Psychiatrists in Portland, OR
Rebecca M Berman
Psychiatric Nurse, MN, MSW, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97218 (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) specializing in a range of clinical issues including depression, bipolar affective disorder, anxiety disorders, ADHD, issues of loss and bereavement, experiences of past trauma, and end-of-life concerns. I work with adults of all ages, with a particular interest in the treatment of older adults and those who care for them. The services I provide include psychiatric evaluation, medication evaluation, ongoing medication management, and psychotherapy. I will work collaboratively with your other providers to co-create a treatment plan that is as integrated and holistic as possible.
I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) specializing in a range of clinical issues including depression, bipolar affective disorder, anxiety disorders, ADHD, issues of loss and bereavement, experiences of past trauma, and end-of-life concerns. I work with adults of all ages, with a particular interest in the treatment of older adults and those who care for them. The services I provide include psychiatric evaluation, medication evaluation, ongoing medication management, and psychotherapy. I will work collaboratively with your other providers to co-create a treatment plan that is as integrated and holistic as possible.
Heramba Mental Healthcare, PC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, ARNP-BC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97205
We accept new clients every day throughout the year. We are opened every day, include Saturdays and Sundays. We accept Medicaid, Medicare, and all commercial insurances. We do in person appointment and telepsychiatry, telemedicine, or telehealth availabilities. Mental health disorders impact people from a broad spectrum of the population. We love to help and support people. We are passionate about our patients’ psychiatric health and wellbeing. We spend time listening to our clients. We take into considerations our clients’ preferences and complaints. We treat our clients as a “full flesh human being”, with respect and dignity.
We accept new clients every day throughout the year. We are opened every day, include Saturdays and Sundays. We accept Medicaid, Medicare, and all commercial insurances. We do in person appointment and telepsychiatry, telemedicine, or telehealth availabilities. Mental health disorders impact people from a broad spectrum of the population. We love to help and support people. We are passionate about our patients’ psychiatric health and wellbeing. We spend time listening to our clients. We take into considerations our clients’ preferences and complaints. We treat our clients as a “full flesh human being”, with respect and dignity.
Taqialdeen Zamil
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97210 (Online Only)
Welcome to my practice. With over a decade of diverse clinical experience, I've had the privilege of guiding clients through the intricate landscape of mental health. From adolescents struggling with identity issues, adults combating anxiety, to those deciphering the layers of substance use, depressive or bipolar disorders, PTSD, or OCD, I've witnessed the resilience of the human spirit. I'm passionate about providing evidence-based, compassionate care to empower individuals to reclaim control and joy in their lives. If you seek a deeper understanding and the tools to flourish, I'm here to support you on this transformative journey.
Welcome to my practice. With over a decade of diverse clinical experience, I've had the privilege of guiding clients through the intricate landscape of mental health. From adolescents struggling with identity issues, adults combating anxiety, to those deciphering the layers of substance use, depressive or bipolar disorders, PTSD, or OCD, I've witnessed the resilience of the human spirit. I'm passionate about providing evidence-based, compassionate care to empower individuals to reclaim control and joy in their lives. If you seek a deeper understanding and the tools to flourish, I'm here to support you on this transformative journey.
Lillian Nagi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97232 (Online Only)
At your first visit we will discuss what you are looking to obtain from my service and next to try to create a plan. This way, I can accommodate both our expectations and come up with a realistic, achievable plan. There is not a one size fits all approach when it comes to mental health. The goal is to build a solid relationship with you and continue this journey until treatment is completed or ongoing desired stability is achieved. As the saying goes, some things cannot be fixed, they can only be carried- but they still can be managed! And we can work on that.
At your first visit we will discuss what you are looking to obtain from my service and next to try to create a plan. This way, I can accommodate both our expectations and come up with a realistic, achievable plan. There is not a one size fits all approach when it comes to mental health. The goal is to build a solid relationship with you and continue this journey until treatment is completed or ongoing desired stability is achieved. As the saying goes, some things cannot be fixed, they can only be carried- but they still can be managed! And we can work on that.
Michelle J Roberts
Psychiatric Nurse, MSN, FNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97209 (Online Only)
My mission is to provide treatment plans tailored to your needs, focused on options and solutions that give you the best chance to succeed. I'm thorough and take the time to understand major life stressors, environments and interpersonal relationships that contribute to your distress. The acuity I encountered working at a psychiatric hospital prepared me for private practice and led to my conservative prescribing approach. I value patient feedback and include it in treatment decisions. My practice focus is medication management but I also offer therapy. My blended therapeutic approach includes elements from many modalities.
