Psychiatrists in Portland, OR

Photo of Michelle Schilz, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Portland, OR
Michelle Schilz
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97217
Now taking new clients. To contact me, make an appointment for a phone call at calendly.com/rainfallwellness. (I am bad at voicemail and email.) I welcome TRANS and GNB folks. I welcome PLURALS and SYSTEMS. I work with people who have ADHD and I prescribe ADHD meds. I teach clients about how our brain causes our symptoms. I do my best to provide safe and respectful care to my Queer and Gender-nonconforming sibs. Together, we will find a treatment plan that suits best.
Now taking new clients. To contact me, make an appointment for a phone call at calendly.com/rainfallwellness. (I am bad at voicemail and email.) I welcome TRANS and GNB folks. I welcome PLURALS and SYSTEMS. I work with people who have ADHD and I prescribe ADHD meds. I teach clients about how our brain causes our symptoms. I do my best to provide safe and respectful care to my Queer and Gender-nonconforming sibs. Together, we will find a treatment plan that suits best.
(971) 253-7516 View (971) 253-7516
Photo of James Harrison Powers, Psychiatrist in Portland, OR
James Harrison Powers
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97210
Not accepting new clients
Every individual comes to therapy with a need to be deeply understood. We all experience longing. We suffer, celebrate and grapple with psychological pain. There are areas of our life that lack liveliness or vitality. We struggle in ways that are deeply private and that may not be fully known even to ourselves. I strive to help each person feel safe enough that such private feelings can emerge and be explored. Whether you are looking for help through a crisis or with long-standing psychological suffering, my hope is to understand who you are uniquely as an individual.
Every individual comes to therapy with a need to be deeply understood. We all experience longing. We suffer, celebrate and grapple with psychological pain. There are areas of our life that lack liveliness or vitality. We struggle in ways that are deeply private and that may not be fully known even to ourselves. I strive to help each person feel safe enough that such private feelings can emerge and be explored. Whether you are looking for help through a crisis or with long-standing psychological suffering, my hope is to understand who you are uniquely as an individual.
(503) 564-1324 x112 View (503) 564-1324 x112
Photo of Mohamed Bah, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Portland, OR
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.
(503) 386-0402 View (503) 386-0402
Photo of Andrew James Hughes, Psychiatrist in Portland, OR
Andrew James Hughes
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97214
Not accepting new clients
My primary aim is to help patients achieve a more fulfilling life. Available evidence indicates that the best psychotherapy outcomes are associated with strong and trusting provider-patient relationships. As such, I strive to create a comfortable, non-judgmental, and safe environment for my patients.
My primary aim is to help patients achieve a more fulfilling life. Available evidence indicates that the best psychotherapy outcomes are associated with strong and trusting provider-patient relationships. As such, I strive to create a comfortable, non-judgmental, and safe environment for my patients.
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Photo of Willamette Health & Wellness, Psychiatric Nurse in Portland, OR
Willamette Health & Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse, PMHNP, MSN, LMFT, LPC, LCSW
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97232
Willamette Health & Wellness is a small group practice employing Psychiatric Nurse Practitioners and therapists from a variety of training backgrounds. We provide counseling, therapy, and medication management for children, adolescents, adults, and families.
Willamette Health & Wellness is a small group practice employing Psychiatric Nurse Practitioners and therapists from a variety of training backgrounds. We provide counseling, therapy, and medication management for children, adolescents, adults, and families.
(503) 444-8729 View (503) 444-8729
Photo of Nancy C Winters, Psychiatrist in Portland, OR
Nancy C Winters
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97210
I specialize in psychoanalysis, an intensive, in-depth form of psychotherapy for people who are confronting repetitive and confusing patterns in life preventing them from living more fully. My approach involves careful listening and responsiveness to your unique mind and a sharing of your curiosity and commitment to deeper self-understanding and progressive freedom.
I specialize in psychoanalysis, an intensive, in-depth form of psychotherapy for people who are confronting repetitive and confusing patterns in life preventing them from living more fully. My approach involves careful listening and responsiveness to your unique mind and a sharing of your curiosity and commitment to deeper self-understanding and progressive freedom.
(503) 567-2034 View (503) 567-2034
Photo of ValueCore Mental Health, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Portland, OR
ValueCore Mental Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97233
