Psychiatrists in Newport Beach, CA
Mindful Health Solutions - Benjamin Williamson, MD
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Newport Beach, CA 92660
My area of focus includes the medical treatment of severe depression and anxiety, posttraumatic stress disorder, social anxiety disorder, and bipolar disorder. I have seen the limitations of pharmacotherapies and offer Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS), proven to be effective for many people and is not associated with the side effects that sometimes limit the use of medications.
My area of focus includes the medical treatment of severe depression and anxiety, posttraumatic stress disorder, social anxiety disorder, and bipolar disorder. I have seen the limitations of pharmacotherapies and offer Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS), proven to be effective for many people and is not associated with the side effects that sometimes limit the use of medications.
Sonya Rasminsky
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Newport Beach, CA 92660
I am a board-certified psychiatrist with a specialty in women's mental health. I trained at University of Chicago and Harvard University, and have over fifteen years of experience providing psychotherapy and treatment with medications. I started my private practice in 2013, and was named an Orange County Physician of Excellence in 2017, 2018, and 2019. I am an attending psychiatrist in the UCLA Women's Life Center.
I am a board-certified psychiatrist with a specialty in women's mental health. I trained at University of Chicago and Harvard University, and have over fifteen years of experience providing psychotherapy and treatment with medications. I started my private practice in 2013, and was named an Orange County Physician of Excellence in 2017, 2018, and 2019. I am an attending psychiatrist in the UCLA Women's Life Center.
Hadi Estakhri
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Newport Beach, CA 92660
Hadi Estakhri, MD — or Dr. E as his patients know him — is a double board-certified, Harvard-trained psychiatrist practicing at Allied Psychiatry and Mental Health in Newport Beach, California. He offers customized, patient-focused treatments to address the unique needs and circumstances of each patient. With more than two decades of professional experience, he has vast proficiency in the mental health field. His expertise is in treating a wide range of psychiatric and addictive disorders in both adult and adolescents.
Hadi Estakhri, MD — or Dr. E as his patients know him — is a double board-certified, Harvard-trained psychiatrist practicing at Allied Psychiatry and Mental Health in Newport Beach, California. He offers customized, patient-focused treatments to address the unique needs and circumstances of each patient. With more than two decades of professional experience, he has vast proficiency in the mental health field. His expertise is in treating a wide range of psychiatric and addictive disorders in both adult and adolescents.
Vanessa Velez
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Newport Beach, CA 92660 (Online Only)
Accepting New Patients! Hi there! I understand that it’s probably taken a lot to get here: emotional pain, depression, anxiety, grief and maybe even existential crises. I want you to know that you are not alone and it does get better over time. I’m a holistic board-certified psychiatrist, therapist, and artist who specializes in helping young adults and adult professionals struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma, ecological and spiritual distress find inner peace. I combine holistic approaches such as creativity and spirituality with traditional modalities such as psychotherapy and medications, when needed.
Accepting New Patients! Hi there! I understand that it’s probably taken a lot to get here: emotional pain, depression, anxiety, grief and maybe even existential crises. I want you to know that you are not alone and it does get better over time. I’m a holistic board-certified psychiatrist, therapist, and artist who specializes in helping young adults and adult professionals struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma, ecological and spiritual distress find inner peace. I combine holistic approaches such as creativity and spirituality with traditional modalities such as psychotherapy and medications, when needed.
Ocean View Neuropsychiatry-Adult/Child Psychiatry
Psychiatrist, MD, CHILD, PSYCH
Verified Verified
Newport Beach, CA 92660
Ocean View Neuropsychiatry is a Psychiatry practice located in Orange County, CA with additional locations in Riverside CA. We offer prompt appointments with flexible hours including later appointments to accommodate the family's schedule. Our practice consists of Board Certified Adult and Child psychiatrists.
Ocean View Neuropsychiatry is a Psychiatry practice located in Orange County, CA with additional locations in Riverside CA. We offer prompt appointments with flexible hours including later appointments to accommodate the family's schedule. Our practice consists of Board Certified Adult and Child psychiatrists.
