Psychiatrists in Seattle, WA
Albert Quainoo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98103 (Online Only)
Hello, I look forward to meeting you! My name is Albert and I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner In the state of Washington. I specialize in ADHD, Anger Management/Impulse Disorders, Anxiety, Binge Eating Disorder, Bipolar Disorder, Chronic Illness, Depression, College & Graduate Student Mental Health, Insomnia & Sleep Issues, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). 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 Albert and I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner In the state of Washington. I specialize in ADHD, Anger Management/Impulse Disorders, Anxiety, Binge Eating Disorder, Bipolar Disorder, Chronic Illness, Depression, College & Graduate Student Mental Health, Insomnia & Sleep Issues, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). 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.
Brian D Jaeger
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98112
Dr. Jaeger graduated from the University of Washington, and the University of Washington School of Medicine. He completed a four year residency at the University of Hawaii in Honolulu. He is Board Certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology and has over 20 years of experience as a practicing psychiatrist. He believes that the relationship between health care provider and patient is of the utmost importance. He takes a balanced approach to go beyond symptom relief and help you find ways to revitalize your life so that you can thrive in all of your endeavors.
Dr. Jaeger graduated from the University of Washington, and the University of Washington School of Medicine. He completed a four year residency at the University of Hawaii in Honolulu. He is Board Certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology and has over 20 years of experience as a practicing psychiatrist. He believes that the relationship between health care provider and patient is of the utmost importance. He takes a balanced approach to go beyond symptom relief and help you find ways to revitalize your life so that you can thrive in all of your endeavors.
Paul Okoronkwo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP -, BC
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98136
Are you feeling down or hopeless about your future? Do you always feeling anxious or have panic attacks that you are scared to go out in public? Are you struggling to concentrate better on tasks either at work or in school? You are not alone. We are here to help you balance your physical and mental health and improve your performance. We treat clients with ADHD, Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, and many more. We are currently ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS. CHECK OUT WHAT OTHER CLIENTS ARE SAYING ABOUT US AT: https://provider.kareo.com/paul-okoronkwo
Are you feeling down or hopeless about your future? Do you always feeling anxious or have panic attacks that you are scared to go out in public? Are you struggling to concentrate better on tasks either at work or in school? You are not alone. We are here to help you balance your physical and mental health and improve your performance. We treat clients with ADHD, Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, and many more. We are currently ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS. CHECK OUT WHAT OTHER CLIENTS ARE SAYING ABOUT US AT: https://provider.kareo.com/paul-okoronkwo
Rebecca Mae Allen
Psychiatrist, MD, MPH
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98104
Not accepting new clients
Dr. Allen graduated with a B.A. in Psychology with honors from Stanford University. She attended Oregon Health and Science University for medical school where she also earned a Masters of Public Health in biostatistics and epidemiology. She completed psychiatry residency at the Harvard Longwood Psychiatry Residency Training Program, a joint program between Brigham and Women's Hospital, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, and Massachusetts Mental Health Center. She served as Chief Resident of the psychiatry consult service at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center. She then went on to complete a 2-year fellowship in Neuropsychiatry at Brigham and Women's Hospital.
Dr. Allen graduated with a B.A. in Psychology with honors from Stanford University. She attended Oregon Health and Science University for medical school where she also earned a Masters of Public Health in biostatistics and epidemiology. She completed psychiatry residency at the Harvard Longwood Psychiatry Residency Training Program, a joint program between Brigham and Women's Hospital, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, and Massachusetts Mental Health Center. She served as Chief Resident of the psychiatry consult service at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center. She then went on to complete a 2-year fellowship in Neuropsychiatry at Brigham and Women's Hospital.
Embodied Wellness Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98121 (Online Only)
Bettina Ryan is a board certified psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner who is licensed to practice in the state of Washington. She graduated from the prestigious Vanderbilt University with her Masters degree in nursing, and truly has a passion for working with clients to optimize their mental health and functioning. She specializes in ADHD, depression, anxiety, PTSD, co-occurring substance abuse, and bipolar disorders.
Bettina Ryan is a board certified psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner who is licensed to practice in the state of Washington. She graduated from the prestigious Vanderbilt University with her Masters degree in nursing, and truly has a passion for working with clients to optimize their mental health and functioning. She specializes in ADHD, depression, anxiety, PTSD, co-occurring substance abuse, and bipolar disorders.