People come to ValueCore to overcome the barriers that hinder their ability to improve their quality of life. We offer the guidance to help you embrace your absolute value. Together we work to foster the realization that happiness is the rule for you, and not the exception. As you accept your personal value, and implement the changes you need for yourself, we hope you will be free to grow, relax and recreate, socialize, work and serve others, educate, and live a fulfilling life.
People come to ValueCore to overcome the barriers that hinder their ability to improve their quality of life. We offer the guidance to help you embrace your absolute value. Together we work to foster the realization that happiness is the rule for you, and not the exception. As you accept your personal value, and implement the changes you need for yourself, we hope you will be free to grow, relax and recreate, socialize, work and serve others, educate, and live a fulfilling life.
(503) 389-1500 View (503) 389-1500
Photo of private practice, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Portland, OR
private practice
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97212
I love being a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) and am honored to help individuals achieve optimal mental health through collaboration and support. I believe everyone can improve mental health and wellness by building on our strengths, learning coping skills, and addressing social supports and physical health. For some clients psychiatric medications are one of the tools for effective healing along with counseling,health education and lifestyle changes. I am happy to provide medication management alone for those already in counseling.
I love being a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) and am honored to help individuals achieve optimal mental health through collaboration and support. I believe everyone can improve mental health and wellness by building on our strengths, learning coping skills, and addressing social supports and physical health. For some clients psychiatric medications are one of the tools for effective healing along with counseling,health education and lifestyle changes. I am happy to provide medication management alone for those already in counseling.
(503) 738-1719 View (503) 738-1719
Photo of Stacey Gramann, Psychiatrist in Portland, OR
Stacey Gramann
Psychiatrist, DO, MPH
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97239
Not accepting new clients
With my background in osteopathic medicine, my approach to mental health is holistic. I believe that long-term psychotherapy leads to the greatest personal growth. Deeper personal work can be accomplished within a therapeutic relationship that feels safe, and thus, it is fundamentally important that I create such a space for my clients. My therapy approach is rooted in psychoanalytic psychotherapy. Through this model, my goal is to help my clients gain insight into their own emotions, how they relate to others, and through a collaborative therapeutic process, be better able to work through issues such as anxiety, depression, and grief. With a holistic focus on the mind and body, adjunct treatment may include a focus on relaxation/meditation, nutrition, sleep, and life style practices. Psychiatric medications are not the focus of my practice. However, I can prescribe medications for those clients attending weekly or more frequent therapy if they are determined to be a helpful adjunct to treatment.
With my background in osteopathic medicine, my approach to mental health is holistic. I believe that long-term psychotherapy leads to the greatest personal growth. Deeper personal work can be accomplished within a therapeutic relationship that feels safe, and thus, it is fundamentally important that I create such a space for my clients. My therapy approach is rooted in psychoanalytic psychotherapy. Through this model, my goal is to help my clients gain insight into their own emotions, how they relate to others, and through a collaborative therapeutic process, be better able to work through issues such as anxiety, depression, and grief. With a holistic focus on the mind and body, adjunct treatment may include a focus on relaxation/meditation, nutrition, sleep, and life style practices. Psychiatric medications are not the focus of my practice. However, I can prescribe medications for those clients attending weekly or more frequent therapy if they are determined to be a helpful adjunct to treatment.
(971) 308-4610 View (971) 308-4610
Photo of elevateher | concierge psychiatry + ketamine, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Portland, OR
elevateher | concierge psychiatry + ketamine
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97210
Are you feeling anxious, depressed and/or unmotivated? Do your dreams and goals seem out of reach? Have you been told that you are physically present but emotionally absent in relationships? Maybe your difficult emotions get in your way and you want to move past them, but you aren’t sure how to do it. Have you been with a life coach but want to go further in your transformation? Are you staying in therapy but you don’t seem to be going anywhere? You need more specific strategies and a better support system to empower yourself. Then you’d feel most alive and aligned with yourself.
Are you feeling anxious, depressed and/or unmotivated? Do your dreams and goals seem out of reach? Have you been told that you are physically present but emotionally absent in relationships? Maybe your difficult emotions get in your way and you want to move past them, but you aren’t sure how to do it. Have you been with a life coach but want to go further in your transformation? Are you staying in therapy but you don’t seem to be going anywhere? You need more specific strategies and a better support system to empower yourself. Then you’d feel most alive and aligned with yourself.
