Psychiatrists in San Francisco, CA
Victor Torres-Collazo
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94104 (Online Only)
Victor Torres-Collazo, MD provides specialty psychiatric evaluations, medication management and consultations for adults. He specializes in assessments and treatment of patients with comorbid medical and psychiatric issues. Dr. Torres-Collazo is ABPN board-certified in both General Psychiatry and Consult-Liaison Psychiatry/CLP. He completed fellowship at Georgetown, during which he also trained at the National Institutes of Health (NIH). He is very experienced with pharmacogenetic testing, neuropsychiatric issues, complex medical issues and medication management. He is fluent in both English and Spanish.
Victor Torres-Collazo, MD provides specialty psychiatric evaluations, medication management and consultations for adults. He specializes in assessments and treatment of patients with comorbid medical and psychiatric issues. Dr. Torres-Collazo is ABPN board-certified in both General Psychiatry and Consult-Liaison Psychiatry/CLP. He completed fellowship at Georgetown, during which he also trained at the National Institutes of Health (NIH). He is very experienced with pharmacogenetic testing, neuropsychiatric issues, complex medical issues and medication management. He is fluent in both English and Spanish.
Jeffrey L Seal
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94112
I am a psychiatrist specializing in therapy and medication management for adults and late adolescents. My practice provides the time for an in-depth assessment of a patient's needs and the formulation of a detailed treatment plan. The initial assessment usually takes two meetings and forms the foundation for an ongoing therapeutic relationship. I primarily utilize psychodynamic approaches, within a holistic framework that considers diet, exercise, and work-life balance. I provide treatment in a warm, compassionate, and accepting environment.
I am a psychiatrist specializing in therapy and medication management for adults and late adolescents. My practice provides the time for an in-depth assessment of a patient's needs and the formulation of a detailed treatment plan. The initial assessment usually takes two meetings and forms the foundation for an ongoing therapeutic relationship. I primarily utilize psychodynamic approaches, within a holistic framework that considers diet, exercise, and work-life balance. I provide treatment in a warm, compassionate, and accepting environment.
Gabriel Aranovich
Psychiatrist
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94109 (Online Only)
Dr. Gabriel Aranovich is a top-rated board certified psychiatrist, specializing in psychotherapy and medication management for optimizing mental health. At The Clinic, with locations in with locations in San Francisco, Palo Alto, San Jose, Berkeley, and Marin County, California, Dr. Aranovich treats both adults and adolescents with a wide range of issues, such as: depression, anxiety, ADHD, Bipolar Disorder, substance use and other common and complex mental health conditions. In addition, Dr. Aranovich, who speaks both English and Spanish, offers video and telemedicine services to patients residing in the state of California.
Dr. Gabriel Aranovich is a top-rated board certified psychiatrist, specializing in psychotherapy and medication management for optimizing mental health. At The Clinic, with locations in with locations in San Francisco, Palo Alto, San Jose, Berkeley, and Marin County, California, Dr. Aranovich treats both adults and adolescents with a wide range of issues, such as: depression, anxiety, ADHD, Bipolar Disorder, substance use and other common and complex mental health conditions. In addition, Dr. Aranovich, who speaks both English and Spanish, offers video and telemedicine services to patients residing in the state of California.
Catherine Mallouh
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94118
Feeling understood and uniquely recognized is an important part of the therapy relationship. As a psychotherapist and psychiatrist, with many years of experience, I offer an engaged and collaborative relationship, to better understand core problems and emotional conflicts that get in the way of having a satisfying and meaningful life. I work in psychotherapy with a range of issues including self esteem,intimacy, the effects of trauma, loss, and conflicts around ambition and creativity. I can help with symptoms of anxiety and depression that can significantly interfere with day to day life, providing help with medications.
