Psychiatrists in Portland, OR
Synchronous Mental Health (Accepting New Clients)
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP-C
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97211 (Online Only)
Do you feel like you are perpetually fighting with your own brain? Is your mind constantly wandering making it difficult to get through life? Do your friends joke that you have no concept of time and in social settings, you worry that you are talking too much? Are you or someone you care about struggling with depression, anxiety, or attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)? You're not alone, and help is available. Synchronous Mental Health specializes in providing comprehensive care for individuals facing these challenges, empowering them to reclaim their mental well-being and live fulfilling lives.
Do you feel like you are perpetually fighting with your own brain? Is your mind constantly wandering making it difficult to get through life? Do your friends joke that you have no concept of time and in social settings, you worry that you are talking too much? Are you or someone you care about struggling with depression, anxiety, or attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)? You're not alone, and help is available. Synchronous Mental Health specializes in providing comprehensive care for individuals facing these challenges, empowering them to reclaim their mental well-being and live fulfilling lives.
Dani Maier
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97219 (Online Only)
I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) specializing in diagnosis and treatment of mood disorders, anxiety disorders, psychotic disorders, and experiences of trauma. I believe strongly in translating evidence/science-based mental health care to patients and that through collaboration optimal treatment plans can be created. I provide psychiatric evaluations, medication management, and limited therapy. I believe a person is more than their mental illness and strive to understand how each person exists within their environment and relationships.
I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) specializing in diagnosis and treatment of mood disorders, anxiety disorders, psychotic disorders, and experiences of trauma. I believe strongly in translating evidence/science-based mental health care to patients and that through collaboration optimal treatment plans can be created. I provide psychiatric evaluations, medication management, and limited therapy. I believe a person is more than their mental illness and strive to understand how each person exists within their environment and relationships.
Adam Ellis
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97204 (Online Only)
Adam Ellis is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. He has earned degrees from the University of California, Irvine, The George Washington University, and most recently, a Master of Science in Nursing from The University of Pennsylvania. He has worked with both adult and adolescent psychiatric populations since 2015, and he enjoys engaging with diverse patients who have a broad range of mental health needs. While serving 20 years as a naval officer, Adam developed strong active listening skills and a high level of consideration and respect for others.
Adam Ellis is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. He has earned degrees from the University of California, Irvine, The George Washington University, and most recently, a Master of Science in Nursing from The University of Pennsylvania. He has worked with both adult and adolescent psychiatric populations since 2015, and he enjoys engaging with diverse patients who have a broad range of mental health needs. While serving 20 years as a naval officer, Adam developed strong active listening skills and a high level of consideration and respect for others.
Dr. Kelly C. Aldinger
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSW, RYT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97229
APRIL 2024 - OPEN. To get started, complete form at www.upwellpsych.com/contact . Aloha! I'm a doctor of nursing practice who is passionate about helping people access their own strengths. I am committed to walking beside you as you gain insight, learn new skills, and grow the self-belief to create the life you want to live. I firmly believe that one path does not fit all, and my life is evidence of that. I worked as a therapist prior to becoming a PMHNP, and bring a diverse set of professional, educational and life experience to each session. Using empathy and authenticity, my goal is to help you find and live your own truth.
APRIL 2024 - OPEN. To get started, complete form at www.upwellpsych.com/contact . Aloha! I'm a doctor of nursing practice who is passionate about helping people access their own strengths. I am committed to walking beside you as you gain insight, learn new skills, and grow the self-belief to create the life you want to live. I firmly believe that one path does not fit all, and my life is evidence of that. I worked as a therapist prior to becoming a PMHNP, and bring a diverse set of professional, educational and life experience to each session. Using empathy and authenticity, my goal is to help you find and live your own truth.
Alexandra Gomez
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97217 (Online Only)
Hi, are you looking for more holistic- patient-centered care? I specialize in treating adults and adolescents with mental health issues with special attention given to treating anxiety, depression, stress-related disorders, as well as substance use disorder. I am compassionate and nonjudgmental. I work hard to help my patients reach their goals. My practice emphasizes the importance of creating a safe, trusting therapeutic relationship to facilitate the process of healing. We provide Telehealth visits in Oregon.
