Psychiatrists in Portland, OR

Photo of Teryl Clendenin PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse in Portland, OR
Teryl Clendenin PMHNP
Psychiatric Nurse, MN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97219  (Online Only)
Practice accepting new patients. As a psychiatric nurse practitioner, I am able to provide a wide array of treatment opportunities for adults. I prescribe psychiatric medications, as well as provide counseling and therapy in a holistic, accepting atmosphere. I firmly believe we can all benefit from expanding our understanding of ourselves and our place in the world. My practice centers on working collaboratively with you; assisting, guiding and joining you on a pathway to greater overall health and wellness.
Practice accepting new patients. As a psychiatric nurse practitioner, I am able to provide a wide array of treatment opportunities for adults. I prescribe psychiatric medications, as well as provide counseling and therapy in a holistic, accepting atmosphere. I firmly believe we can all benefit from expanding our understanding of ourselves and our place in the world. My practice centers on working collaboratively with you; assisting, guiding and joining you on a pathway to greater overall health and wellness.
(503) 743-6874 View (503) 743-6874
Photo of Dana Jones, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Portland, OR
Dana Jones
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, RN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97214
Hello, I provide medication services to individuals ages 18-60 who are experiencing difficulty with a variety of mental health conditions including, ADHD, anxiety, bipolar disorder, depression, trauma, and insomnia disorders. I offer comprehensive initial evaluations and ongoing medication management. My personality style is informal, practical, and sincere. You will find I put high value on laughter and the love of dogs! I utilize evidence-based practice perspectives to address emotional and mental health issues in a thoughtful, caring, and comprehensive manner, rooted in the core values of nursing. I embrace a collaborative style.
Hello, I provide medication services to individuals ages 18-60 who are experiencing difficulty with a variety of mental health conditions including, ADHD, anxiety, bipolar disorder, depression, trauma, and insomnia disorders. I offer comprehensive initial evaluations and ongoing medication management. My personality style is informal, practical, and sincere. You will find I put high value on laughter and the love of dogs! I utilize evidence-based practice perspectives to address emotional and mental health issues in a thoughtful, caring, and comprehensive manner, rooted in the core values of nursing. I embrace a collaborative style.
(971) 315-4821 View (971) 315-4821
Photo of Stacey Gramann, Psychiatrist in Portland, OR
Stacey Gramann
Psychiatrist, DO, MPH
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97209
Not accepting new clients
With my background in osteopathic medicine, my approach to mental health is holistic. I believe that long-term psychotherapy leads to the greatest personal growth. Deeper personal work can be accomplished within a therapeutic relationship that feels safe, and thus, it is fundamentally important that I create such a space for my clients. My therapy approach is rooted in psychoanalytic psychotherapy. Through this model, my goal is to help my clients gain insight into their own emotions, how they relate to others, and through a collaborative therapeutic process, be better able to work through issues such as anxiety, depression, and grief. With a holistic focus on the mind and body, adjunct treatment may include a focus on relaxation/meditation, nutrition, sleep, and life style practices. Psychiatric medications are not the focus of my practice. However, I can prescribe medications for those clients attending weekly or more frequent therapy if they are determined to be a helpful adjunct to treatment.
With my background in osteopathic medicine, my approach to mental health is holistic. I believe that long-term psychotherapy leads to the greatest personal growth. Deeper personal work can be accomplished within a therapeutic relationship that feels safe, and thus, it is fundamentally important that I create such a space for my clients. My therapy approach is rooted in psychoanalytic psychotherapy. Through this model, my goal is to help my clients gain insight into their own emotions, how they relate to others, and through a collaborative therapeutic process, be better able to work through issues such as anxiety, depression, and grief. With a holistic focus on the mind and body, adjunct treatment may include a focus on relaxation/meditation, nutrition, sleep, and life style practices. Psychiatric medications are not the focus of my practice. However, I can prescribe medications for those clients attending weekly or more frequent therapy if they are determined to be a helpful adjunct to treatment.
(971) 308-4610 View (971) 308-4610
Photo of Megan M Lewis, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Portland, OR
Megan M Lewis
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97229
Now accepting new patients. Updated 2/7/24. I am an ANCC Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health and Family Nurse Practitioner offering psychiatry assessment, medication management, and psychotherapy. I see people across the lifespan.
Now accepting new patients. Updated 2/7/24. I am an ANCC Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health and Family Nurse Practitioner offering psychiatry assessment, medication management, and psychotherapy. I see people across the lifespan.
(458) 216-5974 View (458) 216-5974
Photo of PeaceHaven Behavioral Center LLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Portland, OR
PeaceHaven Behavioral Center LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97210  (Online Only)
You are not alone. Do you lack the drive and concentration needed to achieve your goals at work or in school? Dr. Peace Banks, DNP, works with you to provide hope and help you achieve peace through our tailored treatment plan. Let us help you navigate your mental health journey to peace of mind. Your care will be individualized, and you will be listened to. We are taking care of South Dakota, Oregon, Texas, and Washington state residents. Currently, telehealth is only available. We are accepting NEW client appointments now.
