Psychiatrists in Olympia, WA

Photo of Harvey Hall, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Olympia, WA
Harvey Hall
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP-C, ARNP
Verified Verified
Olympia, WA 98502
Accepting New Patients, even on Saturday and can see patients through Telepsychiatry or Telemedicine, and we do have some evening appts available as well. Trained as a family and psychiatric nurse practitioner. Master’s trained from the University of Cincinnati and Touro University; also have degrees from Pacific Lutheran University in Nursing and the University of Oklahoma. I have a background in military medicine, and have served populations that have been diverse and underserved. I have also served in case management for Washington State DSHS, working with social workers and caregivers for and in behalf of foster children.
Accepting New Patients, even on Saturday and can see patients through Telepsychiatry or Telemedicine, and we do have some evening appts available as well. Trained as a family and psychiatric nurse practitioner. Master’s trained from the University of Cincinnati and Touro University; also have degrees from Pacific Lutheran University in Nursing and the University of Oklahoma. I have a background in military medicine, and have served populations that have been diverse and underserved. I have also served in case management for Washington State DSHS, working with social workers and caregivers for and in behalf of foster children.
(360) 375-7181 View (360) 375-7181
Photo of Three Points Healing, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Olympia, WA
Three Points Healing
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, RDN, LMHC, LICSW
Verified Verified
Olympia, WA 98506
Three Points Healing offers new wellness tools such as Psychotherapy, Medication Management, IV Ketamine, Nasal Esketamine, Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation, Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT), Nutritional Counseling, Medical Nutritional Therapy, Weight loss, Massage Therapy, and Rejuvenating self-care services (Spa Therapy). This holistic approach allows patients to create new connections within their bodies, adopt a positive mindset, and reach a deeper healing state.
Three Points Healing offers new wellness tools such as Psychotherapy, Medication Management, IV Ketamine, Nasal Esketamine, Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation, Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT), Nutritional Counseling, Medical Nutritional Therapy, Weight loss, Massage Therapy, and Rejuvenating self-care services (Spa Therapy). This holistic approach allows patients to create new connections within their bodies, adopt a positive mindset, and reach a deeper healing state.
(360) 488-8211 View (360) 488-8211
Photo of Linda Kellams-Keith, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Olympia, WA
Linda Kellams-Keith
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARNP, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Olympia, WA 98502
Waitlist for new clients
I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who has worked in this specialty for over 20 years. My office is a warm and welcoming place and my goal is to ensure that my clients feel safe and heard. However, I am not accepting new clients at this time.
I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who has worked in this specialty for over 20 years. My office is a warm and welcoming place and my goal is to ensure that my clients feel safe and heard. However, I am not accepting new clients at this time.
(360) 709-3332 View (360) 709-3332
Photo of Ann Song, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Olympia, WA
Ann Song
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, ARNP
Verified Verified
Olympia, WA 98502
Not accepting new clients
As a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I aim to work collaboratively with clients on their journey to wellness. We work together through evaluation and assessment to clarify depression, anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, and other mood disorders.
As a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I aim to work collaboratively with clients on their journey to wellness. We work together through evaluation and assessment to clarify depression, anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, and other mood disorders.
(360) 657-9648 View (360) 657-9648
Photo of Michelle Lea Bajema, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Olympia, WA
Michelle Lea Bajema
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, ARNP, PMHNP-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Olympia, WA 98501
Accepting new patients! Are you ready to see a professional who will actively listen? Are you considering medications to ease your symptoms? I am a person-centered psychiatric nurse practitioner. I specialize in diagnosing mental health disorders & prescribing psychiatric medications. Sometimes, physical disorders cause mental suffering; I am medically trained to identify and differentiate between medical and psychological underlying factors. I respect your thoughts, feelings, beliefs & philosophy. I will treat you as a unique & deserving person.
Accepting new patients! Are you ready to see a professional who will actively listen? Are you considering medications to ease your symptoms? I am a person-centered psychiatric nurse practitioner. I specialize in diagnosing mental health disorders & prescribing psychiatric medications. Sometimes, physical disorders cause mental suffering; I am medically trained to identify and differentiate between medical and psychological underlying factors. I respect your thoughts, feelings, beliefs & philosophy. I will treat you as a unique & deserving person.
