Psychiatrists in Seattle, WA
Grace Martin
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98107
I have been working as a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner since 2017. Prior to joining Spruce Psychiatric, I was employed at Pacific Medical Centers alongside primary care providers and other medical specialists. This improved my ability to see psychiatric concerns from multiple perspectives (e.g. sleep medicine, neuropsychology, gastroenterology). I understand that physical and mental health are inextricably linked. Finding the right diagnosis is foundational to successful treatment, which is why I devote significant time and care to get this right.
I have been working as a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner since 2017. Prior to joining Spruce Psychiatric, I was employed at Pacific Medical Centers alongside primary care providers and other medical specialists. This improved my ability to see psychiatric concerns from multiple perspectives (e.g. sleep medicine, neuropsychology, gastroenterology). I understand that physical and mental health are inextricably linked. Finding the right diagnosis is foundational to successful treatment, which is why I devote significant time and care to get this right.
Chanel Ruby Jost
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98103 (Online Only)
I offer psychiatric evaluation, medication management, and supportive therapy to adolescents and adults ages 15-50. My goal is to listen to you, hear you, and collaborate with you to find a path towards greater equanimity and vitality.
I offer psychiatric evaluation, medication management, and supportive therapy to adolescents and adults ages 15-50. My goal is to listen to you, hear you, and collaborate with you to find a path towards greater equanimity and vitality.
Ronke Arogundade
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN, APRN
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98119
**NOW ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS** I offer medication management for mental disorders such as mood disorders, anxiety, depression, ADHD, OCD, Bipolar Disorders and so much more. I love working with children, teenagers and adults and I am passionate about what I do.
**NOW ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS** I offer medication management for mental disorders such as mood disorders, anxiety, depression, ADHD, OCD, Bipolar Disorders and so much more. I love working with children, teenagers and adults and I am passionate about what I do.
Francine Buckner
Psychiatric Nurse, ARNP, MS
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98134
I offer counseling, psychotherapy, and medication management to adults of all ages and from all walks of life. My philosophy is that this kind of work is deeply collaborative and that the client and I work together as a team to help navigate whatever challenges they face with the clarity and resilience needed to flourish despite difficulty. I believe that the mind and body are deeply integrated and that both must be addressed in order to heal from difficulty and to face whatever challenges the future holds.
I offer counseling, psychotherapy, and medication management to adults of all ages and from all walks of life. My philosophy is that this kind of work is deeply collaborative and that the client and I work together as a team to help navigate whatever challenges they face with the clarity and resilience needed to flourish despite difficulty. I believe that the mind and body are deeply integrated and that both must be addressed in order to heal from difficulty and to face whatever challenges the future holds.
Frederick Duennebier, MD
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98105 (Online Only)
Hello! I am accepting new clients, having recently moved to Seattle. As an adult, adolescent & child psychiatrist, I am privileged to work with individuals of all ages. If you or your child struggles with anxiety, depression, ADHD, trauma, relationship conflicts, professional and academic concerns, existential distress or similar issues, then consider this a safe harbor. A place based on mutual respect, compassion, patience, and unconditional regard.
Hello! I am accepting new clients, having recently moved to Seattle. As an adult, adolescent & child psychiatrist, I am privileged to work with individuals of all ages. If you or your child struggles with anxiety, depression, ADHD, trauma, relationship conflicts, professional and academic concerns, existential distress or similar issues, then consider this a safe harbor. A place based on mutual respect, compassion, patience, and unconditional regard.
Holistic Behavioral Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, ARNP, FNP-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98104
At Holistic Behavioral Health, we embrace an integrated healing approach, respecting and addressing your unique challenges with empathy. Dr. Osakwe, a Doctorate-prepared provider with dual Board-Certification as a Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, boasts 15+ years of delivering high-quality care. She focuses on holistic, personalized care, dedicated to easing stressors and fostering enduring improvement. With diverse in-patient and out-patient experiences, Dr. Osakwe tailors treatment plans to your needs.
At Holistic Behavioral Health, we embrace an integrated healing approach, respecting and addressing your unique challenges with empathy. Dr. Osakwe, a Doctorate-prepared provider with dual Board-Certification as a Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, boasts 15+ years of delivering high-quality care. She focuses on holistic, personalized care, dedicated to easing stressors and fostering enduring improvement. With diverse in-patient and out-patient experiences, Dr. Osakwe tailors treatment plans to your needs.