Feeling understood and uniquely recognized is an important part of the therapy relationship. As a psychotherapist and psychiatrist, with many years of experience, I offer an engaged and collaborative relationship, to better understand core problems and emotional conflicts that get in the way of having a satisfying and meaningful life. I work in psychotherapy with a range of issues including self esteem,intimacy, the effects of trauma, loss, and conflicts around ambition and creativity. I can help with symptoms of anxiety and depression that can significantly interfere with day to day life, providing help with medications.
Satveet Khela
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94111 (Online Only)
Dr. Satveet Khela is a board certified physician specializing in adult psychiatry. She has been practicing since 2021. n addition to focusing on medication management, Dr Khela's practice also prioritizes a whole person approach, incorporating aspects of nutrition, lifestyle, mindfulness, and supportive or brief cognitive behavioral therapy into the treatment plan. Occasionally, Dr. Khela may believe that additional therapy is also needed and ask that you see a separate therapist to provide the best outcome. Dr. Khela received her undergraduate degree from University of California Berkeley and her medical degree from A.T. Still.
Dr. Satveet Khela is a board certified physician specializing in adult psychiatry. She has been practicing since 2021. n addition to focusing on medication management, Dr Khela's practice also prioritizes a whole person approach, incorporating aspects of nutrition, lifestyle, mindfulness, and supportive or brief cognitive behavioral therapy into the treatment plan. Occasionally, Dr. Khela may believe that additional therapy is also needed and ask that you see a separate therapist to provide the best outcome. Dr. Khela received her undergraduate degree from University of California Berkeley and her medical degree from A.T. Still.
John Hartmann
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94118
I am a board-certified psychiatrist with a private practice in San Francisco. I completed medical training at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill followed by psychiatry residency at UCSF. I have also received advanced psychotherapy training through the San Francisco Center for Psychoanalysis. I integrate a wide range of techniques and perspectives to provide individualized treatment to each patient.
I am a board-certified psychiatrist with a private practice in San Francisco. I completed medical training at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill followed by psychiatry residency at UCSF. I have also received advanced psychotherapy training through the San Francisco Center for Psychoanalysis. I integrate a wide range of techniques and perspectives to provide individualized treatment to each patient.
Diane Kim
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94114
I have experience treating adults with anxiety, depression, trauma, mood disorders, and ADHD. I provide comprehensive psychiatric assessments and prescribe psychiatric medications. I also provide psychotherapy services and am currently deepening my training of psychoanalytic psychotherapy through the San Francisco Center for Psychoanalysis. My approach draws upon various modalities, including mindfulness, somatic practices, and cognitive behavioral therapy. I enjoy working with patients who are immigrants or children of immigrants and are navigating inter-generational and cross-cultural challenges.
I have experience treating adults with anxiety, depression, trauma, mood disorders, and ADHD. I provide comprehensive psychiatric assessments and prescribe psychiatric medications. I also provide psychotherapy services and am currently deepening my training of psychoanalytic psychotherapy through the San Francisco Center for Psychoanalysis. My approach draws upon various modalities, including mindfulness, somatic practices, and cognitive behavioral therapy. I enjoy working with patients who are immigrants or children of immigrants and are navigating inter-generational and cross-cultural challenges.
Elizabeth Rawson
Psychiatrist, MD, MHS
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94115
Not accepting new clients
I am a Yale and UCSF-trained psychiatrist with expertise in caring for a variety of mental health concerns using psychotherapy and medication. My approach to treatment is personalized to each individual's unique history, difficulties, strengths, and goals. In my practice, I focus on working with you to achieve long-lasting improvements in your mental health and life satisfaction by creating a space in which your inner life can be experienced and understood.
I am a Yale and UCSF-trained psychiatrist with expertise in caring for a variety of mental health concerns using psychotherapy and medication. My approach to treatment is personalized to each individual's unique history, difficulties, strengths, and goals. In my practice, I focus on working with you to achieve long-lasting improvements in your mental health and life satisfaction by creating a space in which your inner life can be experienced and understood.
