Psychiatrists in Seattle, WA
Dr. Nonye Rosemary Eneje
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP-BC, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98121 (Online Only)
Dr. Eneje is a doctoral prepared, licensed, and dual board-certified family nurse practitioner and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. She received her Doctor of Nursing Practice and Post Masters Certification in Psychiatric Mental Healthcare from Brandman University, Irvine California. She received a Masters of Science as a Family Nurse Practitioner and a Bachelor of Science in nursing from Tennessee State University, Nashville TN. Dr. Eneje is part of the Sigma Theta Tau nursing honor society. She provides virtual/telehealth services through a secure and HIPAA compliant video conference platform.
Dr. Eneje is a doctoral prepared, licensed, and dual board-certified family nurse practitioner and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. She received her Doctor of Nursing Practice and Post Masters Certification in Psychiatric Mental Healthcare from Brandman University, Irvine California. She received a Masters of Science as a Family Nurse Practitioner and a Bachelor of Science in nursing from Tennessee State University, Nashville TN. Dr. Eneje is part of the Sigma Theta Tau nursing honor society. She provides virtual/telehealth services through a secure and HIPAA compliant video conference platform.
Kevin Clinton Kerrick
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98119
I'm a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner who takes a holistic approach to treating patients. I recognize that people are more than of their parts. Maximizing wellness is the goal when working with clients, and to this end, exploration into complex biological, psychological, social, and environmental factors is important to gain a full view of the client's needs. Clients often seek mental health treatment to alleviate distress. It is incumbent on the provider to work with clients to uncover sources of distress and develop actionable means to empower clients to improve their lives.
I'm a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner who takes a holistic approach to treating patients. I recognize that people are more than of their parts. Maximizing wellness is the goal when working with clients, and to this end, exploration into complex biological, psychological, social, and environmental factors is important to gain a full view of the client's needs. Clients often seek mental health treatment to alleviate distress. It is incumbent on the provider to work with clients to uncover sources of distress and develop actionable means to empower clients to improve their lives.
Erin Kessler
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, MA, ARNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98107
I am a board certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) who is dedicated to partnering with women to support them on their path to mental wellness. My approach is integrative, utilizing my training in psychopharmacology as well as my interest in complementary and alternative medicine. I truly believe individuals are the experts on themselves and seek to create personalized, sustainable and comprehensive treatment plans with the women I work with.
I am a board certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) who is dedicated to partnering with women to support them on their path to mental wellness. My approach is integrative, utilizing my training in psychopharmacology as well as my interest in complementary and alternative medicine. I truly believe individuals are the experts on themselves and seek to create personalized, sustainable and comprehensive treatment plans with the women I work with.
Healthcore Psychiatry Consultants
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98133 (Online Only)
Welcome to Healthcore Psychiatry Consultants! I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I diagnose and provide medication management to adult individuals (ages 18-60). I specialize in Alcohol and Drug Addiction, ADHD, Depression, Anxiety, and Mood Disorders.
Welcome to Healthcore Psychiatry Consultants! I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I diagnose and provide medication management to adult individuals (ages 18-60). I specialize in Alcohol and Drug Addiction, ADHD, Depression, Anxiety, and Mood Disorders.
David G Zacharias
Psychiatrist, MD, MPH
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98112 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I am a Mayo Clinic and Harvard-trained psychiatrist with over 20 years of experience working in healthcare. I discovered a love for the humanities—notably literature and philosophy—early in life due to the profound way in which they helped me to understand and appreciate the human condition. This eventually merged with an interest in medicine and a desire to help improve people's lives. My interactions with patients tend to be relational and existentially-oriented, focusing heavily on personal growth and empowerment within a larger context of meaning and values.
I am a Mayo Clinic and Harvard-trained psychiatrist with over 20 years of experience working in healthcare. I discovered a love for the humanities—notably literature and philosophy—early in life due to the profound way in which they helped me to understand and appreciate the human condition. This eventually merged with an interest in medicine and a desire to help improve people's lives. My interactions with patients tend to be relational and existentially-oriented, focusing heavily on personal growth and empowerment within a larger context of meaning and values.
