Psychiatrists in Seattle, WA
Dr. Katharine Frissora
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, RYT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98105
MARCH 2024- Appointments available within 1-2 weeks! To begin services, please complete the new patient request form at www.upwellpsych.com/contact - we will get back to you in 1 business day! I am a doctorally prepared Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with 15 years of healthcare experience providing psychiatric care.
MARCH 2024- Appointments available within 1-2 weeks! To begin services, please complete the new patient request form at www.upwellpsych.com/contact - we will get back to you in 1 business day! I am a doctorally prepared Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with 15 years of healthcare experience providing psychiatric care.
Hannah Cantrell
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, ARNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98107
I believe that mental health care is an individualized journey and a treatment approach should encompass those individual needs. Collaboration with clients is of utmost importance to me and it is vital that each client’s voice be heard. As your provider, I will actively listen and create a safe space to communicate. Your life experiences, insight, and input are a crucial part of our work together. This, combined with my clinical experience, will guide treatment and medication decisions. We will work closely to assure that you feel supported at each step.
I believe that mental health care is an individualized journey and a treatment approach should encompass those individual needs. Collaboration with clients is of utmost importance to me and it is vital that each client’s voice be heard. As your provider, I will actively listen and create a safe space to communicate. Your life experiences, insight, and input are a crucial part of our work together. This, combined with my clinical experience, will guide treatment and medication decisions. We will work closely to assure that you feel supported at each step.
Apex Behavioral Health Services,PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98107 (Online Only)
Please click on the website link to request an appointment. My name is Paul Kariuki, MSN PMHNP-BC. I graduated from the University of Texas Arlington and I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health NP. I am delighted to serve patients from preteen to older adults. I am experienced in treating patients with ADHD, depression, anxiety disorders, bipolar disorder, eating disorders, insomnia, substance use disorders among other disorders. I work closely with my patients to finding the best evidence based medication and psychotherapy modalities.
Please click on the website link to request an appointment. My name is Paul Kariuki, MSN PMHNP-BC. I graduated from the University of Texas Arlington and I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health NP. I am delighted to serve patients from preteen to older adults. I am experienced in treating patients with ADHD, depression, anxiety disorders, bipolar disorder, eating disorders, insomnia, substance use disorders among other disorders. I work closely with my patients to finding the best evidence based medication and psychotherapy modalities.
Felicia Turner, APRN | Text #Enroll 503-925-6606
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98119 (Online Only)
Schedule TODAY! Ms. Felicia envisions her ideal client as someone navigating the complexities of mental health, seeking support for conditions such as depression, anxiety, & ADHD. Her clients are individuals striving for a better quality of life, hoping to overcome personal challenges and achieve lasting mental wellness. They value a compassionate and knowledgeable professional like Ms. Felicia, who not only understands their struggles but also empowers them with personalized strategies for growth and resilience. In essence, her ideal clients are motivated individuals aiming for transformative change in their mental health journeys.
Schedule TODAY! Ms. Felicia envisions her ideal client as someone navigating the complexities of mental health, seeking support for conditions such as depression, anxiety, & ADHD. Her clients are individuals striving for a better quality of life, hoping to overcome personal challenges and achieve lasting mental wellness. They value a compassionate and knowledgeable professional like Ms. Felicia, who not only understands their struggles but also empowers them with personalized strategies for growth and resilience. In essence, her ideal clients are motivated individuals aiming for transformative change in their mental health journeys.
MindsMatter LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98104 (Online Only)
At MindsMatter, prescribing medication is not the main focus. We believe in patient-centered care tailored to your needs! Not all clients seek mental wellness treatment for the same reasons, and that's why individualized care is so important in our treatment plans. We also offer brief therapy and cognitive behavioral therapy for those seeking personal counseling. I provided educational videos about mental wellness on social media via TikTok and YouTube. You can find me on TikTok (raypsychnp) or YouTube (mrraypsychnp) if you would like to subscribe to either channel or be informed when a new video is posted!