Maricela Tonie Beltran
Psychiatrist, MD, MPH
Verified Verified
Newport Beach, CA 92660 (Online Only)
I run a cash pay integrative psychiatry and psychotherapy practice and am dedicated to nurturing whole-body health and wellness in my patients. I was born in Long Beach, California, where I was raised by immigrant parents from Mexico, instilling in me a profound appreciation for the interconnectedness of culture and mental heath. Central to my practice is the belief that true healing encompasses the totality of the individual, honoring their unique journey. I strive to create a collaborative and nurturing space where patients feel truly heard and are empowered to explore various avenues of healing.
I run a cash pay integrative psychiatry and psychotherapy practice and am dedicated to nurturing whole-body health and wellness in my patients. I was born in Long Beach, California, where I was raised by immigrant parents from Mexico, instilling in me a profound appreciation for the interconnectedness of culture and mental heath. Central to my practice is the belief that true healing encompasses the totality of the individual, honoring their unique journey. I strive to create a collaborative and nurturing space where patients feel truly heard and are empowered to explore various avenues of healing.
Pavel Ksendz
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Newport Beach, CA 92657
My name is Pavel Ksendz an I am a psychiatric nurse practitioner. As a dedicated Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), I envision assisting those navigating life with mood, anxiety, cognitive, trauma-related, or ADHD-related challenges. If you're seeking a holistic approach that not only addresses these concerns but considers your unique life story and goals, I believe we could be a perfect fit. You're yearning for an individualized plan, a supportive collaboration, and a safe space prioritizing your well-being. Let's make this journey together.
My name is Pavel Ksendz an I am a psychiatric nurse practitioner. As a dedicated Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), I envision assisting those navigating life with mood, anxiety, cognitive, trauma-related, or ADHD-related challenges. If you're seeking a holistic approach that not only addresses these concerns but considers your unique life story and goals, I believe we could be a perfect fit. You're yearning for an individualized plan, a supportive collaboration, and a safe space prioritizing your well-being. Let's make this journey together.
Venice Sanchez
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Newport Beach, CA 92660
My goal is to help you regain control of your life. It is important that I work closely with you in creating a cooperative and informed therapeutic environment. My areas of expertise include, but not limited to, TMS (Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation, Mental Illness in Pregnancy and Postpartum, Substance Dependence/ Dual Diagnosis, Depressive Disorders, Anxiety Disorders, Post Traumatic Stress Disorders, Eating disorders. My work with the Long Beach VA ,Maternal/ Fetal Specialist OBGYN at UCI, multiple Rehab and Women's Clinic has allowed me to gain focus on Post Traumatic Stress disorder and Substance Abuse/Rehab.
My goal is to help you regain control of your life. It is important that I work closely with you in creating a cooperative and informed therapeutic environment. My areas of expertise include, but not limited to, TMS (Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation, Mental Illness in Pregnancy and Postpartum, Substance Dependence/ Dual Diagnosis, Depressive Disorders, Anxiety Disorders, Post Traumatic Stress Disorders, Eating disorders. My work with the Long Beach VA ,Maternal/ Fetal Specialist OBGYN at UCI, multiple Rehab and Women's Clinic has allowed me to gain focus on Post Traumatic Stress disorder and Substance Abuse/Rehab.
Alexis Meshi
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Newport Beach, CA 92663
Receive care from the comfort of your home! Do you struggle with depression, anxiety, or attention and focus difficulties? Are your symptoms causing problems in your life? Are your relationships being affected? Are you not able to work to your potential? Are you unsatisfied in life and want to make major positive changes? Or are you doing well but want to further optimize your life situation? If you or a loved one suffer from emotional or mental distress, you have come to the right place. Welcome to my practice. I look forward meeting you and your loved ones and making your world a happier and a better place.
Receive care from the comfort of your home! Do you struggle with depression, anxiety, or attention and focus difficulties? Are your symptoms causing problems in your life? Are your relationships being affected? Are you not able to work to your potential? Are you unsatisfied in life and want to make major positive changes? Or are you doing well but want to further optimize your life situation? If you or a loved one suffer from emotional or mental distress, you have come to the right place. Welcome to my practice. I look forward meeting you and your loved ones and making your world a happier and a better place.