(971) 286-5038 View (971) 286-5038
Photo of Jenna Brown Albright, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Portland, OR
Jenna Brown Albright
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97209
My intention is to understand what is important to you in supporting your wellness. Medication can be a tool to use along with therapy and skills. Through mutual collaboration and trust, we will work to determine which medication will be helpful. I will provide education and support while we work together, being sensitive to your questions and concerns.
My intention is to understand what is important to you in supporting your wellness. Medication can be a tool to use along with therapy and skills. Through mutual collaboration and trust, we will work to determine which medication will be helpful. I will provide education and support while we work together, being sensitive to your questions and concerns.
Photo of Dr. Dianna Harris (Accepting New Clients), Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Portland, OR
Dr. Dianna Harris (Accepting New Clients)
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PsyD, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97219
Accepting NEW Clients (ages 18-65) as of 5/13/24 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 5/13/24 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.
(458) 217-8603 View (458) 217-8603
Photo of Scot Maclean, Psychiatrist in Portland, OR
Scot Maclean
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97239
Hello, I offer psychotherapy and medication management for adults in Oregon. Presently, I am offering both telemedicine visits and in person visits. My preferred approach to working with you is to get a good sense of who you are, how difficulties started, and how you can find solutions for yourself. When I prescribe medication we will talk about the options in detail and then help you decide what makes most sense.
Hello, I offer psychotherapy and medication management for adults in Oregon. Presently, I am offering both telemedicine visits and in person visits. My preferred approach to working with you is to get a good sense of who you are, how difficulties started, and how you can find solutions for yourself. When I prescribe medication we will talk about the options in detail and then help you decide what makes most sense.
(503) 967-2938 View (503) 967-2938
Photo of Marguerite Maguire, Psychiatrist in Portland, OR
Marguerite Maguire
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97202
I am a general adult psychiatrist, treating a wide variety of psychiatric illnesses with particular interests in depression, anxiety, maternal mental health, and ADHD. I earned my medical degree from the University of Rochester and completed my psychiatry residency at the University of Southern California/LAC+USC.
I am a general adult psychiatrist, treating a wide variety of psychiatric illnesses with particular interests in depression, anxiety, maternal mental health, and ADHD. I earned my medical degree from the University of Rochester and completed my psychiatry residency at the University of Southern California/LAC+USC.
(424) 383-5047 View (424) 383-5047
Photo of Philip Cawkwell, Psychiatrist in Portland, OR
Philip Cawkwell
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97210  (Online Only)
Hi there - I'm Dr. Philip Cawkwell, board certified in Adult Psychiatry as well as Child & Adolescent Psychiatry. I trained at the top institutions - NYU for medical school, MGH/McLean Harvard for Adult Residency, and Stanford for Child Fellowship. I have the ability to connect with teenagers and young adults, as well as the most up-to-date knowledge on the latest in psychiatric treatments. I am a good fit if you are looking for a provider who is easy to communicate with (both in and out of session), takes your concerns seriously, and is results-driven.
Hi there - I'm Dr. Philip Cawkwell, board certified in Adult Psychiatry as well as Child & Adolescent Psychiatry. I trained at the top institutions - NYU for medical school, MGH/McLean Harvard for Adult Residency, and Stanford for Child Fellowship. I have the ability to connect with teenagers and young adults, as well as the most up-to-date knowledge on the latest in psychiatric treatments. I am a good fit if you are looking for a provider who is easy to communicate with (both in and out of session), takes your concerns seriously, and is results-driven.
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Photo of Something Human Mental Health, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Portland, OR
Something Human Mental Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97225
Struggling with relationships, feeling overwhelmed, and finding it hard to keep up with school or work because of difficulty in social situations, inability to organize yourself, disrupted sleep, or tumultuous moods? You're not alone. I understand the dread and paralyzing effects these symptoms can have on your life.
Struggling with relationships, feeling overwhelmed, and finding it hard to keep up with school or work because of difficulty in social situations, inability to organize yourself, disrupted sleep, or tumultuous moods? You're not alone. I understand the dread and paralyzing effects these symptoms can have on your life.
