Psychiatrists in Portland, OR
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
Dallas L Upchurch
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97229
Hello, and welcome to your best life! I believe in listening to my patients concerns and creating the best possible individualized treatment plan to help each one of my patient's live their best lives as they navigate the rough waters life sometimes brings our way. I started my nursing career as an ICU trauma nurse in neuro, surgical, medical, and trauma ICU in federal, veteran, and civilian hospitals all over this amazing country. I feel my unique background of medical, nursing, and psychological approaches help my clients feel comfortable with my holistic approach to their psychiatric care.
Hello, and welcome to your best life! I believe in listening to my patients concerns and creating the best possible individualized treatment plan to help each one of my patient's live their best lives as they navigate the rough waters life sometimes brings our way. I started my nursing career as an ICU trauma nurse in neuro, surgical, medical, and trauma ICU in federal, veteran, and civilian hospitals all over this amazing country. I feel my unique background of medical, nursing, and psychological approaches help my clients feel comfortable with my holistic approach to their psychiatric care.
ValueCore Mental Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97233
People come to ValueCore to overcome the barriers that hinder their ability to improve their quality of life. We offer the guidance to help you embrace your absolute value. Together we work to foster the realization that happiness is the rule for you, and not the exception. As you accept your personal value, and implement the changes you need for yourself, we hope you will be free to grow, relax and recreate, socialize, work and serve others, educate, and live a fulfilling life.
People come to ValueCore to overcome the barriers that hinder their ability to improve their quality of life. We offer the guidance to help you embrace your absolute value. Together we work to foster the realization that happiness is the rule for you, and not the exception. As you accept your personal value, and implement the changes you need for yourself, we hope you will be free to grow, relax and recreate, socialize, work and serve others, educate, and live a fulfilling life.
Dr. Dianna Harris (Accepting New Clients)
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PsyD, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97219
Accepting NEW Clients (ages 18-65) as of 5/14/24 for Medication Management (I am not taking clients for therapy). Appointments are available in 2 weeks. Complete the Patient Inquiry Form on my website. You will receive a response the same or next day. My practice is primarily composed of adults struggling with anxiety and depression. I find that people reach out to treatment when excessive worry, low motivation, and negative thinking can lead to feeling less confident in their work, behind on tasks at home, and impacting their relationships. I don't treat ADHD and I don't prescribe controlled substances, such as Xanax for anxiety.
Accepting NEW Clients (ages 18-65) as of 5/14/24 for Medication Management (I am not taking clients for therapy). Appointments are available in 2 weeks. Complete the Patient Inquiry Form on my website. You will receive a response the same or next day. My practice is primarily composed of adults struggling with anxiety and depression. I find that people reach out to treatment when excessive worry, low motivation, and negative thinking can lead to feeling less confident in their work, behind on tasks at home, and impacting their relationships. I don't treat ADHD and I don't prescribe controlled substances, such as Xanax for anxiety.
Steven Knott
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
27 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97225
Do you feel disconnected from yourself and others, struggle to prioritize your needs, or have difficulty managing constant distractions and restlessness? Are you overwhelmed by balancing relationships, careers, and personal goals, especially with the added challenges of ADHD, depression, or other mental health struggles? These struggles can leave you feeling anxious, overwhelmed, and uncertain. Neglecting your needs and failing to take time for self-care can lead to long-term mental and physical health issues. I understand your challenges and believe that achieving a happier, more focused, and balanced life shouldn’t be so difficult
Do you feel disconnected from yourself and others, struggle to prioritize your needs, or have difficulty managing constant distractions and restlessness? Are you overwhelmed by balancing relationships, careers, and personal goals, especially with the added challenges of ADHD, depression, or other mental health struggles? These struggles can leave you feeling anxious, overwhelmed, and uncertain. Neglecting your needs and failing to take time for self-care can lead to long-term mental and physical health issues. I understand your challenges and believe that achieving a happier, more focused, and balanced life shouldn’t be so difficult
Megan Vandell
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97202
Megan is a board certified psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner specializing in patients struggling with dual diagnosis (mental health and addictions), PTSD, depression, anxiety, and mood disorders. Focused on patient-centered care and optimizing medication regimen, my goal in treatment is to use the fewest medications at the lowest doses possible to robustly support mood and wellness. I offer a calm, understanding environment during our sessions. Seeking help with mental health is a challenge, and I strive to make it an easy process for my patients.
