Psychiatrists in Washington
Blossom Behavioral Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Spokane Valley, WA 99206
At Blossom Behavioral Health, we take a holistic and multidimensional approach in managing mental health care. Our providers will listen carefully and offer expert support and guidance. We provide evidence-based medication management, and various psychotherapy modalities to treat anxiety, depression, ADHD, PTSD, and bipolar disorder. Our goal is to work collaboratively with you to identify your mental health needs and to create an effective treatment plan, with the least amount of medication possible.
At Blossom Behavioral Health, we take a holistic and multidimensional approach in managing mental health care. Our providers will listen carefully and offer expert support and guidance. We provide evidence-based medication management, and various psychotherapy modalities to treat anxiety, depression, ADHD, PTSD, and bipolar disorder. Our goal is to work collaboratively with you to identify your mental health needs and to create an effective treatment plan, with the least amount of medication possible.
Davonna (Dee) Wilson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Vancouver, WA 98660
Embarking on the journey of seeking support takes immense courage, and I appreciate the strength it takes to reach out. As a Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I offer compassionate therapeutic support and Medication Management for anxiety, depression, trauma, PTSD, OCD, and more. Specializing in adults, children, and teenagers, my integrative approach unravels persistent patterns, empowering you to confront life's challenges with resilience. Let's collaboratively navigate your journey towards healing and growth.
Embarking on the journey of seeking support takes immense courage, and I appreciate the strength it takes to reach out. As a Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I offer compassionate therapeutic support and Medication Management for anxiety, depression, trauma, PTSD, OCD, and more. Specializing in adults, children, and teenagers, my integrative approach unravels persistent patterns, empowering you to confront life's challenges with resilience. Let's collaboratively navigate your journey towards healing and growth.
Mick Chitchawal Sahatevasukont
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, ARNP
Verified Verified
Bothell, WA 98012
Accepting new patients. We all have our own unique experiences and perspectives in life. At Perspective Psychiatric Service, I believe in creating individualized treatment plans based on your needs.
Accepting new patients. We all have our own unique experiences and perspectives in life. At Perspective Psychiatric Service, I believe in creating individualized treatment plans based on your needs.
MindsMatter LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98104 (Online Only)
At MindsMatter, prescribing medication is not the main focus. We believe in patient-centered care tailored to your needs! Not all clients seek mental wellness treatment for the same reasons, and that's why individualized care is so important in our treatment plans. We also offer brief therapy and cognitive behavioral therapy for those seeking personal counseling. I provided educational videos about mental wellness on social media via TikTok and YouTube. You can find me on TikTok (raypsychnp) or YouTube (mrraypsychnp) if you would like to subscribe to either channel or be informed when a new video is posted!
At MindsMatter, prescribing medication is not the main focus. We believe in patient-centered care tailored to your needs! Not all clients seek mental wellness treatment for the same reasons, and that's why individualized care is so important in our treatment plans. We also offer brief therapy and cognitive behavioral therapy for those seeking personal counseling. I provided educational videos about mental wellness on social media via TikTok and YouTube. You can find me on TikTok (raypsychnp) or YouTube (mrraypsychnp) if you would like to subscribe to either channel or be informed when a new video is posted!
ABQ Behavioral Services/ ABQ Psychiatric Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Vancouver, WA 98662 (Online Only)
About To receive the best and favorable care entails the provider to be an expert and know you as a person. Understanding emotions & behaviors can be challenging and we are all distinctive people with unique life experiences, relationships, and strengths.. I join with the patient to help them explore meaning and purpose. Due to my pragmatic nature, I also pay attention to their behaviors. I have demonstrated expertise in in supporting patients with multiple chronic co morbidities including diagnosing, treating and initiating medication, performing diagnostic interventions and executing follow ups as required. Fashioned treatment.