Stuart Silverman
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94111
Dr. Silverman is a board certified Staff Psychist at Talkiatry. He has over 30 years of experience and joined Talkiatry in 2019. He treats clients with talk therapy, medication management when indicated and by supporting clients in making lifestyle changes and choosing health-promoting strategies that produce sustained results. He completed his medical training at Tel Aviv University in Israel. After completing medical training, Dr. Silverman went on to complete two years of Residency in Pediatrics at The Brookdale Hospital Medical Center and an additional two years of Residency in Psychiatry at The Mount Sinai Medical Center.
Dr. Silverman is a board certified Staff Psychist at Talkiatry. He has over 30 years of experience and joined Talkiatry in 2019. He treats clients with talk therapy, medication management when indicated and by supporting clients in making lifestyle changes and choosing health-promoting strategies that produce sustained results. He completed his medical training at Tel Aviv University in Israel. After completing medical training, Dr. Silverman went on to complete two years of Residency in Pediatrics at The Brookdale Hospital Medical Center and an additional two years of Residency in Psychiatry at The Mount Sinai Medical Center.
George K. Lerner, M.D.
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94102
Dr. George Lerner is a board-certified psychiatrist based in San Francisco's financial district. He specializes in the treatment of Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD/ADHD) in adults. Dr. Lerner has extensive experience in treating adults who have been successful in their professional endeavors but have found attention deficit symptoms to be an impediment to achieving their full potential.
Dr. George Lerner is a board-certified psychiatrist based in San Francisco's financial district. He specializes in the treatment of Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD/ADHD) in adults. Dr. Lerner has extensive experience in treating adults who have been successful in their professional endeavors but have found attention deficit symptoms to be an impediment to achieving their full potential.
Dr. Hadia Shafi
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94123
I'm a Duke-trained holistic Adult and Geriatric psychiatrist who specializes in working with adults, mothers, and older adults who struggle with ADHD, trauma, depression, and anxiety while navigating through major life transitions such as parenthood and the aging process. I help my patients break the cycle of failure and self-doubt, reconnect to their life’s purpose, optimize their health and longevity, and overall feel more fulfilled in their personal and professional lives. I believe in a holistic approach to mental health care, where individuals are seen as more than their symptoms, and treatment encompasses both mind and body.
I'm a Duke-trained holistic Adult and Geriatric psychiatrist who specializes in working with adults, mothers, and older adults who struggle with ADHD, trauma, depression, and anxiety while navigating through major life transitions such as parenthood and the aging process. I help my patients break the cycle of failure and self-doubt, reconnect to their life’s purpose, optimize their health and longevity, and overall feel more fulfilled in their personal and professional lives. I believe in a holistic approach to mental health care, where individuals are seen as more than their symptoms, and treatment encompasses both mind and body.
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Sweta Shah
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94122 (Online Only)
I am a board certified psychiatrist with over 15 years of experience treating a wide range of mental health issues. I specialize in the management of eating disorders and women's mental health issues, particularly the emotional challenges specific to pregnancy, breastfeeding, and parenting/maternal identity. I work collaboratively with my patients to understand their unique experience and develop a treatment plan tailored to their individual needs.
I am a board certified psychiatrist with over 15 years of experience treating a wide range of mental health issues. I specialize in the management of eating disorders and women's mental health issues, particularly the emotional challenges specific to pregnancy, breastfeeding, and parenting/maternal identity. I work collaboratively with my patients to understand their unique experience and develop a treatment plan tailored to their individual needs.
Brightside Health
Psychiatrist
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94131 (Online Only)
Brightside Health offers online psychiatry and therapy from the comfort of home. Meet with a psychiatric provider in as little as 24 hours. We provide personalized, data-driven psychiatry, evidence-based therapy, and continuous support from expert providers to help our members feel better and stay that way. Our precision-prescribing analyzes over 100 unique data points and decades of clinical research to pinpoint your best match. At Brightside, we track your progress at every step so you and your provider can make informed decisions and adjust your care until it’s right for you.
