Psychiatrists in Knoxville, TN

Photo of Rachel Tamaroff, Psychiatrist in Knoxville, TN
Rachel Tamaroff
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37923
Many of us struggle with depression, anxiety, fear, and loneliness, but you don't have to face these challenges alone. Treatment can help you feel safe and secure. It can help you reach your potential, derive more satisfaction and joy from your relationships, and ultimately help you achieve a sense of contentedness and fulfillment.
Many of us struggle with depression, anxiety, fear, and loneliness, but you don't have to face these challenges alone. Treatment can help you feel safe and secure. It can help you reach your potential, derive more satisfaction and joy from your relationships, and ultimately help you achieve a sense of contentedness and fulfillment.
(347) 657-7182 View (347) 657-7182
Photo of Amy Rosenbalm, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Knoxville, TN
Amy Rosenbalm
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARNP
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37922
Amy Rosenbalm is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She has been a registered nurse since 1996 after earning her Associate of Science in Nursing in a joint program with Middlesex County College and University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Mississippi College and her Master of Science in Nursing from King University. Amy began her nursing career in geriatrics and has always enjoyed working with (and learning from) Alzheimer's disease/dementia, stroke, and orthopedic rehabilitation clients.
Amy Rosenbalm is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She has been a registered nurse since 1996 after earning her Associate of Science in Nursing in a joint program with Middlesex County College and University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Mississippi College and her Master of Science in Nursing from King University. Amy began her nursing career in geriatrics and has always enjoyed working with (and learning from) Alzheimer's disease/dementia, stroke, and orthopedic rehabilitation clients.
(865) 375-9194 View (865) 375-9194
Photo of Scott Baymiller, Psychiatrist in Knoxville, TN
Scott Baymiller
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37909
Scott Baymiller, M. D, is a board-certified psychiatrist with over 20 years of experience in the field of medication management for the treatment of depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia. "š He graduated medical school at the University of Tennessee and completed his residency at Brown University in Providence, Rhode Island. He has been on faculty at multiple universities and has worked in inpatient, outpatient, partial hospitalization, and community mental health settings. He has also served as medical director of multiple psychiatric hospitals.
Scott Baymiller, M. D, is a board-certified psychiatrist with over 20 years of experience in the field of medication management for the treatment of depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia. "š He graduated medical school at the University of Tennessee and completed his residency at Brown University in Providence, Rhode Island. He has been on faculty at multiple universities and has worked in inpatient, outpatient, partial hospitalization, and community mental health settings. He has also served as medical director of multiple psychiatric hospitals.
(865) 290-2334 View (865) 290-2334
Photo of Noelle K. Pease, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Knoxville, TN
Noelle K. Pease
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARNP
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37934
Noelle received her BSN from Tennessee Wesleyan University and MSN from Lincoln Memorial University. She is board certified by the American Nurses Credentialing Center as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She began her nursing career working with the pediatric population gaining experience with a variety of neurodevelopmental disorders and family centered approach to patient care. After 7 years in the nursing field she decided to further pursue her education in the mental health field.
Noelle received her BSN from Tennessee Wesleyan University and MSN from Lincoln Memorial University. She is board certified by the American Nurses Credentialing Center as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She began her nursing career working with the pediatric population gaining experience with a variety of neurodevelopmental disorders and family centered approach to patient care. After 7 years in the nursing field she decided to further pursue her education in the mental health field.
(865) 412-8736 View (865) 412-8736
Photo of Sally (Sarah Elizabeth) Summers, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Knoxville, TN
Sally (Sarah Elizabeth) Summers
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN-CNL
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37923
Waitlist for new clients
Sally has a Bachelor's in Psychology and two advanced degrees in Nursing. She provides psychiatric services, including psychiatric evaluation and medication management for children, adolescents, and adults. Her primary goal is to make her patients feel "seen" with a caring, non-judgemental approach. She provides high-quality, evidence-based care tailored to her patient's diagnosis and lifestyle in hopes of reducing individual suffering and helping her patients become the most optimal version of themself.
Sally has a Bachelor's in Psychology and two advanced degrees in Nursing. She provides psychiatric services, including psychiatric evaluation and medication management for children, adolescents, and adults. Her primary goal is to make her patients feel "seen" with a caring, non-judgemental approach. She provides high-quality, evidence-based care tailored to her patient's diagnosis and lifestyle in hopes of reducing individual suffering and helping her patients become the most optimal version of themself.