Allison Cothern
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98119 (Online Only)
I am a board certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I graduated from the University of Alabama at Birmingham with both my Bachelor and Master of Science in Nursing. Since completing my graduate studies and residencies, I have specialized in treating adults with mental health difficulties and concerns such as depression, anxiety, trauma, personality disorders, and other challenges. I will make it my priority to help you feel comfortable while performing thorough assessments to better diagnose and develop a treatment plan. I believe in a holistic approach to maximize wellbeing and to help you attain the best results.
I am a board certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I graduated from the University of Alabama at Birmingham with both my Bachelor and Master of Science in Nursing. Since completing my graduate studies and residencies, I have specialized in treating adults with mental health difficulties and concerns such as depression, anxiety, trauma, personality disorders, and other challenges. I will make it my priority to help you feel comfortable while performing thorough assessments to better diagnose and develop a treatment plan. I believe in a holistic approach to maximize wellbeing and to help you attain the best results.
Fatima Omar
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, FNP-C, PMHNP, BC, ARNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98103 (Online Only)
Hello, I look forward to meeting you! My name is Fatima Omar and I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner In the state of Washington. I specialize in anxiety, bipolar, depression, insomnia/sleep issues, seasonal affective disorder and stress management. I work with an amazing group of colleagues at Lavender, an online psychiatry and therapy office, where we believe psychiatric care shouldn't be expensive nor impossible to access.
Hello, I look forward to meeting you! My name is Fatima Omar and I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner In the state of Washington. I specialize in anxiety, bipolar, depression, insomnia/sleep issues, seasonal affective disorder and stress management. I work with an amazing group of colleagues at Lavender, an online psychiatry and therapy office, where we believe psychiatric care shouldn't be expensive nor impossible to access.
Ryan Thebo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98101
Are you struggling to balance your mental and physical health and in need of a more comprehensive approach? No problem! I provide holistic online psychiatry services (telemedicine), so that you can conveniently be seen in the comfort of your home for appointments and medication management without the need to travel! I provide the same psychiatry services as in-person visits and I will address other aspects that encompass your complete wellness beyond a standard psychiatry visit. My aim is for you to truly thrive at your best! You can conveniently self-schedule a holistic psychiatry video appointment right now at: 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 holistic online psychiatry services (telemedicine), so that you can conveniently be seen in the comfort of your home for appointments and medication management without the need to travel! I provide the same psychiatry services as in-person visits and I will address other aspects that encompass your complete wellness beyond a standard psychiatry visit. My aim is for you to truly thrive at your best! You can conveniently self-schedule a holistic psychiatry video appointment right now at: pwpsychiatry.com/WA
Jinn Schladweiler
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MN, OEHN, PMHNP, ARNP
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98115 (Online Only)
I'm a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. I partner with Mindful Therapy Group to provide telehealth care. My focus is providing medication management for adults recovering from trauma, depression, bipolar disorder and anxiety disorders. I use a patient-centered, holistic approach to help patients meet their goals. I do not treat eating disorders, ADD/ADHD or pregnant or breastfeeding patients. I do not handle L&I or disability claims, or any claims intended legal purposes. I do not provide detailed evaluations. If you need weekly therapy, please look for a therapist.
I'm a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. I partner with Mindful Therapy Group to provide telehealth care. My focus is providing medication management for adults recovering from trauma, depression, bipolar disorder and anxiety disorders. I use a patient-centered, holistic approach to help patients meet their goals. I do not treat eating disorders, ADD/ADHD or pregnant or breastfeeding patients. I do not handle L&I or disability claims, or any claims intended legal purposes. I do not provide detailed evaluations. If you need weekly therapy, please look for a therapist.