Brightside Health offers online psychiatry and therapy from the comfort of home. Meet with a psychiatric provider in as little as 24 hours. We provide personalized, data-driven psychiatry, evidence-based therapy, and continuous support from expert providers to help our members feel better and stay that way. Our precision-prescribing analyzes over 100 unique data points and decades of clinical research to pinpoint your best match. At Brightside, we track your progress at every step so you and your provider can make informed decisions and adjust your care until it’s right for you.
Nefretiri Abat
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, JD, PMHNPBC, RN, BSN
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94108 (Online Only)
My ideal client is a highly ambitious young adult or adult navigating the complexities of ADHD. They face hurdles with concentration, managing time, impulsivity, and social interactions. They need personalized telepsychiatry services, evidence-based therapies, and practical tools to manage their ADHD symptoms. Their ambition is to conquer ADHD-related obstacles, enhance focus, attain their academic and professional objectives, and foster healthier relationships. They are determined to unleash their innate potential and harmonize their aspirations with mental well-being.
My ideal client is a highly ambitious young adult or adult navigating the complexities of ADHD. They face hurdles with concentration, managing time, impulsivity, and social interactions. They need personalized telepsychiatry services, evidence-based therapies, and practical tools to manage their ADHD symptoms. Their ambition is to conquer ADHD-related obstacles, enhance focus, attain their academic and professional objectives, and foster healthier relationships. They are determined to unleash their innate potential and harmonize their aspirations with mental well-being.
Zainob Jenmi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94111 (Online Only)
Is life becoming unmanageable? Looking for real answers? Seeking the best group of clinicians who accept your insurance? Welcome to WellPsyche Medical Group! WellPsyche providers are experts in Wellness and Mental Health. Our providers take a Thoughtful, Practical, and Caring approach to therapy and can help you balance your life. WellPsyche is also a leader in Telemedicine. Now you can visit with your provider from the privacy and convenience of your home or work.
Is life becoming unmanageable? Looking for real answers? Seeking the best group of clinicians who accept your insurance? Welcome to WellPsyche Medical Group! WellPsyche providers are experts in Wellness and Mental Health. Our providers take a Thoughtful, Practical, and Caring approach to therapy and can help you balance your life. WellPsyche is also a leader in Telemedicine. Now you can visit with your provider from the privacy and convenience of your home or work.
John Whittier
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94111 (Online Only)
Dr. John Whittier is a board certified psychiatrist specializing in the treatment of anxiety, PTSD, and mood disorders. Dr. Whittier is primarily focused on medication management of general psychiatric conditions. He approaches each client as an individual, using the one-hour initial intake to get a comprehensive look at each client’s unique needs. From there he works with his clients to provide options and flexibility in the treatment plan utilizing a combination of psychotherapy, medications, and evidence-based alternative therapies.
Dr. John Whittier is a board certified psychiatrist specializing in the treatment of anxiety, PTSD, and mood disorders. Dr. Whittier is primarily focused on medication management of general psychiatric conditions. He approaches each client as an individual, using the one-hour initial intake to get a comprehensive look at each client’s unique needs. From there he works with his clients to provide options and flexibility in the treatment plan utilizing a combination of psychotherapy, medications, and evidence-based alternative therapies.
Karin Hastik, M.D.
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94104
My practice utilizes a personalized approach to the psychiatric treatment of adolescents and adults. I focus on comprehensive diagnostic evaluations and individualized treatment of a variety of psychiatric conditions including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, attention deficit disorder and post traumatic stress related conditions as well as work related interpersonal challenges and coaching.
I work with adolescents and adults to ensure your best care through behavioral interventions, psychotherapy, nutritional analysis, and medication management. Genetic testing and functional medicine are an integral part of my practice and patient care.
My practice utilizes a personalized approach to the psychiatric treatment of adolescents and adults. I focus on comprehensive diagnostic evaluations and individualized treatment of a variety of psychiatric conditions including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, attention deficit disorder and post traumatic stress related conditions as well as work related interpersonal challenges and coaching.
I work with adolescents and adults to ensure your best care through behavioral interventions, psychotherapy, nutritional analysis, and medication management. Genetic testing and functional medicine are an integral part of my practice and patient care.