(865) 213-7490 View (865) 213-7490
Photo of Healthy Living Medical Services LLC, Psychiatrist in Knoxville, TN
Healthy Living Medical Services LLC
Psychiatrist, MD, MS
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37923
We take a positive approach to your addiction or mental health needs. Our goal is to help you find success without judgement, offering positive support. We have witnessed many success stories and provide a structured atmosphere through your treatment with Suboxone (or other medications). We also provide Psychiatry & Weight Management services. Dr Dawit Zemichael uses the most advanced approaches in the treatment of mental health, addictions & behavioral problems. He utilizes a holistic approach in his treatment modality. Qualifications: Years of practice-18 years. *Education: East Tennessee State University, Quillan School of Medicine, London University Medical College & Old Church Hospital London, England & Training in Dublin Ireland.
We take a positive approach to your addiction or mental health needs. Our goal is to help you find success without judgement, offering positive support. We have witnessed many success stories and provide a structured atmosphere through your treatment with Suboxone (or other medications). We also provide Psychiatry & Weight Management services. Dr Dawit Zemichael uses the most advanced approaches in the treatment of mental health, addictions & behavioral problems. He utilizes a holistic approach in his treatment modality. Qualifications: Years of practice-18 years. *Education: East Tennessee State University, Quillan School of Medicine, London University Medical College & Old Church Hospital London, England & Training in Dublin Ireland.
(865) 276-7022 View (865) 276-7022
Photo of Katy Nottingham, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Knoxville, TN
Katy Nottingham
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Knoxville, TN 37922
I have more than a decade of experience in evaluating and treating patients across the lifespan, but I have special expertise in the pediatric and young-adult populations (ages 4-30). My practice focus includes anxiety, depression, impulse control disorders, autism spectrum disorders, ADHD, mood disorders, and obsessive-compulsive disorder.
I have more than a decade of experience in evaluating and treating patients across the lifespan, but I have special expertise in the pediatric and young-adult populations (ages 4-30). My practice focus includes anxiety, depression, impulse control disorders, autism spectrum disorders, ADHD, mood disorders, and obsessive-compulsive disorder.
(865) 568-8007 View (865) 568-8007
Photo of Amber Redfield, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Knoxville, TN
Amber Redfield
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37922
Amber Redfield is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner practicing in Tennessee. She obtained her BSN from Tennessee Wesleyan College and her MSN in Psychiatric Mental Health Nursing at the University of Tennessee. Amber has been working in mental health nursing since 2007 in inpatient and outpatient community mental health and since May 2018, as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in community outpatient. She additionally has experience as a nurse practitioner in addiction, working in detox since 2020. Amber is certified to treat people over the lifespan.
Amber Redfield is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner practicing in Tennessee. She obtained her BSN from Tennessee Wesleyan College and her MSN in Psychiatric Mental Health Nursing at the University of Tennessee. Amber has been working in mental health nursing since 2007 in inpatient and outpatient community mental health and since May 2018, as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in community outpatient. She additionally has experience as a nurse practitioner in addiction, working in detox since 2020. Amber is certified to treat people over the lifespan.
(865) 217-0570 View (865) 217-0570
Photo of Down To Earth Services, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Knoxville, TN
Down To Earth Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Knoxville, TN 37909
Down To Earth Services is actively accepting new clients for medication management ! Sometimes, no matter how independent we are, we need help. We have a passion for supporting people who are seeking help managing high stress, life changes, anxiety, depression and trauma symptoms through outpatient therapy sessions and medication management. We currently have five medication management providers in our practice: Adam Ballintoy, APRN, Susan Barner, APRN, Jennifer Phillips, APRN, Dr. Lisa Pullen, APRN, and Samuel Wood, APRN. We also offer individual therapy, couples therapy, family therapy and group therapy sessions.
Down To Earth Services is actively accepting new clients for medication management ! Sometimes, no matter how independent we are, we need help. We have a passion for supporting people who are seeking help managing high stress, life changes, anxiety, depression and trauma symptoms through outpatient therapy sessions and medication management. We currently have five medication management providers in our practice: Adam Ballintoy, APRN, Susan Barner, APRN, Jennifer Phillips, APRN, Dr. Lisa Pullen, APRN, and Samuel Wood, APRN. We also offer individual therapy, couples therapy, family therapy and group therapy sessions.
(865) 800-4063 View (865) 800-4063
Photo of Shannon Leah Hutchison, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Knoxville, TN
Shannon Leah Hutchison
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37923  (Online Only)
