Psychiatrists in Seattle, WA
Debra Peasley
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CNS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98107 (Online Only)
I am a Clinical Nurse Specialist in Psychiatric and Mental Health with 18 years experience providing individuals with care and treatment of acute and chronic mental health issues through Psychopharmacology and brief, supportive therapy. I have worked in a variety of settings including psychiatric hospitals, outpatient settings, community mental health clinics , telemedicine and as a psychiatric consultant in long term care. This makes me uniquely qualified to partner with individual adults ages 18 to 85 with medical issues impacting their mental health and well-being.
I am a Clinical Nurse Specialist in Psychiatric and Mental Health with 18 years experience providing individuals with care and treatment of acute and chronic mental health issues through Psychopharmacology and brief, supportive therapy. I have worked in a variety of settings including psychiatric hospitals, outpatient settings, community mental health clinics , telemedicine and as a psychiatric consultant in long term care. This makes me uniquely qualified to partner with individual adults ages 18 to 85 with medical issues impacting their mental health and well-being.
Jamie Kanehl
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PNP-PC, PMHS, APRN
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98119
Hi! My name is Jamie! My goal is to truly get to know you so together we can create the best care plan to fit you or your child's needs for the goal of optimal mental health and wellness. I offer evaluation, diagnosis, medication management and holistic therapies for ADHD, anxiety, depression among other conditions for patients age 5-27. In addition to medication management, I incorporate many homeopathic supplements, foods, exercise and alternative therapies such as mindfulness, meditation, guided visualization, deep breathing, sleep hygiene, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and heart math into my practice.
Hi! My name is Jamie! My goal is to truly get to know you so together we can create the best care plan to fit you or your child's needs for the goal of optimal mental health and wellness. I offer evaluation, diagnosis, medication management and holistic therapies for ADHD, anxiety, depression among other conditions for patients age 5-27. In addition to medication management, I incorporate many homeopathic supplements, foods, exercise and alternative therapies such as mindfulness, meditation, guided visualization, deep breathing, sleep hygiene, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and heart math into my practice.
Progressive Psychiatric Consultant PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98121
Currently accepting new clients throughout Nevada, New York, Oregon, Arizona, and Washington. Prioritize Your Mental Well-being. At Progressive Psychiatric Consultant PLLC, we believe mental health matters. Our dedicated team of professionals is here to support you on your journey towards better mental well-being. Discover a range of resources from therapy options to medication management, tailored to your unique needs. Together, we can create a happier, and healthier you. Take the first step today in the wellness journey!
Currently accepting new clients throughout Nevada, New York, Oregon, Arizona, and Washington. Prioritize Your Mental Well-being. At Progressive Psychiatric Consultant PLLC, we believe mental health matters. Our dedicated team of professionals is here to support you on your journey towards better mental well-being. Discover a range of resources from therapy options to medication management, tailored to your unique needs. Together, we can create a happier, and healthier you. Take the first step today in the wellness journey!
Seong-Hun Kim
Psychiatrist, MD, PhD
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98125
I am a psychiatrist who specializes in integrated psychiatric treatment that combines biological, social, cultural and psychological perspectives. My practice draws upon various evidence-based psychotherapeutic approaches, and utilizes psychiatric medications if appropriate. I strongly believe that each person has a natural tendency to grow and realize her/his potential, but this process is frequently impeded for a variety of reasons. We will work together to identify those obstacles and to explore and articulate the feelings, thoughts and attitudes that are often not fully recognized. This is a collaborative, shared effort in a professional setting that is safe, open and supportive.
I am a psychiatrist who specializes in integrated psychiatric treatment that combines biological, social, cultural and psychological perspectives. My practice draws upon various evidence-based psychotherapeutic approaches, and utilizes psychiatric medications if appropriate. I strongly believe that each person has a natural tendency to grow and realize her/his potential, but this process is frequently impeded for a variety of reasons. We will work together to identify those obstacles and to explore and articulate the feelings, thoughts and attitudes that are often not fully recognized. This is a collaborative, shared effort in a professional setting that is safe, open and supportive.
