Psychiatrists in Denver, CO
Dr. Adam Burstein
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80203
As a child, adolescent and adult psychiatrist, my passion is to help others improve their quality of life. You have my commitment to provide personalized, high-quality care on an ongoing or as-needed basis. I treat a wide range of mental health issues by combining psychotherapy and medication management. My ambition is to provide a full-service psychiatry practice for individuals in all stages of life. You can expect to have a comprehensive psychiatric evaluation and a treatment plan designed for your specific needs.
As a child, adolescent and adult psychiatrist, my passion is to help others improve their quality of life. You have my commitment to provide personalized, high-quality care on an ongoing or as-needed basis. I treat a wide range of mental health issues by combining psychotherapy and medication management. My ambition is to provide a full-service psychiatry practice for individuals in all stages of life. You can expect to have a comprehensive psychiatric evaluation and a treatment plan designed for your specific needs.
Nichollette Dykes
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80212
Nichollette is a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, specializing in medication management. Nichollette’s practice embodies a holistic approach towards psychiatric treatment that focuses on improving the overall mental well-being of an individual, rather than just treating the symptoms. With every patient, Nichollette strives to create a motivating and nurturing environment that is optimal for healing and growth. She utilizes an artful and collaborative process to create an individualized treatment plan tailored to your unique needs.
Nichollette is a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, specializing in medication management. Nichollette’s practice embodies a holistic approach towards psychiatric treatment that focuses on improving the overall mental well-being of an individual, rather than just treating the symptoms. With every patient, Nichollette strives to create a motivating and nurturing environment that is optimal for healing and growth. She utilizes an artful and collaborative process to create an individualized treatment plan tailored to your unique needs.
Kristina Mordecai
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80227
Accepting New Patients! Kristina is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who is currently accepting new clients. Her journey began in 1999 when she graduated with an Associate of Science in Nursing from Meridian Community College. She then progressed to obtain her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Chamberlain University in 2015 and graduated at the top of her class. After furthering her career in nursing management and stress management courses, she decided to pursue the Master of Science in Nursing, specializing in Psychiatry, at Herzing University where she graduated with honors.
Accepting New Patients! Kristina is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who is currently accepting new clients. Her journey began in 1999 when she graduated with an Associate of Science in Nursing from Meridian Community College. She then progressed to obtain her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Chamberlain University in 2015 and graduated at the top of her class. After furthering her career in nursing management and stress management courses, she decided to pursue the Master of Science in Nursing, specializing in Psychiatry, at Herzing University where she graduated with honors.
Kamleh Shaban
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80207
As a board certified child, adolescent, and adult psychiatrist, I integrate care for all ages and stages. I understand the relationship between early childhood events and life long struggles. Whether it be ADHD, a mood disorder, or a personality disorder, I am eager to find the best treatment for you. I integrate western medicine with more holistic care. If you're interested in learning skills to help you live a more healthy and happy life, I can guide you down a treatment course that builds on your strengths, goals, and values.
As a board certified child, adolescent, and adult psychiatrist, I integrate care for all ages and stages. I understand the relationship between early childhood events and life long struggles. Whether it be ADHD, a mood disorder, or a personality disorder, I am eager to find the best treatment for you. I integrate western medicine with more holistic care. If you're interested in learning skills to help you live a more healthy and happy life, I can guide you down a treatment course that builds on your strengths, goals, and values.
Angela Dawkins
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP-BC
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80222 (Online Only)
Angela is a dual board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner. Angela has over 30 years of extensive nursing experience and has worked in a variety of settings including cardiac, acute/clinical dialysis, intensive care, home healthcare-case management services, med-surgical care, oncology care, geriatric long term care services, outpatient surgery, anesthesia assessment clinic, emergency medicine, pain management clinic, inpatient/outpatient psychiatric services, residential mental health care services, crisis stabilization community based care, and substance abuse and mental health.
Angela is a dual board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner. Angela has over 30 years of extensive nursing experience and has worked in a variety of settings including cardiac, acute/clinical dialysis, intensive care, home healthcare-case management services, med-surgical care, oncology care, geriatric long term care services, outpatient surgery, anesthesia assessment clinic, emergency medicine, pain management clinic, inpatient/outpatient psychiatric services, residential mental health care services, crisis stabilization community based care, and substance abuse and mental health.