I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 22 years of nursing experience. I am accepting new patients ages 18 and older and have experience treating anxiety, insomnia, PTSD, depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and substance use disorders.
I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 22 years of nursing experience. I am accepting new patients ages 18 and older and have experience treating anxiety, insomnia, PTSD, depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and substance use disorders.
(865) 290-7471 View (865) 290-7471
Photo of Karla Carroll, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Knoxville, TN
Karla Carroll
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARNP
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37932
Karla Carroll is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Tennessee. She has a Masters in Nursing from Lincoln Memorial University. Karla has experience with interventional psych in major depressive disorder, personality disorders, ADHD, autism spectrum disorders, ODD, DMDD, and substance use disorders. Outside of work, Karla enjoys walking with her two dachshunds, working out, and baking cakes.
Karla Carroll is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Tennessee. She has a Masters in Nursing from Lincoln Memorial University. Karla has experience with interventional psych in major depressive disorder, personality disorders, ADHD, autism spectrum disorders, ODD, DMDD, and substance use disorders. Outside of work, Karla enjoys walking with her two dachshunds, working out, and baking cakes.
(865) 412-4044 View (865) 412-4044
Photo of Al Mathewson, Psychiatric Nurse in Knoxville, TN
Al Mathewson
Psychiatric Nurse, ARNP
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37922
Al Mathewson is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Tennessee who has been practicing since 2004. He holds an MSW degree from the University of South Carolina, as well as an MSN from the University of Tennessee. Al works collaboratively with his clients to build a plan that will work best for them. Outside of work, Al enjoys photography, playing guitar, and spending time with his granddaughters.
Al Mathewson is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Tennessee who has been practicing since 2004. He holds an MSW degree from the University of South Carolina, as well as an MSN from the University of Tennessee. Al works collaboratively with his clients to build a plan that will work best for them. Outside of work, Al enjoys photography, playing guitar, and spending time with his granddaughters.
(865) 302-3459 View (865) 302-3459
Photo of Lori Jane Holt, Psychiatric Nurse in Knoxville, TN
Lori Jane Holt
Psychiatric Nurse, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37923  (Online Only)
Now accepting new patients in the state of Tennessee for virtual medication management appointments with affordable fees and immediate availability. I offer 15 years of experience treating patients with various mental health issues. I have worked in many different settings with multiple populations throughout my career and believe in holistic patient-centered care.
Now accepting new patients in the state of Tennessee for virtual medication management appointments with affordable fees and immediate availability. I offer 15 years of experience treating patients with various mental health issues. I have worked in many different settings with multiple populations throughout my career and believe in holistic patient-centered care.
(865) 448-7332 View (865) 448-7332
Photo of Ladonna Hubbard, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Knoxville, TN
Ladonna Hubbard
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37922  (Online Only)
At The Tiqvah Clinic we will work together to help you look forward to a future filled with hope, without the pain, anxiety, depression, and regret, you may be living with today. Maybe you’re looking for a change in your circumstances that are causing constant anxiety, or are considering a job change and struggling with tough decisions. Perhaps you’re struggling with an abusive spouse or other family member, and need guidance concerning how to navigate the situation safely.
At The Tiqvah Clinic we will work together to help you look forward to a future filled with hope, without the pain, anxiety, depression, and regret, you may be living with today. Maybe you’re looking for a change in your circumstances that are causing constant anxiety, or are considering a job change and struggling with tough decisions. Perhaps you’re struggling with an abusive spouse or other family member, and need guidance concerning how to navigate the situation safely.
(865) 344-6110 View (865) 344-6110
Photo of Lisa Kaye Kruger, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Knoxville, TN
Lisa Kaye Kruger
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN, RN
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37923
Now accepting adult and adolescent patients who are interesting in exploring options for Anxiety disorders, Depression, ADHD, ADD, Oppositional Defiant Disorder, adjustment difficulties and child - caregiver difficulties.
Now accepting adult and adolescent patients who are interesting in exploring options for Anxiety disorders, Depression, ADHD, ADD, Oppositional Defiant Disorder, adjustment difficulties and child - caregiver difficulties.
(865) 345-5937 View (865) 345-5937
Photo of Ashley Lawhorn, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Knoxville, TN
Ashley Lawhorn
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARNP
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37934
Ashley Lawhorn is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Tennessee who has been practicing since 2016 in a variety of settings, including community mental health, dual diagnosis centers for substance abuse/mental health and private practice. Ashley provides psychiatric evaluations, with diagnoses and medication management, for ages 5-99. She enjoys all ages and will continue to treat the lifespan. Ashley's clients are from all backgrounds and cultures. Ashley believes your input, as her client, is the most important part of your treatment journey together.