MindsMatter LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98104 (Online Only)
At MindsMatter, prescribing medication is not the main focus. We believe in patient-centered care tailored to your needs! Not all clients seek mental wellness treatment for the same reasons, and that's why individualized care is so important in our treatment plans. We also offer brief therapy and cognitive behavioral therapy for those seeking personal counseling. I provided educational videos about mental wellness on social media via TikTok and YouTube. You can find me on TikTok (raypsychnp) or YouTube (mrraypsychnp) if you would like to subscribe to either channel or be informed when a new video is posted!
At MindsMatter, prescribing medication is not the main focus. We believe in patient-centered care tailored to your needs! Not all clients seek mental wellness treatment for the same reasons, and that's why individualized care is so important in our treatment plans. We also offer brief therapy and cognitive behavioral therapy for those seeking personal counseling. I provided educational videos about mental wellness on social media via TikTok and YouTube. You can find me on TikTok (raypsychnp) or YouTube (mrraypsychnp) if you would like to subscribe to either channel or be informed when a new video is posted!
Anna Long
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98103 (Online Only)
Hello, I look forward to meeting you! My name is Anna and I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner In the state of Washington. I specialize in Anxiety, Bipolar, College & Graduate Student Mental Health, Depression, Insomnia/Sleep Issues, LGBTQIA+ Care, Life Transitions, Loss/Grief, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Sexual Health/Dysfuntion, Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), Stress Management and Women's Issues. 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 Anna and I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner In the state of Washington. I specialize in Anxiety, Bipolar, College & Graduate Student Mental Health, Depression, Insomnia/Sleep Issues, LGBTQIA+ Care, Life Transitions, Loss/Grief, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Sexual Health/Dysfuntion, Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), Stress Management and Women's Issues. 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.
Nicholas Kenneth Garmon
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98125
Do you often feel that it's impossible to keep up? Ever find yourself watching others seemingly handle work, school, and personal responsibilities effortlessly? The pressure from the world outside, combined with the inner critic, can become overwhelming, leaving you feeling down, discouraged, and even hopeless. But here's the good news: this feeling does not have to be permanent. With the appropriate support, it can fade away. You can regain control over your everyday life while nurturing a positive outlook on yourself and your future.
Do you often feel that it's impossible to keep up? Ever find yourself watching others seemingly handle work, school, and personal responsibilities effortlessly? The pressure from the world outside, combined with the inner critic, can become overwhelming, leaving you feeling down, discouraged, and even hopeless. But here's the good news: this feeling does not have to be permanent. With the appropriate support, it can fade away. You can regain control over your everyday life while nurturing a positive outlook on yourself and your future.
ECARE Psychiatric Services PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN-Ed, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98105 (Online Only)
CURRENTLY ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS 100% TELEHEALTH/ONLINE. I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC). I received my post-graduate certificate in psychiatric mental health from Maryville University, St. Louis Missouri, Masters in Nursing Education from Lourdes University, Sylvania, Ohio, and Associates in Applied Science Nursing from Mercy College of NWO, Toledo, Ohio. I am the founder and owner of ECARE Psychiatric Services PLLC in Washington State. My practice provides comprehensive psychiatric diagnostic evaluations, evidence-based medication management, and supportive therapy.
CURRENTLY ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS 100% TELEHEALTH/ONLINE. I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC). I received my post-graduate certificate in psychiatric mental health from Maryville University, St. Louis Missouri, Masters in Nursing Education from Lourdes University, Sylvania, Ohio, and Associates in Applied Science Nursing from Mercy College of NWO, Toledo, Ohio. I am the founder and owner of ECARE Psychiatric Services PLLC in Washington State. My practice provides comprehensive psychiatric diagnostic evaluations, evidence-based medication management, and supportive therapy.
