Psychiatrists in Phoenix, AZ
Mercygrace Mental Wellness,PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85037 (Online Only)
Mercy graduated from Texas State University with an M.S. in Nursing and is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. Mercy has over 8 years of expertise in psychiatric nursing and specializes in the treatment of mood and anxiety problems in adults and adolescents. Mercy, as a provider, takes a nonjudgmental, sympathetic approach and believes that every individual has the ability to reach his or her full potential. Mercy adds wellness therapies such as healthy sleep, exercise, diet, mindfulness, and social connectedness into her clients' treatment programs in addition to medication management.
Mercy graduated from Texas State University with an M.S. in Nursing and is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. Mercy has over 8 years of expertise in psychiatric nursing and specializes in the treatment of mood and anxiety problems in adults and adolescents. Mercy, as a provider, takes a nonjudgmental, sympathetic approach and believes that every individual has the ability to reach his or her full potential. Mercy adds wellness therapies such as healthy sleep, exercise, diet, mindfulness, and social connectedness into her clients' treatment programs in addition to medication management.
WiseMind Wellness, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85012 (Online Only)
I have long believed the human body inherently aspires to heal. Genetics plus factors in or out of our control can lead to bothersome or debilitating symptoms that get in the way of even simple goals. Humans also make unhealthy choices. They probably once served a purpose, but as time passes these habits start to interfere with our goals or values. Any combination of these can overwhelm our coping skills and lead to distress or even crisis.
I have long believed the human body inherently aspires to heal. Genetics plus factors in or out of our control can lead to bothersome or debilitating symptoms that get in the way of even simple goals. Humans also make unhealthy choices. They probably once served a purpose, but as time passes these habits start to interfere with our goals or values. Any combination of these can overwhelm our coping skills and lead to distress or even crisis.
Carmen Lervold
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85044
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner treating patients over the lifespan. I treat children, adolescents/teens, and adults. I provide compassionate care and treat a variety of psychiatric conditions, including depression, anxiety, ADHD, and bipolar disorder with integrative therapies , genetic testing, and traditional psychiatric medications.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner treating patients over the lifespan. I treat children, adolescents/teens, and adults. I provide compassionate care and treat a variety of psychiatric conditions, including depression, anxiety, ADHD, and bipolar disorder with integrative therapies , genetic testing, and traditional psychiatric medications.
Victoria Sanchez
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMNHPBC, MSFNP-C
Verified Verified
Phoenix, AZ 85048
I am a psychiatric nurse practitioner at Ahwatukee Behavioral Health & Wellness with additional board certification as a family nurse practitioner since 2003. I have extensive experience in gestalt therapy plus additional training in behavioral modification and bioenergetics. I am passionate about helping my patients heal personally and with their relationships. My approach focuses on inspiring hope through recognizing choices, strength, and the courage to make even small changes. I believe the process of honest self-discovery and accountability leads to empowerment, resilience, and personal growth.
I am a psychiatric nurse practitioner at Ahwatukee Behavioral Health & Wellness with additional board certification as a family nurse practitioner since 2003. I have extensive experience in gestalt therapy plus additional training in behavioral modification and bioenergetics. I am passionate about helping my patients heal personally and with their relationships. My approach focuses on inspiring hope through recognizing choices, strength, and the courage to make even small changes. I believe the process of honest self-discovery and accountability leads to empowerment, resilience, and personal growth.
Jennifer Eastman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Verified Verified
Phoenix, AZ 85016 (Online Only)
As a nurse practitioner, my philosophy of nursing is to provide individualized care to my clients by acknowledging their unique situations, educating patients and their families, and providing unconditionally compassionate, high-quality care.
As a nurse practitioner, my philosophy of nursing is to provide individualized care to my clients by acknowledging their unique situations, educating patients and their families, and providing unconditionally compassionate, high-quality care.
Daylight Psychiatric Center LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85012 (Online Only)
I am a board-certified psychiatric and mental health nurse practitioner in Arizona and New Mexico. In my opinion, the therapeutic relationship is built on trust. In addition to being your healthcare provider, I'm here to support and work with you on your path to improved mental health. Together, we will create a comprehensive treatment plan that addresses your symptoms as well as your unique needs and preferences. I promise to be your dependable partner in this journey. Daylight Psychiatric center LLC can assist you in taking back control of your life and achieving your full potential.
I am a board-certified psychiatric and mental health nurse practitioner in Arizona and New Mexico. In my opinion, the therapeutic relationship is built on trust. In addition to being your healthcare provider, I'm here to support and work with you on your path to improved mental health. Together, we will create a comprehensive treatment plan that addresses your symptoms as well as your unique needs and preferences. I promise to be your dependable partner in this journey. Daylight Psychiatric center LLC can assist you in taking back control of your life and achieving your full potential.