Hi, are you looking for more holistic- patient-centered care? I specialize in treating adults and adolescents with mental health issues with special attention given to treating anxiety, depression, stress-related disorders, as well as substance use disorder. I am compassionate and nonjudgmental. I work hard to help my patients reach their goals. My practice emphasizes the importance of creating a safe, trusting therapeutic relationship to facilitate the process of healing. We provide Telehealth visits in Oregon.
Kristi Muncie
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97232 (Online Only)
Kristi Muncie MSN, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP-BC Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner Licensed in Oregon, Maryland. Kristi Muncie is board-certified as a family nurse practitioner by the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners and also board-certified as a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner by the American Nurses Credentialing Center. Kristi is compassionate, empathic and kind. She has dedicated decades of her life to helping others. She obtained her bachelor's degree from Eastern Kentucky University and then obtained both her master's degree and post-master's degree from the University of Cincinnati.
Kristi Muncie MSN, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP-BC Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner Licensed in Oregon, Maryland. Kristi Muncie is board-certified as a family nurse practitioner by the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners and also board-certified as a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner by the American Nurses Credentialing Center. Kristi is compassionate, empathic and kind. She has dedicated decades of her life to helping others. She obtained her bachelor's degree from Eastern Kentucky University and then obtained both her master's degree and post-master's degree from the University of Cincinnati.
Davonna (Dee) Wilson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, BC, FNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97223
I am a board-certified Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. My primary goal is to empower clients to regain their well-being and fully embrace their personal and professional lives. I believe compassionate care is at the heart of effective treatment. I prioritize active listening and open communication, allowing patients to express their concerns, fears, and aspirations freely. Creating a non-judgmental space fosters a strong therapeutic alliance based on trust and mutual respect, my approach goes beyond the diagnosis and treatment of mental health conditions, I like to get to know my patients as a whole person.
I am a board-certified Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. My primary goal is to empower clients to regain their well-being and fully embrace their personal and professional lives. I believe compassionate care is at the heart of effective treatment. I prioritize active listening and open communication, allowing patients to express their concerns, fears, and aspirations freely. Creating a non-judgmental space fosters a strong therapeutic alliance based on trust and mutual respect, my approach goes beyond the diagnosis and treatment of mental health conditions, I like to get to know my patients as a whole person.
Dario LaPoma
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97214
Welcome to my profile! I am a licensed psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) located in Portland, OR. I offer psychotherapy and medication management to adults of all ages and backgrounds. My practice is relationally focused and inspired by various evidence-based frameworks, including Dialectic Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. I have a careful approach to prescribing medications, and I feel strongly that a holistic treatment plan leads to deeper recovery. I strive to meet you where you are, and I honor the life experience that has brought you here.
Welcome to my profile! I am a licensed psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) located in Portland, OR. I offer psychotherapy and medication management to adults of all ages and backgrounds. My practice is relationally focused and inspired by various evidence-based frameworks, including Dialectic Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. I have a careful approach to prescribing medications, and I feel strongly that a holistic treatment plan leads to deeper recovery. I strive to meet you where you are, and I honor the life experience that has brought you here.
Bradley Williamson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97215
Are you motivated to build a therapeutic relationship that goes well beyond psychiatric medication management? Although medications have a necessary purpose, my primary focus is functional psychotherapy rooted in spirituality, mindfulness, and nature-based techniques. I will help guide you to a deeper understanding of human suffering and courage. "Nature loves courage. You make the commitment and nature will respond to that commitment by removing impossible obstacles. Dream the impossible dream and the world will not grind you under, it will lift you up" -Terence McKenna
Are you motivated to build a therapeutic relationship that goes well beyond psychiatric medication management? Although medications have a necessary purpose, my primary focus is functional psychotherapy rooted in spirituality, mindfulness, and nature-based techniques. I will help guide you to a deeper understanding of human suffering and courage. "Nature loves courage. You make the commitment and nature will respond to that commitment by removing impossible obstacles. Dream the impossible dream and the world will not grind you under, it will lift you up" -Terence McKenna
Morgan Huls
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97214 (Online Only)
I am is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a certificate in Functional Medicine. This specialized education allows me to approach each client's mental health from a holistic standpoint, looking at all aspects of life to determine the underlying cause and assist the client in achieving optimal mental wellness by addressing the root of an issue!
