Psychiatrists in Seattle, WA
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!
Jasmyne Lyons
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98110
I have 15 yeas of combined experience as a Psych NP & therapist. I conduct ADHD/executive function evaluations & Autism screening assessments. I work with all age groups 5 years old and up. I provide accommodation & intervention planning for adults in school or work & for child/adolescents school 504/IEP plans. I do not conduct assessments for SSDI/disability. My services include assessments, medication management, nutrition planning and solution focused behavioral modifications. I firmly believe medication is one element of the solution & holistic, supportive care is essential for overall well-being.
I have 15 yeas of combined experience as a Psych NP & therapist. I conduct ADHD/executive function evaluations & Autism screening assessments. I work with all age groups 5 years old and up. I provide accommodation & intervention planning for adults in school or work & for child/adolescents school 504/IEP plans. I do not conduct assessments for SSDI/disability. My services include assessments, medication management, nutrition planning and solution focused behavioral modifications. I firmly believe medication is one element of the solution & holistic, supportive care is essential for overall well-being.
Claire Whitehead
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98107 (Online Only)
Claire Whitehead is a dually board certified nurse practitioner with specialties in psychiatry and family practice. As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, Claire is skilled in psychiatric assessment and diagnosis and can provide medication management and psychotherapy. She completed undergraduate training at Tulane University in New Orleans and nursing school at Columbia University in New York.
Claire Whitehead is a dually board certified nurse practitioner with specialties in psychiatry and family practice. As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, Claire is skilled in psychiatric assessment and diagnosis and can provide medication management and psychotherapy. She completed undergraduate training at Tulane University in New Orleans and nursing school at Columbia University in New York.
Elizabeth Vidas
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, ARNP
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98107
I am currently accepting new clients for medication management and holistic treatment planning. I’m a psychiatric nurse practitioner with experience working with folks struggling with depression, anxiety, mood disorders, trauma, and substance use disorders. If you have found yourself wondering if feelings of depression, anxiety, or just feeling stuck are getting in the way of connecting with loved ones, accomplishing goals, or pursuing what you want out of life, you may benefit from psychiatric help. Please note, I do not offer formal talk therapy at this time, but can provide referrals.
I am currently accepting new clients for medication management and holistic treatment planning. I’m a psychiatric nurse practitioner with experience working with folks struggling with depression, anxiety, mood disorders, trauma, and substance use disorders. If you have found yourself wondering if feelings of depression, anxiety, or just feeling stuck are getting in the way of connecting with loved ones, accomplishing goals, or pursuing what you want out of life, you may benefit from psychiatric help. Please note, I do not offer formal talk therapy at this time, but can provide referrals.
Ashley Osborne
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, Ashley Osborne, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98107 (Online Only)
If you're looking for a kind, knowledgeable & compassionate provider, you are in the right place. Ashley a board-certified Family Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with 10 yrs. experience working in mental health, in outpatient, inpatient and residential settings. Ashley enjoys working with children, teens and adults with anxiety, depression, mood disorders, behavioral issues, eating disorders, attention-deficient disorders (ADHD) and Autism. After spending the last two years working with two WashU Psychiatrists, prescribing the latest treatments and working in new drug research, she has gained significant experience and expertise.
If you're looking for a kind, knowledgeable & compassionate provider, you are in the right place. Ashley a board-certified Family Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with 10 yrs. experience working in mental health, in outpatient, inpatient and residential settings. Ashley enjoys working with children, teens and adults with anxiety, depression, mood disorders, behavioral issues, eating disorders, attention-deficient disorders (ADHD) and Autism. After spending the last two years working with two WashU Psychiatrists, prescribing the latest treatments and working in new drug research, she has gained significant experience and expertise.
Amanda Hapenny
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98107 (Online Only)
I am a board certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC), and I am dedicated to developing collaborative relationships with my clients. My approach is integrative and reconciles my client's goals with effective therapeutic treatment options. I treat all my clients with respect and partner with them to create a personalized, comprehensive, and sustainable treatment plan that strives to improve their quality of life. I am currently taking new patients at my practice.
I am a board certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC), and I am dedicated to developing collaborative relationships with my clients. My approach is integrative and reconciles my client's goals with effective therapeutic treatment options. I treat all my clients with respect and partner with them to create a personalized, comprehensive, and sustainable treatment plan that strives to improve their quality of life. I am currently taking new patients at my practice.
Jack Mkroyan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98109
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
Shannon La Douce
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98105 (Online Only)
FEB 2024 - Appointments available this week! I am passionate about supporting those who have dedicated their lives to service (of all types!). I am adept at working with the "givers" - people who are often over-extending to those around them. I am committed to creating a safe and judgment-free space for you to finally be the one that receives support. Whether you're a veteran navigating the challenges of post-service life, a healthcare provider managing pressures of the field, a mom juggling parenthood, or the friend who everyone turns to, I am here to partner with you to give YOU the support you deserve.