Thomas Gazda
Psychiatrist
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85016
I obtained my medical degree through the University of Illinois College of Medicine. I completed a Family Practice Residency at the University of Vermont in 1982 , served as Chief Resident and became Board Certified 1982 - 1989. This was followed by a Residency in Psychiatry at the University of Vermont and Board Certification in Psychiatry in 1986. I then became a member of the University of Vermont Psychiatry Department where I served as Director of Crisis Services of Chittenden County and Director of the Psychiatry Consultation - Liaison Service advancing to Clinical Associate Professor of Psychiatry.
I obtained my medical degree through the University of Illinois College of Medicine. I completed a Family Practice Residency at the University of Vermont in 1982 , served as Chief Resident and became Board Certified 1982 - 1989. This was followed by a Residency in Psychiatry at the University of Vermont and Board Certification in Psychiatry in 1986. I then became a member of the University of Vermont Psychiatry Department where I served as Director of Crisis Services of Chittenden County and Director of the Psychiatry Consultation - Liaison Service advancing to Clinical Associate Professor of Psychiatry.
Marcus Robinson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85034 (Online Only)
*NOW ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS AND APPOINTMENTS ARE AVAILABLE WITHIN DAYS* Have you been struggling with depression, grief, anxiety, ADHD, issues with body image, severe mood fluctuations or perceptual disturbances and find that life has been increasingly difficult to cope with? Have you tried to seek advice from family members, friends and spiritual counselors, to no avail? You can overcome these struggles, with the right tools and I am here to help, using an unbiased approach. I draw from a few traditional therapeutic techniques, in combination with medication management, to create a treatment plan to meet your unique needs.
*NOW ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS AND APPOINTMENTS ARE AVAILABLE WITHIN DAYS* Have you been struggling with depression, grief, anxiety, ADHD, issues with body image, severe mood fluctuations or perceptual disturbances and find that life has been increasingly difficult to cope with? Have you tried to seek advice from family members, friends and spiritual counselors, to no avail? You can overcome these struggles, with the right tools and I am here to help, using an unbiased approach. I draw from a few traditional therapeutic techniques, in combination with medication management, to create a treatment plan to meet your unique needs.
Adel Mostafavi
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Phoenix, AZ 85034 (Online Only)
Are you struggling to balance your physical and mental health? Are things becoming unmanageable? Is your time limited? Then welcome to WellPsyche! WellPsyche Medical Group provides experts in the field of Adult and Child/Adolescent Psychiatry. Our practice offers the latest in psychiatry including Telemedicine! Now you can visit with your psychiatrist from the privacy and convenience of your home or work. Our providers take a Conservative and Effective approach to medication management and can help you balance your life.
Are you struggling to balance your physical and mental health? Are things becoming unmanageable? Is your time limited? Then welcome to WellPsyche! WellPsyche Medical Group provides experts in the field of Adult and Child/Adolescent Psychiatry. Our practice offers the latest in psychiatry including Telemedicine! Now you can visit with your psychiatrist from the privacy and convenience of your home or work. Our providers take a Conservative and Effective approach to medication management and can help you balance your life.
Freedom Psychiatry Center
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Phoenix, AZ 85029
Are you feeling depressed or stress out about life? Are you feeling anxious or have panic attack that you are scared to go out in public? Do you have difficulty focusing on things that is affecting your work or school performance? You are not alone. We are here to help you balance your physical and mental health. We are currently ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS. We treat clients with depression, anxiety, ADHD, panic attack, insomnia, and many more. PLEASE, CHECK OUT WHAT OTHER CLIENTS ARE SAYING ABOUT US: https://provider.kareo.com/paul-okoronkwo
Are you feeling depressed or stress out about life? Are you feeling anxious or have panic attack that you are scared to go out in public? Do you have difficulty focusing on things that is affecting your work or school performance? You are not alone. We are here to help you balance your physical and mental health. We are currently ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS. We treat clients with depression, anxiety, ADHD, panic attack, insomnia, and many more. PLEASE, CHECK OUT WHAT OTHER CLIENTS ARE SAYING ABOUT US: https://provider.kareo.com/paul-okoronkwo
Tammy Hostetler
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMH-NP, MS-NEd, RN
Verified Verified
Phoenix, AZ 85016
Tammy Hostetler, PMH-NP-BC, MS-NEd.,RN is a dedicated mental health professional and works diligently to assess, diagnose, and treat a wide range of mental health conditions. With a passion for promoting mental well-being and a strong commitment to patient-centered care, I am here to provide comprehensive and compassionate support to individuals seeking assistance with their mental health concerns. My approach to patient care is rooted in empathy, active listening, and a deep understanding of the unique challenges that individuals face in their mental health journeys.