My mission is to provide treatment plans tailored to your needs, focused on options and solutions that give you the best chance to succeed. I'm thorough and take the time to understand major life stressors, environments and interpersonal relationships that contribute to your distress. The acuity I encountered working at a psychiatric hospital prepared me for private practice and led to my conservative prescribing approach. I value patient feedback and include it in treatment decisions. My practice focus is medication management but I also offer therapy. My blended therapeutic approach includes elements from many modalities.
Jazmyn Price
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, WHNP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97215
I believe therapy and medication management can be useful tools for cultivating change and healing in our lives. Therapy is a space where we can work out the multitudes of ourselves. As we strive to find harmony within these multitudes we examine how past experiences and important relationships have singularly shaped these selves. Medications can provide extra support alongside therapy. My approach to prescribing is holistic, evidence based and attempts to minimize the need for medications.
I believe therapy and medication management can be useful tools for cultivating change and healing in our lives. Therapy is a space where we can work out the multitudes of ourselves. As we strive to find harmony within these multitudes we examine how past experiences and important relationships have singularly shaped these selves. Medications can provide extra support alongside therapy. My approach to prescribing is holistic, evidence based and attempts to minimize the need for medications.
Erika Bales
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97206 (Online Only)
Accepting new patients! Are you feeling overwhelmed? Taking the first step towards healing can be daunting, but you're not alone on this journey. I am here to help guide you towards a more fulfilling life with symptom relief. I believe in fostering a strong therapeutic alliance built on trust and respect. Together, we will create an effective treatment plan tailored to you. I combine evidence-based techniques with a holistic approach, taking into account your physical, emotional, and mental well-being. My goal is to support you in restoring and maintaining a healthier state of mind.
Accepting new patients! Are you feeling overwhelmed? Taking the first step towards healing can be daunting, but you're not alone on this journey. I am here to help guide you towards a more fulfilling life with symptom relief. I believe in fostering a strong therapeutic alliance built on trust and respect. Together, we will create an effective treatment plan tailored to you. I combine evidence-based techniques with a holistic approach, taking into account your physical, emotional, and mental well-being. My goal is to support you in restoring and maintaining a healthier state of mind.
Dr. Kelly C. Aldinger
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSW, RYT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97229
APRIL 2024 - OPEN. To get started, complete form at www.upwellpsych.com/contact . Aloha! I'm a doctor of nursing practice who is passionate about helping people access their own strengths. I am committed to walking beside you as you gain insight, learn new skills, and grow the self-belief to create the life you want to live. I firmly believe that one path does not fit all, and my life is evidence of that. I worked as a therapist prior to becoming a PMHNP, and bring a diverse set of professional, educational and life experience to each session. Using empathy and authenticity, my goal is to help you find and live your own truth.
APRIL 2024 - OPEN. To get started, complete form at www.upwellpsych.com/contact . Aloha! I'm a doctor of nursing practice who is passionate about helping people access their own strengths. I am committed to walking beside you as you gain insight, learn new skills, and grow the self-belief to create the life you want to live. I firmly believe that one path does not fit all, and my life is evidence of that. I worked as a therapist prior to becoming a PMHNP, and bring a diverse set of professional, educational and life experience to each session. Using empathy and authenticity, my goal is to help you find and live your own truth.
Tamara Owen
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, RN, MS, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97202
As a Holistic Health Practitioner and Life Coach, with both a medical and mental health background, I specialize in assessing and treating anxiety, insomnia, mood disorders and attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder. I provide both medication and supplement evaluation and management with a special focus on genetic testing and balancing neurotransmitters. Once our brains are healthier and better balanced, mental and physical health follow naturally. That’s when therapy and skill building can really start to take effect.
As a Holistic Health Practitioner and Life Coach, with both a medical and mental health background, I specialize in assessing and treating anxiety, insomnia, mood disorders and attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder. I provide both medication and supplement evaluation and management with a special focus on genetic testing and balancing neurotransmitters. Once our brains are healthier and better balanced, mental and physical health follow naturally. That’s when therapy and skill building can really start to take effect.
PeaceHaven Behavioral Center LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97210 (Online Only)
You are not alone. Do you lack the drive and concentration needed to achieve your goals at work or in school? Dr. Peace Banks, DNP, works with you to provide hope and help you achieve peace through our tailored treatment plan. Let us help you navigate your mental health journey to peace of mind. Your care will be individualized, and you will be listened to. We are taking care of South Dakota, Oregon, Texas, and Washington state residents. Currently, telehealth is only available. We are accepting NEW client appointments now.
You are not alone. Do you lack the drive and concentration needed to achieve your goals at work or in school? Dr. Peace Banks, DNP, works with you to provide hope and help you achieve peace through our tailored treatment plan. Let us help you navigate your mental health journey to peace of mind. Your care will be individualized, and you will be listened to. We are taking care of South Dakota, Oregon, Texas, and Washington state residents. Currently, telehealth is only available. We are accepting NEW client appointments now.