You are not alone. Do you lack the drive and concentration needed to achieve your goals at work or in school? Dr. Peace Banks, DNP, works with you to provide hope and help you achieve peace through our tailored treatment plan. Let us help you navigate your mental health journey to peace of mind. Your care will be individualized, and you will be listened to. We are taking care of South Dakota, Oregon, Texas, and Washington state residents. Currently, telehealth is only available. We are accepting NEW client appointments now.
(503) 300-2954 View (503) 300-2954
Photo of John Benson, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Portland, OR
John Benson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97221  (Online Only)
Are you struggling with irritability, anxiety, low mood, poor focus, substance use, or lack of motivation that is impairing your relationships, your career, or your overall quality of life? Have you perhaps tried therapy, but found that your problems persisted? Have you tried medications, but found that psychiatric appointments were too impersonal or that your concerns about possible side effects or worsening symptoms were met with indifference?
Are you struggling with irritability, anxiety, low mood, poor focus, substance use, or lack of motivation that is impairing your relationships, your career, or your overall quality of life? Have you perhaps tried therapy, but found that your problems persisted? Have you tried medications, but found that psychiatric appointments were too impersonal or that your concerns about possible side effects or worsening symptoms were met with indifference?
(503) 221-8449 View (503) 221-8449
Photo of Maria Dotsey, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Portland, OR
Maria Dotsey
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP-PM
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97214  (Online Only)
I have over 20 years of mental health experience working with adolescents/adults and my skills and experience allows me to assist you in setting appropriate life goals and defining strategies to accomplish those goals. There is no set approach for mental health care. Every patient is unique and will be treated as such. I will customize your experience and help you to achieve optimal health.
I have over 20 years of mental health experience working with adolescents/adults and my skills and experience allows me to assist you in setting appropriate life goals and defining strategies to accomplish those goals. There is no set approach for mental health care. Every patient is unique and will be treated as such. I will customize your experience and help you to achieve optimal health.
(503) 564-7871 View (503) 564-7871
Photo of Andrew James Hughes, Psychiatrist in Portland, OR
Andrew James Hughes
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97214
Not accepting new clients
My primary aim is to help patients achieve a more fulfilling life. Available evidence indicates that the best psychotherapy outcomes are associated with strong and trusting provider-patient relationships. As such, I strive to create a comfortable, non-judgmental, and safe environment for my patients.
My primary aim is to help patients achieve a more fulfilling life. Available evidence indicates that the best psychotherapy outcomes are associated with strong and trusting provider-patient relationships. As such, I strive to create a comfortable, non-judgmental, and safe environment for my patients.
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Photo of Rachel C Ward, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Portland, OR
Rachel C Ward
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97225
Struggling with relationships, feeling overwhelmed, and finding it hard to keep up with school or work because of difficulty in social situations, inability to organize yourself, disrupted sleep, or tumultuous moods? You're not alone. I understand the dread and paralyzing effects these symptoms can have on your life.
Struggling with relationships, feeling overwhelmed, and finding it hard to keep up with school or work because of difficulty in social situations, inability to organize yourself, disrupted sleep, or tumultuous moods? You're not alone. I understand the dread and paralyzing effects these symptoms can have on your life.
(971) 265-8603 View (971) 265-8603
Photo of elevateher | concierge psychiatry + ketamine, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Portland, OR
elevateher | concierge psychiatry + ketamine
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97210
Are you feeling anxious, depressed and/or unmotivated? Do your dreams and goals seem out of reach? Have you been told that you are physically present but emotionally absent in relationships? Maybe your difficult emotions get in your way and you want to move past them, but you aren’t sure how to do it. Have you been with a life coach but want to go further in your transformation? Are you staying in therapy but you don’t seem to be going anywhere? You need more specific strategies and a better support system to empower yourself. Then you’d feel most alive and aligned with yourself.
Are you feeling anxious, depressed and/or unmotivated? Do your dreams and goals seem out of reach? Have you been told that you are physically present but emotionally absent in relationships? Maybe your difficult emotions get in your way and you want to move past them, but you aren’t sure how to do it. Have you been with a life coach but want to go further in your transformation? Are you staying in therapy but you don’t seem to be going anywhere? You need more specific strategies and a better support system to empower yourself. Then you’d feel most alive and aligned with yourself.
(971) 286-5038 View (971) 286-5038
Photo of Anna Cox, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Portland, OR
Anna Cox
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97201
Now Accepting New Clients! Are you ready to reach out for help, tired of feeling overwhelmed and confused? You've come to the right place. I have years of experience helping people feel better, and getting their lives going in the right direction again.