About To receive the best and favorable care entails the provider to be an expert and know you as a person. Understanding emotions & behaviors can be challenging and we are all distinctive people with unique life experiences, relationships, and strengths.. I join with the patient to help them explore meaning and purpose. Due to my pragmatic nature, I also pay attention to their behaviors. I have demonstrated expertise in in supporting patients with multiple chronic co morbidities including diagnosing, treating and initiating medication, performing diagnostic interventions and executing follow ups as required. Fashioned treatment.
Bluestone Psychiatric Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ND, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Edmonds, WA 98026
Bluestone Psychiatric Services notices you! There's no magic pill to fix it all BUT there's a caring, compassionate, smart psych med provider to be with you every step of the way. Those who are struggling with anxious thoughts, worry, depressive cognitions, inattention, and sad emotions may need an additional intervention. You know the skills but feel too fatigued to use them. Psychiatric medication, natural supplements or nutritional interventions can often be the boost you need to access your skills. Meet with Dr. Peng, Dr. Palmer or Dr. Chaijinda to start your recovery process!
Bluestone Psychiatric Services notices you! There's no magic pill to fix it all BUT there's a caring, compassionate, smart psych med provider to be with you every step of the way. Those who are struggling with anxious thoughts, worry, depressive cognitions, inattention, and sad emotions may need an additional intervention. You know the skills but feel too fatigued to use them. Psychiatric medication, natural supplements or nutritional interventions can often be the boost you need to access your skills. Meet with Dr. Peng, Dr. Palmer or Dr. Chaijinda to start your recovery process!
Sarah Sunday@ Family Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMNP, ARNP
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98103
Accepting New Patients. I offer supportive and empathic care to patients across the lifespan. My treatment focus includes Child, Adolescent and Family Health, with a specialization in Anxiety disorders, ADHD, Depression, Post partum care and PTSD. I strive to create positive and lasting change by building a therapeutic relationship for every one of my patients. I have advanced knowledge in pharmacotherapy and complex medical care. Please contact me to arrange a Video conference. Patients can complete intake paperwork online.
Accepting New Patients. I offer supportive and empathic care to patients across the lifespan. My treatment focus includes Child, Adolescent and Family Health, with a specialization in Anxiety disorders, ADHD, Depression, Post partum care and PTSD. I strive to create positive and lasting change by building a therapeutic relationship for every one of my patients. I have advanced knowledge in pharmacotherapy and complex medical care. Please contact me to arrange a Video conference. Patients can complete intake paperwork online.
Deanna Bronfermakher
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Bothell, WA 98011
Deanna Bronfermakher is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Washington who has been practicing since 2015. Deanna offers a holistic approach in which she addresses your individual needs. Together, you will address your concerns, establish an appropriate treatment plan, and help you overcome those personal obstacles that have impacted your quality of life. Using a comprehensive approach to care, Deanna evaluates and treats symptoms such as those associated with depression, anxiety, trauma, and other psychiatric conditions.
Deanna Bronfermakher is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Washington who has been practicing since 2015. Deanna offers a holistic approach in which she addresses your individual needs. Together, you will address your concerns, establish an appropriate treatment plan, and help you overcome those personal obstacles that have impacted your quality of life. Using a comprehensive approach to care, Deanna evaluates and treats symptoms such as those associated with depression, anxiety, trauma, and other psychiatric conditions.
Hope Mental Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHCNS
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98104 (Online Only)
I am the owner/clinician of Hope Mental Health. We provide psych evaluations, medication and psychotherapy to all mental health conditions as needed, specializing in severe mental illness. When you schedule an appointment with me, you get a team of two. One of my interns will take a medical and psychiatric history and then I will come on and complete the evaluation and with you, my intern and myself, and we will make a treatment plan. On subsequent visits, the intern will follow you and will bring me on when medication or treatment plan needs tweaking. Our style is integrative in nature. All are in training in psychotherapy.