Michelle Zipperman
Psychiatrist, MD, MS
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98103
Dr. Zipperman is a Board Certified Psychiatrist graduating from the University of Washington Psychiatry Residency and Loma Linda School of Medicine. Balanced Living Psychiatry is built on the understanding that happiness, peace of mind, and overall wellness is found at the intersection of healthy living, strong coping skills/ self-care, insight oriented therapy and psychiatric medications. Dr. Zipperman adopts the approach of integrative psychiatry, providing medication management and psychotherapy interventions but also building a team of providers for her patients including highly specialized psychotherapists, yoga/mindfulness/meditation teachers, Naturopathic Doctors, and the patient's own Primary Care Physicians.
Dr. Zipperman is a Board Certified Psychiatrist graduating from the University of Washington Psychiatry Residency and Loma Linda School of Medicine. Balanced Living Psychiatry is built on the understanding that happiness, peace of mind, and overall wellness is found at the intersection of healthy living, strong coping skills/ self-care, insight oriented therapy and psychiatric medications. Dr. Zipperman adopts the approach of integrative psychiatry, providing medication management and psychotherapy interventions but also building a team of providers for her patients including highly specialized psychotherapists, yoga/mindfulness/meditation teachers, Naturopathic Doctors, and the patient's own Primary Care Physicians.
Dr. Jade Goodloe
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98103 (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.
Tram-Anh Thi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98107
As a psychiatric nurse practitioner, I conduct comprehensive psychological assessments, diagnose, and prescribe medication. I emphasize shared and informed decision-making when tackling symptom management. My goal is to help you leverage a combination of lifestyle, environmental and pharmacological modifications to optimize functioning and well-being. Prior to Spruce, I spent the last seven years at Seattle Children's Hospital, Harborview Medical Center and teaching for the University of Washington's School of Nursing.
As a psychiatric nurse practitioner, I conduct comprehensive psychological assessments, diagnose, and prescribe medication. I emphasize shared and informed decision-making when tackling symptom management. My goal is to help you leverage a combination of lifestyle, environmental and pharmacological modifications to optimize functioning and well-being. Prior to Spruce, I spent the last seven years at Seattle Children's Hospital, Harborview Medical Center and teaching for the University of Washington's School of Nursing.
Sydney Berkman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, RN, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98101
I work with people of all ages to understand and work toward their goals for a more fulfilling life. I meet all clients with an individualized and trauma informed approach, recognizing that no one can truly understand another's unique experience. I work with clients living with symptoms related to trauma, depression, anxiety, and many other mental health concerns. I specialize in adolescents and young adults, and am passionate about partnering with young people to develop the skills and language necessary to advocate for their mental wellbeing.
I work with people of all ages to understand and work toward their goals for a more fulfilling life. I meet all clients with an individualized and trauma informed approach, recognizing that no one can truly understand another's unique experience. I work with clients living with symptoms related to trauma, depression, anxiety, and many other mental health concerns. I specialize in adolescents and young adults, and am passionate about partnering with young people to develop the skills and language necessary to advocate for their mental wellbeing.
Jordin Johnson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98119
My passion for mental health stems from my desire to help individuals achieve optimal well-being and lead fulfilling lives. I am committed to providing personalized care that meets patients' unique needs. I take the time to get to know each patient and work collaboratively to develop a treatment plan that promotes lasting health and wellness. Creating a safe, non-judgmental environment where my patients feel comfortable sharing their experiences and emotions is of utmost importance to me. My ultimate goal is to empower my patients to take control of their mental healing and achieve their full potential.
My passion for mental health stems from my desire to help individuals achieve optimal well-being and lead fulfilling lives. I am committed to providing personalized care that meets patients' unique needs. I take the time to get to know each patient and work collaboratively to develop a treatment plan that promotes lasting health and wellness. Creating a safe, non-judgmental environment where my patients feel comfortable sharing their experiences and emotions is of utmost importance to me. My ultimate goal is to empower my patients to take control of their mental healing and achieve their full potential.
Lynn-Marie Peashka
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98103 (Online Only)
Hello, I look forward to meeting you! My name is Lynn-Marie and I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with 20 years of nursing experience. I specialize in depression, anxiety, PTSD. I earned my Master's Degree in Nursing in Washington State University and 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 Lynn-Marie and I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with 20 years of nursing experience. I specialize in depression, anxiety, PTSD. I earned my Master's Degree in Nursing in Washington State University and 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.
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Jan Gullette
Psychiatric Nurse, MN, ARNP
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98112
My approach to therapy is to acknowledge and respect that this is a collaborative process where we together explore how your beliefs, thoughts, and unique chemistry, along with your physical health, social and spiritual experiences affect who you are and how satisfied you are with your life. In a safe and comfortable environment we can learn what it is you are want to understand and what you wish to accomplish in our work together. I provide counseling, therapy, medication management and alternatives to medication when indicated. I have experience working with individuals, couples and families.
