Psychiatrists in Lisle, IL

Photo of Ishaq Lachin, Psychiatrist in Lisle, IL
Ishaq Lachin
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Lisle, IL 60532
Dr. Ishaq (Isaac) Lachin sees individuals aged 6 to 65. He received his bachelor’s degree from Loyola University Chicago, and then received his MD from the world-renowned Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine. He completed both his general psychiatry residency training and child and adolescent psychiatry fellowship at the University of Chicago Medical Center. He is board certified in both adult and child & adolescent psychiatry, and has received multiple awards from the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and the Illinois Council of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry.
Dr. Ishaq (Isaac) Lachin sees individuals aged 6 to 65. He received his bachelor’s degree from Loyola University Chicago, and then received his MD from the world-renowned Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine. He completed both his general psychiatry residency training and child and adolescent psychiatry fellowship at the University of Chicago Medical Center. He is board certified in both adult and child & adolescent psychiatry, and has received multiple awards from the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and the Illinois Council of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry.
(630) 517-9367 x132 View (630) 517-9367 x132
Photo of SageMind Psychiatric Care, Psychiatrist in Lisle, IL
SageMind Psychiatric Care
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Lisle, IL 60532
Dr. Othman Mohammad is a board-certified, Harvard-trained child, and adult psychiatrist. He has been practicing psychiatry for 10+ years. In addition to treating patients, he is also an assistant professor of psychiatry and is actively involved in teaching and supervising medical students, mental health workers, and residents. He has publicly spoken and presented regionally and nationally on various topics including bipolar disorder treatment, disaster trauma first aid, and refugee mental health. Dr. Mohammad is deeply committed to making psychiatric care accessible, down to earth, trauma informed, personalized and personable.
Dr. Othman Mohammad is a board-certified, Harvard-trained child, and adult psychiatrist. He has been practicing psychiatry for 10+ years. In addition to treating patients, he is also an assistant professor of psychiatry and is actively involved in teaching and supervising medical students, mental health workers, and residents. He has publicly spoken and presented regionally and nationally on various topics including bipolar disorder treatment, disaster trauma first aid, and refugee mental health. Dr. Mohammad is deeply committed to making psychiatric care accessible, down to earth, trauma informed, personalized and personable.
(331) 704-1035 View (331) 704-1035
Ariana Sandoval
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Lisle, IL 60532
I am a dual board certified psychiatric and family practice nurse practitioner who has worked in Primary Care, Psychiatry and Substance Abuse over the last several years. My areas of expertise are mood and anxiety disorders. My extensive experience, knowledge and multicultural sensitivity, have shaped my approach to treatment as individualized and holistic. I am combining integrative methods with psychopharmacology and psychotherapeutic modalities to address complex mental health difficulties and treat them successfully.
I am a dual board certified psychiatric and family practice nurse practitioner who has worked in Primary Care, Psychiatry and Substance Abuse over the last several years. My areas of expertise are mood and anxiety disorders. My extensive experience, knowledge and multicultural sensitivity, have shaped my approach to treatment as individualized and holistic. I am combining integrative methods with psychopharmacology and psychotherapeutic modalities to address complex mental health difficulties and treat them successfully.
(331) 246-0531 View (331) 246-0531
Photo of Sarah Masri, Physician Assistant in Lisle, IL
Sarah Masri
Physician Assistant, PA-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lisle, IL 60532
I offer a personalized approach to treatment, developing a custom treatment plan to meet the specific needs of each client. Whether you are seeking help for addiction, depression, anxiety, or other psychiatric conditions, I'm here to help. Contact Lott Behavioral Health today to schedule an evaluation for yourself or your loved one.
I offer a personalized approach to treatment, developing a custom treatment plan to meet the specific needs of each client. Whether you are seeking help for addiction, depression, anxiety, or other psychiatric conditions, I'm here to help. Contact Lott Behavioral Health today to schedule an evaluation for yourself or your loved one.
(331) 246-1327 View (331) 246-1327
Photo of Lott Behavioral Health and Springview Ketamine, Psychiatrist in Lisle, IL
Lott Behavioral Health and Springview Ketamine
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lisle, IL 60532
Lott Behavioral Health offers a personalized approach to treatment, developing a custom treatment plan to meet the specific needs of each client. Whether you are seeking help for addiction, depression, anxiety, or other psychiatric conditions, we're here to help. Contact us today to schedule an evaluation for yourself or your loved one.
Lott Behavioral Health offers a personalized approach to treatment, developing a custom treatment plan to meet the specific needs of each client. Whether you are seeking help for addiction, depression, anxiety, or other psychiatric conditions, we're here to help. Contact us today to schedule an evaluation for yourself or your loved one.
(331) 226-1498 View (331) 226-1498
Photo of Devika R Patel, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Lisle, IL
Devika R Patel
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Lisle, IL 60532
I am currently accepting new patients. I have been providing excellent care for over 5 years with great compassion. I provide psychiatric evaluations and medication management for patients age of 5 years and older with Anxiety Disorders, Depression, ADHD, Mood disorder, PTSD, Opioid Use Disorder, and other mental health problems. I treat each patient as an individual and work together in developing treatment plans. I spend the time needed with each patient to get to know them and understand the source of their struggles.
I am currently accepting new patients. I have been providing excellent care for over 5 years with great compassion. I provide psychiatric evaluations and medication management for patients age of 5 years and older with Anxiety Disorders, Depression, ADHD, Mood disorder, PTSD, Opioid Use Disorder, and other mental health problems. I treat each patient as an individual and work together in developing treatment plans. I spend the time needed with each patient to get to know them and understand the source of their struggles.
(331) 248-6192 View (331) 248-6192
Photo of The Center for Insight and Connection, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Lisle, IL
The Center for Insight and Connection
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Verified Verified