Anita Khanna
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80246
I look forward to meeting you, hearing your story , and making sense of all that ails you. I feel that medications can provide relief for biological psychiatric conditions, but most of the long term relief comes from working through and reworking unhealthy behavioral patterns. Treating Psychiatric conditions is an art that requires balancing the medical treatments with looking at unconscious maladaptive behaviors. Once patterns are identified, the work we do will lead to change. I take the approach of meeting clients where they are at and working together in a relational model to reprocess and work through trauma.
I look forward to meeting you, hearing your story , and making sense of all that ails you. I feel that medications can provide relief for biological psychiatric conditions, but most of the long term relief comes from working through and reworking unhealthy behavioral patterns. Treating Psychiatric conditions is an art that requires balancing the medical treatments with looking at unconscious maladaptive behaviors. Once patterns are identified, the work we do will lead to change. I take the approach of meeting clients where they are at and working together in a relational model to reprocess and work through trauma.
Elisabeth Marie Fabrizio
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, FNP-BC
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80211 (Online Only)
I have over 20 years of experience as a family nurse practitioner and have recently earned a post-master's degree as a psychiatric nurse practitioner. Depression and anxiety are an epidemic in our world today and many are suffering. Substance abuse is also rampant in our society. I can offer a listening ear, evaluate your situation, and collaboratively we can come up with a treatment plan that may include medication, supplements, and lifestyle changes with food and exercise. All visits are done via telemedicine.
I have over 20 years of experience as a family nurse practitioner and have recently earned a post-master's degree as a psychiatric nurse practitioner. Depression and anxiety are an epidemic in our world today and many are suffering. Substance abuse is also rampant in our society. I can offer a listening ear, evaluate your situation, and collaboratively we can come up with a treatment plan that may include medication, supplements, and lifestyle changes with food and exercise. All visits are done via telemedicine.
Dr. Henrietta Evans
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNPBC, GNPBC
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80202 (Online Only)
Hi, I'm Dr. Henrietta Evans, DNP, APRN, with dual certifications in Psychiatric Mental Health and Geriatric Nursing. My career began in 1993 as an LPN in the U.S. Army, leading to a BSN from the University of Phoenix and an MSN from the University of South Alabama, focusing on psychiatric care. I earned a Gerontological NP certificate in 2010 and a DNP in 2015. Additionally, I'm certified in Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation Therapy. With over 31 years across diverse medical fields, my holistic approach integrates mind, body, and soul wellness, continually advancing nursing excellence.
Hi, I'm Dr. Henrietta Evans, DNP, APRN, with dual certifications in Psychiatric Mental Health and Geriatric Nursing. My career began in 1993 as an LPN in the U.S. Army, leading to a BSN from the University of Phoenix and an MSN from the University of South Alabama, focusing on psychiatric care. I earned a Gerontological NP certificate in 2010 and a DNP in 2015. Additionally, I'm certified in Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation Therapy. With over 31 years across diverse medical fields, my holistic approach integrates mind, body, and soul wellness, continually advancing nursing excellence.
Felicia Turner, APRN | Text #Enroll 503-925-6606
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80202 (Online Only)
Welcome to Psychiatry On Demand, where we strive to create a warm and understanding environment that helps you begin your journey toward mental wellness. We are happy to welcome individuals like you who are navigating the complexities of mental health. Whether you are struggling with depression, anxiety, ADHD, or any other challenges, we are here to offer personalized strategies for growth and resilience that are precisely tailored to your needs.
Welcome to Psychiatry On Demand, where we strive to create a warm and understanding environment that helps you begin your journey toward mental wellness. We are happy to welcome individuals like you who are navigating the complexities of mental health. Whether you are struggling with depression, anxiety, ADHD, or any other challenges, we are here to offer personalized strategies for growth and resilience that are precisely tailored to your needs.
Chad Krumpholz
Physician Assistant, PAC
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80207
Chad is a Physician Assistant (PA-C) with a Certificate of Added Qualification in Psychiatry (CAQ-Psych) who graduated from DeSales University in 2018. Originally from Texas, he has lived and practiced in Texas, Pennsylvania, and now Colorado. Chad’s focus is in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry having worked with kids in inpatient hospitals, outpatient clinics, and embedded in an underserved pediatric clinic. He has provided consult services at a children’s hospital and for a state-funded hotline for medical staff who had mental health questions regarding their pediatric patients.
Chad is a Physician Assistant (PA-C) with a Certificate of Added Qualification in Psychiatry (CAQ-Psych) who graduated from DeSales University in 2018. Originally from Texas, he has lived and practiced in Texas, Pennsylvania, and now Colorado. Chad’s focus is in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry having worked with kids in inpatient hospitals, outpatient clinics, and embedded in an underserved pediatric clinic. He has provided consult services at a children’s hospital and for a state-funded hotline for medical staff who had mental health questions regarding their pediatric patients.