Tammy Hostetler, PMH-NP-BC, MS-NEd.,RN is a dedicated mental health professional and works diligently to assess, diagnose, and treat a wide range of mental health conditions. With a passion for promoting mental well-being and a strong commitment to patient-centered care, I am here to provide comprehensive and compassionate support to individuals seeking assistance with their mental health concerns. My approach to patient care is rooted in empathy, active listening, and a deep understanding of the unique challenges that individuals face in their mental health journeys.
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Genesis of Peace Integrated Health LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-C, DNP, FNP-C
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85028 (Online Only)
Dr. Akosua A. Mensah holds a dual degree as a mental health and family nurse practitioner. She brings with her 17 plus years of professional experience in various fields of nursing and advanced practice. She prides herself as very friendly and approachable to all her patients. She has worked with clients of all ages and background. She feels it is important in this era to decrease the stigma associated with mental health care. Therefore, this integrated practice brings to our clients both mental health and primary care services, and we work around all related conditions that impedes your overall health, bringing you holistic peace.
Dr. Akosua A. Mensah holds a dual degree as a mental health and family nurse practitioner. She brings with her 17 plus years of professional experience in various fields of nursing and advanced practice. She prides herself as very friendly and approachable to all her patients. She has worked with clients of all ages and background. She feels it is important in this era to decrease the stigma associated with mental health care. Therefore, this integrated practice brings to our clients both mental health and primary care services, and we work around all related conditions that impedes your overall health, bringing you holistic peace.
Nicola Ciarelli
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-C, FNP-BC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85051
Hello, my name is Nicola Ciarelli. I am a psychiatric nurse practitioner and I’m thrilled to announce the opening of 180 Mental Health and Wellness. We have immediate availability and accept all major insurances! It has been my dream to create a safe place where the patient feels listened to and leaves knowing they are cared for. We provide general psychiatric care that includes, but is not limited to depression, general anxiety disorder, panic disorder, bipolar disorder, OCD, ADHD and addiction including substance use disorders.
Hello, my name is Nicola Ciarelli. I am a psychiatric nurse practitioner and I’m thrilled to announce the opening of 180 Mental Health and Wellness. We have immediate availability and accept all major insurances! It has been my dream to create a safe place where the patient feels listened to and leaves knowing they are cared for. We provide general psychiatric care that includes, but is not limited to depression, general anxiety disorder, panic disorder, bipolar disorder, OCD, ADHD and addiction including substance use disorders.
Dr. Alpa Sanghvi
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Phoenix, AZ 85028
Dr. Sanghvi is part of a distinguished group of four female board-certified psychiatrists who have been practicing Psychiatry in the community for 20 yrs. Our practice works collaboratively with each patient, developing effective mental health treatment plans that consider individual preferences and concerns. At PHW, we recognize the significance of mental health on par with physical well-being, ensuring that everyone has access to compassionate and impactful treatment.
Dr. Sanghvi is part of a distinguished group of four female board-certified psychiatrists who have been practicing Psychiatry in the community for 20 yrs. Our practice works collaboratively with each patient, developing effective mental health treatment plans that consider individual preferences and concerns. At PHW, we recognize the significance of mental health on par with physical well-being, ensuring that everyone has access to compassionate and impactful treatment.
Erik W Bjorndal
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
Phoenix, AZ 85018 (Online Only)
You’re ready to reconnect with your best self, perform at your peak, and maximize your potential. You know how it feels to create and perform in your flow state: you're completely in the moment, doing what you love to do, at your best. In the studio, your creativity flows and finds its voice. On the field or in the ring, your practice and training are a seamless part of you. Professionally, you can see all the moving parts and orchestrate them together in the most optimal way. Yet, you’re having trouble connecting with that version of yourself. You’re getting stuck in your head and not performing at the level you know is in you.
You’re ready to reconnect with your best self, perform at your peak, and maximize your potential. You know how it feels to create and perform in your flow state: you're completely in the moment, doing what you love to do, at your best. In the studio, your creativity flows and finds its voice. On the field or in the ring, your practice and training are a seamless part of you. Professionally, you can see all the moving parts and orchestrate them together in the most optimal way. Yet, you’re having trouble connecting with that version of yourself. You’re getting stuck in your head and not performing at the level you know is in you.
Elizabeth Elliott
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85014 (Online Only)
We all have a story, what's yours? I believe that we are all shaped by what we have experienced, been through, and accomplished. My practice name is Mythos Behavioral Health because "mythos" is the Greek word meaning "a set of stories relevant to or having a significant truth or meaning" or "A recurring theme". My ideal client is one who is open to sharing their story as part of the healing process. By understanding how you got to where you are, we can move forward to where you want to be. This applies to all people regardless of age, sex, or diagnosis.