(360) 230-6660 View (360) 230-6660
Photo of Kristen Pace, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Olympia, WA
Kristen Pace
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, ARNP
Verified Verified
Olympia, WA 98502
I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with a master’s degree in psychiatric nursing from Seattle University. I have experience working with diverse client populations in both inpatient and outpatient settings and strive to create an environment of collaboration and acceptance. I focus on a holistic, client-centered approach and have training in both trauma-informed care and motivational interviewing. I use an individualized approach focused on evidence-based practice to assist clients in their recovery and wellness journeys.
I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with a master’s degree in psychiatric nursing from Seattle University. I have experience working with diverse client populations in both inpatient and outpatient settings and strive to create an environment of collaboration and acceptance. I focus on a holistic, client-centered approach and have training in both trauma-informed care and motivational interviewing. I use an individualized approach focused on evidence-based practice to assist clients in their recovery and wellness journeys.
(360) 215-3130 View (360) 215-3130
Photo of Jonathan Allotey, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Olympia, WA
Jonathan Allotey
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Olympia, WA 98501  (Online Only)
Are you struggling to balance your mental and physical health and in need of a more comprehensive approach? No problem! I provide Telemedicine (Online Psychiatry) Services, so that you can conveniently be seen from your home for psychiatry appointments and medication management without the need to travel! I provide the same psychiatry services as an in-person office visit and I can also address other aspects that encompass your complete wellness. My aim is to help you to thrive at your best! You can easily self-schedule a Telepsychiatry video appointment now at: www.pwpsychiatry.com/WA
Are you struggling to balance your mental and physical health and in need of a more comprehensive approach? No problem! I provide Telemedicine (Online Psychiatry) Services, so that you can conveniently be seen from your home for psychiatry appointments and medication management without the need to travel! I provide the same psychiatry services as an in-person office visit and I can also address other aspects that encompass your complete wellness. My aim is to help you to thrive at your best! You can easily self-schedule a Telepsychiatry video appointment now at: www.pwpsychiatry.com/WA
(360) 583-5997 View (360) 583-5997
Photo of ClearTMS+, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Olympia, WA
ClearTMS+
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, TMS
Verified Verified
Olympia, WA 98501
Accepting new patients! Are you feeling overwhelmed by depression or other mental health challenges? We understand how difficult it can be to find a treatment that works for you. But there's no need to lose hope. TMS Therapy is an FDA-approved, revolutionary, and non-invasive solution that can help you unlock a brighter tomorrow. At ClearTMS+, we believe in transforming minds and elevating lives. That's why we offer a personalized, safe, and effective approach that can help you revitalize your well-being. We understand that every journey to mental health is unique, which is why we tailor our therapy to meet your specific needs. With TMS Therapy, you can elevate your mood, restore balance, and rediscover the joy of living. Experience the transformative power of non-invasive technology and embrace a brighter, healthier tomorrow. Schedule a TMS therapy consultation with us today and join the journey to mental well-being.
Accepting new patients! Are you feeling overwhelmed by depression or other mental health challenges? We understand how difficult it can be to find a treatment that works for you. But there's no need to lose hope. TMS Therapy is an FDA-approved, revolutionary, and non-invasive solution that can help you unlock a brighter tomorrow. At ClearTMS+, we believe in transforming minds and elevating lives. That's why we offer a personalized, safe, and effective approach that can help you revitalize your well-being. We understand that every journey to mental health is unique, which is why we tailor our therapy to meet your specific needs. With TMS Therapy, you can elevate your mood, restore balance, and rediscover the joy of living. Experience the transformative power of non-invasive technology and embrace a brighter, healthier tomorrow. Schedule a TMS therapy consultation with us today and join the journey to mental well-being.
(360) 523-1403 View (360) 523-1403
Photo of Genuine Healthcare, PLLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Olympia, WA
Genuine Healthcare, PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARNP
Verified Verified
Olympia, WA 98502
Now accepting new patients! Genuine Healthcare is proud to serve a diverse population of mental health clients. We see patients from all walks of life and in all age groups, providing support for children as young as six years old. By offering our appointments both in person or via telemedicine, we are able to serve a wider community across the state of Washington. We value the importance of building a strong patient-provider relationship, which is why we have four providers from various backgrounds so that you may find one who fits your specific needs. To explore our providers' bios, visit the About Us section of our website.