Lisle, IL 60532  (Online Only)
I help my clients achieve their best possible outcomes. I am a good listener and feel that collaboration with other mental health professionals is very important. I have over 20 years of experience working with people in both inpatient and outpatient settings. I look forward to helping you reach your goals.
I help my clients achieve their best possible outcomes. I am a good listener and feel that collaboration with other mental health professionals is very important. I have over 20 years of experience working with people in both inpatient and outpatient settings. I look forward to helping you reach your goals.
(331) 246-0907 View (331) 246-0907
Photo of Judith A Sheldon, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Lisle, IL
Judith A Sheldon
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lisle, IL 60532  (Online Only)
Judith Sheldon is a board certified and licensed Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with 28 years of experience providing exceptional, compassionate, and evidence-based care to her patients. She obtained her Associates of Science degree in nursing in 1992 from Prairie State College in Chicago Heights, IL. She went on to earn her Bachelor of Science degree in nursing in 2001 and her Master of Science degree in nursing as a Family Nurse Practitioner in 2013 from Olivet Nazarene University, and later received certification as a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner from University of St. Francis.
Judith Sheldon is a board certified and licensed Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with 28 years of experience providing exceptional, compassionate, and evidence-based care to her patients. She obtained her Associates of Science degree in nursing in 1992 from Prairie State College in Chicago Heights, IL. She went on to earn her Bachelor of Science degree in nursing in 2001 and her Master of Science degree in nursing as a Family Nurse Practitioner in 2013 from Olivet Nazarene University, and later received certification as a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner from University of St. Francis.
(331) 226-1681 View (331) 226-1681
Photo of Andrea Uribe, Psychiatrist in Lisle, IL
Andrea Uribe
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
Lisle, IL 60532
Andrea Uribe, DO, treats patients age five to 25 suffering from anxiety, depression, mood and bipolar disorders, disruptive behavior, autism, OCD, ADHD, and more. She has served DuPage County since 2007 and is double board-certified in both adult and child and adolescent psychiatry. Her years of experience includes private practice, community health, and educating primary care providers to foster their knowledge of treating psychiatric conditions in outpatient practice. She is also a member of the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry.
Andrea Uribe, DO, treats patients age five to 25 suffering from anxiety, depression, mood and bipolar disorders, disruptive behavior, autism, OCD, ADHD, and more. She has served DuPage County since 2007 and is double board-certified in both adult and child and adolescent psychiatry. Her years of experience includes private practice, community health, and educating primary care providers to foster their knowledge of treating psychiatric conditions in outpatient practice. She is also a member of the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry.
(331) 253-4672 View (331) 253-4672
Photo of Arturo Ventura, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Lisle, IL
Arturo Ventura
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, RN, APRN
Verified Verified
Lisle, IL 60532  (Online Only)
Art Ventura, MSN, RN, APRN, PMHNP-BC, FNP-BC, has more than 25 years of psychiatric nursing experience. Art completed his nursing school at the University of Santo Tomas in the Philippines, obtained his masters degree at Chamberlain College of Nursing and his postmasters certification in psychiatric nursing at Regis College. Being licensed in both psychiatric and family medicine, Art provides a unique perspective in treating mental health conditions particularly in evaluating and treating depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, mood disorders, schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorder, ADHD, insomnia, dementia, OCD and other issues.
Art Ventura, MSN, RN, APRN, PMHNP-BC, FNP-BC, has more than 25 years of psychiatric nursing experience. Art completed his nursing school at the University of Santo Tomas in the Philippines, obtained his masters degree at Chamberlain College of Nursing and his postmasters certification in psychiatric nursing at Regis College. Being licensed in both psychiatric and family medicine, Art provides a unique perspective in treating mental health conditions particularly in evaluating and treating depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, mood disorders, schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorder, ADHD, insomnia, dementia, OCD and other issues.
(331) 233-1932 View (331) 233-1932
Photo of Courtney Wiseman, Psychiatrist in Lisle, IL
Courtney Wiseman
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Lisle, IL 60532
Dr. Courtney Wiseman, Board-Certified Psychiatrist, expertly treats psychiatric disorders for patients over the age of 18. Dr. Wiseman received BA from University of Notre Dame and an MD from Georgetown University. She completed her residency in psychiatry at University of Illinois, Chicago while simultaneously earning an MA in public health at University of Chicago. Following her residency, she moved to Boston to become the attending psychiatrist at Cambridge Hospital.
Dr. Courtney Wiseman, Board-Certified Psychiatrist, expertly treats psychiatric disorders for patients over the age of 18. Dr. Wiseman received BA from University of Notre Dame and an MD from Georgetown University. She completed her residency in psychiatry at University of Illinois, Chicago while simultaneously earning an MA in public health at University of Chicago. Following her residency, she moved to Boston to become the attending psychiatrist at Cambridge Hospital.
(331) 207-9218 View (331) 207-9218
Photo of Heta Shah, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Lisle, IL
Heta Shah
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Lisle, IL 60532
Heta Shah is accepting new patients. Heta is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with experience in treating children, adolescents and adults with a wide range of mental health conditions. She is known for her compassionate and patient-centered approach, taking the time to listen to her patients’ concerns and develop individualized treatment plans that meet their unique needs. Her comprehensive assessments, evidence-based treatment plans, and ongoing support aim to promote mental wellness and improve the overall quality of life for her patients.
Heta Shah is accepting new patients. Heta is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with experience in treating children, adolescents and adults with a wide range of mental health conditions. She is known for her compassionate and patient-centered approach, taking the time to listen to her patients’ concerns and develop individualized treatment plans that meet their unique needs. Her comprehensive assessments, evidence-based treatment plans, and ongoing support aim to promote mental wellness and improve the overall quality of life for her patients.