Alexis Meshi
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Newport Beach, CA 92663
Receive care from the comfort of your home! Do you struggle with depression, anxiety, or attention and focus difficulties? Are your symptoms causing problems in your life? Are your relationships being affected? Are you not able to work to your potential? Are you unsatisfied in life and want to make major positive changes? Or are you doing well but want to further optimize your life situation? If you or a loved one suffer from emotional or mental distress, you have come to the right place. Welcome to my practice. I look forward meeting you and your loved ones and making your world a happier and a better place.
Receive care from the comfort of your home! Do you struggle with depression, anxiety, or attention and focus difficulties? Are your symptoms causing problems in your life? Are your relationships being affected? Are you not able to work to your potential? Are you unsatisfied in life and want to make major positive changes? Or are you doing well but want to further optimize your life situation? If you or a loved one suffer from emotional or mental distress, you have come to the right place. Welcome to my practice. I look forward meeting you and your loved ones and making your world a happier and a better place.
Leela Magavi
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Newport Beach, CA 92660
Dr. Magavi strives to create a safe, comfortable atmosphere for patients and their families in their journey toward recovery. She has a holistic approach and integrates various treatment modalities (lifestyle changes, including mindfulness and meditation, pharmacological agents, as well as individual, couples and family therapy) to provide comprehensive, effective care.
Dr. Magavi strives to create a safe, comfortable atmosphere for patients and their families in their journey toward recovery. She has a holistic approach and integrates various treatment modalities (lifestyle changes, including mindfulness and meditation, pharmacological agents, as well as individual, couples and family therapy) to provide comprehensive, effective care.
15 Second Videos
Mindful Health Solutions - Benjamin Williamson, MD
Vanessa Velez
Alan L Schneider
Anam Gulraiz
Mindful Health Solutions - Jody Whitehouse, MD
Dr. Terry Eagan - Anew Era TMS & Psychiatry
Mindful Health Solutions - Christopher Chin
Mottsin Thomas
Raelin Bright Wellness
Desiree Bonomo
Sham Singh
Lisa Chan
Catalina Villa
Dr Mark Chofla | Empathy Therapy
Mindful Health Solutions - Irina Filip, MD
Mindful Health Solutions - Katherine Weeks
Private In Home Detox - Detox Concierge
John Diya - Anew Era TMS & Psychiatry
Sham Singh
Riz Ahmad
Uchenna Okoye
Leigh Goodrich
Bonmente
The Focus Doc
Anne Phan-Huy
Jordan Blaine
Raelin Bright Wellness
Jordan Blaine
Sheenie Ambardar MD, Concierge Psychiatrist
Aisha Abbasi
Thuy Rotunda
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Newport Beach, CA 92660
I am blessed to have learned from extraordinary teachers, but it has been the patients and their families that have taught and inspired me most. Despite suffering through times when the simplest things become the most difficult, people learn to move forward, which can be humbling and extraordinary to observe and achieve with them. Despite advanced treatments, what determines success is whether our partnership will enhance your or your loved one's life. The most important thing is what best suits you. If I am not the one for you, I will try to help you find someone who is.
I am blessed to have learned from extraordinary teachers, but it has been the patients and their families that have taught and inspired me most. Despite suffering through times when the simplest things become the most difficult, people learn to move forward, which can be humbling and extraordinary to observe and achieve with them. Despite advanced treatments, what determines success is whether our partnership will enhance your or your loved one's life. The most important thing is what best suits you. If I am not the one for you, I will try to help you find someone who is.
Alan L Schneider
Psychiatrist, MD, DLFAPA, DABPM
Verified Verified
Newport Beach, CA 92660 (Online Only)
My practice has always offered my clients a highly personalized care delivery model using a combination of psychotherapy and medication management. No two clients are alike and they are never treated that way. I bring a range of background to my work from years of research and academic practice as well as specialty certifications in adult psychiatry & neurology, geriatric psychiatry, and addiction medicine. The office is always available for questions/concerns, refills, or urgent matters. All calls are returned the same day. The average duration of my clients' time with me is 18 years, which speaks to the service they receive.