My approach to therapy is to acknowledge and respect that this is a collaborative process where we together explore how your beliefs, thoughts, and unique chemistry, along with your physical health, social and spiritual experiences affect who you are and how satisfied you are with your life. In a safe and comfortable environment we can learn what it is you are want to understand and what you wish to accomplish in our work together. I provide counseling, therapy, medication management and alternatives to medication when indicated. I have experience working with individuals, couples and families.
Dr. Katherine Glass @ Montenegro And Associates
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98195 (Online Only)
As a triple boarded physician, I completed my residency at Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center, ranked number 1 in the nation by U.S. News & World Report. My integrated training in pediatrics and psychiatry offers a unique perspective, combining expertise in both fields to provide comprehensive mental health assessments.
As a triple boarded physician, I completed my residency at Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center, ranked number 1 in the nation by U.S. News & World Report. My integrated training in pediatrics and psychiatry offers a unique perspective, combining expertise in both fields to provide comprehensive mental health assessments.
Sarah Sunday@ Family Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMNP, ARNP
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98103
Accepting New Patients. I offer supportive and empathic care to patients across the lifespan. My treatment focus includes Child, Adolescent and Family Health, with a specialization in Anxiety disorders, ADHD, Depression, Post partum care and PTSD. I strive to create positive and lasting change by building a therapeutic relationship for every one of my patients. I have advanced knowledge in pharmacotherapy and complex medical care. Please contact me to arrange a Video conference. Patients can complete intake paperwork online.
Accepting New Patients. I offer supportive and empathic care to patients across the lifespan. My treatment focus includes Child, Adolescent and Family Health, with a specialization in Anxiety disorders, ADHD, Depression, Post partum care and PTSD. I strive to create positive and lasting change by building a therapeutic relationship for every one of my patients. I have advanced knowledge in pharmacotherapy and complex medical care. Please contact me to arrange a Video conference. Patients can complete intake paperwork online.
Jibran Ahmed
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98125
I'm passionate about the importance of people having easy access to mental healthcare. Before joining the healthcare field, I taught in low-income and underserved communities. Seeing the impact that a lack of mental healthcare had in these areas drove me to return to school and begin a career focused on providing that much-needed care. In my eyes, treatment can significantly increase the quality of life both mentally as well as physically.
I'm passionate about the importance of people having easy access to mental healthcare. Before joining the healthcare field, I taught in low-income and underserved communities. Seeing the impact that a lack of mental healthcare had in these areas drove me to return to school and begin a career focused on providing that much-needed care. In my eyes, treatment can significantly increase the quality of life both mentally as well as physically.
Alexandra Scott
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98154 (Online Only)
As a certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), my commitment lies in delivering individualized, compassionate, and thorough mental health services. I work collaboratively with clients to address their specific needs and treatment objectives, offering flexibility through both in-person and virtual sessions.
As a certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), my commitment lies in delivering individualized, compassionate, and thorough mental health services. I work collaboratively with clients to address their specific needs and treatment objectives, offering flexibility through both in-person and virtual sessions.
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.
Akosua Ankomah
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98107 (Online Only)
Welcome to my practice!. I have over 8years of experience working in the field of psychiatry and I'm passionate about helping individuals with behavioral health disorders improve their quality of life. My specialties include Anxiety disorders, depressive disorders, psychotic disorders, post-traumatic stress disorders and Bipolar and related disorders.I obtained my post-graduate education from Mt Saint Joseph and Northern Kentucky university.
Welcome to my practice!. I have over 8years of experience working in the field of psychiatry and I'm passionate about helping individuals with behavioral health disorders improve their quality of life. My specialties include Anxiety disorders, depressive disorders, psychotic disorders, post-traumatic stress disorders and Bipolar and related disorders.I obtained my post-graduate education from Mt Saint Joseph and Northern Kentucky university.
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.
Montenegro & Associates Behavioral Health
Psychiatrist
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98103 (Online Only)
At Montenegro & Associates Behavioral Health we commit to ensuring that nobody faces their mental health challenges alone. We are a group of expert adult, child, and adolescent psychiatrists who provide personalized psychiatric care in a compassionate and thorough manner specific to your unique needs. This collaborative approach empowers you to take the lead in your journey to wellness with our unwavering support and guidance.
At Montenegro & Associates Behavioral Health we commit to ensuring that nobody faces their mental health challenges alone. We are a group of expert adult, child, and adolescent psychiatrists who provide personalized psychiatric care in a compassionate and thorough manner specific to your unique needs. This collaborative approach empowers you to take the lead in your journey to wellness with our unwavering support and guidance.
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.