Psychiatrists in Bellevue, WA
Keya Kumar@ Family Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Bellevue, WA 98004
Keya Kumar is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She treats patients across the lifespan with a particular emphasis on adults and transitional aged youth. Keya completed her undergraduate and graduate studies at Case Western Reserve University. Keya believes in using a holistic approach with patients, combining pharmacotherapy with integrative treatment services in order to create the best possible outcomes for mental health.
Keya Kumar is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She treats patients across the lifespan with a particular emphasis on adults and transitional aged youth. Keya completed her undergraduate and graduate studies at Case Western Reserve University. Keya believes in using a holistic approach with patients, combining pharmacotherapy with integrative treatment services in order to create the best possible outcomes for mental health.
Denmind Psychiatric Solutions PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARNP, PMHNP-C
Verified Verified
Bellevue, WA 98004
Are you having mood swings? Feeling anxious, down, inattentive, overwhelmed with stress, or having the overall feeling that life just keeps getting harder? Have you tried to explain how you feel to friends or family, but no one fully understands? Because you don't want to be a burden, you sometimes hide your true feelings. We understand these struggles, and will love to help you turn things around for the better. We want to see you live life to your fullest potential. If you are looking for a provider who sees you as a person and not just as your diagnosis, condition or past struggles, please feel free to contact us.
Are you having mood swings? Feeling anxious, down, inattentive, overwhelmed with stress, or having the overall feeling that life just keeps getting harder? Have you tried to explain how you feel to friends or family, but no one fully understands? Because you don't want to be a burden, you sometimes hide your true feelings. We understand these struggles, and will love to help you turn things around for the better. We want to see you live life to your fullest potential. If you are looking for a provider who sees you as a person and not just as your diagnosis, condition or past struggles, please feel free to contact us.
Ryan Thebo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Bellevue, WA 98004
Are you struggling to balance your mental and physical health and in need of a more comprehensive approach? No problem! I provide holistic online psychiatry services (telemedicine), so that you can conveniently be seen in the comfort of your home for appointments and medication management without the need to travel! I provide the same psychiatry services as in-person visits and I will address other aspects that encompass your complete wellness beyond a standard psychiatry visit. My aim is for you to truly thrive at your best! You can conveniently self-schedule a holistic psychiatry video appointment right now at: pwpsychiatry.com/WA
Are you struggling to balance your mental and physical health and in need of a more comprehensive approach? No problem! I provide holistic online psychiatry services (telemedicine), so that you can conveniently be seen in the comfort of your home for appointments and medication management without the need to travel! I provide the same psychiatry services as in-person visits and I will address other aspects that encompass your complete wellness beyond a standard psychiatry visit. My aim is for you to truly thrive at your best! You can conveniently self-schedule a holistic psychiatry video appointment right now at: pwpsychiatry.com/WA
Jong Oh
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, ARNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bellevue, WA 98004
My specialty is working with adults 18 years and older up to geriatric population. I have inpatient and outpatient experience therefore have seen and provided care for mental health conditions of different severity and complexity. If you are looking for a psychiatric provider that will work with you to achieve optimal mental health through collaborative, supportive and holistic care, then you are welcomed here.
My specialty is working with adults 18 years and older up to geriatric population. I have inpatient and outpatient experience therefore have seen and provided care for mental health conditions of different severity and complexity. If you are looking for a psychiatric provider that will work with you to achieve optimal mental health through collaborative, supportive and holistic care, then you are welcomed here.
Emmanuel Nwabude
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-C
Verified Verified
Bellevue, WA 98004
Are you having mood swings? Feeling anxious, down, inattentive, overwhelmed with stress, or having the overall feeling that life just keeps getting harder? Have you tried to explain how you feel to friends or family, but no one fully understands? Because you don't want to be a burden, you sometimes hide your true feelings. I understand these struggles, and will love to help you turn things around for the better. I want to see you live life to your fullest potential. If you are looking for a provider who sees you as a person and not just as your diagnosis, condition or past struggles, please feel free to contact me. I love to help.
Are you having mood swings? Feeling anxious, down, inattentive, overwhelmed with stress, or having the overall feeling that life just keeps getting harder? Have you tried to explain how you feel to friends or family, but no one fully understands? Because you don't want to be a burden, you sometimes hide your true feelings. I understand these struggles, and will love to help you turn things around for the better. I want to see you live life to your fullest potential. If you are looking for a provider who sees you as a person and not just as your diagnosis, condition or past struggles, please feel free to contact me. I love to help.
Dr. Wade Reiner
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Bellevue, WA 98004
Wait time: about 2-3 weeks - Request visit using practice website - Work with a MD - Ages 18-60 - Use out-of-network benefits for reimbursement - No Medicare availability. - I work with clients to achieve a variety of goals, including managing depression or anxiety, navigating losses and role transitions, and improving functioning in relationships and work. Credentials: Psychology, Johns Hopkins University, MD, SUNY Downstate in Brooklyn, NY, & Psychiatry residency, the Washington University in St. Louis, part-time Clinical Assistant Professor at UW, and full time at West Coast Psychiatry. I look forward to connecting with you.