Deidre McHugh
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98103 (Online Only)
My favorite part of being a psychiatric nurse practitioner is tailoring treatment to each individual’s needs, and watching each person grow and heal. It’s an honor to be a part of someone’s health journey. I enjoy Integrating emotional wellness techniques into a holistic health health perspective, utilizing elements of psychiatric medication management, solution-focused and mindfulness therapies, and personalized recommendations. 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 or impossible to access.
My favorite part of being a psychiatric nurse practitioner is tailoring treatment to each individual’s needs, and watching each person grow and heal. It’s an honor to be a part of someone’s health journey. I enjoy Integrating emotional wellness techniques into a holistic health health perspective, utilizing elements of psychiatric medication management, solution-focused and mindfulness therapies, and personalized recommendations. 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 or impossible to access.
Nancy Masters
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98144
Nancy graduated from Washington State University with a Master of Science in Nursing, and is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She has more than 10 years of experience and specializes in treating patients with depression, anxiety, ADHD, gender dysphoria, bipolar and sleep disorders. She treats patients ages 14-64.
Nancy graduated from Washington State University with a Master of Science in Nursing, and is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She has more than 10 years of experience and specializes in treating patients with depression, anxiety, ADHD, gender dysphoria, bipolar and sleep disorders. She treats patients ages 14-64.
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.
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Danielle Hammons
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98119
Dr. Danielle Hammons is a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC), with a Doctorate in Nursing Practice (DNP). Danielle possesses over 15 years of nursing experience with over 4 years of advanced nursing practice in the field of psychiatry. She is passionate about providing quality, compassionate, and comprehensive mental health services across the lifespan.
Dr. Danielle Hammons is a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC), with a Doctorate in Nursing Practice (DNP). Danielle possesses over 15 years of nursing experience with over 4 years of advanced nursing practice in the field of psychiatry. She is passionate about providing quality, compassionate, and comprehensive mental health services across the lifespan.
Jaimee L Brielmaier
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98119
I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with 15 years of experience in ICU nursing and mental health. I believe mental wellness is achieved through a balance of the mind and the body. My process is holistic, collaborative, and person-centered. My goal as your provider will be to help you reach your personal mental health goals through a combination of medication management and psychotherapy.
I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with 15 years of experience in ICU nursing and mental health. I believe mental wellness is achieved through a balance of the mind and the body. My process is holistic, collaborative, and person-centered. My goal as your provider will be to help you reach your personal mental health goals through a combination of medication management and psychotherapy.
Kelley Bitter
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98115 (Online Only)
Welcome to my profile, I'm Kelley Bitter, a dedicated mental health nurse practitioner with over two decades of rich experience in the healthcare realm. My educational path began at the University of Phoenix and reached its zenith at the University of Akron, where I achieved my APRN certification specializing in psychiatry. This journey has bestowed upon me a profound understanding and essential skills in nursing, which I apply daily in my practice. As an expert in mental health, my passion lies in supporting individuals through their emotional challenges and managing conditions like ADHD.
Welcome to my profile, I'm Kelley Bitter, a dedicated mental health nurse practitioner with over two decades of rich experience in the healthcare realm. My educational path began at the University of Phoenix and reached its zenith at the University of Akron, where I achieved my APRN certification specializing in psychiatry. This journey has bestowed upon me a profound understanding and essential skills in nursing, which I apply daily in my practice. As an expert in mental health, my passion lies in supporting individuals through their emotional challenges and managing conditions like ADHD.
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.
Shana Cantoni
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARNP, MN
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98102
I work with clients who have mood and anxiety disorders and are interested in comprehensive evaluation, diagnosis and ensuing treatment. Perhaps you have not been feeling well for some time, not sure why and interested in working with someone in order to feel better. I am skillful at prescribing medications while also have an understanding of what medications cannot do. I am judicious in the prescribing of medications. I do not treat ADHD and I do not prescribe stimulants.
