Psychiatrists in Bellevue, WA
Family Psychiatry
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Bellevue, WA 98004
Accepting New Patients: Family Psychiatry is committed to meeting the needs of our community by providing the best Psychiatric care for individuals of all ages and families. Our providers are trained as a Child & Adolescent specialist and also see patients across the lifespan including adults. We believes in a developmental approach that includes understanding both neuro-biological processes and bio-psychosocial issues.
Accepting New Patients: Family Psychiatry is committed to meeting the needs of our community by providing the best Psychiatric care for individuals of all ages and families. Our providers are trained as a Child & Adolescent specialist and also see patients across the lifespan including adults. We believes in a developmental approach that includes understanding both neuro-biological processes and bio-psychosocial issues.
Ioana Hall
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Verified Verified
Bellevue, WA 98004
Ioana Hall is a graduate of Seattle University, having earned a Doctorate Degree in Nursing Practice, specializing in Psychiatry. She was born and raised in Romania. Dr. Hall has worked for over a decade in different roles, providing direct inpatient care at a local psychiatric hospital, where she ultimately completed her preceptorship. Dr. Hall has been with Discovery MD since early April, 2023. She has a passion for holistic medicine combined with individualized pharmaceutical and alternative psychiatric treatment to effectively target symptoms associated with all psychiatric disorders, specifically treatment-resistant MDD.
Ioana Hall is a graduate of Seattle University, having earned a Doctorate Degree in Nursing Practice, specializing in Psychiatry. She was born and raised in Romania. Dr. Hall has worked for over a decade in different roles, providing direct inpatient care at a local psychiatric hospital, where she ultimately completed her preceptorship. Dr. Hall has been with Discovery MD since early April, 2023. She has a passion for holistic medicine combined with individualized pharmaceutical and alternative psychiatric treatment to effectively target symptoms associated with all psychiatric disorders, specifically treatment-resistant MDD.
Maryam Sajjad
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
Bellevue, WA 98005 (Online Only)
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I am highly patient-centered. I enjoy treating a wide range of psychiatric disorders, such as depressive disorders, mood disorders, anxiety disorders, attention deficit disorders, substance use disorders, and insomnia. I am enthusiastic about treating those struggling with substance use disorder and depression. Mutual respect and open communication are critical to the treatment journey; therefore, I respect my patients’ time and value their input regarding their treatment plans.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I am highly patient-centered. I enjoy treating a wide range of psychiatric disorders, such as depressive disorders, mood disorders, anxiety disorders, attention deficit disorders, substance use disorders, and insomnia. I am enthusiastic about treating those struggling with substance use disorder and depression. Mutual respect and open communication are critical to the treatment journey; therefore, I respect my patients’ time and value their input regarding their treatment plans.
Marc Pellicciaro, MD
Psychiatrist, MD, ABPN, ABAM
Verified Verified
Bellevue, WA 98005
Not accepting new clients
I provide adult psychiatry in a caring, personal, and professional manner at Magnolia Psychiatry in Bellevue, WA. Magnolia Psychiatry serves patients needing personalized psychiatric care for depression, ADHD, anxiety disorders, PTSD, panic disorder, and addiction recovery support.
I provide adult psychiatry in a caring, personal, and professional manner at Magnolia Psychiatry in Bellevue, WA. Magnolia Psychiatry serves patients needing personalized psychiatric care for depression, ADHD, anxiety disorders, PTSD, panic disorder, and addiction recovery support.
Dr. Wade Reiner
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Bellevue, WA 98004
Wait time: about 2-3 weeks - Request visit using practice website - Work with a MD - Ages 18-60 - Use out-of-network benefits for reimbursement - No Medicare availability. - I work with clients to achieve a variety of goals, including managing depression or anxiety, navigating losses and role transitions, and improving functioning in relationships and work. Credentials: Psychology, Johns Hopkins University, MD, SUNY Downstate in Brooklyn, NY, & Psychiatry residency, the Washington University in St. Louis, part-time Clinical Assistant Professor at UW, and full time at West Coast Psychiatry. I look forward to connecting with you.