Dr. Matias Massaro
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98101
Reading this signifies that you acknowledge things need to change. I see people living in “hard mode,” as if they are walking with Lego pieces inside their shoes, feeling stuck, resourceless, or overwhelmed. We strive to walk in those shoes and make it through the day, but sometimes we don’t take a step. Your life doesn’t have to be a daily battle. I would be honored to collaborate with you in your healing journey. I aim to provide a safe and welcoming environment for individuals seeking mental health care. I strive to build genuine, cooperative partnerships to define and address therapeutic goals.
Reading this signifies that you acknowledge things need to change. I see people living in “hard mode,” as if they are walking with Lego pieces inside their shoes, feeling stuck, resourceless, or overwhelmed. We strive to walk in those shoes and make it through the day, but sometimes we don’t take a step. Your life doesn’t have to be a daily battle. I would be honored to collaborate with you in your healing journey. I aim to provide a safe and welcoming environment for individuals seeking mental health care. I strive to build genuine, cooperative partnerships to define and address therapeutic goals.
Michelle Hardenbrook
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98122 (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Unfortunately I am not accepting new clients at this time. I have more than 25 years of experience working every level of psychiatric treatment. I specializes in diagnosing and treating autism but am skilled in all childhood and adult psychiatric disorders. My goal is to help you understand how your, or your child's brain, functions and to give you the tools to improve your life. If you are struggling with day to day function due to symptoms of psychiatric illness, call me today. Psychiatric illness is treatable and recovery is possible for everybody.
Unfortunately I am not accepting new clients at this time. I have more than 25 years of experience working every level of psychiatric treatment. I specializes in diagnosing and treating autism but am skilled in all childhood and adult psychiatric disorders. My goal is to help you understand how your, or your child's brain, functions and to give you the tools to improve your life. If you are struggling with day to day function due to symptoms of psychiatric illness, call me today. Psychiatric illness is treatable and recovery is possible for everybody.
Samantha Guijarro
Psychiatric Nurse, ARNP, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98107 (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Being a nurse practitioner allows me to deliver integrative interventions on an individual basis. I provide a holistic approach to treating mental health issues using evidence-based practices by combining various psychotherapeutic interventions with psychiatric medications when appropriate. I offer psychopharmacological education and management to assess efficacy, tolerability, and monitor for possible risks. I am client-centered and interweave individual strengths into a treatment plan to promote wellness. I encourage individuals to have an active voice in their treatment.
Being a nurse practitioner allows me to deliver integrative interventions on an individual basis. I provide a holistic approach to treating mental health issues using evidence-based practices by combining various psychotherapeutic interventions with psychiatric medications when appropriate. I offer psychopharmacological education and management to assess efficacy, tolerability, and monitor for possible risks. I am client-centered and interweave individual strengths into a treatment plan to promote wellness. I encourage individuals to have an active voice in their treatment.
Catherine Terri Lee
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98112
My practice is oriented towards long-term insight-oriented psychotherapy with children, adolescents, and adults, sometimes including medication management as part of an overall treatment plan. I seek to provide non-critical, empathic, and respectful listening which will enable my patients to feel safe as we explore together the sources of their distress. As a person achieves greater self-understanding, greater self-acceptance and compassion towards oneself becomes possible, and this helps relieve suffering and affords greater personal freedom to become one's authentic self.
My practice is oriented towards long-term insight-oriented psychotherapy with children, adolescents, and adults, sometimes including medication management as part of an overall treatment plan. I seek to provide non-critical, empathic, and respectful listening which will enable my patients to feel safe as we explore together the sources of their distress. As a person achieves greater self-understanding, greater self-acceptance and compassion towards oneself becomes possible, and this helps relieve suffering and affords greater personal freedom to become one's authentic self.
Ryan R. Gorman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98112 (Online Only)
I am an experienced mental health clinician with expertise treating depression, anxiety and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). I prescribe discerningly for adult clients who would benefit from a medication's role in their healing process. Additionally, I offer insight-oriented, strength-based psychotherapies which support the brain's natural ability to recover from trauma and attachment wounds. Whether you are accessing mental health treatment for the first time or wish to pursue your healing on a deeper level, I look forward to working together.