At MindsMatter, prescribing medication is not the main focus. We believe in patient-centered care tailored to your needs! Not all clients seek mental wellness treatment for the same reasons, and that's why individualized care is so important in our treatment plans. We also offer brief therapy and cognitive behavioral therapy for those seeking personal counseling. I provided educational videos about mental wellness on social media via TikTok and YouTube. You can find me on TikTok (raypsychnp) or YouTube (mrraypsychnp) if you would like to subscribe to either channel or be informed when a new video is posted!
Jodene Jensen
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98104 (Online Only)
Accepting new patients. Self-schedule at www.solreibehavioralhealth.com. Jodene Jensen, DNP, MPH, PMHNP-BC, FNP-BC, works with patients age 14 and up who have symptoms of anxiety (generalized anxiety, panic, social anxiety), mood disorders (depression, bipolar, mania), psychosis (schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorder), ADHD, PTSD, OCD, addiction, and insomnia. She will listen carefully to you to find the best personalized treatment to obtain calm and symptom relief. Accepting new patients. Schedule a free consultation at www.solreibehavioralhealth.com. In-network with many insurances. Accepts private pay.
Accepting new patients. Self-schedule at www.solreibehavioralhealth.com. Jodene Jensen, DNP, MPH, PMHNP-BC, FNP-BC, works with patients age 14 and up who have symptoms of anxiety (generalized anxiety, panic, social anxiety), mood disorders (depression, bipolar, mania), psychosis (schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorder), ADHD, PTSD, OCD, addiction, and insomnia. She will listen carefully to you to find the best personalized treatment to obtain calm and symptom relief. Accepting new patients. Schedule a free consultation at www.solreibehavioralhealth.com. In-network with many insurances. Accepts private pay.
Joyce Aiyeojenku - New Mexico Texas Washington State
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98119 (Online Only)
Joyce Aiyeojenku PMHNP-BC is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who has obtained rigorous training and is credentialed in providing individualized holistic care for each patient based on their unique needs. She specializes in treating and managing a wide range of psychiatric disorders such as Anxiety, Depression, Mood Disorders, Bipolar, PTSD and ADHD among others in various populations - child, adolescent and adult psychiatry.
Joyce Aiyeojenku PMHNP-BC is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who has obtained rigorous training and is credentialed in providing individualized holistic care for each patient based on their unique needs. She specializes in treating and managing a wide range of psychiatric disorders such as Anxiety, Depression, Mood Disorders, Bipolar, PTSD and ADHD among others in various populations - child, adolescent and adult psychiatry.
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.
Tru Wellness Mindset, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98107 (Online Only)
As a client, you will have a thorough understanding of your treatment plan, the benefits, risks, and notable side effects of medications. In addition, supportive therapy and encouragement will be provided throughout the journey, with suggestions of positive coping skills for total wellness. I aim to provide the highest level of care rooted in evidence. To deliver comprehensive, and holistic care through medication management. I am here to help make your mental health a priority.
As a client, you will have a thorough understanding of your treatment plan, the benefits, risks, and notable side effects of medications. In addition, supportive therapy and encouragement will be provided throughout the journey, with suggestions of positive coping skills for total wellness. I aim to provide the highest level of care rooted in evidence. To deliver comprehensive, and holistic care through medication management. I am here to help make your mental health a priority.
Kimberly Danielle
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP-C, PMHNP-C
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98107
Welcome to Klarity Wellness. My name is Kimberly Danielle, PMHNP- BC, FNP-C. With training in integrative & functional medicine as well as being double board-certified in Psychiatry and Family Medicine, I bring a unique and comprehensive perspective to mental and physical health care. My expertise allows me to offer an integrated approach to a wide range of conditions, including anxiety, depression, bipolar & mood disorders, PTSD, ADHD, and more. With extensive experience in psychiatry and hospital based medicine, I have developed an expertise in addressing the relationship between mental and physical well-being.
