tweaking. Our style is integrative in nature. All are in training in psychotherapy.
I am the owner/clinician of Hope Mental Health. We provide psych evaluations, medication and psychotherapy to all mental health conditions as needed, specializing in severe mental illness. When you schedule an appointment with me, you get a team of two. One of my interns will take a medical and psychiatric history and then I will come on and complete the evaluation and with you, my intern and myself, and we will make a treatment plan. On subsequent visits, the intern will follow you and will bring me on when medication or treatment plan needs tweaking. Our style is integrative in nature. All are in training in psychotherapy.
Brian D Jaeger
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98112
Dr. Jaeger graduated from the University of Washington, and the University of Washington School of Medicine. He completed a four year residency at the University of Hawaii in Honolulu. He is Board Certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology and has over 20 years of experience as a practicing psychiatrist. He believes that the relationship between health care provider and patient is of the utmost importance. He takes a balanced approach to go beyond symptom relief and help you find ways to revitalize your life so that you can thrive in all of your endeavors.
Dr. Jaeger graduated from the University of Washington, and the University of Washington School of Medicine. He completed a four year residency at the University of Hawaii in Honolulu. He is Board Certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology and has over 20 years of experience as a practicing psychiatrist. He believes that the relationship between health care provider and patient is of the utmost importance. He takes a balanced approach to go beyond symptom relief and help you find ways to revitalize your life so that you can thrive in all of your endeavors.
Nancy Masters
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98144
Nancy graduated from Washington State University with a Master of Science in Nursing, and is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She has more than 10 years of experience and specializes in treating patients with depression, anxiety, ADHD, gender dysphoria, bipolar and sleep disorders. She treats patients ages 14-64.
Nancy graduated from Washington State University with a Master of Science in Nursing, and is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She has more than 10 years of experience and specializes in treating patients with depression, anxiety, ADHD, gender dysphoria, bipolar and sleep disorders. She treats patients ages 14-64.
Marlen Lukatsky
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, ARNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98126 (Online Only)
I am a board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) licensed and practicing in the states of Colorado and Washington. I specialize in treating children, adolescents, and adults with a passion for providing clients with the best possible comprehensive care while focusing on their mental health. I provide comprehensive psychiatric evaluations, diagnosis, medication management, and psychotherapy. At this time, I am accepting new clients for medication management with supportive therapy.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) licensed and practicing in the states of Colorado and Washington. I specialize in treating children, adolescents, and adults with a passion for providing clients with the best possible comprehensive care while focusing on their mental health. I provide comprehensive psychiatric evaluations, diagnosis, medication management, and psychotherapy. At this time, I am accepting new clients for medication management with supportive therapy.
Tanner Rapp
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP-C, ARNP, MSN
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98115
Hello, I'm Tanner Rapp, ARNP, FNP-C, an experienced healthcare professional committed to your well-being. Over seven years, I've forged trusting relationships with patients, ensuring comfort throughout their healthcare journey. Choose me as your partner, and embark on a path to holistic wellness backed by years of experience, specialized knowledge, and compassionate care. Specializing in ADHD, Anxiety, Behavioral Issues, Depression, and mental health concerns, my mission is to support your holistic well-being. I am dedicated to empowering you to thrive at every level.
Hello, I'm Tanner Rapp, ARNP, FNP-C, an experienced healthcare professional committed to your well-being. Over seven years, I've forged trusting relationships with patients, ensuring comfort throughout their healthcare journey. Choose me as your partner, and embark on a path to holistic wellness backed by years of experience, specialized knowledge, and compassionate care. Specializing in ADHD, Anxiety, Behavioral Issues, Depression, and mental health concerns, my mission is to support your holistic well-being. I am dedicated to empowering you to thrive at every level.
See more therapy options for Seattle
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Seattle, WA
500+
Average cost per session
$225
Psychiatrists in Seattle, WA who prioritize treating:
95% | Anxiety |
94% | Depression |
85% | Medication Management |
81% | Bipolar Disorder |
76% | Trauma and PTSD |
75% | ADHD |
71% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
Average years in practice
8 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
79% | Aetna |
74% | Cigna and Evernorth |
67% | Premera |
How Psychiatrists in Seattle, WA see their clients
54% | In Person and Online | |
46% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
69% | Female | |
30% | Male | |
1% | Non-Binary |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Seattle?
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.