I am the owner/clinician of Hope Mental Health. We provide psych evaluations, medication and psychotherapy to all mental health conditions as needed, specializing in severe mental illness. When you schedule an appointment with me, you get a team of two. One of my interns will take a medical and psychiatric history and then I will come on and complete the evaluation and with you, my intern and myself, and we will make a treatment plan. On subsequent visits, the intern will follow you and will bring me on when medication or treatment plan needs tweaking. Our style is integrative in nature. All are in training in psychotherapy.
Dr. Ronil Shah
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Spokane, WA 99205
Why choose Dr. Ronil Shah? Because his top-notch expertise combines with compassionate, personalized care. Treatment with Dr. Shah is a two-way collaboration. Working together, you will design a mental wellness strategy that’s tailored just for you. His philosophy? Your path to wellness should be as unique as you are, shaped by empathy and expertise, and empowered by evidence-based insights and tools.
Why choose Dr. Ronil Shah? Because his top-notch expertise combines with compassionate, personalized care. Treatment with Dr. Shah is a two-way collaboration. Working together, you will design a mental wellness strategy that’s tailored just for you. His philosophy? Your path to wellness should be as unique as you are, shaped by empathy and expertise, and empowered by evidence-based insights and tools.
Marco Rudas-Garcia
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, BSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Vancouver, WA 98661 (Online Only)
Hello! My name is Marco Rudas-Garcia. I graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) from the University of Utah and subsequently earned a master's degree in nursing from Gonzaga University. My professional experience includes working in surgical trauma units and psychiatric units, and I have experience in caring for developmentally delayed populations with mental illness. Additionally, I have worked at the VA hospital in Salt Lake City, providing care to veterans. My professional interests lie in working with trauma patients, as well as individuals with anxiety, depression, and various other mental health needs.
Hello! My name is Marco Rudas-Garcia. I graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) from the University of Utah and subsequently earned a master's degree in nursing from Gonzaga University. My professional experience includes working in surgical trauma units and psychiatric units, and I have experience in caring for developmentally delayed populations with mental illness. Additionally, I have worked at the VA hospital in Salt Lake City, providing care to veterans. My professional interests lie in working with trauma patients, as well as individuals with anxiety, depression, and various other mental health needs.
15 Second Videos
Davonna (Dee) Wilson
MindsMatter LLC
Hope Mental Health
Ronil Shah
Marco Rudas-Garcia
Olivia Uhart
Ideal Mental Health and Wellness - Debbie Singh
Philomena Cunningham
Nancy Masters
Morna Agoki- Tween, Teen & Young Adult Psychiatry
Alexandra Scott
Dr Mark Chofla | Empathy Therapy
Raelin Bright Wellness
Felicia Turner, APRN | Psychiatry On Demand
Bahattin Ergin
Ross Brown
Rachel Ann Jimenes
Mark Ellestad
Nancy Masters
Kelsey Martell - Mountain Psychiatry
Michele Tulk
Nancy Masters
Bella Mente PLLC
Inno Ogbede
Front Street Clinic | TMS Treatment Center
Jade Goodloe
Shannon Eaton
Dr Mark Chofla | Empathy Therapy
Raelin Bright Wellness
Dr Mark Chofla | Empathy Therapy
Ashley Cedar
Raelin Bright Wellness
Jamal Williams
Nicholas Hatcher
Raven Young
My Mind Care, PLLC
Sean Dunn
Ample Grace Psychiatry
Dr Mark Chofla | Empathy Therapy
Hannah Cantrell
Alexandra J Pales
Honorine Betah
Dr Mark Chofla | Empathy Therapy
Jacqueline Marcell-Koledin | TMS
John Benson
Victoria Abolarin
Katharine Frissora
David G Zacharias
Ross Brown
Shantel Escobar
Tamara Thompson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Yakima, WA 98908
Patient who is looking for warm, empathetic caring clinician. Patient who is looking to move forward in their life and heal past traumas and excel in any facet of their life.