Now Accepting New Clients! Are you ready to reach out for help, tired of feeling overwhelmed and confused? You've come to the right place. I have years of experience helping people feel better, and getting their lives going in the right direction again.
(503) 461-9883 View (503) 461-9883
Photo of Sana Goldberg, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Portland, OR
Sana Goldberg
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97215
I practice with warmth and curiosity, accepting others where they are in the present and respecting the many experiences they arrive to it with. I am devoted to helping those I work with develop a new understanding of their patterns, desires, inner conflicts, and pain carried in the body from overwhelming life conditions and experiences. I meet others where they are, embrace their stories, and offer a therapeutic relationship that is nurturing, collaborative, and growth oriented.
I practice with warmth and curiosity, accepting others where they are in the present and respecting the many experiences they arrive to it with. I am devoted to helping those I work with develop a new understanding of their patterns, desires, inner conflicts, and pain carried in the body from overwhelming life conditions and experiences. I meet others where they are, embrace their stories, and offer a therapeutic relationship that is nurturing, collaborative, and growth oriented.
(503) 386-0729 View (503) 386-0729
Photo of Donna D Templeton, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Portland, OR
Donna D Templeton
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, LAC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97205
ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS. I am a board-certified psychiatric/mental health nurse practitioner with over twenty years of experience. One thing I have learned in working with a wide variety of clients is that each person is a unique individual. Even though there may be similarities in problems and symptoms, there is no "one size fits all" treatment approach. When you come to me for treatment, I want to get to know you so that together we can figure out the best ways to help you manage the symptoms and deal with the problems you are experiencing. Together we will work toward achieving optimal well being and life satisfaction for you.
ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS. I am a board-certified psychiatric/mental health nurse practitioner with over twenty years of experience. One thing I have learned in working with a wide variety of clients is that each person is a unique individual. Even though there may be similarities in problems and symptoms, there is no "one size fits all" treatment approach. When you come to me for treatment, I want to get to know you so that together we can figure out the best ways to help you manage the symptoms and deal with the problems you are experiencing. Together we will work toward achieving optimal well being and life satisfaction for you.
(971) 257-1188 View (971) 257-1188
Photo of Mary Lajoy, Psychiatrist in Portland, OR
Mary Lajoy
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97239
I am a board-certified psychiatrist in private practice in Portland, Oregon. I am currently offering individual medication management services for adults. I take a holistic approach to providing mental health care, incorporating values, personal history and consideration of medical conditions in developing a treatment plan with patients. I specialize in treating depression, anxiety, and trauma related disorders.
I am a board-certified psychiatrist in private practice in Portland, Oregon. I am currently offering individual medication management services for adults. I take a holistic approach to providing mental health care, incorporating values, personal history and consideration of medical conditions in developing a treatment plan with patients. I specialize in treating depression, anxiety, and trauma related disorders.
(971) 251-4667 View (971) 251-4667
Photo of Anne Brown, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Portland, OR
Anne Brown
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97205
We all must contend with suffering in one form or another, and it can be helpful to develop a relationship with a psychotherapist to explore the meaning to be found in it. I believe this can lead to deep transformation. We typically come to therapy due to getting caught in a whirlwind of some kind: sudden loss via death or romantic breakup, prolonged grief, or an awakening to our outdated patterns and fixed negative beliefs about ourselves. We can also use the therapy space to enrich our capacity for curiosity, enhance our imagination, and better find our footing.
We all must contend with suffering in one form or another, and it can be helpful to develop a relationship with a psychotherapist to explore the meaning to be found in it. I believe this can lead to deep transformation. We typically come to therapy due to getting caught in a whirlwind of some kind: sudden loss via death or romantic breakup, prolonged grief, or an awakening to our outdated patterns and fixed negative beliefs about ourselves. We can also use the therapy space to enrich our capacity for curiosity, enhance our imagination, and better find our footing.
(503) 928-6402 View (503) 928-6402
Photo of Maya Nair, Psychiatrist in Portland, OR
Maya Nair
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97205  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
As a board-certified psychiatrist, I provide a safe and accepting space for you to share your unique story to find stability and joy. By supporting you and deepening our understanding of you, your mind and body, and the world around you, we can find short and long term strategies to manage and overcome your symptoms and make progress on your goals. As you process and make meaning out of your life, you become better equipped to address problems in your personal life and career, change how you feel about yourself, and resolve concerns in your relationships.