I am is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a certificate in Functional Medicine. This specialized education allows me to approach each client's mental health from a holistic standpoint, looking at all aspects of life to determine the underlying cause and assist the client in achieving optimal mental wellness by addressing the root of an issue!
Shinichi Daimyo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, MPH, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97229 (Online Only)
CURRENTLY ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS! I aim to bring empathy into every moment of care I provide to my clients. I strive to create an empowering and empathy-focused environment, where the needs, goals, and aspirations of my client's mental health and life are the driving force in how I provide psychiatry and psychotherapy care. My approach is collaborative and client-centered, valuing a client’s experience and perspective as important as my expertise as a mental health provider.
CURRENTLY ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS! I aim to bring empathy into every moment of care I provide to my clients. I strive to create an empowering and empathy-focused environment, where the needs, goals, and aspirations of my client's mental health and life are the driving force in how I provide psychiatry and psychotherapy care. My approach is collaborative and client-centered, valuing a client’s experience and perspective as important as my expertise as a mental health provider.
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Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, MBA, FNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97239 (Online Only)
Now accepting new patients! Are you struggling with your mood? Anxious all the time? Have you failed several medications in the past and just feel like giving up? @ Ease Psychiatry is here to help. We aim to help our patients by putting them at ease with their mental health. Search no more and call us today: 972-503-4109. We generally respond within 48 hours. Virtual visits from the comfort of your home is also available.
Now accepting new patients! Are you struggling with your mood? Anxious all the time? Have you failed several medications in the past and just feel like giving up? @ Ease Psychiatry is here to help. We aim to help our patients by putting them at ease with their mental health. Search no more and call us today: 972-503-4109. We generally respond within 48 hours. Virtual visits from the comfort of your home is also available.
Michael Boas
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN-BC, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97223 (Online Only)
I believe in a working partnership with every patient, and their families, in order to produce the best results together. I have chosen to focus on ADHD/ADD, anxiety, & depression, which are issues personal to me. The only thing I ask of my clients is that they are invested in themselves and our treatment plan. I promise to give my all to you and just want the same commitment back.
I believe in a working partnership with every patient, and their families, in order to produce the best results together. I have chosen to focus on ADHD/ADD, anxiety, & depression, which are issues personal to me. The only thing I ask of my clients is that they are invested in themselves and our treatment plan. I promise to give my all to you and just want the same commitment back.
Kelli L Holloway
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97205
As a psychiatrist and psychodynamic psychotherapist with over 25 years of experience, I enjoy working with a wide variety of mental health concerns. I have developed special expertise in helping persons with self esteem issues, relationship problems, midlife and career transitions and trauma. I believe that talking through ones struggles, burdens, losses and pain leads to greater fulfillment in life, a sense of hope and joy. It is a privilege to be invited to accompany another on their personal journey. Psychotherapy is hard work but well worth the investment in oneself for discovering potential in love, work and play.
As a psychiatrist and psychodynamic psychotherapist with over 25 years of experience, I enjoy working with a wide variety of mental health concerns. I have developed special expertise in helping persons with self esteem issues, relationship problems, midlife and career transitions and trauma. I believe that talking through ones struggles, burdens, losses and pain leads to greater fulfillment in life, a sense of hope and joy. It is a privilege to be invited to accompany another on their personal journey. Psychotherapy is hard work but well worth the investment in oneself for discovering potential in love, work and play.
Melanie Ramsey
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97205 (Online Only)
Are you experiencing distress due to internal conflicts, trauma, relationships, fears, or feeling stuck? Do you feel anxious, depressed, and unmotivated? Some things are just too difficult to go through alone. Working with someone in a safe and compassionate environment without judgment can be the key to your understanding and growth. Your success and happiness are rooted in a partnership that we share. You do the hard part of being vulnerable; to the best of my ability, I will work to listen to and understand you, before developing a shared treatment plan. I am honored to support you on your journey to mental wellness.
Are you experiencing distress due to internal conflicts, trauma, relationships, fears, or feeling stuck? Do you feel anxious, depressed, and unmotivated? Some things are just too difficult to go through alone. Working with someone in a safe and compassionate environment without judgment can be the key to your understanding and growth. Your success and happiness are rooted in a partnership that we share. You do the hard part of being vulnerable; to the best of my ability, I will work to listen to and understand you, before developing a shared treatment plan. I am honored to support you on your journey to mental wellness.