Wait time: about 2-3 weeks - Request visit using practice website - Work with a MD - Ages 18-60 - Use out-of-network benefits for reimbursement - No Medicare availability. - I work with clients to achieve a variety of goals, including managing depression or anxiety, navigating losses and role transitions, and improving functioning in relationships and work. Credentials: Psychology, Johns Hopkins University, MD, SUNY Downstate in Brooklyn, NY, & Psychiatry residency, the Washington University in St. Louis, part-time Clinical Assistant Professor at UW, and full time at West Coast Psychiatry. I look forward to connecting with you.
Lucia Kilday
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bellevue, WA 98004
Welcome! I am an ANCC board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a Master’s degree from The George Washington University. I have over a decade of experience in healthcare including nursing experience in the emergency department, as a sexual assault nurse examiner, and in substance use and inpatient eating disorder treatment. I have a trauma-informed approach and treat people of every educational, socioeconomic, and ethnic background, as well as every sexual orientation. I treat patients ages 16 and up in the states of OR, WA, and UT. In-person availability in Eugene, OR.
Welcome! I am an ANCC board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a Master’s degree from The George Washington University. I have over a decade of experience in healthcare including nursing experience in the emergency department, as a sexual assault nurse examiner, and in substance use and inpatient eating disorder treatment. I have a trauma-informed approach and treat people of every educational, socioeconomic, and ethnic background, as well as every sexual orientation. I treat patients ages 16 and up in the states of OR, WA, and UT. In-person availability in Eugene, OR.
Se Won Min
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, ARNP
Verified Verified
Bellevue, WA 98006
I am a doctorally prepared advanced practice registered nurse (ARNP). I received a Doctoral degree in Nursing Practice (DNP) from University of Washington. I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC). I pursued my studies in the field of mental health because I wanted to give patients more individualized psychiatric care and positively impact their lives in holistic ways. In my practice, I practice psychiatry with strong emphasis on patient well-being, evidence-based practice and treatment plan that incorporates the goals and needs of her patients.
I am a doctorally prepared advanced practice registered nurse (ARNP). I received a Doctoral degree in Nursing Practice (DNP) from University of Washington. I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC). I pursued my studies in the field of mental health because I wanted to give patients more individualized psychiatric care and positively impact their lives in holistic ways. In my practice, I practice psychiatry with strong emphasis on patient well-being, evidence-based practice and treatment plan that incorporates the goals and needs of her patients.
Elia Wellness Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bellevue, WA 98006
Your Mental health is essential at Elia Wellness Services, and we offer a safe space to seek help. At Elia Wellness Services we provide treatment for adolescents and adults, ages 13 to 65+. We treat most psychiatric disorders and provide medication management and brief psychotherapy. We offer evidence-based treatment for various conditions, including depression, anxiety, stress, bipolar, ADHD (evaluation & Treatment), postpartum depression, and phase of life transitions tailored to our client's needs in a safe and confidential environment.
Your Mental health is essential at Elia Wellness Services, and we offer a safe space to seek help. At Elia Wellness Services we provide treatment for adolescents and adults, ages 13 to 65+. We treat most psychiatric disorders and provide medication management and brief psychotherapy. We offer evidence-based treatment for various conditions, including depression, anxiety, stress, bipolar, ADHD (evaluation & Treatment), postpartum depression, and phase of life transitions tailored to our client's needs in a safe and confidential environment.
Fox Fern ADHD Clinic
Physician Assistant, DMSc, MPAS, PA-C
Verified Verified
Bellevue, WA 98005 (Online Only)
It should not be so difficult to get ADHD, Depression, or Anxiety diagnosed and treated. I founded Fox Fern ADHD Clinic because I was frustrated with how difficult it was to get good quality and convenient care for my own ADHD diagnosis. From intake to prescription delivery, my team and I set out to rethink what psychiatric care could be and improve the process from the ground up. We might be the only clinic with a patient-experience graphic designer on staff because we aim to relentlessly refine how we help our patients feel less overwhelmed and more capable. We work hard to make our treatment plans unique and data-driven.