Megan is a board certified psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner specializing in patients struggling with dual diagnosis (mental health and addictions), PTSD, depression, anxiety, and mood disorders. Focused on patient-centered care and optimizing medication regimen, my goal in treatment is to use the fewest medications at the lowest doses possible to robustly support mood and wellness. I offer a calm, understanding environment during our sessions. Seeking help with mental health is a challenge, and I strive to make it an easy process for my patients.
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?
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.
Gateway Mental Health Services, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97214
I'm interested in treating clients that are motivated to engage in self-care related to their mental health and the realization that medication is simply a tool to support their efforts to engage in healthy life styles, which would enhance their physical and mental health.
I'm interested in treating clients that are motivated to engage in self-care related to their mental health and the realization that medication is simply a tool to support their efforts to engage in healthy life styles, which would enhance their physical and mental health.
Quimson Behavioral Health: Cayley Mesterheide PA-C
Physician Assistant, PA-C
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97229
As a certified Physician Assistant (PA-C) specializing in psychiatry, I have experience with evaluating, diagnosing and treating a wide variety of psychiatric disorders (such as anxiety, depression, and ADHD) and enjoy working with patients of all ages and backgrounds. My passion for psychiatry began before I started PA school while working as a nursing assistant in the psychiatric unit of a hospital. While working at the hospital, I achieved my Bachelor of Science in BioHealth Sciences degree at Oregon State University. I then went on to pursue my Master’s in PA Studies at Lipscomb University in Nashville, Tennessee.
As a certified Physician Assistant (PA-C) specializing in psychiatry, I have experience with evaluating, diagnosing and treating a wide variety of psychiatric disorders (such as anxiety, depression, and ADHD) and enjoy working with patients of all ages and backgrounds. My passion for psychiatry began before I started PA school while working as a nursing assistant in the psychiatric unit of a hospital. While working at the hospital, I achieved my Bachelor of Science in BioHealth Sciences degree at Oregon State University. I then went on to pursue my Master’s in PA Studies at Lipscomb University in Nashville, Tennessee.
Scott A Friedman
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97210
Not accepting new clients
Therapy can lead to the relief of many forms of suffering, and to a fuller experience of love, work, creativity and play -- to a life more fully lived. My practice is centered on psychotherapy, sometimes coupled with judicious use of medications. While I work with adults of all ages, I specialize in working with young adults who find themselves standing apart, perhaps for the first time, from family environments and relationships that were difficult, traumatic, or invalidating.
Therapy can lead to the relief of many forms of suffering, and to a fuller experience of love, work, creativity and play -- to a life more fully lived. My practice is centered on psychotherapy, sometimes coupled with judicious use of medications. While I work with adults of all ages, I specialize in working with young adults who find themselves standing apart, perhaps for the first time, from family environments and relationships that were difficult, traumatic, or invalidating.
