Psychiatrists in Wasilla, AK

Photo of Kathleen Matthews, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Wasilla, AK
Kathleen Matthews
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ANP
Verified Verified
Wasilla, AK 99654
Dr. Kathleen Matthews is a nurse practitioner with both psychiatric and family practice ANCC certification. Dr. Matthews earned her Master’s Degree in Nursing from the University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT in 1989 and completed her post-master’s Doctor of Nursing Practice Degree from the University of North Dakota, Grand Forks, ND in 2020. She has many years of experience in evaluating and managing patients with mental health issues. A holistic approach viewing individuals as bio-psycho-social-spiritual beings guides her evaluations and treatment recommendations.
Dr. Kathleen Matthews is a nurse practitioner with both psychiatric and family practice ANCC certification. Dr. Matthews earned her Master’s Degree in Nursing from the University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT in 1989 and completed her post-master’s Doctor of Nursing Practice Degree from the University of North Dakota, Grand Forks, ND in 2020. She has many years of experience in evaluating and managing patients with mental health issues. A holistic approach viewing individuals as bio-psycho-social-spiritual beings guides her evaluations and treatment recommendations.
(833) 251-9852 View (833) 251-9852
Photo of Lisa Mrzena, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Wasilla, AK
Lisa Mrzena
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Wasilla, AK 99654
I believe people are more than just a diagnosis, and I take my time with you to figure out the best possible plan for you as an individual. Over my career I have worked with clients in the hospital, in community outpatient clinics, as well as in the private practice setting where I am now. I have spent the majority of my time as an APRN working in rural areas and have gained a broad range of experience treating all mental health disorders including addiction. My practice is centered on providing the best quality of care focused on treatment that encompasses all aspects of one’s life to achieve wellness.
I believe people are more than just a diagnosis, and I take my time with you to figure out the best possible plan for you as an individual. Over my career I have worked with clients in the hospital, in community outpatient clinics, as well as in the private practice setting where I am now. I have spent the majority of my time as an APRN working in rural areas and have gained a broad range of experience treating all mental health disorders including addiction. My practice is centered on providing the best quality of care focused on treatment that encompasses all aspects of one’s life to achieve wellness.
(907) 203-1590 View (907) 203-1590
Photo of Jacqueline Marie Stoll, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Wasilla, AK
Jacqueline Marie Stoll
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MS
Verified Verified
Wasilla, AK 99654  (Online Only)
As an advanced practice nurse with over twenty years of experience working in both general medicine and psychiatry, I bring a truly wholistic approach to treating mental health issues with a particular focus on how physical health affects mental health. I specialize in mood disorders, chronic mental illness, and anxiety disorders as well as post-traumatic stress disorder and compulsive disorders such as OCD. In addition to holding certifications in both Medicine and Psychiatry, I am also a certified Addictions Nurse Practitioner with experience in treating substance use disorders as well as process addictions
As an advanced practice nurse with over twenty years of experience working in both general medicine and psychiatry, I bring a truly wholistic approach to treating mental health issues with a particular focus on how physical health affects mental health. I specialize in mood disorders, chronic mental illness, and anxiety disorders as well as post-traumatic stress disorder and compulsive disorders such as OCD. In addition to holding certifications in both Medicine and Psychiatry, I am also a certified Addictions Nurse Practitioner with experience in treating substance use disorders as well as process addictions
(833) 657-7659 View (833) 657-7659
Photo of Leslie Horton LaJeunesse, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Wasilla, AK
Leslie Horton LaJeunesse
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MS, EdS, MSN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
12 Endorsed
Wasilla, AK 99654
Hello! I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner specializing in treating patients across the lifespan. Currently, I have openings for medication management and/or therapy appointments. My goal with every patient is to help promote overall well-being using evidence-based interventions.
Hello! I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner specializing in treating patients across the lifespan. Currently, I have openings for medication management and/or therapy appointments. My goal with every patient is to help promote overall well-being using evidence-based interventions.
(888) 382-1897 View (888) 382-1897
Photo of Impavid Mental Health, LLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Wasilla, AK
Impavid Mental Health, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP-B, CNM
Verified Verified
Wasilla, AK 99654
I provide services to women, men, teens, and children. I can help with depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, ADHD, sleep disorders, and other mood disorders. I specialize in treating the whole body, often using diet, lifestyle modifications, and supplements along with therapy. If you are looking to try other options either before or along with medications, I can certainly help.
I provide services to women, men, teens, and children. I can help with depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, ADHD, sleep disorders, and other mood disorders. I specialize in treating the whole body, often using diet, lifestyle modifications, and supplements along with therapy. If you are looking to try other options either before or along with medications, I can certainly help.
(888) 382-1897 View (888) 382-1897
Photo of Jesse Cooper, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Wasilla, AK
Jesse Cooper
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Wasilla, AK 99654
I specialize in supporting first responders grappling with depression, anxiety and bipolar disorder. The high-pressure demands of your work can intensify these conditions, requiring focused and effective interventions. It may cause issues with sleep, making it difficult to fall and stay asleep at night. Beyond active service, I specialize in guiding first responders through the difficulties of life after service. If you are a first responder seeking specialized care amidst the challenges of your profession, my therapeutic approach is crafted to address the complexities of your unique experiences and needs.