My practice has always offered my clients a highly personalized care delivery model using a combination of psychotherapy and medication management. No two clients are alike and they are never treated that way. I bring a range of background to my work from years of research and academic practice as well as specialty certifications in adult psychiatry & neurology, geriatric psychiatry, and addiction medicine. The office is always available for questions/concerns, refills, or urgent matters. All calls are returned the same day. The average duration of my clients' time with me is 18 years, which speaks to the service they receive.
Anam Gulraiz
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
13 Endorsed
Newport Beach, CA 92660 (Online Only)
Assisting you with medication management and therapy for better mental health. I pride myself in listening to your concerns. Asking specific questions to narrow down your symptoms. Holistic approach- look at your relationships, environment, and upbringing along with providing solutions and a treatment plan for your current concerns. Collaborative approach- we work as a team, I don't ignore your concerns. If I dont know an answer, I redirect you to someone who does.
Assisting you with medication management and therapy for better mental health. I pride myself in listening to your concerns. Asking specific questions to narrow down your symptoms. Holistic approach- look at your relationships, environment, and upbringing along with providing solutions and a treatment plan for your current concerns. Collaborative approach- we work as a team, I don't ignore your concerns. If I dont know an answer, I redirect you to someone who does.
Piotr Pelc
Psychiatrist, DO, MS
Verified Verified
Newport Beach, CA 92660
I'm Dr. Piotr Pelc, a double board-certified child, adolescent and adult psychiatrist. I serve the families of Newport Beach, Irvine, Huntington Beach, Costa Mesa and other surrounding Orange County cities. I provide medication management, therapy or both. Telepsychiatry appointments are available. I happily coordinate care with therapists. As an osteopathic physician, I promote prevention and whole-person care, emphasizing good work-life balance, diet, and sleep. Please note: I'm out-of-network for all insurances, but I do provide a superbill for reimbursement if you wish to use your insurance coverage.
I'm Dr. Piotr Pelc, a double board-certified child, adolescent and adult psychiatrist. I serve the families of Newport Beach, Irvine, Huntington Beach, Costa Mesa and other surrounding Orange County cities. I provide medication management, therapy or both. Telepsychiatry appointments are available. I happily coordinate care with therapists. As an osteopathic physician, I promote prevention and whole-person care, emphasizing good work-life balance, diet, and sleep. Please note: I'm out-of-network for all insurances, but I do provide a superbill for reimbursement if you wish to use your insurance coverage.
Dr Riz @ Evolve Psychiatry
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Newport Beach, CA 92660
Tired of the relentless cycle of self-doubt, fatigue, and panic attacks? Struggling with poor concentration, restless sleep, or irrational fears? Feeling hypersensitive or overwhelmed by a need for control? Are these emotional and behavioral patterns fixable? Which ones stem from genetics or brain chemistry, and which are rooted in upbringing or circumstances?
Tired of the relentless cycle of self-doubt, fatigue, and panic attacks? Struggling with poor concentration, restless sleep, or irrational fears? Feeling hypersensitive or overwhelmed by a need for control? Are these emotional and behavioral patterns fixable? Which ones stem from genetics or brain chemistry, and which are rooted in upbringing or circumstances?