Now accepting new patients! Genuine Healthcare is proud to serve a diverse population of mental health clients. We see patients from all walks of life and in all age groups, providing support for children as young as six years old. By offering our appointments both in person or via telemedicine, we are able to serve a wider community across the state of Washington. We value the importance of building a strong patient-provider relationship, which is why we have four providers from various backgrounds so that you may find one who fits your specific needs. To explore our providers' bios, visit the About Us section of our website.
(360) 215-2481 View (360) 215-2481
Photo of Ryan Thebo, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Olympia, WA
Ryan Thebo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Olympia, WA 98501
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/CA
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/CA
(360) 492-4403 View (360) 492-4403
Photo of Avery Schearer, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Olympia, WA
Avery Schearer
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Olympia, WA 98502
Currently accepting new patients under 18! I specialize in working with children and adolescents. My primary practice goal is to partner with children and their families and to provide personalized, evidence-based, and collaborative care. I approach recommendations from a holistic perspective and often discuss lifestyle modifications along with evaluation of appropriateness of medications. I use medications judiciously and strive to ensure that any medications prescribed effectively address symptoms while minimizing side effects.
Currently accepting new patients under 18! I specialize in working with children and adolescents. My primary practice goal is to partner with children and their families and to provide personalized, evidence-based, and collaborative care. I approach recommendations from a holistic perspective and often discuss lifestyle modifications along with evaluation of appropriateness of medications. I use medications judiciously and strive to ensure that any medications prescribed effectively address symptoms while minimizing side effects.
(360) 995-1931 View (360) 995-1931
Photo of Traverse Therapy Services, Physician Assistant in Olympia, WA
Traverse Therapy Services
Physician Assistant, PA-C
Verified Verified
Olympia, WA 98502
Welcome! We are accepting new clients with immediate availability. Jasmine Zaman is a board-certified Physician Assistant providing care to patients in Washington State via telehealth. Jasmine is passionate about mental health and working with underserved communities. She believes that access to high quality, affordable care is an essential foundation for improving our physical, mental, and emotional health. Her goal is to build a trusting, honest, and judgement free environment for her patients.
Welcome! We are accepting new clients with immediate availability. Jasmine Zaman is a board-certified Physician Assistant providing care to patients in Washington State via telehealth. Jasmine is passionate about mental health and working with underserved communities. She believes that access to high quality, affordable care is an essential foundation for improving our physical, mental, and emotional health. Her goal is to build a trusting, honest, and judgement free environment for her patients.
(360) 795-5012 View (360) 795-5012
Photo of Donna Elam, Physician Assistant in Olympia, WA
Donna Elam
Physician Assistant, MPA-C
Verified Verified
Olympia, WA 98502
Seeking services for mental health support is an important decision. My purpose in doing this work of psychiatry is to provide clarity and understanding of symptoms that interrupt function and compromise quality of life. It is with this purpose that we, together, devise strategies for raising stress tolerance, setting attainable goals and reaching them. Since 1990 I have been working in health care, from holistic beginnings in massage therapy and nutrition, to addiction medicine, family medicine and migrant health, and now psychiatry and behavioral medicine. I am a Psychiatric Physician Associate.
Seeking services for mental health support is an important decision. My purpose in doing this work of psychiatry is to provide clarity and understanding of symptoms that interrupt function and compromise quality of life. It is with this purpose that we, together, devise strategies for raising stress tolerance, setting attainable goals and reaching them. Since 1990 I have been working in health care, from holistic beginnings in massage therapy and nutrition, to addiction medicine, family medicine and migrant health, and now psychiatry and behavioral medicine. I am a Psychiatric Physician Associate.
(360) 523-7792 View (360) 523-7792
Photo of James McLemore, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Olympia, WA
James McLemore
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARNP, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Olympia, WA 98503
My goal is to provide quality mental health medication management services to the residents of Washington State in an accessible manner. I work primarily with adults and have experience in diagnosing and treating a wide variety of mental health concerns, if you have specific questions or concerns please reach out and we can discuss this. I am an Army Veteran and so can relate to the experience of former and current service members. It is my goal to provide comprehensive care to those with whom i work and ensure that all of their concerns are heard and addressed.