Laurence Eckman Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
Psychiatric Nurse, PMHNP, LCSW
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97214
I work with ADHD, ADD, anxiety, depression, marriage & couples counseling, anger problems, unresolved trauma, & PTSD. I enjoy working with individuals and couples who may be experiencing communication and relationship issues, daily life stressors, parenting difficulties or life transitions. I am dually licensed as a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) and psychotherapist (LCSW). Having two different licenses affords me the unique perspective of seeing mental health from the physiological and psychological viewpoints. I offer mental health medication management, psychotherapy, counseling, coaching or a combination of these. Sometimes there is great value in having one practitioner to address both the medical and mental health concerns.
I work with ADHD, ADD, anxiety, depression, marriage & couples counseling, anger problems, unresolved trauma, & PTSD. I enjoy working with individuals and couples who may be experiencing communication and relationship issues, daily life stressors, parenting difficulties or life transitions. I am dually licensed as a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) and psychotherapist (LCSW). Having two different licenses affords me the unique perspective of seeing mental health from the physiological and psychological viewpoints. I offer mental health medication management, psychotherapy, counseling, coaching or a combination of these. Sometimes there is great value in having one practitioner to address both the medical and mental health concerns.
private practice
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97212
I love being a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) and am honored to help individuals achieve optimal mental health through collaboration and support. I believe everyone can improve mental health and wellness by building on our strengths, learning coping skills, and addressing social supports and physical health. For some clients psychiatric medications are one of the tools for effective healing along with counseling,health education and lifestyle changes. I am happy to provide medication management alone for those already in counseling.
I love being a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) and am honored to help individuals achieve optimal mental health through collaboration and support. I believe everyone can improve mental health and wellness by building on our strengths, learning coping skills, and addressing social supports and physical health. For some clients psychiatric medications are one of the tools for effective healing along with counseling,health education and lifestyle changes. I am happy to provide medication management alone for those already in counseling.
Andrna' Christopher
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97214 (Online Only)
Our office is currently accepting new clients in Oregon for online therapy. We specialize in anxiety, panic, bipolar disorder, depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and trauma and posttraumatic stress disorder. If you're experiencing sadness, loss of interest, disconnection, worry, low self-esteem, or other mental health symptoms, we can assist. Through compassionate, wholesome, and quality care, we can help you achieve lasting relief from mental health concerns. We are dedicated to providing patient- and family-centered care. We are also dedicated to providing individualized care, as every person has a unique need.
Our office is currently accepting new clients in Oregon for online therapy. We specialize in anxiety, panic, bipolar disorder, depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and trauma and posttraumatic stress disorder. If you're experiencing sadness, loss of interest, disconnection, worry, low self-esteem, or other mental health symptoms, we can assist. Through compassionate, wholesome, and quality care, we can help you achieve lasting relief from mental health concerns. We are dedicated to providing patient- and family-centered care. We are also dedicated to providing individualized care, as every person has a unique need.
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.
Jermiah Floyd
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97214
As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), my focus is providing holistic and person-centered care. My approach is rooted in empathy, a trauma-informed perspective, and evidence-based methodologies. I believe that individuals are more than just their symptoms and am committed to treating each person as a unique individual. Your mental health is intricately linked to every aspect of your life, and I prioritize this holistic perspective in addressing your well-being. I offer medication management and primary/adjunct psychotherapy to help alleviate your symptoms and help you balance your lived experience.
As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), my focus is providing holistic and person-centered care. My approach is rooted in empathy, a trauma-informed perspective, and evidence-based methodologies. I believe that individuals are more than just their symptoms and am committed to treating each person as a unique individual. Your mental health is intricately linked to every aspect of your life, and I prioritize this holistic perspective in addressing your well-being. I offer medication management and primary/adjunct psychotherapy to help alleviate your symptoms and help you balance your lived experience.
See more therapy options for Portland
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 |
72% | ADHD |
72% | Bipolar Disorder |
64% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
Average years in practice
10 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
73% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
72% | Aetna |
67% | PacificSource |
How Psychiatrists in Portland, OR see their clients
63% | In Person and Online | |
37% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
73% | Female | |
26% | 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.