FEB 2024 - Appointments available this week! I am passionate about supporting those who have dedicated their lives to service (of all types!). I am adept at working with the "givers" - people who are often over-extending to those around them. I am committed to creating a safe and judgment-free space for you to finally be the one that receives support. Whether you're a veteran navigating the challenges of post-service life, a healthcare provider managing pressures of the field, a mom juggling parenthood, or the friend who everyone turns to, I am here to partner with you to give YOU the support you deserve.
Agnes Benjamin/Let Tas Psychiatry Services, PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98119 (Online Only)
As someone who has gone through grief due to a loss of a family member, leading to feeling depressed and loss and not knowing what to do, I can relate to some of the symptoms presented by my patients.
As someone who has gone through grief due to a loss of a family member, leading to feeling depressed and loss and not knowing what to do, I can relate to some of the symptoms presented by my patients.
Jordin Johnson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98119
My passion for mental health stems from my desire to help individuals achieve optimal well-being and lead fulfilling lives. I am committed to providing personalized care that meets patients' unique needs. I take the time to get to know each patient and work collaboratively to develop a treatment plan that promotes lasting health and wellness. Creating a safe, non-judgmental environment where my patients feel comfortable sharing their experiences and emotions is of utmost importance to me. My ultimate goal is to empower my patients to take control of their mental healing and achieve their full potential.
My passion for mental health stems from my desire to help individuals achieve optimal well-being and lead fulfilling lives. I am committed to providing personalized care that meets patients' unique needs. I take the time to get to know each patient and work collaboratively to develop a treatment plan that promotes lasting health and wellness. Creating a safe, non-judgmental environment where my patients feel comfortable sharing their experiences and emotions is of utmost importance to me. My ultimate goal is to empower my patients to take control of their mental healing and achieve their full potential.
Levi Williams
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98107
I believe that wherever you’re at with your mental health journey, either for yourself or a loved one, there is one thing everyone is looking for first: to be understood. In the busy world we live in, with what seems like access to everyone and everything right at our fingertips, we know what it is like to be heard; though, it is often difficult to experience meaningful connection, feel related to, and know an understanding has taken place beyond mere words. My goal is to connect in a calm and caring way with each person I meet, to understand where you are at in your journey, and to work together to identify your needs.
I believe that wherever you’re at with your mental health journey, either for yourself or a loved one, there is one thing everyone is looking for first: to be understood. In the busy world we live in, with what seems like access to everyone and everything right at our fingertips, we know what it is like to be heard; though, it is often difficult to experience meaningful connection, feel related to, and know an understanding has taken place beyond mere words. My goal is to connect in a calm and caring way with each person I meet, to understand where you are at in your journey, and to work together to identify your needs.
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Jusu Williams
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC, ARNP, MSN, BSN, RN
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98119
I believe in the willpower of every man. We can tap into our potential only if we believe and work diligently. This is where I come in. I will listen attentively and work with you and your loved ones/caregivers collaboratively to ensure you tap into your potential and live a healthier and more meaningful life. When I am not working, I love to spend time with my family and cooking. I also love playing and watching soccer. I have embraced the NFL and enjoy watching my team (I will not disclose for now) take care of business. This journey is not yours alone to walk. We are all in this together!
I believe in the willpower of every man. We can tap into our potential only if we believe and work diligently. This is where I come in. I will listen attentively and work with you and your loved ones/caregivers collaboratively to ensure you tap into your potential and live a healthier and more meaningful life. When I am not working, I love to spend time with my family and cooking. I also love playing and watching soccer. I have embraced the NFL and enjoy watching my team (I will not disclose for now) take care of business. This journey is not yours alone to walk. We are all in this together!
Dr. Nonye Rosemary Eneje
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP-BC, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98121 (Online Only)
Dr. Eneje is a doctoral prepared, licensed, and dual board-certified family nurse practitioner and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. She received her Doctor of Nursing Practice and Post Masters Certification in Psychiatric Mental Healthcare from Brandman University, Irvine California. She received a Masters of Science as a Family Nurse Practitioner and a Bachelor of Science in nursing from Tennessee State University, Nashville TN. Dr. Eneje is part of the Sigma Theta Tau nursing honor society. She provides virtual/telehealth services through a secure and HIPAA compliant video conference platform.
Dr. Eneje is a doctoral prepared, licensed, and dual board-certified family nurse practitioner and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. She received her Doctor of Nursing Practice and Post Masters Certification in Psychiatric Mental Healthcare from Brandman University, Irvine California. She received a Masters of Science as a Family Nurse Practitioner and a Bachelor of Science in nursing from Tennessee State University, Nashville TN. Dr. Eneje is part of the Sigma Theta Tau nursing honor society. She provides virtual/telehealth services through a secure and HIPAA compliant video conference platform.
Montenegro & Associates Behavioral Health
Psychiatrist
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98103 (Online Only)
At Montenegro & Associates Behavioral Health we commit to ensuring that nobody faces their mental health challenges alone. We are a group of expert adult, child, and adolescent psychiatrists who provide personalized psychiatric care in a compassionate and thorough manner specific to your unique needs. This collaborative approach empowers you to take the lead in your journey to wellness with our unwavering support and guidance.