Don De Francisco
Psychiatrist, MD, PhD
Verified Verified
Newport Beach, CA 92660
Kind and professional care with extensive experience of 45 years in psychiatry, psychopharmacology research (involved in over clinical 900 research trials), family therapy, and psychoanalytic treatment (have a Ph.D. in Psychoanalysis.) My approach is flexible, looking to find what can be understood psychologically, as well as what is best explained in terms of brain function or chemistry. I do not always use medication as true understanding is often enough. When I do use medication my approach is conservative. "I start low and go slow." Try visiting my Website for more details: http://www.dondefrancisco.com/
Kind and professional care with extensive experience of 45 years in psychiatry, psychopharmacology research (involved in over clinical 900 research trials), family therapy, and psychoanalytic treatment (have a Ph.D. in Psychoanalysis.) My approach is flexible, looking to find what can be understood psychologically, as well as what is best explained in terms of brain function or chemistry. I do not always use medication as true understanding is often enough. When I do use medication my approach is conservative. "I start low and go slow." Try visiting my Website for more details: http://www.dondefrancisco.com/
Emily Lippincott
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMNHP
Verified Verified
Newport Beach, CA 92660 (Online Only)
In network with most insurance carriers. Emily Lippincott is a board certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and specializes in treatment of mood and anxiety disorders in adults as well as children and adolescents. She works in collaboration with a team of psychiatrists and psychologists in a large group practice that accepts most insurance plans. Championing a whole person approach to health and well-being, she employs a combination of medical and holistic practices into her treatment plans, and believes in an interdisciplinary approach in treating psychological conditions.
In network with most insurance carriers. Emily Lippincott is a board certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and specializes in treatment of mood and anxiety disorders in adults as well as children and adolescents. She works in collaboration with a team of psychiatrists and psychologists in a large group practice that accepts most insurance plans. Championing a whole person approach to health and well-being, she employs a combination of medical and holistic practices into her treatment plans, and believes in an interdisciplinary approach in treating psychological conditions.
Kenneth Neil Sokolski
Psychiatrist, MD, MS
Verified Verified
Newport Beach, CA 92660
As a graduate of U.C. Irvine School of Medicine and Residency in Psychiatry with 28 years of experience diagnosing and treating behavioral conditions, author of over 35 peer reviewed publications in mood and anxiety disorders, and a professor of psychiatry in charge of the psychopharmacology course for psychiatric residents at U.C.I., I am in a unique position to understand and provide the most appropriate therapy for my patients' emotional needs. I am at the forefront of psychiatric treatments and am sought out by therapists and physicians for treatment of the most difficult psychiatric cases as well as for my compassionate care.
As a graduate of U.C. Irvine School of Medicine and Residency in Psychiatry with 28 years of experience diagnosing and treating behavioral conditions, author of over 35 peer reviewed publications in mood and anxiety disorders, and a professor of psychiatry in charge of the psychopharmacology course for psychiatric residents at U.C.I., I am in a unique position to understand and provide the most appropriate therapy for my patients' emotional needs. I am at the forefront of psychiatric treatments and am sought out by therapists and physicians for treatment of the most difficult psychiatric cases as well as for my compassionate care.
Anthony Mascola
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Newport Beach, CA 92660 (Online Only)
Doctor Mascola is friendly, highly qualified, and works warmly and collaboratively to help persons find resilience and strength when times are challenging. He served previously as the Director of Education and Evidence Based Practices at Stanford University in the Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences. He has expertise in multiple Cognitive Behavioral Therapies as well as expertise in the use of medications and other scientifically supported methods of health promotion. He finds great meaning in helping good persons improve their ability to live in a manner that resonates deeply with their most cherished values.
Doctor Mascola is friendly, highly qualified, and works warmly and collaboratively to help persons find resilience and strength when times are challenging. He served previously as the Director of Education and Evidence Based Practices at Stanford University in the Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences. He has expertise in multiple Cognitive Behavioral Therapies as well as expertise in the use of medications and other scientifically supported methods of health promotion. He finds great meaning in helping good persons improve their ability to live in a manner that resonates deeply with their most cherished values.
See more therapy options for Newport Beach
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Newport Beach, CA
100+
Average cost per session
$300
Psychiatrists in Newport Beach, CA who prioritize treating:
94% | Anxiety |
93% | Depression |
86% | Medication Management |
82% | Bipolar Disorder |
74% | Trauma and PTSD |
73% | ADHD |
72% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
Average years in practice
15 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
89% | Aetna |
89% | Anthem | Elevance |
88% | Optum |
How Psychiatrists in Newport Beach, CA see their clients
61% | In Person and Online | |
39% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
63% | Female | |
37% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Newport Beach?
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.