Psychiatrists in Portland, OR
Larsen Psychiatry, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97293 (Online Only)
I have experience working with people across the lifespan treating mainly anxiety and depression. I have specific interests and experience with people requiring medication and support through their pregnancy and/or postpartum, dealing with women's health issues and supporting people in recovery from drugs and alcohol. I do not manage people in acute withdrawal at this time. Safety, transparency and evidence based care are the foundation of my prescribing.
I have experience working with people across the lifespan treating mainly anxiety and depression. I have specific interests and experience with people requiring medication and support through their pregnancy and/or postpartum, dealing with women's health issues and supporting people in recovery from drugs and alcohol. I do not manage people in acute withdrawal at this time. Safety, transparency and evidence based care are the foundation of my prescribing.
Rebecca M Berman
Psychiatric Nurse, MN, MSW, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97218 (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) specializing in a range of clinical issues including depression, bipolar affective disorder, anxiety disorders, ADHD, issues of loss and bereavement, experiences of past trauma, and end-of-life concerns. I work with adults of all ages, with a particular interest in the treatment of older adults and those who care for them. The services I provide include psychiatric evaluation, medication evaluation, ongoing medication management, and psychotherapy. I will work collaboratively with your other providers to co-create a treatment plan that is as integrated and holistic as possible.
I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) specializing in a range of clinical issues including depression, bipolar affective disorder, anxiety disorders, ADHD, issues of loss and bereavement, experiences of past trauma, and end-of-life concerns. I work with adults of all ages, with a particular interest in the treatment of older adults and those who care for them. The services I provide include psychiatric evaluation, medication evaluation, ongoing medication management, and psychotherapy. I will work collaboratively with your other providers to co-create a treatment plan that is as integrated and holistic as possible.
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.
Kristen Fernandez-Kong
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97232
I believe that patients are essential members of their healthcare team and should be involved in making decisions that affect their wellbeing. Patients are often experts of their own body and experiences; if not, we will work through blockages disconnecting oneself from one's body to gain insights. It can be overwhelming to seek help for mental health and be vulnerable with a new provider, so I want patients to know that I am here for you with an open heart and nonjudgmental mind. Since I have worked with patients who felt misunderstood or mistreated by healthcare professionals, I intentionally endeavor to break that pattern.
I believe that patients are essential members of their healthcare team and should be involved in making decisions that affect their wellbeing. Patients are often experts of their own body and experiences; if not, we will work through blockages disconnecting oneself from one's body to gain insights. It can be overwhelming to seek help for mental health and be vulnerable with a new provider, so I want patients to know that I am here for you with an open heart and nonjudgmental mind. Since I have worked with patients who felt misunderstood or mistreated by healthcare professionals, I intentionally endeavor to break that pattern.
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.
Naomi Suhler
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MS, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97223
Welcome. I'm a Board Certified and Licensed Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with advanced training in medication management, mindful based cognitive therapy and Acceptance Commitment Therapy (ACT). I provide trauma informed, person-centered care utilizing medications, cognitive-behavioral approaches, mindfulness and coping skills training to individuals seeking relief from mental health symptoms that have impacted their happiness, connection with others, work productivity and quality of life.
Welcome. I'm a Board Certified and Licensed Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with advanced training in medication management, mindful based cognitive therapy and Acceptance Commitment Therapy (ACT). I provide trauma informed, person-centered care utilizing medications, cognitive-behavioral approaches, mindfulness and coping skills training to individuals seeking relief from mental health symptoms that have impacted their happiness, connection with others, work productivity and quality of life.
Jake Creviston
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, RN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97217
My primary focus is relational psychotherapy. My approach resonates with clients who are curious about themselves and others, who want to cultivate deeper and more intimate relationships and who are open to exploring frameworks of mental health beyond the medical model and psychiatry. When I do guide clients through the confusing landscape of medications I rely on the philosophy that medications are tools to ease suffering not cure it. I believe the human baseline state is confident, compassionate and creative. Though sometimes we lose touch with these for life's inevitable hardships, we all have the capacity to return.
My primary focus is relational psychotherapy. My approach resonates with clients who are curious about themselves and others, who want to cultivate deeper and more intimate relationships and who are open to exploring frameworks of mental health beyond the medical model and psychiatry. When I do guide clients through the confusing landscape of medications I rely on the philosophy that medications are tools to ease suffering not cure it. I believe the human baseline state is confident, compassionate and creative. Though sometimes we lose touch with these for life's inevitable hardships, we all have the capacity to return.
