Psychiatrists in Seattle, WA
Ren Scheuerman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98107
My ideal client is anyone experiencing Depression, Anxiety, Panic, disordered Eating (Binge/Purge/Restrict), issues with Focus/Attention/Concentration, low Energy, Insomnia, or Mood Regulation. I prefer to begin with one medication based on the patient's report of their most pressing symptom. I do not want patients to feel medicated, only the benefits that typically present with slow measured prescribing.
My ideal client is anyone experiencing Depression, Anxiety, Panic, disordered Eating (Binge/Purge/Restrict), issues with Focus/Attention/Concentration, low Energy, Insomnia, or Mood Regulation. I prefer to begin with one medication based on the patient's report of their most pressing symptom. I do not want patients to feel medicated, only the benefits that typically present with slow measured prescribing.
Jonathan Allotey
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98101 (Online Only)
Are you struggling to balance your mental and physical health and in need of a more comprehensive approach? No problem! I provide Telemedicine (Online Psychiatry) Services, so that you can conveniently be seen from your home for psychiatry appointments and medication management without the need to travel! I provide the same psychiatry services as an in-person office visit and I can also address other aspects that encompass your complete wellness. My aim is to help you to thrive at your best! You can easily self-schedule a Telepsychiatry video appointment now at: www.pwpsychiatry.com/WA
Are you struggling to balance your mental and physical health and in need of a more comprehensive approach? No problem! I provide Telemedicine (Online Psychiatry) Services, so that you can conveniently be seen from your home for psychiatry appointments and medication management without the need to travel! I provide the same psychiatry services as an in-person office visit and I can also address other aspects that encompass your complete wellness. My aim is to help you to thrive at your best! You can easily self-schedule a Telepsychiatry video appointment now at: www.pwpsychiatry.com/WA
Eilly Yang
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, WHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98122 (Online Only)
Trained at Johns Hopkins University and triple board-certified in psychiatry, family, and women's health, I have experience caring for a diverse client population. I use a holistic, whole-person approach, meaning that we not only focus on medication, but also on lifestyle and behavioral changes. When medication is recommended, our goal is to reduce side effects while maximizing the benefits. You will find that I am curious, open-minded, inquisitive, and accepting. I care about my clients deeply and aim to build trust and respect within our therapeutic relationship.
Trained at Johns Hopkins University and triple board-certified in psychiatry, family, and women's health, I have experience caring for a diverse client population. I use a holistic, whole-person approach, meaning that we not only focus on medication, but also on lifestyle and behavioral changes. When medication is recommended, our goal is to reduce side effects while maximizing the benefits. You will find that I am curious, open-minded, inquisitive, and accepting. I care about my clients deeply and aim to build trust and respect within our therapeutic relationship.
Nancy Masters
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98144
Nancy graduated from Washington State University with a Master of Science in Nursing, and is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She has more than 10 years of experience and specializes in treating patients with depression, anxiety, ADHD, gender dysphoria, bipolar and sleep disorders. She treats patients ages 14-64.
Nancy graduated from Washington State University with a Master of Science in Nursing, and is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She has more than 10 years of experience and specializes in treating patients with depression, anxiety, ADHD, gender dysphoria, bipolar and sleep disorders. She treats patients ages 14-64.
Dr. Ronil Shah
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98101
Dr. Shah is welcoming new patients for video appointments. As a Board-certified M.D. psychiatrist, he specializes in assessing and treating anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, OCD, PTSD and other psychiatric issues. A holistic provider, he combines non-pharmacologic approaches - including psychodynamic psychotherapy and cognitive behavioral therapy - in addition to medication. He utilizes such therapeutic modalities in medication management appointments as well as dedicated therapy sessions. Consequently, patients benefit from well-integrated treatment that is both systematic and thorough.
Dr. Shah is welcoming new patients for video appointments. As a Board-certified M.D. psychiatrist, he specializes in assessing and treating anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, OCD, PTSD and other psychiatric issues. A holistic provider, he combines non-pharmacologic approaches - including psychodynamic psychotherapy and cognitive behavioral therapy - in addition to medication. He utilizes such therapeutic modalities in medication management appointments as well as dedicated therapy sessions. Consequently, patients benefit from well-integrated treatment that is both systematic and thorough.
