Psychiatrists in Seattle, WA
Alex Tan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, ND, MSN
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98107 (Online Only)
Accepting New Patients for ADHD Management via Telehealth/In-Person. Are you looking to work with a medical provider who can help evaluate and manage ADHD? Adults with ADHD may struggle with staying focused, paying attention, completing projects and may feel impulsive and restless. This can affect your work, personal lives and relationships. I provide comprehensive evaluations to discern if your symptoms may be due to ADHD or other conditions, and provide both prescription and non-prescription options for treatment. I believe that ADHD can become a strength if it is managed properly and responsibly.
Accepting New Patients for ADHD Management via Telehealth/In-Person. Are you looking to work with a medical provider who can help evaluate and manage ADHD? Adults with ADHD may struggle with staying focused, paying attention, completing projects and may feel impulsive and restless. This can affect your work, personal lives and relationships. I provide comprehensive evaluations to discern if your symptoms may be due to ADHD or other conditions, and provide both prescription and non-prescription options for treatment. I believe that ADHD can become a strength if it is managed properly and responsibly.
Marlen Lukatsky
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, ARNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98126 (Online Only)
I am a board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) licensed and practicing in the states of Colorado and Washington. I specialize in treating children, adolescents, and adults with a passion for providing clients with the best possible comprehensive care while focusing on their mental health. I provide comprehensive psychiatric evaluations, diagnosis, medication management, and psychotherapy. At this time, I am accepting new clients for medication management with supportive therapy.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) licensed and practicing in the states of Colorado and Washington. I specialize in treating children, adolescents, and adults with a passion for providing clients with the best possible comprehensive care while focusing on their mental health. I provide comprehensive psychiatric evaluations, diagnosis, medication management, and psychotherapy. At this time, I am accepting new clients for medication management with supportive therapy.
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.
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.
Laura Frantz
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, ARNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98104 (Online Only)
My priority is to get to know my clients individually and understand their unique needs. As a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner I provide comprehensive client centered psychiatric services for adults that begins with a diagnostic evaluation and development of an evidence-based treatment plan. I strive to provide compassionate care that is individualized and collaborative. I offer services via Telehealth with a fully integrated electronic health record to make accessing care easy. I enjoy working with adults across the lifespan with a specific interest in working with individuals in the perinatal period.
My priority is to get to know my clients individually and understand their unique needs. As a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner I provide comprehensive client centered psychiatric services for adults that begins with a diagnostic evaluation and development of an evidence-based treatment plan. I strive to provide compassionate care that is individualized and collaborative. I offer services via Telehealth with a fully integrated electronic health record to make accessing care easy. I enjoy working with adults across the lifespan with a specific interest in working with individuals in the perinatal period.
Victoria Abolarin
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98103 (Online Only)
Hello, I look forward to meeting you! My name is Victoria and I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner In the state of Washington. I specialize in Anxiety, ADHD, Burnout, Depression, Family Issue, Life Coaching, Maternal Mental Health/Pre/Postpartum and Stress Management. 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 Victoria and I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner In the state of Washington. I specialize in Anxiety, ADHD, Burnout, Depression, Family Issue, Life Coaching, Maternal Mental Health/Pre/Postpartum and Stress Management. 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.
Healthcore Psychiatry Consultants
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98133 (Online Only)
Welcome to Healthcore Psychiatry Consultants! I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I diagnose and provide medication management to adult individuals (ages 18-60). I specialize in Alcohol and Drug Addiction, ADHD, Depression, Anxiety, and Mood Disorders.
Welcome to Healthcore Psychiatry Consultants! I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I diagnose and provide medication management to adult individuals (ages 18-60). I specialize in Alcohol and Drug Addiction, ADHD, Depression, Anxiety, and Mood Disorders.
Maryam Gulraiz
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98101 (Online Only)
I am a provider with several years of experience in treating mental health. I have a special interest in relationship and social difficulties and how masking and rejection sensitivity impacts mental health. Issues I work with are: Anxiety, Depression, social anxiety, perfectionism, Sleep problems, relationship issues and trauma, problems at school or work (motivation, attention, and interpersonal problems), Bipolar Disorder, OCD and many more. I use an individualized approach based on my client's needs. If this sounds somewhat familiar, I would like to help you in this healing journey.
I am a provider with several years of experience in treating mental health. I have a special interest in relationship and social difficulties and how masking and rejection sensitivity impacts mental health. Issues I work with are: Anxiety, Depression, social anxiety, perfectionism, Sleep problems, relationship issues and trauma, problems at school or work (motivation, attention, and interpersonal problems), Bipolar Disorder, OCD and many more. I use an individualized approach based on my client's needs. If this sounds somewhat familiar, I would like to help you in this healing journey.
Andrew Jackenheimer
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98125
I’m not sure I have an “ideal” patient. Most of my career has been spent treating anyone who came to the hospital or was assigned to my care. If I reflect on some patient success stories, each case was collaborative, utilizing evidence-based medicine with patients that had a high degree of motivation to get better, either utilizing medication or therapy and to maintain their recovery through self-care.
I’m not sure I have an “ideal” patient. Most of my career has been spent treating anyone who came to the hospital or was assigned to my care. If I reflect on some patient success stories, each case was collaborative, utilizing evidence-based medicine with patients that had a high degree of motivation to get better, either utilizing medication or therapy and to maintain their recovery through self-care.
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.
Mercygrace Mental Wellness, PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98107 (Online Only)
Mercy graduated from Texas State University with an M.S. in Nursing and is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. Mercy has over 8 years of expertise in psychiatric nursing and specializes in the treatment of mood and anxiety problems in adults and adolescents. Mercy, as a provider, takes a nonjudgmental, sympathetic approach and believes that every individual has the ability to reach his or her full potential. Mercy adds wellness therapies such as healthy sleep, exercise, diet, mindfulness, and social connectedness into her clients' treatment programs in addition to medication management.