Ashley Lawhorn is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Tennessee who has been practicing since 2016 in a variety of settings, including community mental health, dual diagnosis centers for substance abuse/mental health and private practice. Ashley provides psychiatric evaluations, with diagnoses and medication management, for ages 5-99. She enjoys all ages and will continue to treat the lifespan. Ashley's clients are from all backgrounds and cultures. Ashley believes your input, as her client, is the most important part of your treatment journey together.
(865) 412-8863 View (865) 412-8863
Photo of Tonya McCarroll, Psychiatric Nurse in Knoxville, TN
Tonya McCarroll
Psychiatric Nurse, ARNP
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37934
Tonya McCarroll is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Tennessee who has been practicing since 2023. Tonya approaches each patient with empathy and active listening. She embraces patient-centered care by involving the patient in their care plan and respecting their autonomy. Tonya maintains clear communication and fosters a non-judgmental atmosphere. Outside of work, Tonya loves to watch movies and read mystery books. She also loves spending time with her family and her dogs!
Tonya McCarroll is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Tennessee who has been practicing since 2023. Tonya approaches each patient with empathy and active listening. She embraces patient-centered care by involving the patient in their care plan and respecting their autonomy. Tonya maintains clear communication and fosters a non-judgmental atmosphere. Outside of work, Tonya loves to watch movies and read mystery books. She also loves spending time with her family and her dogs!
(865) 424-1283 View (865) 424-1283
Photo of Sarah Bannister, Psychiatric Nurse in Knoxville, TN
Sarah Bannister
Psychiatric Nurse, MSN, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37921
For families and individuals struggling with anxiety, ADHD, depression, addiction, or any number of issues; Sarah desires to offer a place of care, wisdom, and support through assessment, medication support, and connection to other mental health services such as counselors, support groups, related medical services.
For families and individuals struggling with anxiety, ADHD, depression, addiction, or any number of issues; Sarah desires to offer a place of care, wisdom, and support through assessment, medication support, and connection to other mental health services such as counselors, support groups, related medical services.
(865) 344-0846 View (865) 344-0846
Photo of Sarah Koberlein, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Knoxville, TN
Sarah Koberlein
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Knoxville, TN 37919
Hello! My name is Sarah Koberlein, and I am an ANCC Board-Certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner since 2020. I specialize in providing psychiatric evaluations, medication management, and support to individuals ages 12 years and older with a focus on depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, and psychotic disorders, including those with co-morbid medical issues. My nursing journey began in various intensive care units, where I realized that mental health is often overlooked and undervalued. My passion is to bring mental health to the forefront and reduce the stigma surrounding mental health.
Hello! My name is Sarah Koberlein, and I am an ANCC Board-Certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner since 2020. I specialize in providing psychiatric evaluations, medication management, and support to individuals ages 12 years and older with a focus on depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, and psychotic disorders, including those with co-morbid medical issues. My nursing journey began in various intensive care units, where I realized that mental health is often overlooked and undervalued. My passion is to bring mental health to the forefront and reduce the stigma surrounding mental health.
(865) 234-9605 View (865) 234-9605
Photo of Heidi Poore, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Knoxville, TN
Heidi Poore
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MS, RN
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37917
For families and individuals struggling with mental health issues, Heidi desires to offer a place of care, wisdom, and support through assessment, medication support, and connection to other mental health services such as counselors, support groups, related medical services.
For families and individuals struggling with mental health issues, Heidi desires to offer a place of care, wisdom, and support through assessment, medication support, and connection to other mental health services such as counselors, support groups, related medical services.
(865) 317-4045 View (865) 317-4045

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Knoxville, TN

80+

Average cost per session

$150

Psychiatrists in Knoxville, TN who prioritize treating:

94% Depression
90% Anxiety
88% Bipolar Disorder
81% Medication Management
78% Trauma and PTSD
76% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
71% ADHD

Average years in practice

8 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

94% Cigna and Evernorth
94% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH
92% Aetna

How Psychiatrists in Knoxville, TN see their clients

63% In Person and Online
37% Online Only

Gender breakdown

89% Female
11% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Knoxville?

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.