I specialize in supporting first responders grappling with depression, anxiety and bipolar disorder. The high-pressure demands of your work can intensify these conditions, requiring focused and effective interventions. It may cause issues with sleep, making it difficult to fall and stay asleep at night. Beyond active service, I specialize in guiding first responders through the difficulties of life after service. If you are a first responder seeking specialized care amidst the challenges of your profession, my therapeutic approach is crafted to address the complexities of your unique experiences and needs.
(844) 334-0380 View (844) 334-0380
Photo of Jeffrey Wright Bayless, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Wasilla, AK
Jeffrey Wright Bayless
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Wasilla, AK 99654  (Online Only)
Are you struggling with mental health issues and unsure of where to turn for help? As a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) with years of experience, I understand the importance of providing compassionate care for those seeking support in their mental health journey. I am excited to share that I am accepting new patients through my exclusively online practice. I am dedicated to offering a safe and inclusive space for patients of all ages, sexual orientations, gender identities, cultural backgrounds, and with a wide range of mental health concerns. I want you to feel confident and comfortable coming as you are.
Are you struggling with mental health issues and unsure of where to turn for help? As a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) with years of experience, I understand the importance of providing compassionate care for those seeking support in their mental health journey. I am excited to share that I am accepting new patients through my exclusively online practice. I am dedicated to offering a safe and inclusive space for patients of all ages, sexual orientations, gender identities, cultural backgrounds, and with a wide range of mental health concerns. I want you to feel confident and comfortable coming as you are.
(907) 206-2328 View (907) 206-2328
Photo of Dr. Shawn Faust, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Wasilla, AK
Dr. Shawn Faust
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wasilla, AK 99654  (Online Only)
Dr. Shawn Faust, DNP, PMHNP-BC is a distinguished Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who brings a unique and patient-centric approach to the field of mental health. His philosophy centers around the belief that individuals are experts in their own experiences, and collaboration between the patient and their mental health provider is essential for effective and personalized treatment. He believes that informed patients are better equipped to navigate their unique mental health challenges. Thus, treatment with Dr. Faust often involves teaching patients about their diagnosis and discussing the pros and cons of various treatment options.
Dr. Shawn Faust, DNP, PMHNP-BC is a distinguished Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who brings a unique and patient-centric approach to the field of mental health. His philosophy centers around the belief that individuals are experts in their own experiences, and collaboration between the patient and their mental health provider is essential for effective and personalized treatment. He believes that informed patients are better equipped to navigate their unique mental health challenges. Thus, treatment with Dr. Faust often involves teaching patients about their diagnosis and discussing the pros and cons of various treatment options.
(336) 515-1193 View (336) 515-1193
Photo of VirtualPsychiatricCare.com, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Wasilla, AK
VirtualPsychiatricCare.com
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, APRN
Verified Verified
Wasilla, AK 99654  (Online Only)
Accepting new patients via telehealth visits for psychiatric evaluations and medication management. I treat anyone suffering with depression, anxiety, or any other mental health issue that is adversely affecting optimal functioning at work, deterring their best social self, or preventing being fully present for loved ones. Our clients are looking to be properly diagnosed and treated using the safest prescribing principles. Make your appointment using our website today. Evening and weekend hours are available. We offer affordable out of pocket rates. Also accepting insurances.
Accepting new patients via telehealth visits for psychiatric evaluations and medication management. I treat anyone suffering with depression, anxiety, or any other mental health issue that is adversely affecting optimal functioning at work, deterring their best social self, or preventing being fully present for loved ones. Our clients are looking to be properly diagnosed and treated using the safest prescribing principles. Make your appointment using our website today. Evening and weekend hours are available. We offer affordable out of pocket rates. Also accepting insurances.
(855) 856-7698 View (855) 856-7698
Photo of Susan A Bryan, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Wasilla, AK
Susan A Bryan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Wasilla, AK 99687
Welcome! I am a Doctor of Nursing Practice and a board-certified Family Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. My office, Empowerment Mental Health LLC, is located here in Anchorage, Alaska. I offer in-person and telehealth appointments. I understand reaching out for help is difficult and I try to make the process as straightforward as possible. I strive to genuinely listen to your concerns in an open and nonjudgmental environment. My goal is to assist you to improve your mental health and help you find hope for a better future. - - -Please visit my website to complete a confidential screening form or contact my office.
Welcome! I am a Doctor of Nursing Practice and a board-certified Family Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. My office, Empowerment Mental Health LLC, is located here in Anchorage, Alaska. I offer in-person and telehealth appointments. I understand reaching out for help is difficult and I try to make the process as straightforward as possible. I strive to genuinely listen to your concerns in an open and nonjudgmental environment. My goal is to assist you to improve your mental health and help you find hope for a better future. - - -Please visit my website to complete a confidential screening form or contact my office.
(907) 231-2333 View (907) 231-2333