We all have a story, what's yours? I believe that we are all shaped by what we have experienced, been through, and accomplished. My practice name is Mythos Behavioral Health because "mythos" is the Greek word meaning "a set of stories relevant to or having a significant truth or meaning" or "A recurring theme". My ideal client is one who is open to sharing their story as part of the healing process. By understanding how you got to where you are, we can move forward to where you want to be. This applies to all people regardless of age, sex, or diagnosis.
Lejon Wilkerson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Phoenix, AZ 85016 (Online Only)
Lejon (LJ) Wilkerson is a ANCC Board Certified Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. LJ Wilkerson has been in Mental Health for over 7 years. Lj Wilkerson is passionate about providing mental health care to all patients in need. Lj takes great pride in being a great listener and always putting the patient’s needs first. LJ recognizes the importance of providing world class health care to patients who struggle with various mental health conditions such as bipolar disorder, anxiety, depression, ADHD, PTSD, insomnia, OCD, PTSD, paranoia, and many more mental health conditions.
Lejon (LJ) Wilkerson is a ANCC Board Certified Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. LJ Wilkerson has been in Mental Health for over 7 years. Lj Wilkerson is passionate about providing mental health care to all patients in need. Lj takes great pride in being a great listener and always putting the patient’s needs first. LJ recognizes the importance of providing world class health care to patients who struggle with various mental health conditions such as bipolar disorder, anxiety, depression, ADHD, PTSD, insomnia, OCD, PTSD, paranoia, and many more mental health conditions.
Lenyard Health Group
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-C, FNP-C
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85021
With 29 years of experience, including a decade as a Nurse Practitioner specializing in neurology and psychiatry, I am a USAF veteran, and a certified ADHD specialist. Well experienced in managing Treatment Resistant Depression and Anxiety, I work to help others understand the bio-psycho-social model, covering neurotransmitter changes, psychological responses, and lifestyle choices and how they work together. I address the biological aspect with medication and lifestyle assessment, and the psychological dimension with referrals to therapists selected for their skill set, and environmental/social factors with adaptive coping methods.
With 29 years of experience, including a decade as a Nurse Practitioner specializing in neurology and psychiatry, I am a USAF veteran, and a certified ADHD specialist. Well experienced in managing Treatment Resistant Depression and Anxiety, I work to help others understand the bio-psycho-social model, covering neurotransmitter changes, psychological responses, and lifestyle choices and how they work together. I address the biological aspect with medication and lifestyle assessment, and the psychological dimension with referrals to therapists selected for their skill set, and environmental/social factors with adaptive coping methods.
Stephanie Dockins
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85023
As a Licensed Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I specialize in addressing the complex intersections of mood disorders; anxiety, depression, bipolar, psychotic disorders, and ADHD that often plague individuals seeking solace and healing. Through my practice, I extend my compassionate guidance beyond physical borders, offering a safe haven for those in need. My therapeutic approach is deeply rooted in psychotherapy, employing evidence-based pharmacological techniques to facilitate profound transformations in my clients' lives. With a keen focus on enhancing mental resilience and overall well-being.
As a Licensed Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I specialize in addressing the complex intersections of mood disorders; anxiety, depression, bipolar, psychotic disorders, and ADHD that often plague individuals seeking solace and healing. Through my practice, I extend my compassionate guidance beyond physical borders, offering a safe haven for those in need. My therapeutic approach is deeply rooted in psychotherapy, employing evidence-based pharmacological techniques to facilitate profound transformations in my clients' lives. With a keen focus on enhancing mental resilience and overall well-being.
Bloom Healing Collective, Marina Pitsilos PMHNP
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, BSN, BS, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Phoenix, AZ 85014
I provide my clients with traditional and holistic services to help empower them on their healing journey from mental health, addiction and trauma. I treat mental health, addiction and co-occurring disorders. I value each client's unique preferences including integrating different modalities to support each individual's highest level of well being. I tailor individualized treatment plans for each client by combining traditional psychiatric approaches such as medication management with complementary modalities including lifestyle changes and alternative medicine.
I provide my clients with traditional and holistic services to help empower them on their healing journey from mental health, addiction and trauma. I treat mental health, addiction and co-occurring disorders. I value each client's unique preferences including integrating different modalities to support each individual's highest level of well being. I tailor individualized treatment plans for each client by combining traditional psychiatric approaches such as medication management with complementary modalities including lifestyle changes and alternative medicine.
See more therapy options for Phoenix
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Phoenix, AZ
300+
Average cost per session
$199
Psychiatrists in Phoenix, AZ who prioritize treating:
92% | Anxiety |
88% | Depression |
82% | Bipolar Disorder |
78% | ADHD |
77% | Medication Management |
71% | Trauma and PTSD |
70% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
Average years in practice
9 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
92% | Aetna |
91% | Cigna and Evernorth |
85% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Psychiatrists in Phoenix, AZ see their clients
51% | In Person and Online | |
49% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
72% | Female | |
27% | Male | |
1% | Non-Binary |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Phoenix?
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.