Wait time: about 2-3 weeks - Request visit using practice website - Work with a MD - Ages 18-60 - Use out-of-network benefits for reimbursement - No Medicare availability. - I work with clients to achieve a variety of goals, including managing depression or anxiety, navigating losses and role transitions, and improving functioning in relationships and work. Credentials: Psychology, Johns Hopkins University, MD, SUNY Downstate in Brooklyn, NY, & Psychiatry residency, the Washington University in St. Louis, part-time Clinical Assistant Professor at UW, and full time at West Coast Psychiatry. I look forward to connecting with you.
Jack Mkroyan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Bellevue, WA 98005
Are you struggling to balance your mental and physical health and in need of a more comprehensive approach? No problem! I provide holistic online psychiatry services (telemedicine), so that you can conveniently be seen in the comfort of your home for appointments and medication management without the need to travel! I provide the same psychiatry services as in-person visits and I will address other aspects that encompass your complete wellness beyond a standard psychiatry visit. My aim is for you to truly thrive at your best! You can conveniently self-schedule a holistic psychiatry video appointment right now at: pwpsychiatry.com/WA
Are you struggling to balance your mental and physical health and in need of a more comprehensive approach? No problem! I provide holistic online psychiatry services (telemedicine), so that you can conveniently be seen in the comfort of your home for appointments and medication management without the need to travel! I provide the same psychiatry services as in-person visits and I will address other aspects that encompass your complete wellness beyond a standard psychiatry visit. My aim is for you to truly thrive at your best! You can conveniently self-schedule a holistic psychiatry video appointment right now at: pwpsychiatry.com/WA
Maryam Sajjad
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
Bellevue, WA 98005 (Online Only)
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I am highly patient-centered. I enjoy treating a wide range of psychiatric disorders, such as depressive disorders, mood disorders, anxiety disorders, attention deficit disorders, substance use disorders, and insomnia. I am enthusiastic about treating those struggling with substance use disorder and depression. Mutual respect and open communication are critical to the treatment journey; therefore, I respect my patients’ time and value their input regarding their treatment plans.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I am highly patient-centered. I enjoy treating a wide range of psychiatric disorders, such as depressive disorders, mood disorders, anxiety disorders, attention deficit disorders, substance use disorders, and insomnia. I am enthusiastic about treating those struggling with substance use disorder and depression. Mutual respect and open communication are critical to the treatment journey; therefore, I respect my patients’ time and value their input regarding their treatment plans.
Pulcharia Thompson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP-C
Verified Verified
Bellevue, WA 98004 (Online Only)
If you are an individual who is privately suffering from mental health illness or a loved one who is privately suffering with them, there is help for you. At Tandem Psychiatric and Family Practice, the focus is to integrate the most current and accurate treatment along with psychotherapy that centers on aiding the individual to feel whole again. I come from a Christian background and I firmly believe that every human being has the dignity of God, which comes with a purpose in life. This is the premise from which I approach treatment, so that hopefully every client can be given the means to reach their God given potential.
If you are an individual who is privately suffering from mental health illness or a loved one who is privately suffering with them, there is help for you. At Tandem Psychiatric and Family Practice, the focus is to integrate the most current and accurate treatment along with psychotherapy that centers on aiding the individual to feel whole again. I come from a Christian background and I firmly believe that every human being has the dignity of God, which comes with a purpose in life. This is the premise from which I approach treatment, so that hopefully every client can be given the means to reach their God given potential.
Healthcore Psychiatry Consultants
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
Bellevue, WA 98004 (Online Only)
Welcome to Healthcore Psychiatry Consultants! My name is Linda Bett and I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner specializing in Alcohol and Drug Addiction, ADHD, Depression, Anxiety, and Mood Disorders. I diagnose and provide medication management to adult individuals (ages 18-60)
Welcome to Healthcore Psychiatry Consultants! My name is Linda Bett and I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner specializing in Alcohol and Drug Addiction, ADHD, Depression, Anxiety, and Mood Disorders. I diagnose and provide medication management to adult individuals (ages 18-60)
Michael Seyffert
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Bellevue, WA 98008 (Online Only)
I worked as a child neurologist and sleep medicine physician before becoming a psychiatrist. Because of that, I provide varied and multiple treatment options, especially for patients with dual diagnoses. I have worked in multiple settings including inpatient and residential and believe in a team approach to care. I am a former lecturer at NYU Child Study Center and headed a treatment team for children and adolescents with Autism and other complex neurodevelopmental disorders. I enjoy working with adolescents, college age and older adults and will engage with family as well in an effort to provide the greatest support to clients.