Family Psychiatry
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98103
Accepting New Patients at our Fremont office in Seattle. We provide Psychiatric evaluations for children, adolescents and adults. We treat patients across the lifespan and have particular interests in Anxiety disorders, ADHD, Depression and Bipolar disorder. We believe psycho-pharmacology in conjunction with psychological interventions provide the framework for a happy, healthy life. Please contact the office to arrange a Virtual or In person appointment.
Accepting New Patients at our Fremont office in Seattle. We provide Psychiatric evaluations for children, adolescents and adults. We treat patients across the lifespan and have particular interests in Anxiety disorders, ADHD, Depression and Bipolar disorder. We believe psycho-pharmacology in conjunction with psychological interventions provide the framework for a happy, healthy life. Please contact the office to arrange a Virtual or In person appointment.
Osaretin Okoro
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC, MSN, APRN
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98119
Accepting new patients..... I am a patient-focused, board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner-driven to help clients overcome personal obstacles and achieve mental wellness. I support and guide my clients through their journey to recovery. I always strive for the best result and apply personal integrity to every action. I treat my patients with love and compassion regardless of their socioeconomic status. I treat my patients with dignity and respect, how I want my family members to be treated by any healthcare provider.
Accepting new patients..... I am a patient-focused, board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner-driven to help clients overcome personal obstacles and achieve mental wellness. I support and guide my clients through their journey to recovery. I always strive for the best result and apply personal integrity to every action. I treat my patients with love and compassion regardless of their socioeconomic status. I treat my patients with dignity and respect, how I want my family members to be treated by any healthcare provider.
Steven Carroll
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, FNP-C, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98119
Steve Carroll is a board-certified Family Nurse Practitioner. He serves clients across the lifespan and treats a wide range of mental health concerns including Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, Eating Disorders, ADHD, Addiction, and other mood disorders. Steve specializes in the care of clients within the LGBTQ community, as well as survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault. Steve was a 2020 recipient of the Ken Dunning Trauma Informed Care Commissioner’s Award, a distinguished honor bestowed by the New York Department of Health for practitioners who provide medical services to trauma survivors.
Steve Carroll is a board-certified Family Nurse Practitioner. He serves clients across the lifespan and treats a wide range of mental health concerns including Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, Eating Disorders, ADHD, Addiction, and other mood disorders. Steve specializes in the care of clients within the LGBTQ community, as well as survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault. Steve was a 2020 recipient of the Ken Dunning Trauma Informed Care Commissioner’s Award, a distinguished honor bestowed by the New York Department of Health for practitioners who provide medical services to trauma survivors.
Levi Williams
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98107
I believe that wherever you’re at with your mental health journey, either for yourself or a loved one, there is one thing everyone is looking for first: to be understood. In the busy world we live in, with what seems like access to everyone and everything right at our fingertips, we know what it is like to be heard; though, it is often difficult to experience meaningful connection, feel related to, and know an understanding has taken place beyond mere words. My goal is to connect in a calm and caring way with each person I meet, to understand where you are at in your journey, and to work together to identify your needs.
I believe that wherever you’re at with your mental health journey, either for yourself or a loved one, there is one thing everyone is looking for first: to be understood. In the busy world we live in, with what seems like access to everyone and everything right at our fingertips, we know what it is like to be heard; though, it is often difficult to experience meaningful connection, feel related to, and know an understanding has taken place beyond mere words. My goal is to connect in a calm and caring way with each person I meet, to understand where you are at in your journey, and to work together to identify your needs.
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.
Topher Mercado
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98115 (Online Only)
My name is Topher. I obtained my Bachelor and Master of Science in Nursing from Florida International University in Miami. I am a Board Certified Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I have clinical experience across across with a variety of medical and psychiatric/mental health disorders. I have worked at inpatient hospitals in Miami, in both a long-term acute care hospital and in an inpatient behavioral health/psychiatric unit and outpatient clinical settings. I want to be able to help alleviate the stress for my patients. By changing the way mental health is viewed, we can have a dramatic impact on future generations.