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of AkHi Behavioral Health, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Wasilla, AK
AkHi Behavioral Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Palmer, AK 99645
View

Online Psychiatrists

Photo of Kelly Moore, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Wasilla, AK
Kelly Moore
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Kenai, AK 99611  (Online Only)
Hi, I'm Kelly! I'm a psychiatric nurse practitioner. I offer therapy and medication management services. I let curiosity and compassion lead me in life and I bring this to my practice style. I've grown up in Alaska and have been a nurse serving urban and remote areas ranging from Ketchikan to Kotzebue. A change in location has led me to start offering telehealth services to better serve a wide range of locations. I am an avid encourager of increased physical activity, connection to nature, and healthy self inquiry. I aim to work with you in your own self-healing to live the life that is most meaningful and authentic to you.
Hi, I'm Kelly! I'm a psychiatric nurse practitioner. I offer therapy and medication management services. I let curiosity and compassion lead me in life and I bring this to my practice style. I've grown up in Alaska and have been a nurse serving urban and remote areas ranging from Ketchikan to Kotzebue. A change in location has led me to start offering telehealth services to better serve a wide range of locations. I am an avid encourager of increased physical activity, connection to nature, and healthy self inquiry. I aim to work with you in your own self-healing to live the life that is most meaningful and authentic to you.
(907) 931-8618 View (907) 931-8618
Photo of Catherine Haese, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Wasilla, AK
Catherine Haese
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Eagle River, AK 99577
I provide psychiatric medication management for children, adolescents, and adults. My area of interest is working with kids of all ages (ages 3 and up) and their families to navigate psychiatric issues and provide support. I am able to listen to your concerns and diagnose psychiatric illnesses and disorders. I prescribe psychiatric medications and can recommend non-pharmacological interventions as well. I look forward to working with you!
I provide psychiatric medication management for children, adolescents, and adults. My area of interest is working with kids of all ages (ages 3 and up) and their families to navigate psychiatric issues and provide support. I am able to listen to your concerns and diagnose psychiatric illnesses and disorders. I prescribe psychiatric medications and can recommend non-pharmacological interventions as well. I look forward to working with you!
(907) 726-0378 View (907) 726-0378
Photo of Integrated Wellness, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Wasilla, AK
Integrated Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
Anchorage, AK 99501
Hello, I am Jason de Luisa, PMHNP-BC, FNP-BC and holistic medicine practitioner. I am passionate about combining Western Medicine with holistic approaches to help people live happier, healthier, and fuller lives.
Hello, I am Jason de Luisa, PMHNP-BC, FNP-BC and holistic medicine practitioner. I am passionate about combining Western Medicine with holistic approaches to help people live happier, healthier, and fuller lives.
(877) 731-2995 View (877) 731-2995
Photo of David N Ampong, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Wasilla, AK
David N Ampong
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Anchorage, AK 99501
Alaska Treatment Center offers individual and group psychotherapy in addition to medication management. Dr. Ampong is the owner of Alaska Treatment Center. He is a board-certified advanced psychiatric nurse practitioner with a specialty in addiction services. He provides mental health services for individuals with mental illness and those struggling with substance and alcohol abuse. Dr. Ampong focuses on the individual's unique needs through a biopsychosocial evaluation and cutting-edge psychopharmacology and psychotherapy.
Alaska Treatment Center offers individual and group psychotherapy in addition to medication management. Dr. Ampong is the owner of Alaska Treatment Center. He is a board-certified advanced psychiatric nurse practitioner with a specialty in addiction services. He provides mental health services for individuals with mental illness and those struggling with substance and alcohol abuse. Dr. Ampong focuses on the individual's unique needs through a biopsychosocial evaluation and cutting-edge psychopharmacology and psychotherapy.
(907) 222-2448 View (907) 222-2448
Photo of High Sierra Behavioral Health, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Wasilla, AK
High Sierra Behavioral Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Anchorage, AK 99518  (Online Only)
Are you a busy adult who is tired of waiting weeks or even months to get an appointment to see your prescriber for a simple refill of psychiatric medication? Are you sick of spending hours sitting in a crowded waiting room while you are missing work or time away from your family or studies? Do you have a therapist you love but who can’t prescribe your medication?
