Psychiatrists in Seattle, WA
Dr. Mark Ellestad
Psychiatrist, MD, ABPN
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98103 (Online Only)
Hi! I am a Notre Dame and University of Washington trained addiction and integrative psychiatrist who believes that connection and compassion are at the heart of psychiatry. I integrate holistic approaches with scientifically proven methods and focus on delivering personalized treatment for depression, anxiety, ADHD, and trauma for people who might also struggle with chronic medical conditions, chronic pain, or addiction. My practice is not limited to treating just these conditions. As a gay psychiatrist, I also have lived-experience of the challenges LGBTQIA+ individuals face. I connect and enjoy working with this community.
Hi! I am a Notre Dame and University of Washington trained addiction and integrative psychiatrist who believes that connection and compassion are at the heart of psychiatry. I integrate holistic approaches with scientifically proven methods and focus on delivering personalized treatment for depression, anxiety, ADHD, and trauma for people who might also struggle with chronic medical conditions, chronic pain, or addiction. My practice is not limited to treating just these conditions. As a gay psychiatrist, I also have lived-experience of the challenges LGBTQIA+ individuals face. I connect and enjoy working with this community.
Dr. Michael Krausser@ Family Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98103
Dr. Michael Krausser is a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse practitioner that earned his Medical degree from the University of Washington. A native Seattleite, he enjoys serving patients within the greater Seattle community and is qualified to treat a wide variety of mental health issues across the lifespan. Mike utilizes a holistic approach, to improving the mental health of his patients.
Dr. Michael Krausser is a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse practitioner that earned his Medical degree from the University of Washington. A native Seattleite, he enjoys serving patients within the greater Seattle community and is qualified to treat a wide variety of mental health issues across the lifespan. Mike utilizes a holistic approach, to improving the mental health of his patients.
Dr. Natalie Dreyfoos
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98102
I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with prescriptive authority. I manage and treat all psychiatric conditions with particular interest in ADHD, mood disorders, anxiety, and psycho-oncology. I possess strong skills in medication management, brief supportive psychotherapy and meaning centered psychotherapy.
I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with prescriptive authority. I manage and treat all psychiatric conditions with particular interest in ADHD, mood disorders, anxiety, and psycho-oncology. I possess strong skills in medication management, brief supportive psychotherapy and meaning centered psychotherapy.
Callie McEwen
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98107
I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner passionate about providing holistic and compassionate mental health services to adolescents and adults ages 14 and older. Safety and evidence-based practice are my priority when creating a successful comprehensive treatment plan for my clients. I help my clients find effective medications with minimal side effects and achieve greater wellness with lifestyle modifications. I aim to work together as a collaborative team and may refer for additional testing and support.
I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner passionate about providing holistic and compassionate mental health services to adolescents and adults ages 14 and older. Safety and evidence-based practice are my priority when creating a successful comprehensive treatment plan for my clients. I help my clients find effective medications with minimal side effects and achieve greater wellness with lifestyle modifications. I aim to work together as a collaborative team and may refer for additional testing and support.
Jusu Williams
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC, ARNP, MSN, BSN, RN
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98119
I believe in the willpower of every man. We can tap into our potential only if we believe and work diligently. This is where I come in. I will listen attentively and work with you and your loved ones/caregivers collaboratively to ensure you tap into your potential and live a healthier and more meaningful life. When I am not working, I love to spend time with my family and cooking. I also love playing and watching soccer. I have embraced the NFL and enjoy watching my team (I will not disclose for now) take care of business. This journey is not yours alone to walk. We are all in this together!
I believe in the willpower of every man. We can tap into our potential only if we believe and work diligently. This is where I come in. I will listen attentively and work with you and your loved ones/caregivers collaboratively to ensure you tap into your potential and live a healthier and more meaningful life. When I am not working, I love to spend time with my family and cooking. I also love playing and watching soccer. I have embraced the NFL and enjoy watching my team (I will not disclose for now) take care of business. This journey is not yours alone to walk. We are all in this together!
Christopher Garrity
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98112
I partner with my patients because I believe the best healthcare decisions are made when both provider and patient work together. Reach out to me if you are looking for a voice in your own healthcare, looking for someone who thoroughly understands medications and wants to be listened to very carefully. Contact me if you need someone who understands your anxiety and depression and is willing to comprehend your unique situation. Perhaps you are looking to make a change but don't know how to make the first step. Or perhaps you are tired of feeling a certain way but don't know how to articulate your feelings. Reach out!
I partner with my patients because I believe the best healthcare decisions are made when both provider and patient work together. Reach out to me if you are looking for a voice in your own healthcare, looking for someone who thoroughly understands medications and wants to be listened to very carefully. Contact me if you need someone who understands your anxiety and depression and is willing to comprehend your unique situation. Perhaps you are looking to make a change but don't know how to make the first step. Or perhaps you are tired of feeling a certain way but don't know how to articulate your feelings. Reach out!
