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.
Debra Rice PLLC.
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98107 (Online Only)
I am now accepting Medicare clients! Welcome to my practice! My extensive experience in Mental Health, over 20 years experience with adults, adolescents and children, includes both inpatient and outpatient contexts. Our journey toward your mental health goals entails a commitment to our partnership. I often remind my clients, We accomplish this together. I am the expert on mental health diagnoses, medications, and treatments, and you are the expert on you. To ensure successful treatment, and achieve your goals, we both need
I am now accepting Medicare clients! Welcome to my practice! My extensive experience in Mental Health, over 20 years experience with adults, adolescents and children, includes both inpatient and outpatient contexts. Our journey toward your mental health goals entails a commitment to our partnership. I often remind my clients, We accomplish this together. I am the expert on mental health diagnoses, medications, and treatments, and you are the expert on you. To ensure successful treatment, and achieve your goals, we both need
Jackie Cole
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98116 (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
I appreciate employing a collaborative approach that actively cultivates an empowering environment for my patients. My goal is to inspire self-compassion and achieve lasting results. This approach is firmly grounded in evidence-based practices and is deeply intersectional, taking into account the myriad identities and sociocultural contexts that shape each person's lived experience. I am dedicated to providing comprehensive support that addresses your specific needs and helps you navigate life's challenges with resilience and well-being.
I appreciate employing a collaborative approach that actively cultivates an empowering environment for my patients. My goal is to inspire self-compassion and achieve lasting results. This approach is firmly grounded in evidence-based practices and is deeply intersectional, taking into account the myriad identities and sociocultural contexts that shape each person's lived experience. I am dedicated to providing comprehensive support that addresses your specific needs and helps you navigate life's challenges with resilience and well-being.
Bertrand Lee Wicholas
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98105
I specialize in the treatment of adults with a range of mental health concerns. I treat clients in a professional and confidential setting that feels safe and non-judgmental. My practice draws upon a variety of evidence-based psychotherapies and utilizes psychiatric medications if appropriate. I believe that for any treatment to be effective, it must be built upon a trusting and collaborative therapeutic relationship that reflects each client's individual needs and personal values. I believe in a down-to-earth and transparent approach to psychiatry that views genuine human connection as the foundation of any treatment.
I specialize in the treatment of adults with a range of mental health concerns. I treat clients in a professional and confidential setting that feels safe and non-judgmental. My practice draws upon a variety of evidence-based psychotherapies and utilizes psychiatric medications if appropriate. I believe that for any treatment to be effective, it must be built upon a trusting and collaborative therapeutic relationship that reflects each client's individual needs and personal values. I believe in a down-to-earth and transparent approach to psychiatry that views genuine human connection as the foundation of any treatment.
Iman M Yunis
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, ARNP, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98101
Dr. Yunis is a board-certified Family Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a doctorate degree, practicing in Washington State. Her professional degrees were awarded from Seattle University. She is deeply committed to supporting clients and families in improving their mental health using their strengths and goals. Dr. Yunis believes that you are the expert in your life, and that collaborating with you to create a realistic and individualized treatment plan is essential to meeting your unique needs and reaching your goals. The foundation of her practice is a mindful, holistic and patient-centered approach to wellness.
Dr. Yunis is a board-certified Family Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a doctorate degree, practicing in Washington State. Her professional degrees were awarded from Seattle University. She is deeply committed to supporting clients and families in improving their mental health using their strengths and goals. Dr. Yunis believes that you are the expert in your life, and that collaborating with you to create a realistic and individualized treatment plan is essential to meeting your unique needs and reaching your goals. The foundation of her practice is a mindful, holistic and patient-centered approach to wellness.
LaToyia Neal
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98119 (Online Only)
I am a highly motivated board-certified Advanced Practice Registered Nurse. I have over 10 years of nursing experience. I received my Bachelor of Science in Nursing Degree from Georgia Southwestern State University in 2011. In 2017 I obtained my Master of Science in Nursing (APRN) degree from Clayton State University and my Post Masters Psychiatric Mental Health Degree in July 2021 from Valdosta State University.
I am a highly motivated board-certified Advanced Practice Registered Nurse. I have over 10 years of nursing experience. I received my Bachelor of Science in Nursing Degree from Georgia Southwestern State University in 2011. In 2017 I obtained my Master of Science in Nursing (APRN) degree from Clayton State University and my Post Masters Psychiatric Mental Health Degree in July 2021 from Valdosta State University.
Julie Nugent-Carney
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, ARNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98116
I am a doctorally prepared psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner and have been a registered nurse for over 20 years, helping families cope with change, from childbirth to end-of-life. I provide life coaching for managing life transitions and relationship challenges. I've treated patients with a wide variety of mental health conditions including anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, ADHD, personality disorder, insomnia and other common psychiatric diagnoses. In addition to prescribing medications when necessary, my focus with psychotherapy is to assist people with achieving their goals.