My name is Topher. I obtained my Bachelor and Master of Science in Nursing from Florida International University in Miami. I am a Board Certified Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I have clinical experience across across with a variety of medical and psychiatric/mental health disorders. I have worked at inpatient hospitals in Miami, in both a long-term acute care hospital and in an inpatient behavioral health/psychiatric unit and outpatient clinical settings. I want to be able to help alleviate the stress for my patients. By changing the way mental health is viewed, we can have a dramatic impact on future generations.
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Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARNP, FNP, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98101
Taking New Clients - Working with adults and children who have a variety of mental health conditions and symptoms, including Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar, Schizophrenia, PTSD, Autism, ODD, and poor concentration. I look forward to helping you on your journey to wellness. My name is Debbie Singh, FNP, PMHNP-BC. Are you feeling overwhelmed, exhausted, irritable, unable to keep up with daily tasks, have poor concentration, feeling sad and anxious, are you experiencing frequent mood swings and anger? Don't let these symptoms define you; get help; often, these symptoms may be related to your mental health in many cases.
Taking New Clients - Working with adults and children who have a variety of mental health conditions and symptoms, including Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar, Schizophrenia, PTSD, Autism, ODD, and poor concentration. I look forward to helping you on your journey to wellness. My name is Debbie Singh, FNP, PMHNP-BC. Are you feeling overwhelmed, exhausted, irritable, unable to keep up with daily tasks, have poor concentration, feeling sad and anxious, are you experiencing frequent mood swings and anger? Don't let these symptoms define you; get help; often, these symptoms may be related to your mental health in many cases.
Jamie Kanehl
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PNP-PC, PMHS, APRN
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98119
Hi! My name is Jamie! My goal is to truly get to know you so together we can create the best care plan to fit you or your child's needs for the goal of optimal mental health and wellness. I offer evaluation, diagnosis, medication management and holistic therapies for ADHD, anxiety, depression among other conditions for patients age 5-27. In addition to medication management, I incorporate many homeopathic supplements, foods, exercise and alternative therapies such as mindfulness, meditation, guided visualization, deep breathing, sleep hygiene, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and heart math into my practice.
Hi! My name is Jamie! My goal is to truly get to know you so together we can create the best care plan to fit you or your child's needs for the goal of optimal mental health and wellness. I offer evaluation, diagnosis, medication management and holistic therapies for ADHD, anxiety, depression among other conditions for patients age 5-27. In addition to medication management, I incorporate many homeopathic supplements, foods, exercise and alternative therapies such as mindfulness, meditation, guided visualization, deep breathing, sleep hygiene, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and heart math into my practice.
Caretouch Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, FNP-BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98119
Accepting New Patients all over Washington. Call for an appointment Now. Dr. Francisca Nebe is an Advanced Practice Nurse Practitioner with a Doctorate in Nursing Practice (DNP), and dual certified as a Psychiatric Mental Health and family Nurse Practitioner. She has years of experience in her field and specializes in treating major depression, anxiety, mood disorders, ADHD, OCD, eating disorders and other mental health conditions. Affiliated with Mindful Therapy Group.
Accepting New Patients all over Washington. Call for an appointment Now. Dr. Francisca Nebe is an Advanced Practice Nurse Practitioner with a Doctorate in Nursing Practice (DNP), and dual certified as a Psychiatric Mental Health and family Nurse Practitioner. She has years of experience in her field and specializes in treating major depression, anxiety, mood disorders, ADHD, OCD, eating disorders and other mental health conditions. Affiliated with Mindful Therapy Group.
Danielle Simpson@ Family Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARNP
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98103 (Online Only)
Accepting New Patients. I am a Child & Adolescent Psychiatric Nurse practitioner that treats individuals throughout the lifespan, from early childhood into adulthood. She specializes in treating ADHD, Anxiety and Mood disorders and Autism spectrum disorders. She utilizes both pharmacologic treatment and psychotherapy techniques. In addition, she works with patients on interpersonal growth and professional developmental.
Accepting New Patients. I am a Child & Adolescent Psychiatric Nurse practitioner that treats individuals throughout the lifespan, from early childhood into adulthood. She specializes in treating ADHD, Anxiety and Mood disorders and Autism spectrum disorders. She utilizes both pharmacologic treatment and psychotherapy techniques. In addition, she works with patients on interpersonal growth and professional developmental.