William V Healey
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98104
PROVIDING ACCURATE DIAGNOSIS AND INDIVIDUALIZED TREATMENT Serving Seattle for over 25 years - Dr. Healey is a board-certified and HIMS-approved psychiatrist. He specializes in working with adolescents and adults, age 15 and older, suffering with depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety and panic disorders, OCD, eating disorders and ADD-spectrum disorders. Dr. William Healey also specializes in FAA Mental Health Examinations. He has performed psychiatric evaluations of pilots needing mental health clearance for medical re-certification for more than 20 years.
PROVIDING ACCURATE DIAGNOSIS AND INDIVIDUALIZED TREATMENT Serving Seattle for over 25 years - Dr. Healey is a board-certified and HIMS-approved psychiatrist. He specializes in working with adolescents and adults, age 15 and older, suffering with depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety and panic disorders, OCD, eating disorders and ADD-spectrum disorders. Dr. William Healey also specializes in FAA Mental Health Examinations. He has performed psychiatric evaluations of pilots needing mental health clearance for medical re-certification for more than 20 years.
Kathryn (Kat) McNeil
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNPc, PMHNPbc
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98119
Do you think you have ADHD, but aren't sure? Well, I can help! I now offer computer-based, objective testing to help with ADHD diagnosis and treatment monitoring. These tests are used in combination with a clinical assessment and rating scale to help reduce bias and improve patient outcomes. If you believe you suffer from ADHD but have been met with skepticism about your symptoms, these tests can help you. Now taking cash-pay patients/consults for AZ, NV, OR and insurance-pay patients/consults for WA.
Do you think you have ADHD, but aren't sure? Well, I can help! I now offer computer-based, objective testing to help with ADHD diagnosis and treatment monitoring. These tests are used in combination with a clinical assessment and rating scale to help reduce bias and improve patient outcomes. If you believe you suffer from ADHD but have been met with skepticism about your symptoms, these tests can help you. Now taking cash-pay patients/consults for AZ, NV, OR and insurance-pay patients/consults for WA.
Debra Rice PLLC.
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98107 (Online Only)
I am now accepting Medicare clients! Welcome to my practice! My extensive experience in Mental Health, over 20 years experience with adults, adolescents and children, includes both inpatient and outpatient contexts. Our journey toward your mental health goals entails a commitment to our partnership. I often remind my clients, We accomplish this together. I am the expert on mental health diagnoses, medications, and treatments, and you are the expert on you. To ensure successful treatment, and achieve your goals, we both need
I am now accepting Medicare clients! Welcome to my practice! My extensive experience in Mental Health, over 20 years experience with adults, adolescents and children, includes both inpatient and outpatient contexts. Our journey toward your mental health goals entails a commitment to our partnership. I often remind my clients, We accomplish this together. I am the expert on mental health diagnoses, medications, and treatments, and you are the expert on you. To ensure successful treatment, and achieve your goals, we both need
Uchenna Joseph Ekeabu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DBA, MBA, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98103 (Online Only)
Central to my professional ethos is the belief in holistic and patient-centered care, recognizing the multifaceted nature of individuals and their unique healthcare needs. By approaching patients with cultural sensitivity and an empathetic demeanor, I aim to foster a therapeutic environment that empowers patients to actively participate in their care decisions. As the cornerstone of my practice, each patient is regarded as a vital partner in their treatment journey. I will invest ample time to comprehend their individual circumstances, listen attentively to their concerns, and collaborate closely to develop tailored treatment plans.
Central to my professional ethos is the belief in holistic and patient-centered care, recognizing the multifaceted nature of individuals and their unique healthcare needs. By approaching patients with cultural sensitivity and an empathetic demeanor, I aim to foster a therapeutic environment that empowers patients to actively participate in their care decisions. As the cornerstone of my practice, each patient is regarded as a vital partner in their treatment journey. I will invest ample time to comprehend their individual circumstances, listen attentively to their concerns, and collaborate closely to develop tailored treatment plans.
Maycelin Ramos
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98121 (Online Only)
I am a doctoral-prepared licensed Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I have a strong background in acute, subacute and chronic mental health disorders stemming from at least 10 years of inpatient psychiatric and mental health care experience. Though I am certified to work with all ages, I believe that I especially excel in working with adult individuals who are particularly having difficulty from various mood disorders and anxiety disorders along with schizophrenia spectrum disorders.
I am a doctoral-prepared licensed Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I have a strong background in acute, subacute and chronic mental health disorders stemming from at least 10 years of inpatient psychiatric and mental health care experience. Though I am certified to work with all ages, I believe that I especially excel in working with adult individuals who are particularly having difficulty from various mood disorders and anxiety disorders along with schizophrenia spectrum disorders.
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Chanin Jeanine Hanson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98103
I provide comprehensive psychiatric intake assessment, evaluation, and diagnosis of psychiatric mental health conditions. As a Psychiatric Mental Health NP, I formulate evidenced based therapeutic interventions including psychopharmacological medication management, psychosocial and behavioral treatment plans and management for Anxiety Disorder, Mood Disorders, ADHD, OCD, Autism and other conditions. I am licensed and trained to prescribe medication when clinically appropriate. This entails clinical evaluation for underlying medical conditions that may be causing or contributing to symptoms.