It should not be so difficult to get ADHD, Depression, or Anxiety diagnosed and treated. I founded Fox Fern ADHD Clinic because I was frustrated with how difficult it was to get good quality and convenient care for my own ADHD diagnosis. From intake to prescription delivery, my team and I set out to rethink what psychiatric care could be and improve the process from the ground up. We might be the only clinic with a patient-experience graphic designer on staff because we aim to relentlessly refine how we help our patients feel less overwhelmed and more capable. We work hard to make our treatment plans unique and data-driven.
Justin Maduobi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, ARNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bellevue, WA 98006
Currently accepting new clients. I provide a holistic care to adolescents and adults from 13 years old and above with depression, anxiety, trauma disorders, schizophrenia spectrum and psychotic disorder, ADHD and other mental health issues. My main goal here is to assess thoroughly, diagnose and manage your mental health by creating a genuine relationship as we get to know each other. Part of my practice structure is to address things in life that might affect your lifestyle such as sleep, diet and social life. I provide some psychotherapy along with medication management to help balance life and improve your mental health.
Currently accepting new clients. I provide a holistic care to adolescents and adults from 13 years old and above with depression, anxiety, trauma disorders, schizophrenia spectrum and psychotic disorder, ADHD and other mental health issues. My main goal here is to assess thoroughly, diagnose and manage your mental health by creating a genuine relationship as we get to know each other. Part of my practice structure is to address things in life that might affect your lifestyle such as sleep, diet and social life. I provide some psychotherapy along with medication management to help balance life and improve your mental health.
Keenan Smith
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Bellevue, WA 98004
SAME-WEEK Telehealth appointments. I help individuals overcome a range of mental health challenges using a balanced perspective. My approach includes thoughtful medication management, holistic care, and brief psychotherapy. As part of a holistic view, we examine nutrition, exercise, and sleep in helping clients maximize mental wellness.
SAME-WEEK Telehealth appointments. I help individuals overcome a range of mental health challenges using a balanced perspective. My approach includes thoughtful medication management, holistic care, and brief psychotherapy. As part of a holistic view, we examine nutrition, exercise, and sleep in helping clients maximize mental wellness.
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Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Bellevue, WA 98004
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
Frank Bashumika
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MPH, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Bellevue, WA 98004
Thank you for choosing Teleemon Behavioral Health Services. I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 10 years experience working in the mental health field. I strongly believe that proper treatment can facilitate/enhance YOUR self-confidence and determination and in turn boost overall well-being.
Thank you for choosing Teleemon Behavioral Health Services. I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 10 years experience working in the mental health field. I strongly believe that proper treatment can facilitate/enhance YOUR self-confidence and determination and in turn boost overall well-being.
Stephen Brogdon
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Bellevue, WA 98006
Dr. Steve Brogdon is a board-certified psychiatrist who has been practicing psychiatry since 2007. He completed residency at the Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center and then worked in a number of community psychiatry settings. This offered an excellent opportunity to hone his craft and become an expert in psychopharmacology. After several years in a successful private practice, he joined one of the oldest interventional psychiatric practices on the West Coast. There he participated in research and treatment with rapid acting medications, transcranial magnetic stimulation, psychedelics, deep brain stimulation, etc.
Dr. Steve Brogdon is a board-certified psychiatrist who has been practicing psychiatry since 2007. He completed residency at the Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center and then worked in a number of community psychiatry settings. This offered an excellent opportunity to hone his craft and become an expert in psychopharmacology. After several years in a successful private practice, he joined one of the oldest interventional psychiatric practices on the West Coast. There he participated in research and treatment with rapid acting medications, transcranial magnetic stimulation, psychedelics, deep brain stimulation, etc.
Dr. Kory Simonsen @ Prisma Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bellevue, WA 98004
If you’re all too familiar with the relentless thought of ‘I can’t continue living like this,’ it’s a clear sign that you’re ready for change. I approach mental health as a transformative journey through a liminal space—an in-between space where one stands on the edge of old and new or growth and change, opening the door to new possibilities and personal transformations. Mental health extends far beyond a mere collection of symptoms or diagnoses; it’s a dynamic process that involves the intricate interplay of biological, psychological, and social factors that all contribute to your lived experience.