Patient who is looking for warm, empathetic caring clinician. Patient who is looking to move forward in their life and heal past traumas and excel in any facet of their life.
David Kelbaugh
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98119 (Online Only)
Hello! I am David, a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, and the creator and owner of Clear Mind Mental Health. My experience is in private practice and acute behavioral health care. I'm passionate about truly listening to you and developing customized treatment plans to address your whole health - mind, body, and spirit. My holistic, personalized approach considers your unique needs and goals, and provides comprehensive mental health care from the comfort of your own home. Presently seeing patients in Washington state and Iowa.
Hello! I am David, a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, and the creator and owner of Clear Mind Mental Health. My experience is in private practice and acute behavioral health care. I'm passionate about truly listening to you and developing customized treatment plans to address your whole health - mind, body, and spirit. My holistic, personalized approach considers your unique needs and goals, and provides comprehensive mental health care from the comfort of your own home. Presently seeing patients in Washington state and Iowa.
Bradley Brosius
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARNP, DNP
Verified Verified
Tacoma, WA 98407
**ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS** I am a board certified Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I provide a variety of services to include psychiatric assessment, medication management, psychoeducation, and counseling. I received my Doctor of Nursing Practice training from the University of Washington. Originally from Utah, I began my nursing career in the US Army, and then later spent several years working in an adolescent inpatient psychiatric unit developing a wide range of experience.
**ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS** I am a board certified Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I provide a variety of services to include psychiatric assessment, medication management, psychoeducation, and counseling. I received my Doctor of Nursing Practice training from the University of Washington. Originally from Utah, I began my nursing career in the US Army, and then later spent several years working in an adolescent inpatient psychiatric unit developing a wide range of experience.
Stephanie Nagai
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, ARNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Renton, WA 98057
Accepting new clients. As a board psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP), I am able to provide a comprehensive mental health assessment and medication management. It is my belief that collaborating with patients and families can result in better outcomes and satisfaction. I am passionate in partnering with clients to develop realistic goals. Typically, appointments may be more frequent until we establish stability. I provide brief supportive therapy and medication management. I look forward to being a partner in your healing journey.
Accepting new clients. As a board psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP), I am able to provide a comprehensive mental health assessment and medication management. It is my belief that collaborating with patients and families can result in better outcomes and satisfaction. I am passionate in partnering with clients to develop realistic goals. Typically, appointments may be more frequent until we establish stability. I provide brief supportive therapy and medication management. I look forward to being a partner in your healing journey.
Affinity Health Clinic
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Vancouver, WA 98660
Dr. Hubbard struggled as a child, at home/school. He was diagnosed with dyslexia, severe depression/anxiety very early in life. He went through a very dark period which led him to places he never wanted to go. He turned his life around just prior to his 21st birthday. He started taking classes at community college and later completed a BS honors degree in Biochemistry. He then went on to Medical School, Internship and Residency. He worked in an Urgent Care setting until 2017 when he became the Medical Director at Columbia River Mental Health Services. "This experience changed my life and now focus on Mental Health and Addiction."
Dr. Hubbard struggled as a child, at home/school. He was diagnosed with dyslexia, severe depression/anxiety very early in life. He went through a very dark period which led him to places he never wanted to go. He turned his life around just prior to his 21st birthday. He started taking classes at community college and later completed a BS honors degree in Biochemistry. He then went on to Medical School, Internship and Residency. He worked in an Urgent Care setting until 2017 when he became the Medical Director at Columbia River Mental Health Services. "This experience changed my life and now focus on Mental Health and Addiction."
Mihaela Corteza
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98107 (Online Only)
I accept WA and FL patients (children, adolescents and adults) via Telehealth at The MindSight Clinic (www.themindsightclinic.com). Insurances accepted: Cigna, Aetna, Optum, UnitedHealthcare, Oxford, Oscar Health and soon BCBS. As a Double Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner, I bring a wealth of expertise in delivering comprehensive healthcare to individuals of all ages. Contact me via my website.