Welcome to Klarity Wellness. My name is Kimberly Danielle, PMHNP- BC, FNP-C. With training in integrative & functional medicine as well as being double board-certified in Psychiatry and Family Medicine, I bring a unique and comprehensive perspective to mental and physical health care. My expertise allows me to offer an integrated approach to a wide range of conditions, including anxiety, depression, bipolar & mood disorders, PTSD, ADHD, and more. With extensive experience in psychiatry and hospital based medicine, I have developed an expertise in addressing the relationship between mental and physical well-being.
Grace Martin
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98107
I have been working as a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner since 2017. Prior to joining Spruce Psychiatric, I was employed at Pacific Medical Centers alongside primary care providers and other medical specialists. This improved my ability to see psychiatric concerns from multiple perspectives (e.g. sleep medicine, neuropsychology, gastroenterology). I understand that physical and mental health are inextricably linked. Finding the right diagnosis is foundational to successful treatment, which is why I devote significant time and care to get this right.
I have been working as a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner since 2017. Prior to joining Spruce Psychiatric, I was employed at Pacific Medical Centers alongside primary care providers and other medical specialists. This improved my ability to see psychiatric concerns from multiple perspectives (e.g. sleep medicine, neuropsychology, gastroenterology). I understand that physical and mental health are inextricably linked. Finding the right diagnosis is foundational to successful treatment, which is why I devote significant time and care to get this right.
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Mihaela Corteza
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98107 (Online Only)
I accept WA and FL patients (children, adolescents and adults) via Telehealth at The MindSight Clinic (www.themindsightclinic.com). Insurances accepted: Cigna, Aetna, Optum, UnitedHealthcare, Oxford, Oscar Health and soon BCBS. As a Double Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner, I bring a wealth of expertise in delivering comprehensive healthcare to individuals of all ages. Contact me via my website.
I accept WA and FL patients (children, adolescents and adults) via Telehealth at The MindSight Clinic (www.themindsightclinic.com). Insurances accepted: Cigna, Aetna, Optum, UnitedHealthcare, Oxford, Oscar Health and soon BCBS. As a Double Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner, I bring a wealth of expertise in delivering comprehensive healthcare to individuals of all ages. Contact me via my website.
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
Dr. Matias Massaro
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98101
Reading this signifies that you acknowledge things need to change. I see people living in “hard mode,” as if they are walking with Lego pieces inside their shoes, feeling stuck, resourceless, or overwhelmed. We strive to walk in those shoes and make it through the day, but sometimes we don’t take a step. Your life doesn’t have to be a daily battle. I would be honored to collaborate with you in your healing journey. I aim to provide a safe and welcoming environment for individuals seeking mental health care. I strive to build genuine, cooperative partnerships to define and address therapeutic goals.
Reading this signifies that you acknowledge things need to change. I see people living in “hard mode,” as if they are walking with Lego pieces inside their shoes, feeling stuck, resourceless, or overwhelmed. We strive to walk in those shoes and make it through the day, but sometimes we don’t take a step. Your life doesn’t have to be a daily battle. I would be honored to collaborate with you in your healing journey. I aim to provide a safe and welcoming environment for individuals seeking mental health care. I strive to build genuine, cooperative partnerships to define and address therapeutic goals.
Emma Oswald
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, ARNP
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98107
Waitlist for new clients
In addition to medication management, I use an Internal Family Systems (IFS) lens to approach healing. IFS is a non-pathologizing, transformative, and evidence-based psychotherapy that guides individuals toward access and love of their inner protective and wounded parts. This includes exploration of thoughts, feelings, sensations, and imagery. In addition to IFS, I draw from narrative therapy and other somatically oriented approaches including mindfulness and Vipassana meditation, and I am fascinated by the transformation that can occur when we become curious about the body’s wisdom.
In addition to medication management, I use an Internal Family Systems (IFS) lens to approach healing. IFS is a non-pathologizing, transformative, and evidence-based psychotherapy that guides individuals toward access and love of their inner protective and wounded parts. This includes exploration of thoughts, feelings, sensations, and imagery. In addition to IFS, I draw from narrative therapy and other somatically oriented approaches including mindfulness and Vipassana meditation, and I am fascinated by the transformation that can occur when we become curious about the body’s wisdom.