Hannah Frazee
Physician Assistant, PA
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97209
I specialize in psychiatric medication management. I believe that medication can do great things for people in the right context. I also think there are times that medication should be used in addition to other modalities, like therapy, if needed.
I specialize in psychiatric medication management. I believe that medication can do great things for people in the right context. I also think there are times that medication should be used in addition to other modalities, like therapy, if needed.
Helen Caldwell
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97209
Not accepting new clients
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) located in Portland, Oregon. I completed my Master’s and Doctorate degrees at Oregon Health & Science University. I have experience working with clients who suffer from a variety of mental health issues including difficulty with focus and attention, anxiety, mood disorders, and trauma. A majority of my experience has been focused on medication management in addition to the use of Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) for treatment-resistant depression.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) located in Portland, Oregon. I completed my Master’s and Doctorate degrees at Oregon Health & Science University. I have experience working with clients who suffer from a variety of mental health issues including difficulty with focus and attention, anxiety, mood disorders, and trauma. A majority of my experience has been focused on medication management in addition to the use of Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) for treatment-resistant depression.
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.
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.
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Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, WHNP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97215
I believe therapy and medication management can be useful tools for cultivating change and healing in our lives. Therapy is a space where we can work out the multitudes of ourselves. As we strive to find harmony within these multitudes we examine how past experiences and important relationships have singularly shaped these selves. Medications can provide extra support alongside therapy. My approach to prescribing is holistic, evidence based and attempts to minimize the need for medications.
I believe therapy and medication management can be useful tools for cultivating change and healing in our lives. Therapy is a space where we can work out the multitudes of ourselves. As we strive to find harmony within these multitudes we examine how past experiences and important relationships have singularly shaped these selves. Medications can provide extra support alongside therapy. My approach to prescribing is holistic, evidence based and attempts to minimize the need for medications.
Tara O'Connor
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97213
Healing is intimidating. It invites you to create new pathways in your brain, new patterns in your daily habits, and new ways of being with yourself. I believe in a therapeutic relationship as the cornerstone to creating space for health, healing, and personal growth. We will collaborate on a whole person approach to your mental health, including whether or not medication management is right for you.
Healing is intimidating. It invites you to create new pathways in your brain, new patterns in your daily habits, and new ways of being with yourself. I believe in a therapeutic relationship as the cornerstone to creating space for health, healing, and personal growth. We will collaborate on a whole person approach to your mental health, including whether or not medication management is right for you.
Keith Lowenstein MD- Brain Body Mind LLC
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97229 (Online Only)
We take great care to fully explore all aspects of a patient's needs and place primary emphasis on the initial consultation process. Through the health assessment, an integrated wellness plan is created. Dr. Lowenstein works with patients using a wide array of integrative medicine approaches. We assist patients in achieving optimal health and vitality. Dr. Lowenstein addresses both physical and mental health needs for patients of all ages. He works with each individual developing a unique integrated wellness plan to foster personal growth and achieve balance in their lives.
We take great care to fully explore all aspects of a patient's needs and place primary emphasis on the initial consultation process. Through the health assessment, an integrated wellness plan is created. Dr. Lowenstein works with patients using a wide array of integrative medicine approaches. We assist patients in achieving optimal health and vitality. Dr. Lowenstein addresses both physical and mental health needs for patients of all ages. He works with each individual developing a unique integrated wellness plan to foster personal growth and achieve balance in their lives.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Ayisha Sanda
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97204 (Online Only)
Accepting new patients/ Appointments are available within 48HRS/ Offering free 15mins consultations. I am a board-certified Psychiatric mental health practitioner. Before becoming a nurse, I was a social worker who provided targeted case management to people with mental health disorders. I am a dedicated, compassionate, knowledgeable nurse practitioner who offers high-quality of care to individuals presenting with diverse psychiatric diagnoses such as anxiety, ADHD, depression, PTSD, bipolar disorder and many more . My approach is holistic, evidenced based individualized strategies tailored towards your needs.
Accepting new patients/ Appointments are available within 48HRS/ Offering free 15mins consultations. I am a board-certified Psychiatric mental health practitioner. Before becoming a nurse, I was a social worker who provided targeted case management to people with mental health disorders. I am a dedicated, compassionate, knowledgeable nurse practitioner who offers high-quality of care to individuals presenting with diverse psychiatric diagnoses such as anxiety, ADHD, depression, PTSD, bipolar disorder and many more . My approach is holistic, evidenced based individualized strategies tailored towards your needs.
Taqialdeen Zamil
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97210 (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.
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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 |
68% | 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.