Mercy graduated from Texas State University with an M.S. in Nursing and is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. Mercy has over 8 years of expertise in psychiatric nursing and specializes in the treatment of mood and anxiety problems in adults and adolescents. Mercy, as a provider, takes a nonjudgmental, sympathetic approach and believes that every individual has the ability to reach his or her full potential. Mercy adds wellness therapies such as healthy sleep, exercise, diet, mindfulness, and social connectedness into her clients' treatment programs in addition to medication management.
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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!
Osaretin Okoro
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC, MSN, APRN
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98119
Accepting new patients..... I am a patient-focused, board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner-driven to help clients overcome personal obstacles and achieve mental wellness. I support and guide my clients through their journey to recovery. I always strive for the best result and apply personal integrity to every action. I treat my patients with love and compassion regardless of their socioeconomic status. I treat my patients with dignity and respect, how I want my family members to be treated by any healthcare provider.
Accepting new patients..... I am a patient-focused, board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner-driven to help clients overcome personal obstacles and achieve mental wellness. I support and guide my clients through their journey to recovery. I always strive for the best result and apply personal integrity to every action. I treat my patients with love and compassion regardless of their socioeconomic status. I treat my patients with dignity and respect, how I want my family members to be treated by any healthcare provider.
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.
ATC Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN, BSN, BA
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98107
*IMMEDIATE, SAME-WEEK TELEHEALTH APPOINTMENTS AVAILABLE** I know all too well that finding the right provider can be a struggle. I run a client-centered practice, which means YOU come first. Through my patient portal, you can make your own appointments, submit refill requests, track lab results, and get in touch all without lifting a phone. I run an intentionally small-scale, streamlined practice, which means less logistical hassles and phone-tag. While in my care, you will be with a passionate provider who adheres to the most current and evidence-based practices. Reach out at www.atcpsychiatry.com and let's get started!
*IMMEDIATE, SAME-WEEK TELEHEALTH APPOINTMENTS AVAILABLE** I know all too well that finding the right provider can be a struggle. I run a client-centered practice, which means YOU come first. Through my patient portal, you can make your own appointments, submit refill requests, track lab results, and get in touch all without lifting a phone. I run an intentionally small-scale, streamlined practice, which means less logistical hassles and phone-tag. While in my care, you will be with a passionate provider who adheres to the most current and evidence-based practices. Reach out at www.atcpsychiatry.com and let's get started!
Lindsey Mills
Physician Assistant, MSPAS, PA-C
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98107
Ruby Therapeutics is dedicated to providing comprehensive care that is tailored to each individual. We strive to create a warm atmosphere that is inclusive and supportive. This practice is committed to understanding each patient's unique needs and providing high quality, evidence-based treatment. We offer a direct care approach, meaning your care relationship exists solely between you and your provider. Our goal is to provide a greater level of flexibility and collaboration for care that educates, empowers, and best meets your individual needs. Visit www.rubytherapeutics.com for more information and convenient scheduling options.
Ruby Therapeutics is dedicated to providing comprehensive care that is tailored to each individual. We strive to create a warm atmosphere that is inclusive and supportive. This practice is committed to understanding each patient's unique needs and providing high quality, evidence-based treatment. We offer a direct care approach, meaning your care relationship exists solely between you and your provider. Our goal is to provide a greater level of flexibility and collaboration for care that educates, empowers, and best meets your individual needs. Visit www.rubytherapeutics.com for more information and convenient scheduling options.
Family Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98103 (Online Only)
Accepting New Patients. We provides supportive and empathic medication management for a variety of conditions including Anxiety, Depression and ADHD for both Kids and Adults. We strive to create positive and lasting change by building a therapeutic relationship for every one of my patients. We have advanced knowledge in pharmacotherapy and developmental pediatrics.
Accepting New Patients. We provides supportive and empathic medication management for a variety of conditions including Anxiety, Depression and ADHD for both Kids and Adults. We strive to create positive and lasting change by building a therapeutic relationship for every one of my patients. We have advanced knowledge in pharmacotherapy and developmental pediatrics.
Jack Keith
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, ARNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98119
January 18, 2023 UPDATE for ADHD: New patients seeking medication management for ADHD are welcome to attend all appointments online. Please be aware, though, that you must be seen once in-person for any prescribing to happen past April 11, 2023. In-person appointment times are available on Wednesdays and Thursdays from 12pm to 8pm. Our Seattle office is located on the waterfront overlooking Elliott Bay at 101 Elliott Avenue West. We are on the top floor of the building in Suite 500. Parking is available underneath the building.
January 18, 2023 UPDATE for ADHD: New patients seeking medication management for ADHD are welcome to attend all appointments online. Please be aware, though, that you must be seen once in-person for any prescribing to happen past April 11, 2023. In-person appointment times are available on Wednesdays and Thursdays from 12pm to 8pm. Our Seattle office is located on the waterfront overlooking Elliott Bay at 101 Elliott Avenue West. We are on the top floor of the building in Suite 500. Parking is available underneath the building.
Florence Omoro Smith
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98105
From my years of practice and practice experience, I have learned that it is important to take time to listen and understand every family’s and individual’s unique needs, and to keep current with the latest advances in psychiatric treatments. My goal is to work with you to formulate an individualized evidence-based, culturally-sensitive treatment plan to achieve the best possible outcome for you or your child.
From my years of practice and practice experience, I have learned that it is important to take time to listen and understand every family’s and individual’s unique needs, and to keep current with the latest advances in psychiatric treatments. My goal is to work with you to formulate an individualized evidence-based, culturally-sensitive treatment plan to achieve the best possible outcome for you or your child.
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
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.