As a board-certified psychiatrist, I provide a safe and accepting space for you to share your unique story to find stability and joy. By supporting you and deepening our understanding of you, your mind and body, and the world around you, we can find short and long term strategies to manage and overcome your symptoms and make progress on your goals. As you process and make meaning out of your life, you become better equipped to address problems in your personal life and career, change how you feel about yourself, and resolve concerns in your relationships.
(503) 741-8724 View (503) 741-8724
Photo of Brooks Oglesby-Junk, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Portland, OR
Brooks Oglesby-Junk
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97213  (Online Only)
Specializing in the treatment of PTSD, depression, anxiety disorders, and possessing comprehensive skills in addressing various other psychiatric conditions, I am dedicated to your well-being. My ultimate objective is to equip you with the tools necessary to attain your highest level of wellness. Trust in my competence and compassionate approach as you embark on your journey toward mental health and overall well-being.
Specializing in the treatment of PTSD, depression, anxiety disorders, and possessing comprehensive skills in addressing various other psychiatric conditions, I am dedicated to your well-being. My ultimate objective is to equip you with the tools necessary to attain your highest level of wellness. Trust in my competence and compassionate approach as you embark on your journey toward mental health and overall well-being.
(503) 751-3453 View (503) 751-3453
Photo of Schuyler B Ellis, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Portland, OR
Schuyler B Ellis
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97209
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC). I began my career at the Menninger Clinic in Houston, TX where I gained invaluable experience working with young adults with complex trauma, substance abuse, and mood & personality disorders. From this experience, I learned that it is a provider’s responsibility to therapeutically guide care that targets the core issues leading to a patient’s mental health challenges, not just treat a diagnosis. Since leaving Menninger, I have had the chance to care for a variety of patients in community, emergency, and forensic settings.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC). I began my career at the Menninger Clinic in Houston, TX where I gained invaluable experience working with young adults with complex trauma, substance abuse, and mood & personality disorders. From this experience, I learned that it is a provider’s responsibility to therapeutically guide care that targets the core issues leading to a patient’s mental health challenges, not just treat a diagnosis. Since leaving Menninger, I have had the chance to care for a variety of patients in community, emergency, and forensic settings.
(971) 231-2720 View (971) 231-2720
Photo of Sveta Orlova, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Portland, OR
Sveta Orlova
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, DNP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97209
Not accepting new clients
Dr. Sveta Orlova is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who graduated from the University of Washington in Seattle and works with NeuStart Psychiatry & TMS. She has ten years of psychiatry experience with all ages, with a special focus in children and youth. She provides comprehensive evaluations, pharmacotherapy, and TMS services. She also collaborates closely with therapists, and other members of the client's team.
Dr. Sveta Orlova is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who graduated from the University of Washington in Seattle and works with NeuStart Psychiatry & TMS. She has ten years of psychiatry experience with all ages, with a special focus in children and youth. She provides comprehensive evaluations, pharmacotherapy, and TMS services. She also collaborates closely with therapists, and other members of the client's team.
(971) 306-4540 View (971) 306-4540
Photo of Jake Creviston, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Portland, OR
Jake Creviston
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, RN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97217
My primary focus is relational psychotherapy. My approach resonates with clients who are curious about themselves and others, who want to cultivate deeper and more intimate relationships and who are open to exploring frameworks of mental health beyond the medical model and psychiatry. When I do guide clients through the confusing landscape of medications I rely on the philosophy that medications are tools to ease suffering not cure it. I believe the human baseline state is confident, compassionate and creative. Though sometimes we lose touch with these for life's inevitable hardships, we all have the capacity to return.
My primary focus is relational psychotherapy. My approach resonates with clients who are curious about themselves and others, who want to cultivate deeper and more intimate relationships and who are open to exploring frameworks of mental health beyond the medical model and psychiatry. When I do guide clients through the confusing landscape of medications I rely on the philosophy that medications are tools to ease suffering not cure it. I believe the human baseline state is confident, compassionate and creative. Though sometimes we lose touch with these for life's inevitable hardships, we all have the capacity to return.
(971) 803-6167 View (971) 803-6167

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Portland, OR

400+

Average cost per session

$250

Psychiatrists in Portland, OR who prioritize treating:

96% Anxiety
95% Depression
81% Medication Management
75% Trauma and PTSD
73% Bipolar Disorder
72% ADHD
64% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)

Average years in practice

10 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

73% Aetna
73% BlueCross and BlueShield
67% PacificSource

How Psychiatrists in Portland, OR see their clients

62% In Person and Online
38% Online Only

Gender breakdown

72% Female
27% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Portland?

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.