Are you a busy adult who is tired of waiting weeks or even months to get an appointment to see your prescriber for a simple refill of psychiatric medication? Are you sick of spending hours sitting in a crowded waiting room while you are missing work or time away from your family or studies? Do you have a therapist you love but who can’t prescribe your medication?
(800) 777-1420 View (800) 777-1420
Photo of Rachael Langerman, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Wasilla, AK
Rachael Langerman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Anchorage, AK 99503
I enjoy helping patients and families navigate mental health issues and become as successful as they can be. Areas of focus include depression, anxiety, mood disorders, PTSD, ADHD, Autism, ODD, OCD, Impulse-Control issues, postpartum depression, and eating disorders. I provide gender-affirming care.
I enjoy helping patients and families navigate mental health issues and become as successful as they can be. Areas of focus include depression, anxiety, mood disorders, PTSD, ADHD, Autism, ODD, OCD, Impulse-Control issues, postpartum depression, and eating disorders. I provide gender-affirming care.
(907) 318-9050 View (907) 318-9050
Photo of ND Systems, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Wasilla, AK
ND Systems
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Kenai, AK 99611  (Online Only)
Children are our future. As parents, we love them and want the best for them, but feel helpless sometimes in how to help them meet their mental health needs. Sometimes we become aware of a mean dialogue in our heads toward ourselves. This can cause pain and suffering, but it doesn’t have to be this way.
Children are our future. As parents, we love them and want the best for them, but feel helpless sometimes in how to help them meet their mental health needs. Sometimes we become aware of a mean dialogue in our heads toward ourselves. This can cause pain and suffering, but it doesn’t have to be this way.
(855) 642-9646 View (855) 642-9646
Photo of Adrianne Papoff-Wallace, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Wasilla, AK
Adrianne Papoff-Wallace
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, ARNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Anchorage, AK 99501  (Online Only)
I am a Telehealth provider in the state of Washington and am also licensed in the state of Alaska. I offer psychiatric medication management and weight loss coaching services. I believe in treating the whole person, not the disease process. I take into account your whole life and how we can use medication and/or therapy to help you achieve your goals. I look forward to meeting you and seeing how I can be of help. I am currently accepting new patients for medication management and weight loss coaching/therapy.
I am a Telehealth provider in the state of Washington and am also licensed in the state of Alaska. I offer psychiatric medication management and weight loss coaching services. I believe in treating the whole person, not the disease process. I take into account your whole life and how we can use medication and/or therapy to help you achieve your goals. I look forward to meeting you and seeing how I can be of help. I am currently accepting new patients for medication management and weight loss coaching/therapy.
(206) 203-1895 View (206) 203-1895
Photo of Jessica McGrath, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Wasilla, AK
Jessica McGrath
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
Anchorage, AK 99515
Hello, my ideal client wants to work with me over time to feel better about themselves and their lives. The client may want to discuss medications for mental health symptoms or may want to talk and share. I will meet them where they are. We will come up with a plan together. If the client is a child we may start with playing a game or coloring. I hope the client will be honest with me and learn to trust me. I won't be shocked by anything. I've worked with people from all walks of life.
Hello, my ideal client wants to work with me over time to feel better about themselves and their lives. The client may want to discuss medications for mental health symptoms or may want to talk and share. I will meet them where they are. We will come up with a plan together. If the client is a child we may start with playing a game or coloring. I hope the client will be honest with me and learn to trust me. I won't be shocked by anything. I've worked with people from all walks of life.
(855) 904-0190 View (855) 904-0190

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Wasilla, AK

10+

Average cost per session

$225

Psychiatrists in Wasilla, AK who prioritize treating:

90% Depression
90% Anxiety
90% Bipolar Disorder
80% Medication Management
70% ADHD
60% Psychosis
60% Sleep or Insomnia

Average years in practice

11 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

90% Aetna
80% Cigna and Evernorth
60% BlueCross and BlueShield

How Psychiatrists in Wasilla, AK see their clients

60% In Person and Online
40% Online Only

Gender breakdown

89% Female
11% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Wasilla?

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.