I worked as a child neurologist and sleep medicine physician before becoming a psychiatrist. Because of that, I provide varied and multiple treatment options, especially for patients with dual diagnoses. I have worked in multiple settings including inpatient and residential and believe in a team approach to care. I am a former lecturer at NYU Child Study Center and headed a treatment team for children and adolescents with Autism and other complex neurodevelopmental disorders. I enjoy working with adolescents, college age and older adults and will engage with family as well in an effort to provide the greatest support to clients.
15 Second Videos
Pulcharia Thompson
Fox Fern ADHD Clinic
Keenan Smith
Jade Goodloe
David G Zacharias
Mark Ellestad
Mosaic Mental Health, PLLC
Cate Gerrity
Grace Martin
Raelin Bright Wellness
Kelsey Knox
Emily Ketchel @ Acorn Psychiatry
Dao Nguyen
Dr Mark Chofla | Empathy Therapy
Heather Sanudo
John Benson
Sean Dunn
CopeWell Psychiatry And Wellness
Dr. Cedar Neary
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Bellevue, WA 98004 (Online Only)
I’m an integrative child, adolescent and adult psychiatrist passionate about empowering teens, college students and young adults who are struggling with anxiety, depression, ADHD, trauma and identity exploration to find calm, clarity and connection through a blend of lifestyle-interventions, psychotherapy and medication management. I have a special interest in working with marginalized communities, including providing gender-affirming care for LGBTQ2S+ individuals, supporting those who are neurodivergent and holding space for racial and ethnic minorities struggling with historical trauma and systemic racism.
I’m an integrative child, adolescent and adult psychiatrist passionate about empowering teens, college students and young adults who are struggling with anxiety, depression, ADHD, trauma and identity exploration to find calm, clarity and connection through a blend of lifestyle-interventions, psychotherapy and medication management. I have a special interest in working with marginalized communities, including providing gender-affirming care for LGBTQ2S+ individuals, supporting those who are neurodivergent and holding space for racial and ethnic minorities struggling with historical trauma and systemic racism.
Fox Fern ADHD Clinic
Physician Assistant, DMSc, MPAS, PA-C
Verified Verified
Bellevue, WA 98005 (Online Only)
It should not be so difficult to get ADHD, Depression, or Anxiety diagnosed and treated. I founded Fox Fern ADHD Clinic because I was frustrated with how difficult it was to get good quality and convenient care for my own ADHD diagnosis. From intake to prescription delivery, my team and I set out to rethink what psychiatric care could be and improve the process from the ground up. We might be the only clinic with a patient-experience graphic designer on staff because we aim to relentlessly refine how we help our patients feel less overwhelmed and more capable. We work hard to make our treatment plans unique and data-driven.
It should not be so difficult to get ADHD, Depression, or Anxiety diagnosed and treated. I founded Fox Fern ADHD Clinic because I was frustrated with how difficult it was to get good quality and convenient care for my own ADHD diagnosis. From intake to prescription delivery, my team and I set out to rethink what psychiatric care could be and improve the process from the ground up. We might be the only clinic with a patient-experience graphic designer on staff because we aim to relentlessly refine how we help our patients feel less overwhelmed and more capable. We work hard to make our treatment plans unique and data-driven.
Jasmine Elia
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bellevue, WA 98006
Jasmine Elia is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She understands mental health and provides safe treatment approaches. Jasmine also delivers effective & personalized responses. She provides treatment for adolescents and adults, ages 13 to 65+. Jasmine treats most psychiatric disorders & provide medication management and brief psychotherapy. She offers evidence-based treatment for various conditions, including depression, anxiety, stress, bipolar, ADHD (evaluation & Treatment), postpartum depression, and phase of life transitions tailored to our client's needs in a safe and confidential environment.
Jasmine Elia is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She understands mental health and provides safe treatment approaches. Jasmine also delivers effective & personalized responses. She provides treatment for adolescents and adults, ages 13 to 65+. Jasmine treats most psychiatric disorders & provide medication management and brief psychotherapy. She offers evidence-based treatment for various conditions, including depression, anxiety, stress, bipolar, ADHD (evaluation & Treatment), postpartum depression, and phase of life transitions tailored to our client's needs in a safe and confidential environment.
Sarah Applegate
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MDiv, MSN, ARNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bellevue, WA 98004
I am accepting new clients on a case-by-case basis for medication management. I provide holistic, integrative psychiatric care to children, adolescents and adults with ADHD, mood, and trauma disorders, partnering with clients and their families to help them to achieve their health goals. Services I provide include comprehensive psychiatric assessments, medication management, and brief psychotherapy. While I prescribe medications when needed, I address other factors that may be impacting your mental health such as exercise, sleep, nutrition, lifestyle, relationships and coping skills.