(224) 344-2113 View (224) 344-2113
Photo of Kirsten Book, LLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Lisle, IL
Kirsten Book, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, FNP-BC
Verified Verified
Lisle, IL 60532
Licensed in AZ, WA, and IL. I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. My treatment philosophy includes a combination of evidence-based psychopharmacologic management, psychotherapy, motivational interviewing, and other cognitive modalities to aid in recovery. I am confident that combining medication with other treatments is more effective than medication alone. I also believe a multidisciplinary treatment team approach with therapists and other professionals is optimal for the patient's recovery.
Licensed in AZ, WA, and IL. I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. My treatment philosophy includes a combination of evidence-based psychopharmacologic management, psychotherapy, motivational interviewing, and other cognitive modalities to aid in recovery. I am confident that combining medication with other treatments is more effective than medication alone. I also believe a multidisciplinary treatment team approach with therapists and other professionals is optimal for the patient's recovery.
(312) 525-8463 View (312) 525-8463
Steve C Lee
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Lisle, IL 60532
As a provider for Meier Clinics, I believe in treating the whole person - emotionally, physically, and spiritually. I am dedicated to providing Christian care through psychiatric evaluations and medication management to compliment the counseling process.
As a provider for Meier Clinics, I believe in treating the whole person - emotionally, physically, and spiritually. I am dedicated to providing Christian care through psychiatric evaluations and medication management to compliment the counseling process.
(888) 725-4642 View (888) 725-4642
Photo of Advanced Behavioral Health Services, Psychiatrist in Lisle, IL
Advanced Behavioral Health Services
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lisle, IL 60532
Advanced Behavioral Health Services is guided by the principle of giving people the best possible service. Our mission is to help people enjoy life to the fullest. We are committed to helping people cope with their behavioral and mental health issues so that they are able to live independently and - if possible - take a proactive stance on their own treatment. Advanced Behavioral Health Services puts the welfare of their clients first. Our specialists take time to establish rapport and get to know each client. This way, we are able to determine early on if our professional relationship would lead to progress in the client's quality of life. Each expert at Advanced Behavioral Health Services operates from the perspective that each client is our partner in treatment. After all, it is the client's response to treatment that determines our success or failure.
Advanced Behavioral Health Services is guided by the principle of giving people the best possible service. Our mission is to help people enjoy life to the fullest. We are committed to helping people cope with their behavioral and mental health issues so that they are able to live independently and - if possible - take a proactive stance on their own treatment. Advanced Behavioral Health Services puts the welfare of their clients first. Our specialists take time to establish rapport and get to know each client. This way, we are able to determine early on if our professional relationship would lead to progress in the client's quality of life. Each expert at Advanced Behavioral Health Services operates from the perspective that each client is our partner in treatment. After all, it is the client's response to treatment that determines our success or failure.
(331) 204-1791 View (331) 204-1791
Photo of Ruhina Ali, Psychiatrist in Lisle, IL
Ruhina Ali
Psychiatrist, MD
Not Verified Not Verified
Lisle, IL 60532
Dr. Ruhina N. Ali is a Psychiatrist in Illinois. She studied General Psychiatry and completed a Child and Adolescent Psychiatry Fellowship at Virginia Tech Carilion Clinic and graduated from St. Matthew's College of Medicine. Dr. Ali looks at the whole person, the family, and all environmental factors when she approaches patient care. She uses the latest scientific research and evidence-based practice to build a treatment plan with the patient and family. And Dr. Ali uses compassion and empathy to help patients and families heal.
Dr. Ruhina N. Ali is a Psychiatrist in Illinois. She studied General Psychiatry and completed a Child and Adolescent Psychiatry Fellowship at Virginia Tech Carilion Clinic and graduated from St. Matthew's College of Medicine. Dr. Ali looks at the whole person, the family, and all environmental factors when she approaches patient care. She uses the latest scientific research and evidence-based practice to build a treatment plan with the patient and family. And Dr. Ali uses compassion and empathy to help patients and families heal.
(630) 407-1872 View (630) 407-1872
Photo of Adrian Zhubi, Psychiatrist in Lisle, IL
Adrian Zhubi
Psychiatrist, MD, MS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lisle, IL 60532
New patients welcome! I have a genuine passion for the field of psychiatry and my treatment approach is integrated, compassionate and patient-centered. I aim to foster an empathic and effective collaboration with you as we examine core conflicts and patterns of behavior obstructing your relationships, work and sense of self. My approach is balanced, holistic and collaborative. I believe the best care combines both medication management and psychotherapy and I am happy to provide psychotherapy as well as refer to other therapists.
New patients welcome! I have a genuine passion for the field of psychiatry and my treatment approach is integrated, compassionate and patient-centered. I aim to foster an empathic and effective collaboration with you as we examine core conflicts and patterns of behavior obstructing your relationships, work and sense of self. My approach is balanced, holistic and collaborative. I believe the best care combines both medication management and psychotherapy and I am happy to provide psychotherapy as well as refer to other therapists.
(331) 979-3219 View (331) 979-3219
Photo of Bill Papagiannopoulos, Psychiatrist in Lisle, IL
Bill Papagiannopoulos
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lisle, IL 60532  (Online Only)
Dr. Papagiannopoulos is currently seeing patients between the ages of 12 and 60. He provides therapy sessions 1-2x weekly for his patients, in order to more deeply understand their concerns. Medications may be prescribed for his therapy patients if needed. However, he does not see patients for medication treatment alone at this time.
Dr. Papagiannopoulos is currently seeing patients between the ages of 12 and 60. He provides therapy sessions 1-2x weekly for his patients, in order to more deeply understand their concerns. Medications may be prescribed for his therapy patients if needed. However, he does not see patients for medication treatment alone at this time.
(630) 912-0517 View (630) 912-0517