15 Second Videos
ValueCore Mental Health
Steven Knott
John Benson
Light Side Wellness Co
Kelly C. Aldinger
Felicia Turner, APRN | Text #Enroll 503-925-6606
Michael Boas
Melanie Ramsey
Nancy Masters
Jake Creviston
Marco Rudas-Garcia
Solid Foundation Psychiatry
High Desert Psychiatry
Madeline Jacobs
Jen Miller Clarity Health
Adam Ellis
Timothy Lafolette
Dr Mark Chofla | Empathy Therapy
Brittnai Johnson
Marguerite Maguire
Hope Mental Health
Davonna (Dee) Wilson
Esther Moseka Odaibo
Carmen Kosicek
Katharine Frissora
PeaceHaven Behavioral Center LLC
Brea Di Dato
Josephine McNary
Innocent Ogbede
Faith Integrated Psychiatry
John Benson
Hope Mental Health
April Dvorak
Sarah Ritter
Lydia Hammond
Nancy Pham
Felicia Turner, APRN | Text #Enroll 503-925-6606
Theresa Webster
Heritage Wellness
Bethel Hills Psychiatry & Ketamine Clinic
Todd Infinger
John Benson
Felicia Turner, APRN | Psychiatry On Demand
Keenan Smith
Shauna L Hahn
Angela Sanders
NTX
Kathryn (Kat) McNeil
Joshua Werblin
DeRoy C Obilor
Light Side Wellness Co
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97225
Do you feel disconnected from yourself and others, struggle to prioritize your needs, or have difficulty managing constant distractions and restlessness? Are you overwhelmed by balancing relationships, careers, and personal goals, especially with the added challenges of ADHD, depression, or other mental health struggles? These struggles can leave you feeling anxious, and uncertain. Neglecting your needs and failing to take time for self-care can lead to long-term mental and physical health issues. We understand these challenges and believe that achieving a happier, more focused, and balanced life shouldn’t be so difficult.
Do you feel disconnected from yourself and others, struggle to prioritize your needs, or have difficulty managing constant distractions and restlessness? Are you overwhelmed by balancing relationships, careers, and personal goals, especially with the added challenges of ADHD, depression, or other mental health struggles? These struggles can leave you feeling anxious, and uncertain. Neglecting your needs and failing to take time for self-care can lead to long-term mental and physical health issues. We understand these challenges and believe that achieving a happier, more focused, and balanced life shouldn’t be so difficult.
Maggie Yorio
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97223 (Online Only)
Currently Accepting New Patients! My name is Maggie Yorio. I'm a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner at BestMind Behavioral Health. I specialize in treating mood and anxiety disorders in adults through medication managment. My treatment style concentrates on active listening and building a therapeutic alliance with my patients, which helps me better understand their individual stories and goals.
Currently Accepting New Patients! My name is Maggie Yorio. I'm a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner at BestMind Behavioral Health. I specialize in treating mood and anxiety disorders in adults through medication managment. My treatment style concentrates on active listening and building a therapeutic alliance with my patients, which helps me better understand their individual stories and goals.
Kristine Simpson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97214
Currently Accepting New Patients. I see patients from a strengths-based perspective and use medications as tools with which we can reduce suffering and promote wellness. I offer psychiatric evaluations and ongoing mental health care for adults with a particular focus on individuals suffering from mood and anxiety disorders. I work collaboratively with therapists and other medical providers involved in a person's care in order to achieve the best response to treatment. Patients are seen in person for the first visit and subsequently in-person or via telehealth.
Currently Accepting New Patients. I see patients from a strengths-based perspective and use medications as tools with which we can reduce suffering and promote wellness. I offer psychiatric evaluations and ongoing mental health care for adults with a particular focus on individuals suffering from mood and anxiety disorders. I work collaboratively with therapists and other medical providers involved in a person's care in order to achieve the best response to treatment. Patients are seen in person for the first visit and subsequently in-person or via telehealth.
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!
Sheena Munson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97213 (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) providing holistic and patient-centered care is at the heart of what I do. My approach is warm, empathetic, trauma-informed, and evidenced based. We are not our symptoms and as such deserve to be treated as a whole person. We are shaped and effected by every aspect of our life and this cannot be overlooked when addressing our mental health.
As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) providing holistic and patient-centered care is at the heart of what I do. My approach is warm, empathetic, trauma-informed, and evidenced based. We are not our symptoms and as such deserve to be treated as a whole person. We are shaped and effected by every aspect of our life and this cannot be overlooked when addressing our mental health.