My goal is to provide quality mental health medication management services to the residents of Washington State in an accessible manner. I work primarily with adults and have experience in diagnosing and treating a wide variety of mental health concerns, if you have specific questions or concerns please reach out and we can discuss this. I am an Army Veteran and so can relate to the experience of former and current service members. It is my goal to provide comprehensive care to those with whom i work and ensure that all of their concerns are heard and addressed.
(509) 412-3508 View (509) 412-3508
Photo of Boyd Cowan, Psychiatric Nurse in Olympia, WA
Boyd Cowan
Psychiatric Nurse, ARNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Olympia, WA 98501  (Online Only)
To book an appointment please visit the website boydcowan.com
To book an appointment please visit the website boydcowan.com
View
Photo of Leah Haddad, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Olympia, WA
Leah Haddad
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Olympia, WA 98501
Are you struggling to balance your mental and physical health and in need of a more comprehensive approach? No problem! I provide Telemedicine (Online Psychiatry) Services, so that you can conveniently be seen from your home for psychiatry appointments and medication management without the need to travel! I provide the same psychiatry services as an in-person office visit and I can also address other aspects that encompass your complete wellness. My aim is to help you to thrive at your best! You can easily self-schedule a Telepsychiatry video appointment now at: www.pwpsychiatry.com/WA
Are you struggling to balance your mental and physical health and in need of a more comprehensive approach? No problem! I provide Telemedicine (Online Psychiatry) Services, so that you can conveniently be seen from your home for psychiatry appointments and medication management without the need to travel! I provide the same psychiatry services as an in-person office visit and I can also address other aspects that encompass your complete wellness. My aim is to help you to thrive at your best! You can easily self-schedule a Telepsychiatry video appointment now at: www.pwpsychiatry.com/WA
(360) 284-1573 View (360) 284-1573
Photo of Dr Mark Chofla | Empathy Therapy, Psychiatrist in Olympia, WA
Dr Mark Chofla | Empathy Therapy
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
Olympia, WA 98506  (Online Only)
Dr. Mark Chofla is a board-certified psychiatrist and physician who completed his specialty residency training at the Los Angeles County + University of Southern California Medical Center. After receiving his Bachelor of Science degree in Neurobiology, Physiology, and Behavior from the University of California at Davis, Dr. Chofla earned his medical degree from Midwestern University: Arizona College of Osteopathic Medicine.
Dr. Mark Chofla is a board-certified psychiatrist and physician who completed his specialty residency training at the Los Angeles County + University of Southern California Medical Center. After receiving his Bachelor of Science degree in Neurobiology, Physiology, and Behavior from the University of California at Davis, Dr. Chofla earned his medical degree from Midwestern University: Arizona College of Osteopathic Medicine.
(360) 504-4962 View (360) 504-4962
Photo of Thomas Yarber, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Olympia, WA
Thomas Yarber
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARNP, PMHNP, FNP, CNS
Verified Verified
Olympia, WA 98502
Not accepting new clients
I am a triple board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, Family Nurse Practitioner, and Adult Psychiatric Clinical Nurse Specialist. I have practiced in various specialties, including community mental health, corrections, and acute inpatient psychiatry.
I am a triple board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, Family Nurse Practitioner, and Adult Psychiatric Clinical Nurse Specialist. I have practiced in various specialties, including community mental health, corrections, and acute inpatient psychiatry.
(360) 300-4721 View (360) 300-4721
Photo of Edward Rosanski, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Olympia, WA
Edward Rosanski
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Olympia, WA 98501
Edward Rosanski is a Nurse Practitioner in Arizona who has been practicing since 1996. Edward believes in a collaborative approach for medication management. Outside of work, Edward enjoys stained glass, glass fusing, woodworking, golf, and blues music.
Edward Rosanski is a Nurse Practitioner in Arizona who has been practicing since 1996. Edward believes in a collaborative approach for medication management. Outside of work, Edward enjoys stained glass, glass fusing, woodworking, golf, and blues music.
(360) 615-2690 View (360) 615-2690
Photo of Jack Mkroyan, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Olympia, WA
Jack Mkroyan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Olympia, WA 98501
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
(360) 997-5552 View (360) 997-5552

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Olympia, WA

50+

Average cost per session

$175

Psychiatrists in Olympia, WA who prioritize treating:

96% Anxiety
88% Depression
84% Trauma and PTSD
84% Medication Management
77% Bipolar Disorder
75% ADHD
74% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)

Average years in practice

9 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

84% Aetna
80% Premera
76% Regence

How Psychiatrists in Olympia, WA see their clients

60% In Person and Online
40% Online Only

Gender breakdown

69% Female
29% Male
2% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Olympia?

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.