Taqialdeen Zamil
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98105 (Online Only)
Welcome to my practice. With over a decade of diverse clinical experience, I've had the privilege of guiding clients through the intricate landscape of mental health. From adolescents struggling with identity issues, adults combating anxiety, to those deciphering the layers of substance use, depressive or bipolar disorders, PTSD, or OCD, I've witnessed the resilience of the human spirit. I'm passionate about providing evidence-based, compassionate care to empower individuals to reclaim control and joy in their lives. If you seek a deeper understanding and the tools to flourish, I'm here to support you on this transformative journey.
Welcome to my practice. With over a decade of diverse clinical experience, I've had the privilege of guiding clients through the intricate landscape of mental health. From adolescents struggling with identity issues, adults combating anxiety, to those deciphering the layers of substance use, depressive or bipolar disorders, PTSD, or OCD, I've witnessed the resilience of the human spirit. I'm passionate about providing evidence-based, compassionate care to empower individuals to reclaim control and joy in their lives. If you seek a deeper understanding and the tools to flourish, I'm here to support you on this transformative journey.
Kyl Dinsio, MD, PLLC
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98102
If you find yourself internet searching for a psychiatrist, you're probably asking questions like: why aren’t things (jobs/relationships/goals) working out for me? How do I balance what I want and what I need? How do I even KNOW what I need? Why do I fall into the same relationship patterns with family, friends, bosses, and intimate partners? Of course you feel overwhelmed, these are tough questions! Perhaps you’ve sought help for anxiety or depression, but haven't found medications to be helpful, or helpful enough.
If you find yourself internet searching for a psychiatrist, you're probably asking questions like: why aren’t things (jobs/relationships/goals) working out for me? How do I balance what I want and what I need? How do I even KNOW what I need? Why do I fall into the same relationship patterns with family, friends, bosses, and intimate partners? Of course you feel overwhelmed, these are tough questions! Perhaps you’ve sought help for anxiety or depression, but haven't found medications to be helpful, or helpful enough.
Victoria Abolarin
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98103 (Online Only)
Hello, I look forward to meeting you! My name is Victoria and I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner In the state of Washington. I specialize in Anxiety, ADHD, Burnout, Depression, Family Issue, Life Coaching, Maternal Mental Health/Pre/Postpartum and Stress Management. 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 Victoria and I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner In the state of Washington. I specialize in Anxiety, ADHD, Burnout, Depression, Family Issue, Life Coaching, Maternal Mental Health/Pre/Postpartum and Stress Management. 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.
Monty Owens
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98107 (Online Only)
04/17/24- Telehealth offered. New patient appointments available in four weeks. No in person appointment required. I provide medication management for clients with ADHD, bipolar disorder, PTSD, depression, anxiety disorders, panic disorder, OCD and psychotic disorders. I can help you improve your life and get you back on track at work, home and in your relationships. Please reach out today for an appointment or if you have any questions!
04/17/24- Telehealth offered. New patient appointments available in four weeks. No in person appointment required. I provide medication management for clients with ADHD, bipolar disorder, PTSD, depression, anxiety disorders, panic disorder, OCD and psychotic disorders. I can help you improve your life and get you back on track at work, home and in your relationships. Please reach out today for an appointment or if you have any questions!
VirtualPsychiatricCare.com
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, APRN
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98101 (Online Only)
We are board-certified to treat Children and Adults. Accepting new patients via telehealth visits in Washington state for psychiatric evaluations and medication management. Our clients are looking to be properly diagnosed and treated using the safest prescribing principles. Make your appointment on our website. Evening and weekend hours are available. Affordable rates. Also accepting some insurance plans.
We are board-certified to treat Children and Adults. Accepting new patients via telehealth visits in Washington state for psychiatric evaluations and medication management. Our clients are looking to be properly diagnosed and treated using the safest prescribing principles. Make your appointment on our website. Evening and weekend hours are available. Affordable rates. Also accepting some insurance plans.
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 |
68% | 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.