Seong-Hun Kim
Psychiatrist, MD, PhD
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98125
I am a psychiatrist who specializes in integrated psychiatric treatment that combines biological, social, cultural and psychological perspectives. My practice draws upon various evidence-based psychotherapeutic approaches, and utilizes psychiatric medications if appropriate. I strongly believe that each person has a natural tendency to grow and realize her/his potential, but this process is frequently impeded for a variety of reasons. We will work together to identify those obstacles and to explore and articulate the feelings, thoughts and attitudes that are often not fully recognized. This is a collaborative, shared effort in a professional setting that is safe, open and supportive.
I am a psychiatrist who specializes in integrated psychiatric treatment that combines biological, social, cultural and psychological perspectives. My practice draws upon various evidence-based psychotherapeutic approaches, and utilizes psychiatric medications if appropriate. I strongly believe that each person has a natural tendency to grow and realize her/his potential, but this process is frequently impeded for a variety of reasons. We will work together to identify those obstacles and to explore and articulate the feelings, thoughts and attitudes that are often not fully recognized. This is a collaborative, shared effort in a professional setting that is safe, open and supportive.
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.
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Integrated Health & Wellness Center LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP-C, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98102 (Online Only)
As an integrative and functional medicine Psychiatry Nurse Practitioner, I provide a holistic treatment approach for individuals seeking relief from mental distress. Medicine can be a helpful tool, but some people don't like to be on medication, while others want to be on the minimum amount possible; I will work with you to find that inner peace and freedom you desire. When needed, I prescribe psychiatric medication as part of a comprehensive treatment plan, including exercise, meditation, vitamins, and nutritional supplements.
As an integrative and functional medicine Psychiatry Nurse Practitioner, I provide a holistic treatment approach for individuals seeking relief from mental distress. Medicine can be a helpful tool, but some people don't like to be on medication, while others want to be on the minimum amount possible; I will work with you to find that inner peace and freedom you desire. When needed, I prescribe psychiatric medication as part of a comprehensive treatment plan, including exercise, meditation, vitamins, and nutritional supplements.
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.
Colleen Coyne
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, ARNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98107
I am accepting new patients. My experience has taught me that healing is a journey we most often do not venture alone. Mental health, like physical health, is a lifelong journey. With life changes, some experience anxiety, grief, or trauma that hits with a sudden agony similar to breaking a bone. For others, depression parallels chronic pain, as a daily weight a person carries for years and yearns to set down. I see myself as a guide, providing insights, recommendations, and tools grounded in scientific evidence.
I am accepting new patients. My experience has taught me that healing is a journey we most often do not venture alone. Mental health, like physical health, is a lifelong journey. With life changes, some experience anxiety, grief, or trauma that hits with a sudden agony similar to breaking a bone. For others, depression parallels chronic pain, as a daily weight a person carries for years and yearns to set down. I see myself as a guide, providing insights, recommendations, and tools grounded in scientific evidence.
Talia Baruch
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, CRNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98104 (Online Only)
Do you struggle to find the energy to do things you once enjoyed? Activities that used to bring happiness and fulfillment now feel like an insurmountable task. Even the simplest of tasks, like getting out of bed or taking a shower, feels impossible. The constant negative thoughts and feelings are overwhelming. You might not feel as if you can ever get better but you are ready to find a way to get out of the isolating hole of depression. You are ready to start living your life again. Clients come to me looking for a compassionate and patient provider who brings them hope in even the darkest of times.
Do you struggle to find the energy to do things you once enjoyed? Activities that used to bring happiness and fulfillment now feel like an insurmountable task. Even the simplest of tasks, like getting out of bed or taking a shower, feels impossible. The constant negative thoughts and feelings are overwhelming. You might not feel as if you can ever get better but you are ready to find a way to get out of the isolating hole of depression. You are ready to start living your life again. Clients come to me looking for a compassionate and patient provider who brings them hope in even the darkest of times.
MindsMatter LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98104 (Online Only)
At MindsMatter, prescribing medication is not the main focus. We believe in patient-centered care tailored to your needs! Not all clients seek mental wellness treatment for the same reasons, and that's why individualized care is so important in our treatment plans. We also offer brief therapy and cognitive behavioral therapy for those seeking personal counseling. I provided educational videos about mental wellness on social media via TikTok and YouTube. You can find me on TikTok (raypsychnp) or YouTube (mrraypsychnp) if you would like to subscribe to either channel or be informed when a new video is posted!