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Abdullah Bin Mahfodh, Psychiatrist in Lisle, IL
Abdullah Bin Mahfodh
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Naperville, IL 60540
Dr. Abdullah Bin Mahfodh is a dedicated psychiatrist with dual board certification in adult and child and adolescent psychiatry. His comprehensive expertise spans individuals of all ages, making him a trusted resource for those seeking holistic mental health care.
Dr. Abdullah Bin Mahfodh is a dedicated psychiatrist with dual board certification in adult and child and adolescent psychiatry. His comprehensive expertise spans individuals of all ages, making him a trusted resource for those seeking holistic mental health care.
(708) 350-6820 View (708) 350-6820
Photo of Michael McDowell, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Lisle, IL
Michael McDowell
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP, MSBA, MBA
Verified Verified
Naperville, IL 60540  (Online Only)
My ideal client is ready to embark on a journey to improved mental and physical health. Through our therapeutic relationship we will find the most effective path to complete that journey.
My ideal client is ready to embark on a journey to improved mental and physical health. Through our therapeutic relationship we will find the most effective path to complete that journey.
(630) 793-4190 View (630) 793-4190

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Lisle, IL

10+

Average cost per session

$215

Psychiatrists in Lisle, IL who prioritize treating:

89% Depression
89% Anxiety
78% ADHD
78% Bipolar Disorder
72% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
72% Medication Management
61% Trauma and PTSD

Average years in practice

10 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

88% BlueCross and BlueShield
59% Cigna and Evernorth
53% Aetna

How Psychiatrists in Lisle, IL see their clients

78% In Person and Online
22% Online Only

Gender breakdown

59% Female
41% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Lisle?

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.