I am an experienced mental health clinician with expertise treating depression, anxiety and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). I prescribe discerningly for adult clients who would benefit from a medication's role in their healing process. Additionally, I offer insight-oriented, strength-based psychotherapies which support the brain's natural ability to recover from trauma and attachment wounds. Whether you are accessing mental health treatment for the first time or wish to pursue your healing on a deeper level, I look forward to working together.
15 Second Videos
Grace Martin
Transformational Psychiatry NW & TMS Clinic
Steven Pline
Arezu Piroozmandi
Deidre McHugh
Jacqueline Marcell-Koledin | TMS
Ike Uzowulu
Shannon Eaton
Nicholas Hatcher
Hannah Cantrell
David G Zacharias
PsychiatryProvider.com
Inno Ogbede
Debbie Singh PMHNP / Ideal Mental Health
Nancy Masters
Pw Psych NP Services Pllc
Dr Mark Chofla | Empathy Therapy
Ideal Mental Health and Wellness - Debbie Singh
John Anthony Meunier
Katharine Frissora
Anna Long
Lynn-Marie Peashka
MindsMatter LLC
Balance Psychiatric Services
Raven Young
Mental Health For All Services
Embodied Wellness Psychiatry
Felicia Turner, APRN | Text #Enroll 503-925-6606
Rachel Ann Jimenes
Tanner Rapp
Fatima Omar
Sean Dunn
Dao Nguyen
Cate Gerrity
Ideal Mental Health and Wellness Care
Talia Baruch
Albert Quainoo
Casilda Jennings Vigil
Levi Williams
Mark Ellestad
Victoria Abolarin
Talia Baruch
Ashley Cedar
Honorine Betah
Hope Mental Health
Alexandra Scott
Kelsey Knox
Kathryn (Kat) McNeil
Jade Goodloe
Heather Sanudo
Jonathan Allotey
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98101 (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
Brian L. Grant
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98101
My work focuses on helping patients enhance and improve effective functioning and satisfaction in their relationship with themselves and others; at home, work and community. I am flexible in my approach, and let the circumstances and reality of the patient shape our work together. I can prescribe medications when appropriate for my psychotherapy patients, but my primary focus is psychotherapy. I am not available for medication management only. I prefer in person sessions but depending upon circumstances, will consider online or a hybrid of both.
My work focuses on helping patients enhance and improve effective functioning and satisfaction in their relationship with themselves and others; at home, work and community. I am flexible in my approach, and let the circumstances and reality of the patient shape our work together. I can prescribe medications when appropriate for my psychotherapy patients, but my primary focus is psychotherapy. I am not available for medication management only. I prefer in person sessions but depending upon circumstances, will consider online or a hybrid of both.
Sneha Sastry
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98115
I believe in working together with patients and families to address psychiatric needs. Seeking out care can be difficult and addressing the various components of treatment (medication management, therapy, school/work resources, family issues, etc) can be overwhelming. It is my goal to help people utilize and navigate appropriate channels to address their challenges and improve their quality of life. I share an office with Greenlake Primary Care - they will answer your call, and get messages to me when I am unavailable.
I believe in working together with patients and families to address psychiatric needs. Seeking out care can be difficult and addressing the various components of treatment (medication management, therapy, school/work resources, family issues, etc) can be overwhelming. It is my goal to help people utilize and navigate appropriate channels to address their challenges and improve their quality of life. I share an office with Greenlake Primary Care - they will answer your call, and get messages to me when I am unavailable.
Dr. Michael Krausser@ Family Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98103
Dr. Michael Krausser is a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse practitioner that earned his Medical degree from the University of Washington. A native Seattleite, he enjoys serving patients within the greater Seattle community and is qualified to treat a wide variety of mental health issues across the lifespan. Mike utilizes a holistic approach, to improving the mental health of his patients.
Dr. Michael Krausser is a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse practitioner that earned his Medical degree from the University of Washington. A native Seattleite, he enjoys serving patients within the greater Seattle community and is qualified to treat a wide variety of mental health issues across the lifespan. Mike utilizes a holistic approach, to improving the mental health of his patients.
Monty Owens
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98107 (Online Only)
04/17/24- Telehealth offered. New patient appointments available in four weeks. No in person appointment required. I provide medication management for clients with ADHD, bipolar disorder, PTSD, depression, anxiety disorders, panic disorder, OCD and psychotic disorders. I can help you improve your life and get you back on track at work, home and in your relationships. Please reach out today for an appointment or if you have any questions!