Anicka Oyer Meyers
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97214 (Online Only)
I help people navigate transitions into young adulthood, parenthood, and gender or sexual identities. These changes can be overwhelming. Together we can connect you to your own inner guide. As a psychiatric nurse practitioner, my hope is to create a space where you can share openly, find support for deep challenges, and share decision-making in your treatment. I use clinical diagnosis as a starting point, and together we will explore your individual story that cannot be written by anyone but you. My role is to help you move beyond diagnosis to relief, ease, and wellness.
I help people navigate transitions into young adulthood, parenthood, and gender or sexual identities. These changes can be overwhelming. Together we can connect you to your own inner guide. As a psychiatric nurse practitioner, my hope is to create a space where you can share openly, find support for deep challenges, and share decision-making in your treatment. I use clinical diagnosis as a starting point, and together we will explore your individual story that cannot be written by anyone but you. My role is to help you move beyond diagnosis to relief, ease, and wellness.
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Angela Lee
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97214 (Online Only)
I can help you move beyond your trauma, anxiety, or depression. I believe you have the capacity to get better. I’d love to be your guide in getting there! My style is candid, thoughtful and compassionate. With the right information, I know my clients can make the best care decisions for themselves. Though medications are a piece of my toolkit, I also incorporate solutions-focused therapy, nutrition considerations, and overall wellness support. My hope is to get you feeling well.
I can help you move beyond your trauma, anxiety, or depression. I believe you have the capacity to get better. I’d love to be your guide in getting there! My style is candid, thoughtful and compassionate. With the right information, I know my clients can make the best care decisions for themselves. Though medications are a piece of my toolkit, I also incorporate solutions-focused therapy, nutrition considerations, and overall wellness support. My hope is to get you feeling well.
Dr. Dianna Harris (Accepting New Clients)
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PsyD, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97219
Accepting NEW Clients (ages 18-65) as of 4/24/24 for Medication Management (I am not taking clients for therapy). Appointments are available in 2 weeks. Complete the Patient Inquiry Form on my website. You will receive a response the same or next day. My practice is primarily composed of adults struggling with anxiety and depression. I find that people reach out to treatment when excessive worry, low motivation, and negative thinking can lead to feeling less confident in their work, behind on tasks at home, and impacting their relationships. I don't treat ADHD and I don't prescribe controlled substances, such as Xanax for anxiety.
Accepting NEW Clients (ages 18-65) as of 4/24/24 for Medication Management (I am not taking clients for therapy). Appointments are available in 2 weeks. Complete the Patient Inquiry Form on my website. You will receive a response the same or next day. My practice is primarily composed of adults struggling with anxiety and depression. I find that people reach out to treatment when excessive worry, low motivation, and negative thinking can lead to feeling less confident in their work, behind on tasks at home, and impacting their relationships. I don't treat ADHD and I don't prescribe controlled substances, such as Xanax for anxiety.
Brent Frazee
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97209
I am a board-certified psychiatrist specializing in psychoanalysis and psychoanalytic psychotherapy. I work with adults suffering from depression, anxiety, relationship problems, effects of trauma, difficulties in work or school, feelings of emptiness, and other forms of psychological pain. Psychoanalytic therapy is an intensive, exploratory process. I aim to provide a context in which to explore deeply personal aspects of your private mental life, and to work together to better understand who you are and the difficulties with which you struggle. Through this process, I hope to help you to live more fully and fulfillingly.
I am a board-certified psychiatrist specializing in psychoanalysis and psychoanalytic psychotherapy. I work with adults suffering from depression, anxiety, relationship problems, effects of trauma, difficulties in work or school, feelings of emptiness, and other forms of psychological pain. Psychoanalytic therapy is an intensive, exploratory process. I aim to provide a context in which to explore deeply personal aspects of your private mental life, and to work together to better understand who you are and the difficulties with which you struggle. Through this process, I hope to help you to live more fully and fulfillingly.
Susan Mbugua
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97212
Welcome to Imani Mental Health and Wellness. My name is Susan Mbugua, and I am Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I believe in the importance of personalized mental health treatment that addresses the biological, emotional, environmental, and spiritual aspects of mental health and wellness. My treatment approach is to use a combination of medications, therapy, and education to interrupt acute episodes of illness and to break the cycle of recurrence with a holistic approach that includes medications, supportive therapy, guidance on diet, exercise and other lifestyle choices.
Welcome to Imani Mental Health and Wellness. My name is Susan Mbugua, and I am Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I believe in the importance of personalized mental health treatment that addresses the biological, emotional, environmental, and spiritual aspects of mental health and wellness. My treatment approach is to use a combination of medications, therapy, and education to interrupt acute episodes of illness and to break the cycle of recurrence with a holistic approach that includes medications, supportive therapy, guidance on diet, exercise and other lifestyle choices.