At Montenegro & Associates Behavioral Health we commit to ensuring that nobody faces their mental health challenges alone. We are a group of expert adult, child, and adolescent psychiatrists who provide personalized psychiatric care in a compassionate and thorough manner specific to your unique needs. This collaborative approach empowers you to take the lead in your journey to wellness with our unwavering support and guidance.
Kimberly Danielle
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP-C, PMHNP-C
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98107
Welcome to Klarity Wellness. My name is Kimberly Danielle, PMHNP- BC, FNP-C. With training in integrative & functional medicine as well as being double board-certified in Psychiatry and Family Medicine, I bring a unique and comprehensive perspective to mental and physical health care. My expertise allows me to offer an integrated approach to a wide range of conditions, including anxiety, depression, bipolar & mood disorders, PTSD, ADHD, and more. With extensive experience in psychiatry and hospital based medicine, I have developed an expertise in addressing the relationship between mental and physical well-being.
Welcome to Klarity Wellness. My name is Kimberly Danielle, PMHNP- BC, FNP-C. With training in integrative & functional medicine as well as being double board-certified in Psychiatry and Family Medicine, I bring a unique and comprehensive perspective to mental and physical health care. My expertise allows me to offer an integrated approach to a wide range of conditions, including anxiety, depression, bipolar & mood disorders, PTSD, ADHD, and more. With extensive experience in psychiatry and hospital based medicine, I have developed an expertise in addressing the relationship between mental and physical well-being.
Matilda Bockarie
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98119
Anxiety and depression are complex mental health concerns affecting all ages and when experienced together the prognosis can be worsen. A combination of counseling, psychotherapy, psycho-education, medication management and creating structure in your life can improve your ability to manage your symptoms. I follow Evidence - Based Practice, I use a holistic approach focused on the whole person, creating an environment where you can develop trust and feel safe to share your story. I use a collaborative approach to improve clinical practice in mental health settings while maintaining professional boundaries and therapeutic relation.
Anxiety and depression are complex mental health concerns affecting all ages and when experienced together the prognosis can be worsen. A combination of counseling, psychotherapy, psycho-education, medication management and creating structure in your life can improve your ability to manage your symptoms. I follow Evidence - Based Practice, I use a holistic approach focused on the whole person, creating an environment where you can develop trust and feel safe to share your story. I use a collaborative approach to improve clinical practice in mental health settings while maintaining professional boundaries and therapeutic relation.
New Haven Geriatric Psychiatry, PLLC
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98115
I am a board-certified psychiatrist specializing in geriatric psychiatry. Generally, my patients are older than 55 years of age. My services can be provided through in-person office visits, virtual visits, or by visits to the home. Requests for consultation can be made through my website: www.newhaven.care.
I am a board-certified psychiatrist specializing in geriatric psychiatry. Generally, my patients are older than 55 years of age. My services can be provided through in-person office visits, virtual visits, or by visits to the home. Requests for consultation can be made through my website: www.newhaven.care.
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.
Ginette DiDomenico
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARNP
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98107 (Online Only)
Hi. The mind is very similar to our physical bodies; symptoms develop to let us know that something is amiss. Environments, stress, and trauma influence these symptoms. As our physical bodies seek to heal themselves, so does our minds. Difficulties can be looked at as opportunities for growth. I seek to come alongside and work together to help the healing and growth through therapy and if need be medication. Medication is not sufficient alone. Just as the physical body seeks to heal itself when hurt, so the mind/soul with encouragement can heal.
Hi. The mind is very similar to our physical bodies; symptoms develop to let us know that something is amiss. Environments, stress, and trauma influence these symptoms. As our physical bodies seek to heal themselves, so does our minds. Difficulties can be looked at as opportunities for growth. I seek to come alongside and work together to help the healing and growth through therapy and if need be medication. Medication is not sufficient alone. Just as the physical body seeks to heal itself when hurt, so the mind/soul with encouragement can heal.
Neupathway (Mirandine Fitchette)
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FPMHNP, BC, MSN/DNP
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98119
Accepting New Clients! Same Week Availability! ......... Mirandine is a board certified family psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. She provides psychiatric/mental health services to clients across the lifespan (adults, adolescents, children as young as six years old). Our utmost dedication lies in offering exceptional in-person and tele-psychiatry services that encompass comprehensive care and prioritize the delivery of high-quality healthcare. If you are interested in scheduling an appointment, we kindly invite you to visit our website at neupathway.com/appointments.
Accepting New Clients! Same Week Availability! ......... Mirandine is a board certified family psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. She provides psychiatric/mental health services to clients across the lifespan (adults, adolescents, children as young as six years old). Our utmost dedication lies in offering exceptional in-person and tele-psychiatry services that encompass comprehensive care and prioritize the delivery of high-quality healthcare. If you are interested in scheduling an appointment, we kindly invite you to visit our website at neupathway.com/appointments.
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.