(971) 278-9117 View (971) 278-9117
Photo of Larsen Psychiatry, LLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Portland, OR
Larsen Psychiatry, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97293  (Online Only)
I have experience working with people across the lifespan treating mainly anxiety and depression. I have specific interests and experience with people requiring medication and support through their pregnancy and/or postpartum, dealing with women's health issues and supporting people in recovery from drugs and alcohol. I do not manage people in acute withdrawal at this time. Safety, transparency and evidence based care are the foundation of my prescribing.
I have experience working with people across the lifespan treating mainly anxiety and depression. I have specific interests and experience with people requiring medication and support through their pregnancy and/or postpartum, dealing with women's health issues and supporting people in recovery from drugs and alcohol. I do not manage people in acute withdrawal at this time. Safety, transparency and evidence based care are the foundation of my prescribing.
(503) 483-8535 View (503) 483-8535
Photo of High Desert Psychiatry, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Portland, OR
High Desert Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97229  (Online Only)
My name is Harry Borcherding, a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I specialize in evaluating, diagnosing and treating mental health conditions for adults. I provide focused and consistent care in a comforting environment. Services include evaluating, diagnosing and treating mental health conditions with both medication prescribing and counseling interventions.
My name is Harry Borcherding, a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I specialize in evaluating, diagnosing and treating mental health conditions for adults. I provide focused and consistent care in a comforting environment. Services include evaluating, diagnosing and treating mental health conditions with both medication prescribing and counseling interventions.
(541) 625-1617 View (541) 625-1617
Photo of Michelle Dahl, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Portland, OR
Michelle Dahl
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97212  (Online Only)
If you are experiencing issues with depression/mood, anxiety or other psychological issues, age 18-65 and looking for psychiatric medication management then contact me. I approach treatment in a collaborative way. I find the best outcomes when clients are fully engaged in their treatment. While medications can be a very helpful it will not be a fix all. Often medication should be accompanied by therapy and learning additional skills. While I do not do therapy only I can offer some supportive therapy, but this is not meant to replace an individual therapist if needed.
If you are experiencing issues with depression/mood, anxiety or other psychological issues, age 18-65 and looking for psychiatric medication management then contact me. I approach treatment in a collaborative way. I find the best outcomes when clients are fully engaged in their treatment. While medications can be a very helpful it will not be a fix all. Often medication should be accompanied by therapy and learning additional skills. While I do not do therapy only I can offer some supportive therapy, but this is not meant to replace an individual therapist if needed.
(503) 400-3652 View (503) 400-3652
Photo of Clarity Health Integrative Psychiatry Jake Freeman, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Portland, OR
Clarity Health Integrative Psychiatry Jake Freeman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97202  (Online Only)
Weekend and Week Nights available. Life is Busy!I am thrilled to have the opportunity to introduce myself as your potential healthcare partner. With immediate openings available for tele-Health services, I am ready to extend care to those 12 and older. I bring 20 years of expertise including seven years of focused psychiatric medicine during which I have served diverse populations with a focus on caring for a broad range of mental health conditions. My commitment to my clients is unwavering. I believe in the importance of inclusivity and respect to all patient populations, regardless of gender, sexual orientation, and ethnicity.
Weekend and Week Nights available. Life is Busy!I am thrilled to have the opportunity to introduce myself as your potential healthcare partner. With immediate openings available for tele-Health services, I am ready to extend care to those 12 and older. I bring 20 years of expertise including seven years of focused psychiatric medicine during which I have served diverse populations with a focus on caring for a broad range of mental health conditions. My commitment to my clients is unwavering. I believe in the importance of inclusivity and respect to all patient populations, regardless of gender, sexual orientation, and ethnicity.
(503) 850-2341 View (503) 850-2341

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
73% Bipolar Disorder
72% ADHD
64% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)

Average years in practice

10 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

73% Aetna
72% BlueCross and BlueShield
67% PacificSource

How Psychiatrists in Portland, OR see their clients

62% In Person and Online
38% Online Only

Gender breakdown

72% Female
27% 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.