Michael Weeks MD MSW Pllc
Psychiatrist, MD, MSW
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98105
With a rich background in mental health, I bring a unique blend of experience as a licensed clinical social worker, addiction specialist, and educator in psychology. However, at the heart of my practice, I am a dedicated psychotherapist. My journey in medicine, culminating in my board certification in Psychiatry in Washington State in 2017, has always been driven by a passion for understanding and nurturing the human psyche. While I am equipped to prescribe medication when it supports treatment, my primary focus is on delivering comprehensive psychodynamic psychotherapy for optimal patient care.
With a rich background in mental health, I bring a unique blend of experience as a licensed clinical social worker, addiction specialist, and educator in psychology. However, at the heart of my practice, I am a dedicated psychotherapist. My journey in medicine, culminating in my board certification in Psychiatry in Washington State in 2017, has always been driven by a passion for understanding and nurturing the human psyche. While I am equipped to prescribe medication when it supports treatment, my primary focus is on delivering comprehensive psychodynamic psychotherapy for optimal patient care.
Transformational Psychiatry NW & TMS Clinic
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, ARNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98116
We are a very experienced mental health practice and have an extensive background in working with those with mood challenges, including those seeking help when medication and/or therapy may not be working. TMS (Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation) is FDA-approved and is an effective treatment with a high rate of response and remission. It can be helpful for mood challenges such as: Depression; Anxiety; OCD; Addiction; Bipolar/Depression; ADHD; PTSD; tinnitus; smoking cessation. We look forward to working with you to help you achieve your goals and optimal wellness.
We are a very experienced mental health practice and have an extensive background in working with those with mood challenges, including those seeking help when medication and/or therapy may not be working. TMS (Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation) is FDA-approved and is an effective treatment with a high rate of response and remission. It can be helpful for mood challenges such as: Depression; Anxiety; OCD; Addiction; Bipolar/Depression; ADHD; PTSD; tinnitus; smoking cessation. We look forward to working with you to help you achieve your goals and optimal wellness.
Brian Noonan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98107
I have been a Psychiatric NP for 15 years, treating Adult ADHD, Alcohol Use Disorders, Depression, Insomnia, Anxiety, and Panic attacks. I specialize in medication management and mindfulness meditation. I lived in a Zen monastery for six months and practice daily in my personal life. I am a certified tree-hugger, lover of music (rhythm-based; Celtic), avid reader, and long-distance hiker/walker.
I have been a Psychiatric NP for 15 years, treating Adult ADHD, Alcohol Use Disorders, Depression, Insomnia, Anxiety, and Panic attacks. I specialize in medication management and mindfulness meditation. I lived in a Zen monastery for six months and practice daily in my personal life. I am a certified tree-hugger, lover of music (rhythm-based; Celtic), avid reader, and long-distance hiker/walker.
Kathryn (Kat) McNeil
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNPc, PMHNPbc
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98119
Do you think you have ADHD, but aren't sure? Well, I can help! I now offer computer-based, objective testing to help with ADHD diagnosis and treatment monitoring. These tests are used in combination with a clinical assessment and rating scale to help reduce bias and improve patient outcomes. If you believe you suffer from ADHD but have been met with skepticism about your symptoms, these tests can help you. Now taking cash-pay patients/consults for AZ, NV, OR and insurance-pay patients/consults for WA.
Do you think you have ADHD, but aren't sure? Well, I can help! I now offer computer-based, objective testing to help with ADHD diagnosis and treatment monitoring. These tests are used in combination with a clinical assessment and rating scale to help reduce bias and improve patient outcomes. If you believe you suffer from ADHD but have been met with skepticism about your symptoms, these tests can help you. Now taking cash-pay patients/consults for AZ, NV, OR and insurance-pay patients/consults for WA.
Danielle Hammons
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98119
Dr. Danielle Hammons is a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC), with a Doctorate in Nursing Practice (DNP). Danielle possesses over 15 years of nursing experience with over 4 years of advanced nursing practice in the field of psychiatry. She is passionate about providing quality, compassionate, and comprehensive mental health services across the lifespan.
Dr. Danielle Hammons is a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC), with a Doctorate in Nursing Practice (DNP). Danielle possesses over 15 years of nursing experience with over 4 years of advanced nursing practice in the field of psychiatry. She is passionate about providing quality, compassionate, and comprehensive mental health services across the lifespan.
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 |
67% | 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.