At MindsMatter, prescribing medication is not the main focus. We believe in patient-centered care tailored to your needs! Not all clients seek mental wellness treatment for the same reasons, and that's why individualized care is so important in our treatment plans. We also offer brief therapy and cognitive behavioral therapy for those seeking personal counseling. I provided educational videos about mental wellness on social media via TikTok and YouTube. You can find me on TikTok (raypsychnp) or YouTube (mrraypsychnp) if you would like to subscribe to either channel or be informed when a new video is posted!
Janelle Yim
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP, MSN
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98105 (Online Only)
Currently ACCEPTing NEW patients: (make an appointment on the website - www.telemyvisit.com.) Looking after your mental health is as important as looking after your physical health to reach overall well-being. Many people suffer from depression or other mental health problems that affect their lives, and yet they often struggle to reach out for help. Mental health conditions are common, and you are not alone in this. Whether you know that you live with a long-term mental illness or you are not sure what's causing your symptoms, I can help you find hope.
Currently ACCEPTing NEW patients: (make an appointment on the website - www.telemyvisit.com.) Looking after your mental health is as important as looking after your physical health to reach overall well-being. Many people suffer from depression or other mental health problems that affect their lives, and yet they often struggle to reach out for help. Mental health conditions are common, and you are not alone in this. Whether you know that you live with a long-term mental illness or you are not sure what's causing your symptoms, I can help you find hope.
Dr. Daniel Daylamani
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98112 (Online Only)
I am a board-certified psychiatrist currently accepting new patients. My practice is strictly through the use of telepsychiatry which means that all appointments will be held via HIPAA compliant video conferencing software. Many patients prefer this means of treatment as appointments can be done from the comfort of your home or office without the need for lengthy commutes or waiting rooms and it provides access to mental health treatment to patients located in more remote locations. I treat adult (18+) patients located in Colorado, Texas and Washington State though controlled substance prescribing may only be done in Colorado.
I am a board-certified psychiatrist currently accepting new patients. My practice is strictly through the use of telepsychiatry which means that all appointments will be held via HIPAA compliant video conferencing software. Many patients prefer this means of treatment as appointments can be done from the comfort of your home or office without the need for lengthy commutes or waiting rooms and it provides access to mental health treatment to patients located in more remote locations. I treat adult (18+) patients located in Colorado, Texas and Washington State though controlled substance prescribing may only be done in Colorado.
Chima Egwim
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98119
I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I am a compassionate and self-driven practitioner with a Master of Science in Psychiatric Mental Health Nursing, a Bachelor of Science in Nursing, and over 8 years of professional experience. My expertise includes evaluating health risk factors, stabilizing patients, minimizing complications, and providing physical and psychological support. I am adept in geriatric care management, mental health counseling, and managing psychiatric medications. I have experience in diagnosing and treating a variety of mental health disorders.
I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I am a compassionate and self-driven practitioner with a Master of Science in Psychiatric Mental Health Nursing, a Bachelor of Science in Nursing, and over 8 years of professional experience. My expertise includes evaluating health risk factors, stabilizing patients, minimizing complications, and providing physical and psychological support. I am adept in geriatric care management, mental health counseling, and managing psychiatric medications. I have experience in diagnosing and treating a variety of mental health disorders.
Mindful Health Solutions
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98125
My ideal patient is someone who is willing to collaborate with me to create the best treatment plan possible for their unique needs. I enjoy answering questions so each patient understands the process. I also aspire to be a supportive ally for patients who are LGBTQIA+ or from any other minority community.
My ideal patient is someone who is willing to collaborate with me to create the best treatment plan possible for their unique needs. I enjoy answering questions so each patient understands the process. I also aspire to be a supportive ally for patients who are LGBTQIA+ or from any other minority community.
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.