I work with clients who have mood and anxiety disorders and are interested in comprehensive evaluation, diagnosis and ensuing treatment. Perhaps you have not been feeling well for some time, not sure why and interested in working with someone in order to feel better. I am skillful at prescribing medications while also have an understanding of what medications cannot do. I am judicious in the prescribing of medications. I do not treat ADHD and I do not prescribe stimulants.
Amy Brumbaugh
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98107 (Online Only)
My clients come from different backgrounds and walks of life, all seeking support for their emotional well-being and mental balance. I specialize in helping those dealing with mood disorders and anxiety, offering a tailored approach to address their unique struggles (including medication management, supplements & exercise programs, and therapy options). My ideal client is someone who's ready to work together on this journey towards better mental health, with trust, understanding, and a shared commitment to positive change.
My clients come from different backgrounds and walks of life, all seeking support for their emotional well-being and mental balance. I specialize in helping those dealing with mood disorders and anxiety, offering a tailored approach to address their unique struggles (including medication management, supplements & exercise programs, and therapy options). My ideal client is someone who's ready to work together on this journey towards better mental health, with trust, understanding, and a shared commitment to positive change.
Allison Cothern
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98119 (Online Only)
I am a board certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I graduated from the University of Alabama at Birmingham with both my Bachelor and Master of Science in Nursing. Since completing my graduate studies and residencies, I have specialized in treating adults with mental health difficulties and concerns such as depression, anxiety, trauma, personality disorders, and other challenges. I will make it my priority to help you feel comfortable while performing thorough assessments to better diagnose and develop a treatment plan. I believe in a holistic approach to maximize wellbeing and to help you attain the best results.
I am a board certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I graduated from the University of Alabama at Birmingham with both my Bachelor and Master of Science in Nursing. Since completing my graduate studies and residencies, I have specialized in treating adults with mental health difficulties and concerns such as depression, anxiety, trauma, personality disorders, and other challenges. I will make it my priority to help you feel comfortable while performing thorough assessments to better diagnose and develop a treatment plan. I believe in a holistic approach to maximize wellbeing and to help you attain the best results.
Ryan Thebo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98101
Are you struggling to balance your mental and physical health and in need of a more comprehensive approach? No problem! I provide holistic online psychiatry services (telemedicine), so that you can conveniently be seen in the comfort of your home for appointments and medication management without the need to travel! I provide the same psychiatry services as in-person visits and I will address other aspects that encompass your complete wellness beyond a standard psychiatry visit. My aim is for you to truly thrive at your best! You can conveniently self-schedule a holistic psychiatry video appointment right now at: pwpsychiatry.com/WA
Are you struggling to balance your mental and physical health and in need of a more comprehensive approach? No problem! I provide holistic online psychiatry services (telemedicine), so that you can conveniently be seen in the comfort of your home for appointments and medication management without the need to travel! I provide the same psychiatry services as in-person visits and I will address other aspects that encompass your complete wellness beyond a standard psychiatry visit. My aim is for you to truly thrive at your best! You can conveniently self-schedule a holistic psychiatry video appointment right now at: pwpsychiatry.com/WA
Vernon LaFreniere
Psychiatric Nurse, ARNP
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98101
Are you feeling disconnected from your life? Overwhelmed with tasks which lead to little satisfaction? Does it seem like you are not enjoying activities that were once fun? Do you cry more often, feel like nothing can be done to fix your life, or feel disappointed when you wake up in the morning? I come through for people when they have been trying and are close to giving up. My main tool is Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation, a new alternative to traditional therapy and medication management. You could finally feel like yourself again. Stop hiding how you feel and free yourself to project who you really are. Call us today.
Are you feeling disconnected from your life? Overwhelmed with tasks which lead to little satisfaction? Does it seem like you are not enjoying activities that were once fun? Do you cry more often, feel like nothing can be done to fix your life, or feel disappointed when you wake up in the morning? I come through for people when they have been trying and are close to giving up. My main tool is Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation, a new alternative to traditional therapy and medication management. You could finally feel like yourself again. Stop hiding how you feel and free yourself to project who you really are. Call us today.
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.