Sarah Stalder
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80212
I believe in a holistic, non-judgmental and client-centered approach to mental health care. I enjoy partnering with clients in their care and walking alongside them in their journey. Each and every one of us has a story and we all have unique inner strengths to face challenges in life. I enjoy fostering these strengths in addition to utilizing tools, such as medication management and/or nutritional supplements to assist clients in achieving their goals and the picture of health that is unique to them.
I believe in a holistic, non-judgmental and client-centered approach to mental health care. I enjoy partnering with clients in their care and walking alongside them in their journey. Each and every one of us has a story and we all have unique inner strengths to face challenges in life. I enjoy fostering these strengths in addition to utilizing tools, such as medication management and/or nutritional supplements to assist clients in achieving their goals and the picture of health that is unique to them.
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Rick Loonam
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80239
Now Scheduling New Patients! I'm Rick, a compassionate and board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. With a solid foundation as a former flight and emergency department nurse, I bring over 15 years of invaluable experience to my practice. Graduating from Regis University in Denver, I'm dedicated to providing the highest quality care to my clients.
Now Scheduling New Patients! I'm Rick, a compassionate and board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. With a solid foundation as a former flight and emergency department nurse, I bring over 15 years of invaluable experience to my practice. Graduating from Regis University in Denver, I'm dedicated to providing the highest quality care to my clients.
Neil Weiner
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80209
I have practiced psychiatry in Denver for the past thirty years and have been both an educator and leader in the Denver psychiatric community. I currently serve on the senior clinical faculty in the departments of psychiatry and family medicine at the University of Colorado. I served as medical director at the University of Colorado's Depression Center, The Colorado Anxiety Disorders Institute, the Health-One hospital system and Bethesda Psychiatric Hospital. Treatment approaches include psychotherapy, medication management when needed, and holistic approaches. Visit my website at neilweinermd.com for information about my qualifications, treatment philosophy and areas of specialization.
I have practiced psychiatry in Denver for the past thirty years and have been both an educator and leader in the Denver psychiatric community. I currently serve on the senior clinical faculty in the departments of psychiatry and family medicine at the University of Colorado. I served as medical director at the University of Colorado's Depression Center, The Colorado Anxiety Disorders Institute, the Health-One hospital system and Bethesda Psychiatric Hospital. Treatment approaches include psychotherapy, medication management when needed, and holistic approaches. Visit my website at neilweinermd.com for information about my qualifications, treatment philosophy and areas of specialization.
Naira Numanovic - Avena Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80246
Accepting new clients! Appointments are typically available within 3 business days. As a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner, my dedication is centered on supporting you through life's challenges and assisting you in realizing your utmost potential. I provide a secure environment where individuals can openly discuss their mental health concerns.
Accepting new clients! Appointments are typically available within 3 business days. As a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner, my dedication is centered on supporting you through life's challenges and assisting you in realizing your utmost potential. I provide a secure environment where individuals can openly discuss their mental health concerns.
James H Niforatos
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, AAT, ADHD-CC, PS
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80209
Working as an independent provider providing psychiatric care from my office, White Hart PMH, I help clients who struggle with depression, anxiety, and attention deficit disorder by establishing an understanding of the progression and management of these conditions improving the overall quality of personal, academic, and professional life by bringing together physiologic (medication management), psychologic (psychotherapy support, cognitive processes, mindfulness), and lifestyle (food as medicine, physical activity strategies, avoidance or reduction of risky substances). Treatment is holistic focusing on multiple pillars of health.
Working as an independent provider providing psychiatric care from my office, White Hart PMH, I help clients who struggle with depression, anxiety, and attention deficit disorder by establishing an understanding of the progression and management of these conditions improving the overall quality of personal, academic, and professional life by bringing together physiologic (medication management), psychologic (psychotherapy support, cognitive processes, mindfulness), and lifestyle (food as medicine, physical activity strategies, avoidance or reduction of risky substances). Treatment is holistic focusing on multiple pillars of health.
Optimal Mental Health Virtual Clinical, PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, CRNP, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80202 (Online Only)
Are you an adult struggling with feelings of depression or anxiety? Do you often find yourself overwhelmed by life's stressors, such as relationship issues, career uncertainties, financial difficulties, health concerns, or even the joy and stress of getting married? Are you navigating the challenging waters of grief and loss? If any of these resonate with you, I want you to know that you are not alone. We understand how these concerns can make you feel isolated, with no one to share your struggles with. But remember, reaching out for help is a strength, not a weakness.