Healthcore Psychiatry Consultants
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97208 (Online Only)
Welcome to Healthcore Psychiatry Consultants! I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner providing care to Adults with various mental health conditions. My practice is focused on providing holistic-evidence based care centered on social, cultural, and preventive aspects of mental health.
Welcome to Healthcore Psychiatry Consultants! I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner providing care to Adults with various mental health conditions. My practice is focused on providing holistic-evidence based care centered on social, cultural, and preventive aspects of mental health.
Catherine Rose Hensy
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97223
I provide psychiatric medication management either in person or virtually for children and adults! I offer neurocognitive testing, including ADHD, with treatment plan tailored to test results. I am currently accepting new clients and I can get you in quickly! I offer an evidence based approach. We will focus on limiting side effects and getting positive results from the LEAST amount of medications possible. I will listen to your concerns and we will work together to get you feeling your best!
I provide psychiatric medication management either in person or virtually for children and adults! I offer neurocognitive testing, including ADHD, with treatment plan tailored to test results. I am currently accepting new clients and I can get you in quickly! I offer an evidence based approach. We will focus on limiting side effects and getting positive results from the LEAST amount of medications possible. I will listen to your concerns and we will work together to get you feeling your best!
Dana Jones
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, RN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97214
Hello, I provide medication services to individuals ages 18-60 who are experiencing difficulty with a variety of mental health conditions including, ADHD, anxiety, bipolar disorder, depression, trauma, and insomnia disorders. I offer comprehensive initial evaluations and ongoing medication management. My personality style is informal, practical, and sincere. You will find I put high value on laughter and the love of dogs! I utilize evidence-based practice perspectives to address emotional and mental health issues in a thoughtful, caring, and comprehensive manner, rooted in the core values of nursing. I embrace a collaborative style.
Hello, I provide medication services to individuals ages 18-60 who are experiencing difficulty with a variety of mental health conditions including, ADHD, anxiety, bipolar disorder, depression, trauma, and insomnia disorders. I offer comprehensive initial evaluations and ongoing medication management. My personality style is informal, practical, and sincere. You will find I put high value on laughter and the love of dogs! I utilize evidence-based practice perspectives to address emotional and mental health issues in a thoughtful, caring, and comprehensive manner, rooted in the core values of nursing. I embrace a collaborative style.
Heike Sommer
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP , BC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97205
Are you are looking for a prescriber who is well trained, experienced and compassionate while you are engaging in therapy and getting back to a healthy self care routine? Have you tried psychotropic medications that have not worked? Would you rather take natural remedies but have not had that much success? I do believe that psychotropic medications can be helpful short and long term. Nurse practitioners are known for their holistic approach and see you in the context of your culture, environment and situation. I am fond of collaboration with other providers to build a team for you and your mental health.
Are you are looking for a prescriber who is well trained, experienced and compassionate while you are engaging in therapy and getting back to a healthy self care routine? Have you tried psychotropic medications that have not worked? Would you rather take natural remedies but have not had that much success? I do believe that psychotropic medications can be helpful short and long term. Nurse practitioners are known for their holistic approach and see you in the context of your culture, environment and situation. I am fond of collaboration with other providers to build a team for you and your mental health.
Mohamed Bah
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97221
Psychiatric medication management in person and via telepsychiatry or telehealth that sees Adults and adolescents in Oregon. I am accepting new patients with no waiting list, or less than a week. I even see patients on the weekend. I am dedicated to providing compassionate and evidence-based care. Life is not often filled with puppies, rainbows, and unicorns, but it can result in trauma, stress, and the unexpected. I know you are not looking for a provider because things are going well in your life, and that is my purpose for being here. I became a mental health nurse practitioner because I wanted to help others.
Psychiatric medication management in person and via telepsychiatry or telehealth that sees Adults and adolescents in Oregon. I am accepting new patients with no waiting list, or less than a week. I even see patients on the weekend. I am dedicated to providing compassionate and evidence-based care. Life is not often filled with puppies, rainbows, and unicorns, but it can result in trauma, stress, and the unexpected. I know you are not looking for a provider because things are going well in your life, and that is my purpose for being here. I became a mental health nurse practitioner because I wanted to help others.
See more therapy options for Portland
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Portland, OR
400+
Average cost per session
$250
Psychiatrists in Portland, OR who prioritize treating:
96% | Anxiety |
95% | Depression |
81% | Medication Management |
75% | Trauma and PTSD |
72% | ADHD |
72% | Bipolar Disorder |
64% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
Average years in practice
10 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
73% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
72% | Aetna |
67% | PacificSource |
How Psychiatrists in Portland, OR see their clients
63% | In Person and Online | |
37% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
73% | Female | |
26% | Male | |
1% | Non-Binary |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Portland?
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.