04/17/24- Telehealth offered. New patient appointments available in four weeks. No in person appointment required. I provide medication management for clients with ADHD, bipolar disorder, PTSD, depression, anxiety disorders, panic disorder, OCD and psychotic disorders. I can help you improve your life and get you back on track at work, home and in your relationships. Please reach out today for an appointment or if you have any questions!
Transformational Psychiatry NW & TMS Clinic
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, ARNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98116
We are a very experienced mental health practice and have an extensive background in working with those with mood challenges, including those seeking help when medication and/or therapy may not be working. TMS (Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation) is FDA-approved and is an effective treatment with a high rate of response and remission. It can be helpful for mood challenges such as: Depression; Anxiety; OCD; Addiction; Bipolar/Depression; ADHD; PTSD; tinnitus; smoking cessation. We look forward to working with you to help you achieve your goals and optimal wellness.
We are a very experienced mental health practice and have an extensive background in working with those with mood challenges, including those seeking help when medication and/or therapy may not be working. TMS (Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation) is FDA-approved and is an effective treatment with a high rate of response and remission. It can be helpful for mood challenges such as: Depression; Anxiety; OCD; Addiction; Bipolar/Depression; ADHD; PTSD; tinnitus; smoking cessation. We look forward to working with you to help you achieve your goals and optimal wellness.
John Hinrichs
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, ARNP, PMHNP, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98122 (Online Only)
If the thought of facing another day of incessant worries and intrusive thoughts has you wound up like a rubber band ready to snap or keeps you up at night, I am here to help. Are you striving to meet your goals but feeling paralyzed by anxiety and overwhelmed with exhaustion? I hope you are well, and even if you aren’t right now, that’s okay. We all struggle at times, and sometimes reaching out for that extra bit of support makes all the difference. If we work together, I will be there to support and guide you along your journey towards health.
If the thought of facing another day of incessant worries and intrusive thoughts has you wound up like a rubber band ready to snap or keeps you up at night, I am here to help. Are you striving to meet your goals but feeling paralyzed by anxiety and overwhelmed with exhaustion? I hope you are well, and even if you aren’t right now, that’s okay. We all struggle at times, and sometimes reaching out for that extra bit of support makes all the difference. If we work together, I will be there to support and guide you along your journey towards health.
Vibrant Mental Wellness- Mental Health Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APR, MSN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98121 (Online Only)
Licensed in WA, WY, AZ, OR, and TX. Am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner treating patients of all ages from children, adolescents adults to older Adults. I have been working in the field of mental for the past 10 years since I was a psychiatric mental health technician/assistant to now Psychiatric Mental health nurse practitioner for the past 10 years which has now become a passion. I truly care and listen to my patients. Book an appointment let's talk and explore options. I provide a holistic approach via Telemedicine. I aim to improve your mental health which will truly be a life-changer onwards.
Licensed in WA, WY, AZ, OR, and TX. Am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner treating patients of all ages from children, adolescents adults to older Adults. I have been working in the field of mental for the past 10 years since I was a psychiatric mental health technician/assistant to now Psychiatric Mental health nurse practitioner for the past 10 years which has now become a passion. I truly care and listen to my patients. Book an appointment let's talk and explore options. I provide a holistic approach via Telemedicine. I aim to improve your mental health which will truly be a life-changer onwards.
MiraMinds Holistic Care
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP-C, ACNP-BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98121 (Online Only)
Are you struggling with mental health issues? You should never suffer alone or in silence. Your mental health is essential and matters a lot. I strive to promote physical, mental, and emotional wellness and work diligently to help my clients achieve a better quality of life. I work with children and adults struggling with varying mental health disorders, including anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, ADHD, amongst others. I also assist with medication management. I am GENDER sensitive and use an individualized approach to care for you and your needs. Call to schedule an appointment NOW.
Are you struggling with mental health issues? You should never suffer alone or in silence. Your mental health is essential and matters a lot. I strive to promote physical, mental, and emotional wellness and work diligently to help my clients achieve a better quality of life. I work with children and adults struggling with varying mental health disorders, including anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, ADHD, amongst others. I also assist with medication management. I am GENDER sensitive and use an individualized approach to care for you and your needs. Call to schedule an appointment NOW.
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 |
68% | 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.