Are you an adult struggling with feelings of depression or anxiety? Do you often find yourself overwhelmed by life's stressors, such as relationship issues, career uncertainties, financial difficulties, health concerns, or even the joy and stress of getting married? Are you navigating the challenging waters of grief and loss? If any of these resonate with you, I want you to know that you are not alone. We understand how these concerns can make you feel isolated, with no one to share your struggles with. But remember, reaching out for help is a strength, not a weakness.
Hilary Holmes
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80246 (Online Only)
New appointments available within 1 week! Now Accepting Aetna, Cigna, Optum and United Healthcare Insurances. As a board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, Hilary is licensed and trained to treat behavioral health concerns across the lifespan. Specific clinical interests include: integrative psychiatry, disordered eating, addiction, as well as adolescent and young adult issues. She treats clients age 12 and up.
New appointments available within 1 week! Now Accepting Aetna, Cigna, Optum and United Healthcare Insurances. As a board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, Hilary is licensed and trained to treat behavioral health concerns across the lifespan. Specific clinical interests include: integrative psychiatry, disordered eating, addiction, as well as adolescent and young adult issues. She treats clients age 12 and up.
Kimbrelee Ray
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80209 (Online Only)
Accepting new clients for medication management with immediate availability! Private insurance and Medicaid accepted. I am a double board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC and CARN-AP). I graduated from the University of Alabama in 2022. I have 11 years of experience. I believe my clients should be heard and be involved in their treatment plan. Each client should have evidence-based care tailored to their needs. Please feel free to book directly at Trendmentalhealth.com, or you can reach our scheduling team directly at 720.443.1691 (call or text)
Accepting new clients for medication management with immediate availability! Private insurance and Medicaid accepted. I am a double board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC and CARN-AP). I graduated from the University of Alabama in 2022. I have 11 years of experience. I believe my clients should be heard and be involved in their treatment plan. Each client should have evidence-based care tailored to their needs. Please feel free to book directly at Trendmentalhealth.com, or you can reach our scheduling team directly at 720.443.1691 (call or text)
Amy Steele
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNPBC, APN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80216 (Online Only)
Accepting New Clients! Hello! I am a master’s prepared, board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner providing treatment across the lifespan. I provide mental health diagnosis, treatment, and medication management for mood disorders, emotional/behavioral disturbances, attention/concentration disturbances, troubled thought patterns, and trauma. I have a particular interest in children and adolescents dealing with depression and anxiety. To schedule an appointment, please visit peakinteractivewellness.com and submit an appointment inquiry, requesting me as your preferred provider.
Accepting New Clients! Hello! I am a master’s prepared, board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner providing treatment across the lifespan. I provide mental health diagnosis, treatment, and medication management for mood disorders, emotional/behavioral disturbances, attention/concentration disturbances, troubled thought patterns, and trauma. I have a particular interest in children and adolescents dealing with depression and anxiety. To schedule an appointment, please visit peakinteractivewellness.com and submit an appointment inquiry, requesting me as your preferred provider.
Brandon D Burelle
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80203
I understand that choosing to see a specialist and starting or changing medications can be difficult and confusing. My goal as a provider is to work collaboratively with my patients to maximize the benefits of medications and leverage the potential of the therapeutic relationship to improve beyond "I'm doing okay." Medications and therapy should always support further engagement in our lives, improvement in our state of mind, insight, and acceptance of ourselves (warts & all). As a nurse practitioner specializing in psychiatric treatment, I work with clients of all ages, including children and adolescents.
I understand that choosing to see a specialist and starting or changing medications can be difficult and confusing. My goal as a provider is to work collaboratively with my patients to maximize the benefits of medications and leverage the potential of the therapeutic relationship to improve beyond "I'm doing okay." Medications and therapy should always support further engagement in our lives, improvement in our state of mind, insight, and acceptance of ourselves (warts & all). As a nurse practitioner specializing in psychiatric treatment, I work with clients of all ages, including children and adolescents.
See more therapy options for Denver
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Denver, CO
400+
Average cost per session
$225
Psychiatrists in Denver, CO who prioritize treating:
97% | Anxiety |
95% | Depression |
88% | Medication Management |
83% | Bipolar Disorder |
82% | ADHD |
79% | Trauma and PTSD |
72% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
Average years in practice
9 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
92% | Cigna and Evernorth |
91% | Aetna |
91% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Psychiatrists in Denver, CO see their clients
64% | In Person and Online | |
36% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
68% | Female | |
32% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Denver?
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.