If you’re all too familiar with the relentless thought of ‘I can’t continue living like this,’ it’s a clear sign that you’re ready for change. I approach mental health as a transformative journey through a liminal space—an in-between space where one stands on the edge of old and new or growth and change, opening the door to new possibilities and personal transformations. Mental health extends far beyond a mere collection of symptoms or diagnoses; it’s a dynamic process that involves the intricate interplay of biological, psychological, and social factors that all contribute to your lived experience.
Jonathan Allotey
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Bellevue, WA 98004 (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
Dr. Cedar Neary
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Bellevue, WA 98004 (Online Only)
I’m an integrative child, adolescent and adult psychiatrist passionate about empowering teens, college students and young adults who are struggling with anxiety, depression, ADHD, trauma and identity exploration to find calm, clarity and connection through a blend of lifestyle-interventions, psychotherapy and medication management. I have a special interest in working with marginalized communities, including providing gender-affirming care for LGBTQ2S+ individuals, supporting those who are neurodivergent and holding space for racial and ethnic minorities struggling with historical trauma and systemic racism.
I’m an integrative child, adolescent and adult psychiatrist passionate about empowering teens, college students and young adults who are struggling with anxiety, depression, ADHD, trauma and identity exploration to find calm, clarity and connection through a blend of lifestyle-interventions, psychotherapy and medication management. I have a special interest in working with marginalized communities, including providing gender-affirming care for LGBTQ2S+ individuals, supporting those who are neurodivergent and holding space for racial and ethnic minorities struggling with historical trauma and systemic racism.
Leah Haddad
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Bellevue, WA 98006
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
Dr. Jade Goodloe
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Bellevue, WA 98006 (Online Only)
We are currently welcoming new patients for Telehealth appointments. As a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner, I specialize in the diagnostic assessment, medication management, & therapeutic treatment of Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, Depression, OCD, & PTSD. Given my background as an active-duty service member & psychiatry provider, I additionally specialize in military & veteran mental health. I treat adults of all backgrounds, 18 years & older located throughout the state.
We are currently welcoming new patients for Telehealth appointments. As a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner, I specialize in the diagnostic assessment, medication management, & therapeutic treatment of Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, Depression, OCD, & PTSD. Given my background as an active-duty service member & psychiatry provider, I additionally specialize in military & veteran mental health. I treat adults of all backgrounds, 18 years & older located throughout the state.
Sarah Applegate
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MDiv, MSN, ARNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bellevue, WA 98004
I am accepting new clients on a case-by-case basis for medication management. I provide holistic, integrative psychiatric care to children, adolescents and adults with ADHD, mood, and trauma disorders, partnering with clients and their families to help them to achieve their health goals. Services I provide include comprehensive psychiatric assessments, medication management, and brief psychotherapy. While I prescribe medications when needed, I address other factors that may be impacting your mental health such as exercise, sleep, nutrition, lifestyle, relationships and coping skills.
I am accepting new clients on a case-by-case basis for medication management. I provide holistic, integrative psychiatric care to children, adolescents and adults with ADHD, mood, and trauma disorders, partnering with clients and their families to help them to achieve their health goals. Services I provide include comprehensive psychiatric assessments, medication management, and brief psychotherapy. While I prescribe medications when needed, I address other factors that may be impacting your mental health such as exercise, sleep, nutrition, lifestyle, relationships and coping skills.
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Number of Psychiatrists in Bellevue, WA
100+
Average cost per session
$250
Psychiatrists in Bellevue, WA who prioritize treating:
94% | Anxiety |
91% | Depression |
85% | Medication Management |
79% | ADHD |
78% | Bipolar Disorder |
74% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
72% | Trauma and PTSD |
Average years in practice
9 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
79% | Premera |
76% | Cigna and Evernorth |
74% | Aetna |
How Psychiatrists in Bellevue, WA see their clients
65% | In Person and Online | |
35% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
60% | Female | |
39% | Male | |
1% | Non-Binary |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Bellevue?
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.