I accept WA and FL patients (children, adolescents and adults) via Telehealth at The MindSight Clinic (www.themindsightclinic.com). Insurances accepted: Cigna, Aetna, Optum, UnitedHealthcare, Oxford, Oscar Health and soon BCBS. As a Double Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner, I bring a wealth of expertise in delivering comprehensive healthcare to individuals of all ages. Contact me via my website.
Justin Maduobi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, ARNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bellevue, WA 98006
Currently accepting new clients. I provide a holistic care to adolescents and adults from 13 years old and above with depression, anxiety, trauma disorders, schizophrenia spectrum and psychotic disorder, ADHD and other mental health issues. My main goal here is to assess thoroughly, diagnose and manage your mental health by creating a genuine relationship as we get to know each other. Part of my practice structure is to address things in life that might affect your lifestyle such as sleep, diet and social life. I provide some psychotherapy along with medication management to help balance life and improve your mental health.
Currently accepting new clients. I provide a holistic care to adolescents and adults from 13 years old and above with depression, anxiety, trauma disorders, schizophrenia spectrum and psychotic disorder, ADHD and other mental health issues. My main goal here is to assess thoroughly, diagnose and manage your mental health by creating a genuine relationship as we get to know each other. Part of my practice structure is to address things in life that might affect your lifestyle such as sleep, diet and social life. I provide some psychotherapy along with medication management to help balance life and improve your mental health.
Candice Barnett
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Spokane, WA 99201
My diverse training background provides a perspective and treatment that goes beyond the individual psyche. Not only is each individual created with unique talents, abilities, and purpose, but each individual also needs to be connected to something bigger. My mission is to assist the individual, child or adult to thrive, which can sometimes require therapy, medications, or both. I have been trained in family structural therapy that can provide surprising results through family involvement even without medications. Let's collaborate and cultivate your new life together.
My diverse training background provides a perspective and treatment that goes beyond the individual psyche. Not only is each individual created with unique talents, abilities, and purpose, but each individual also needs to be connected to something bigger. My mission is to assist the individual, child or adult to thrive, which can sometimes require therapy, medications, or both. I have been trained in family structural therapy that can provide surprising results through family involvement even without medications. Let's collaborate and cultivate your new life together.
Dr. Steven Philips
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Bellevue, WA 98004 (Online Only)
Same Week Visits - Request visit via practice website - Work with a UW trained MD - Ages 18-60 - Use out-of-network benefits for reimbursement - No Medicare availability - - I'm dedicated to helping patients achieve and enhance psychological well-being. In my practice, I use various forms of psychotherapy, such as supportive psychotherapy and CBT (e.g., for insomnia). When necessary, I prescribe medications to help patients, but at the lowest dose that works and is tolerated. I enjoy taking time to answer your questions. My goal is for you to feel engaged and informed in your care.
Same Week Visits - Request visit via practice website - Work with a UW trained MD - Ages 18-60 - Use out-of-network benefits for reimbursement - No Medicare availability - - I'm dedicated to helping patients achieve and enhance psychological well-being. In my practice, I use various forms of psychotherapy, such as supportive psychotherapy and CBT (e.g., for insomnia). When necessary, I prescribe medications to help patients, but at the lowest dose that works and is tolerated. I enjoy taking time to answer your questions. My goal is for you to feel engaged and informed in your care.
See more therapy options for Washington
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Average cost per session
$249
Psychiatrists in Washington who prioritize treating:
94% | Anxiety |
92% | Depression |
83% | Medication Management |
79% | Bipolar Disorder |
75% | ADHD |
74% | Trauma and PTSD |
69% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
Average years in practice
9 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
81% | Aetna |
75% | Cigna and Evernorth |
68% | Premera |
How Psychiatrists in Washington see their clients
61% | In Person and Online | |
39% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
70% | Female | |
29% | Male | |
1% | Non-Binary |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Washington?
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.