James Reich
Psychiatrist, MD, MPH
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94123
Everyone from time to time needs a helping hand. I am experienced with professor appointments at UCSF and Stanford. I treat outpatients in person and by telepsychiatry with medication management and psychotherapy (CBT and Mindfulness). My patients tend to be talented professionals (doctors, lawyers, tech) who have done well but have hit a bump with emotional symptoms, stress, or life difficulties. I believe each patient has unique needs that must be individually assessed and addressed. When indicated I use medication. I am a good choice for someone seeking a therapist and psychiatrist in one person.
Everyone from time to time needs a helping hand. I am experienced with professor appointments at UCSF and Stanford. I treat outpatients in person and by telepsychiatry with medication management and psychotherapy (CBT and Mindfulness). My patients tend to be talented professionals (doctors, lawyers, tech) who have done well but have hit a bump with emotional symptoms, stress, or life difficulties. I believe each patient has unique needs that must be individually assessed and addressed. When indicated I use medication. I am a good choice for someone seeking a therapist and psychiatrist in one person.
Sara Timtim
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94115 (Online Only)
Book online directly into the schedule, with open pricing. Since my undergrad years at Stanford, psychiatry has been my passion. I specialize in helping women gain agency in their romantic relationships by removing mental health obstacles. Treating conditions like PTSD and anxiety, and exploring root issues (eg childhood family experiences) empowers people to make sound, thoughtful decisions in choosing partners and nurturing fulfilling relationships. I take a psychodynamic approach alongside evidence-based medicine, grounded in the scientific literature.
Book online directly into the schedule, with open pricing. Since my undergrad years at Stanford, psychiatry has been my passion. I specialize in helping women gain agency in their romantic relationships by removing mental health obstacles. Treating conditions like PTSD and anxiety, and exploring root issues (eg childhood family experiences) empowers people to make sound, thoughtful decisions in choosing partners and nurturing fulfilling relationships. I take a psychodynamic approach alongside evidence-based medicine, grounded in the scientific literature.
Nishi Bhopal
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94133 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Another late night trying to catch up. Setting boundaries is tough because you don’t want to let your team down, but the workload keeps piling up and your personal life is suffering. It’s hard to relax, your mind is on overdrive, and restful sleep feels like a thing of the past. Imposter syndrome is creeping in and you try to work even harder, but it’s taking a toll on your physical and mental health. Anxiety, fatigue, restlessness, and digestive problems are a daily occurrence. You know you’re not on your A game but you don’t know where to start. Medications might be helpful, but you want more than just a prescription for pills.
Another late night trying to catch up. Setting boundaries is tough because you don’t want to let your team down, but the workload keeps piling up and your personal life is suffering. It’s hard to relax, your mind is on overdrive, and restful sleep feels like a thing of the past. Imposter syndrome is creeping in and you try to work even harder, but it’s taking a toll on your physical and mental health. Anxiety, fatigue, restlessness, and digestive problems are a daily occurrence. You know you’re not on your A game but you don’t know where to start. Medications might be helpful, but you want more than just a prescription for pills.
See more therapy options for San Francisco
Nearby Searches for San Francisco
- Alameda
- Albany
- Berkeley
- Corte Madera
- Daly City
- Emeryville
- Mill Valley
- Oakland
- Piedmont
- Sausalito
- South San Francisco
- Tiburon
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in San Francisco, CA
300+
Average cost per session
$300
Psychiatrists in San Francisco, CA who prioritize treating:
93% | Anxiety |
90% | Depression |
78% | Medication Management |
68% | ADHD |
68% | Trauma and PTSD |
68% | Bipolar Disorder |
62% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
Average years in practice
12 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
91% | Aetna |
86% | Cigna and Evernorth |
79% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Psychiatrists in San Francisco, CA see their clients
59% | In Person and Online | |
41% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
57% | Female | |
42% | Male | |
1% | Non-Binary |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in San Francisco?
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.