I am a doctorally prepared psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner and have been a registered nurse for over 20 years, helping families cope with change, from childbirth to end-of-life. I provide life coaching for managing life transitions and relationship challenges. I've treated patients with a wide variety of mental health conditions including anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, ADHD, personality disorder, insomnia and other common psychiatric diagnoses. In addition to prescribing medications when necessary, my focus with psychotherapy is to assist people with achieving their goals.
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.
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.
Susi Jones
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARNP, MSN
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98112
It can be difficult to get an ADHD evaluation, but I'm here to help. As a board certified ARNP with a resolution to provide the most effective method for treatment I'm open to understanding each individual's personal history, his or her life experiences, and each patient's particular concerns about medications. Within a collaborative relationship, I approach all of this with patience, warmth, and understanding. In order to prioritize providing treatment for patients, scheduling is completed exclusively through my website. For FAQ (including accepted insurances), please visit the website link on this page.
It can be difficult to get an ADHD evaluation, but I'm here to help. As a board certified ARNP with a resolution to provide the most effective method for treatment I'm open to understanding each individual's personal history, his or her life experiences, and each patient's particular concerns about medications. Within a collaborative relationship, I approach all of this with patience, warmth, and understanding. In order to prioritize providing treatment for patients, scheduling is completed exclusively through my website. For FAQ (including accepted insurances), please visit the website link on this page.
Nakyung (Lisa) Choe
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98121
I am a Korean American Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with experiences with PTSD, OCD, Anxiety, Depression, ADHD, Bipolar, Schizophrenia, and other behavioral or mental health issues. As a US Army Veteran myself, I truly believe that the brain and body work together when outside forces such as trauma, stress, or injury occur. The mind will go into a survival mode, which can trigger mental and physical symptoms. Mental illness can come to anyone and at any time.
I am a Korean American Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with experiences with PTSD, OCD, Anxiety, Depression, ADHD, Bipolar, Schizophrenia, and other behavioral or mental health issues. As a US Army Veteran myself, I truly believe that the brain and body work together when outside forces such as trauma, stress, or injury occur. The mind will go into a survival mode, which can trigger mental and physical symptoms. Mental illness can come to anyone and at any time.
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Jan Gullette
Psychiatric Nurse, MN, ARNP
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98112
My approach to therapy is to acknowledge and respect that this is a collaborative process where we together explore how your beliefs, thoughts, and unique chemistry, along with your physical health, social and spiritual experiences affect who you are and how satisfied you are with your life. In a safe and comfortable environment we can learn what it is you are want to understand and what you wish to accomplish in our work together. I provide counseling, therapy, medication management and alternatives to medication when indicated. I have experience working with individuals, couples and families.
My approach to therapy is to acknowledge and respect that this is a collaborative process where we together explore how your beliefs, thoughts, and unique chemistry, along with your physical health, social and spiritual experiences affect who you are and how satisfied you are with your life. In a safe and comfortable environment we can learn what it is you are want to understand and what you wish to accomplish in our work together. I provide counseling, therapy, medication management and alternatives to medication when indicated. I have experience working with individuals, couples and families.
Cate Gerrity
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, ARNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98107
I am a psychiatric nurse practitioner with a passion for patient-centered care. I'm an active and compassionate listener. I hold a holistic view of mental healthcare, and am thorough in working with my patients to determine best next steps for them. My style is very collaborative. This means we will discuss multiple treatment options, pros and cons of each, and together make a decision how to move forward. Patient education is critical and I work to help patients understand both their mental health conditions and the role of medication.
I am a psychiatric nurse practitioner with a passion for patient-centered care. I'm an active and compassionate listener. I hold a holistic view of mental healthcare, and am thorough in working with my patients to determine best next steps for them. My style is very collaborative. This means we will discuss multiple treatment options, pros and cons of each, and together make a decision how to move forward. Patient education is critical and I work to help patients understand both their mental health conditions and the role of medication.
Sarah Sunday@ Family Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMNP, ARNP
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98103
Accepting New Patients. I offer supportive and empathic care to patients across the lifespan. My treatment focus includes Child, Adolescent and Family Health, with a specialization in Anxiety disorders, ADHD, Depression, Post partum care and PTSD. I strive to create positive and lasting change by building a therapeutic relationship for every one of my patients. I have advanced knowledge in pharmacotherapy and complex medical care. Please contact me to arrange a Video conference. Patients can complete intake paperwork online.
Accepting New Patients. I offer supportive and empathic care to patients across the lifespan. My treatment focus includes Child, Adolescent and Family Health, with a specialization in Anxiety disorders, ADHD, Depression, Post partum care and PTSD. I strive to create positive and lasting change by building a therapeutic relationship for every one of my patients. I have advanced knowledge in pharmacotherapy and complex medical care. Please contact me to arrange a Video conference. Patients can complete intake paperwork online.