Heike Sommer
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP , BC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97205
Are you are looking for a prescriber who is well trained, experienced and compassionate while you are engaging in therapy and getting back to a healthy self care routine? Have you tried psychotropic medications that have not worked? Would you rather take natural remedies but have not had that much success? I do believe that psychotropic medications can be helpful short and long term. Nurse practitioners are known for their holistic approach and see you in the context of your culture, environment and situation. I am fond of collaboration with other providers to build a team for you and your mental health.
Are you are looking for a prescriber who is well trained, experienced and compassionate while you are engaging in therapy and getting back to a healthy self care routine? Have you tried psychotropic medications that have not worked? Would you rather take natural remedies but have not had that much success? I do believe that psychotropic medications can be helpful short and long term. Nurse practitioners are known for their holistic approach and see you in the context of your culture, environment and situation. I am fond of collaboration with other providers to build a team for you and your mental health.
Njideka Domrufus Dnp Pmhnp-Bc Fnp-C
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP-B, FNP-C
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97221
Njideka (NJ) Domrufus is a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) Advance Practice Registered Nurse (APRN) with a dual board certification as a Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She is an experienced Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with years of clinical experience in treating psychiatric disorders and specializes in treating major depression, substance use disorders, eating disorders, mood disorder, anxiety disorder, OCD, PTSD and ADHD.
Njideka (NJ) Domrufus is a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) Advance Practice Registered Nurse (APRN) with a dual board certification as a Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She is an experienced Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with years of clinical experience in treating psychiatric disorders and specializes in treating major depression, substance use disorders, eating disorders, mood disorder, anxiety disorder, OCD, PTSD and ADHD.
Martina Gallagher
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
24 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97202 (Online Only)
Are you going through a difficult life transition, such as a divorce or a new job? You are feeling disenchanted and sad. Day-to-day change is resulting in anxiety, frustration, and self-doubt. You wonder if taking medication will help? If this sounds like you, you are not alone! Let me support you and collaborate with you as you navigate these life transitions. My areas of expertise are depression and anxiety. When meeting for the first time I will listen to your story, your concerns, and your goals. Seeing how my clients achieve their goals on their path to improving their mental health gives me great satisfaction.
Are you going through a difficult life transition, such as a divorce or a new job? You are feeling disenchanted and sad. Day-to-day change is resulting in anxiety, frustration, and self-doubt. You wonder if taking medication will help? If this sounds like you, you are not alone! Let me support you and collaborate with you as you navigate these life transitions. My areas of expertise are depression and anxiety. When meeting for the first time I will listen to your story, your concerns, and your goals. Seeing how my clients achieve their goals on their path to improving their mental health gives me great satisfaction.
Terri Leigh Squires Licensed Medical Provider In Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NBCC, LPC, FNP-BC, PNP-BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97232
Triple Boarded Licensed Medical Provider in Psychiatry, Family Medicine and Clinical Psychology with 9 years of graduate medical/clinical education. Licensed Medical Provider Psychiatry in four states for the last 20 years. Thirty years of experience working in the psychiatry field as a Psychotherapist, Licensed Medical Provider utilizing an Integrative/Holistic approach when prescribing medications; triple boarded in Psychiatry, Family Medicine and Clinical Psychology; emphasis on mindfulness techniques Buddhist Psychology strategies for difficult to treat anxiety, difficult to treat depression, ADHD, mood swings.
Triple Boarded Licensed Medical Provider in Psychiatry, Family Medicine and Clinical Psychology with 9 years of graduate medical/clinical education. Licensed Medical Provider Psychiatry in four states for the last 20 years. Thirty years of experience working in the psychiatry field as a Psychotherapist, Licensed Medical Provider utilizing an Integrative/Holistic approach when prescribing medications; triple boarded in Psychiatry, Family Medicine and Clinical Psychology; emphasis on mindfulness techniques Buddhist Psychology strategies for difficult to treat anxiety, difficult to treat depression, ADHD, mood swings.
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 |
73% | Bipolar Disorder |
72% | ADHD |
64% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
Average years in practice
10 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
73% | Aetna |
72% | 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.