I am accepting new clients on a case-by-case basis for medication management. I provide holistic, integrative psychiatric care to children, adolescents and adults with ADHD, mood, and trauma disorders, partnering with clients and their families to help them to achieve their health goals. Services I provide include comprehensive psychiatric assessments, medication management, and brief psychotherapy. While I prescribe medications when needed, I address other factors that may be impacting your mental health such as exercise, sleep, nutrition, lifestyle, relationships and coping skills.
James Houser
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Bellevue, WA 98007
James B. Houser, MD is a board certified psychiatrist specializing in the diagnosis and treatment of adults over the age of 18. He graduated from Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine in 1990 and completed residency training at the University of Colorado School of Medicine.
James B. Houser, MD is a board certified psychiatrist specializing in the diagnosis and treatment of adults over the age of 18. He graduated from Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine in 1990 and completed residency training at the University of Colorado School of Medicine.
Zhendong Jeff Ma
Psychiatrist, MD, PhD
Verified Verified
Bellevue, WA 98005
Waitlist for new clients
Dr. Ma is board-certified by American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. Dr. Ma graduated from Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, and obtained Ph.D. in Neuroscience from University of Alabama at Birmingham School of Medicine, he finished residency training in Psychiatry at University of Alabama at Birmingham Medical Center, and completed research and fellowship training at Howard Hughes Medical Institute and University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center.
Dr. Ma is board-certified by American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. Dr. Ma graduated from Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, and obtained Ph.D. in Neuroscience from University of Alabama at Birmingham School of Medicine, he finished residency training in Psychiatry at University of Alabama at Birmingham Medical Center, and completed research and fellowship training at Howard Hughes Medical Institute and University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center.
Dr. Kory Simonsen @ Prisma Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bellevue, WA 98004
If you’re all too familiar with the relentless thought of ‘I can’t continue living like this,’ it’s a clear sign that you’re ready for change. I approach mental health as a transformative journey through a liminal space—an in-between space where one stands on the edge of old and new or growth and change, opening the door to new possibilities and personal transformations. Mental health extends far beyond a mere collection of symptoms or diagnoses; it’s a dynamic process that involves the intricate interplay of biological, psychological, and social factors that all contribute to your lived experience.
If you’re all too familiar with the relentless thought of ‘I can’t continue living like this,’ it’s a clear sign that you’re ready for change. I approach mental health as a transformative journey through a liminal space—an in-between space where one stands on the edge of old and new or growth and change, opening the door to new possibilities and personal transformations. Mental health extends far beyond a mere collection of symptoms or diagnoses; it’s a dynamic process that involves the intricate interplay of biological, psychological, and social factors that all contribute to your lived experience.
Steve Brogdon
Psychiatrist, MS, MD
Verified Verified
Bellevue, WA 98004
I am currently an Interventional Psychiatrist at SeattleNTC. I am sorry to say that I do not do medication management due to the the demand for Interventional treatments. I am available for a consultation on medications that I can share with you and your regular prescriber.
I am currently an Interventional Psychiatrist at SeattleNTC. I am sorry to say that I do not do medication management due to the the demand for Interventional treatments. I am available for a consultation on medications that I can share with you and your regular prescriber.
Neupathway LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Bellevue, WA 98005
Accepting new clients same week availability................................... Neupathway is deeply passionate about delivering exceptional mental health care that makes a significant positive impact on her patients' well-being. Her unwavering commitment to the field is reflected in her dedication to addressing the complexities of mental health, with a particular emphasis on anxiety, depression, and obsessive-compulsive disorder.In an ever-evolving field, Eirin stays current with the latest research and therapeutic techniques to ensure that her patients receive the highest standard of care.
Accepting new clients same week availability................................... Neupathway is deeply passionate about delivering exceptional mental health care that makes a significant positive impact on her patients' well-being. Her unwavering commitment to the field is reflected in her dedication to addressing the complexities of mental health, with a particular emphasis on anxiety, depression, and obsessive-compulsive disorder.In an ever-evolving field, Eirin stays current with the latest research and therapeutic techniques to ensure that her patients receive the highest standard of care.
See more therapy options for Bellevue
Nearby Searches for Bellevue
See More PsychiatristsHow does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Bellevue, WA
100+
Average cost per session
$250
Psychiatrists in Bellevue, WA who prioritize treating:
95% | Anxiety |
92% | Depression |
85% | Medication Management |
79% | ADHD |
79% | Bipolar Disorder |
74% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
73% | Trauma and PTSD |
Average years in practice
9 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
77% | Cigna and Evernorth |
77% | Premera |
75% | Aetna |
How Psychiatrists in Bellevue, WA see their clients
66% | In Person and Online | |
34% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
61% | Female | |
38% | Male | |
1% | Non-Binary |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Bellevue?
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.