Caretouch Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, FNP-BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98119
Accepting New Patients all over Washington. Call for an appointment Now. Dr. Francisca Nebe is an Advanced Practice Nurse Practitioner with a Doctorate in Nursing Practice (DNP), and dual certified as a Psychiatric Mental Health and family Nurse Practitioner. She has years of experience in her field and specializes in treating major depression, anxiety, mood disorders, ADHD, OCD, eating disorders and other mental health conditions. Affiliated with Mindful Therapy Group.
Accepting New Patients all over Washington. Call for an appointment Now. Dr. Francisca Nebe is an Advanced Practice Nurse Practitioner with a Doctorate in Nursing Practice (DNP), and dual certified as a Psychiatric Mental Health and family Nurse Practitioner. She has years of experience in her field and specializes in treating major depression, anxiety, mood disorders, ADHD, OCD, eating disorders and other mental health conditions. Affiliated with Mindful Therapy Group.
Tram-Anh Thi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98107
As a psychiatric nurse practitioner, I conduct comprehensive psychological assessments, diagnose, and prescribe medication. I emphasize shared and informed decision-making when tackling symptom management. My goal is to help you leverage a combination of lifestyle, environmental and pharmacological modifications to optimize functioning and well-being. Prior to Spruce, I spent the last seven years at Seattle Children's Hospital, Harborview Medical Center and teaching for the University of Washington's School of Nursing.
As a psychiatric nurse practitioner, I conduct comprehensive psychological assessments, diagnose, and prescribe medication. I emphasize shared and informed decision-making when tackling symptom management. My goal is to help you leverage a combination of lifestyle, environmental and pharmacological modifications to optimize functioning and well-being. Prior to Spruce, I spent the last seven years at Seattle Children's Hospital, Harborview Medical Center and teaching for the University of Washington's School of Nursing.
Dr. Natalie Dreyfoos
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98102
I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with prescriptive authority. I manage and treat all psychiatric conditions with particular interest in ADHD, mood disorders, anxiety, and psycho-oncology. I possess strong skills in medication management, brief supportive psychotherapy and meaning centered psychotherapy.
I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with prescriptive authority. I manage and treat all psychiatric conditions with particular interest in ADHD, mood disorders, anxiety, and psycho-oncology. I possess strong skills in medication management, brief supportive psychotherapy and meaning centered psychotherapy.
Kyl Dinsio, MD, PLLC
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98102
If you find yourself internet searching for a psychiatrist, you're probably asking questions like: why aren’t things (jobs/relationships/goals) working out for me? How do I balance what I want and what I need? How do I even KNOW what I need? Why do I fall into the same relationship patterns with family, friends, bosses, and intimate partners? Of course you feel overwhelmed, these are tough questions! Perhaps you’ve sought help for anxiety or depression, but haven't found medications to be helpful, or helpful enough.
If you find yourself internet searching for a psychiatrist, you're probably asking questions like: why aren’t things (jobs/relationships/goals) working out for me? How do I balance what I want and what I need? How do I even KNOW what I need? Why do I fall into the same relationship patterns with family, friends, bosses, and intimate partners? Of course you feel overwhelmed, these are tough questions! Perhaps you’ve sought help for anxiety or depression, but haven't found medications to be helpful, or helpful enough.
Amy Renee
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, ARNP, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98103 (Online Only)
-Now accepting clients via telehealth- Is this your first time seeking mental health services or is your current provider not a great fit? Do you have a distrust around medicine? Do you not feel seen or heard? Do you feel alone, depressed, anxious or overwhelmed? You are not alone. You’ve taken the first step. Together, with you in charge, I hope to help you aim to reframe, successfully with life’s challenges through a holistic and person-centered perspective.
-Now accepting clients via telehealth- Is this your first time seeking mental health services or is your current provider not a great fit? Do you have a distrust around medicine? Do you not feel seen or heard? Do you feel alone, depressed, anxious or overwhelmed? You are not alone. You’ve taken the first step. Together, with you in charge, I hope to help you aim to reframe, successfully with life’s challenges through a holistic and person-centered perspective.
Albert Quainoo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98103 (Online Only)
Hello, I look forward to meeting you! My name is Albert and I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner In the state of Washington. I specialize in ADHD, Anger Management/Impulse Disorders, Anxiety, Binge Eating Disorder, Bipolar Disorder, Chronic Illness, Depression, College & Graduate Student Mental Health, Insomnia & Sleep Issues, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). 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 Albert and I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner In the state of Washington. I specialize in ADHD, Anger Management/Impulse Disorders, Anxiety, Binge Eating Disorder, Bipolar Disorder, Chronic Illness, Depression, College & Graduate Student Mental Health, Insomnia & Sleep Issues, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). 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.
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.