I provide comprehensive psychiatric intake assessment, evaluation, and diagnosis of psychiatric mental health conditions. As a Psychiatric Mental Health NP, I formulate evidenced based therapeutic interventions including psychopharmacological medication management, psychosocial and behavioral treatment plans and management for Anxiety Disorder, Mood Disorders, ADHD, OCD, Autism and other conditions. I am licensed and trained to prescribe medication when clinically appropriate. This entails clinical evaluation for underlying medical conditions that may be causing or contributing to symptoms.
Amy Renee
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, ARNP, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98103 (Online Only)
-Now accepting clients via telehealth- Is this your first time seeking mental health services or is your current provider not a great fit? Do you have a distrust around medicine? Do you not feel seen or heard? Do you feel alone, depressed, anxious or overwhelmed? You are not alone. You’ve taken the first step. Together, with you in charge, I hope to help you aim to reframe, successfully with life’s challenges through a holistic and person-centered perspective.
-Now accepting clients via telehealth- Is this your first time seeking mental health services or is your current provider not a great fit? Do you have a distrust around medicine? Do you not feel seen or heard? Do you feel alone, depressed, anxious or overwhelmed? You are not alone. You’ve taken the first step. Together, with you in charge, I hope to help you aim to reframe, successfully with life’s challenges through a holistic and person-centered perspective.
Jinn Schladweiler
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MN, OEHN, PMHNP, ARNP
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98115 (Online Only)
I'm a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. I partner with Mindful Therapy Group to provide telehealth care. My focus is providing medication management for adults recovering from trauma, depression, bipolar disorder and anxiety disorders. I use a patient-centered, holistic approach to help patients meet their goals. I do not treat eating disorders, ADD/ADHD or pregnant or breastfeeding patients. I do not handle L&I or disability claims, or any claims intended legal purposes. I do not provide detailed evaluations. If you need weekly therapy, please look for a therapist.
I'm a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. I partner with Mindful Therapy Group to provide telehealth care. My focus is providing medication management for adults recovering from trauma, depression, bipolar disorder and anxiety disorders. I use a patient-centered, holistic approach to help patients meet their goals. I do not treat eating disorders, ADD/ADHD or pregnant or breastfeeding patients. I do not handle L&I or disability claims, or any claims intended legal purposes. I do not provide detailed evaluations. If you need weekly therapy, please look for a therapist.
Ann M Griffin
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, ARNP
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98119 (Online Only)
I specialize in medication management for adults age 20 and up. I emphasize a holistic approach, focusing on multiple factors that contribute to overall functioning, mental health, and wellbeing. Education is a fundamental component of my approach, so I strongly believe in empowering each client with the knowledge to take an active role in their treatment. The therapeutic alliance I develop with each of my clients is based on trust, open communication, compassion, and respect, which cultivates positive development, recovery, and healing. With this focus, I hope to serve as a guide to help clients meet their goals.
I specialize in medication management for adults age 20 and up. I emphasize a holistic approach, focusing on multiple factors that contribute to overall functioning, mental health, and wellbeing. Education is a fundamental component of my approach, so I strongly believe in empowering each client with the knowledge to take an active role in their treatment. The therapeutic alliance I develop with each of my clients is based on trust, open communication, compassion, and respect, which cultivates positive development, recovery, and healing. With this focus, I hope to serve as a guide to help clients meet their goals.
Holistic Behavioral Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, ARNP, FNP-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98104
At Holistic Behavioral Health, we embrace an integrated healing approach, respecting and addressing your unique challenges with empathy. Dr. Osakwe, a Doctorate-prepared provider with dual Board-Certification as a Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, boasts 15+ years of delivering high-quality care. She focuses on holistic, personalized care, dedicated to easing stressors and fostering enduring improvement. With diverse in-patient and out-patient experiences, Dr. Osakwe tailors treatment plans to your needs.
At Holistic Behavioral Health, we embrace an integrated healing approach, respecting and addressing your unique challenges with empathy. Dr. Osakwe, a Doctorate-prepared provider with dual Board-Certification as a Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, boasts 15+ years of delivering high-quality care. She focuses on holistic, personalized care, dedicated to easing stressors and fostering enduring improvement. With diverse in-patient and out-patient experiences, Dr. Osakwe tailors treatment plans to your needs.
Shannon Troy Presler
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98119
I've worked in some facet of psychiatric care for over 16 years. Currently, I see patients in private practice, work weekend days at Harborview Medical Center in the psychiatric ER and teach a graduate course on psychopharmacology. When working in private practice I consider it a priority that you know what medication you are taking and why it was chosen, what our 'working diagnosis' is and why, and that you maintain a sense of autonomy and choice regarding the treatments available to you for your needs.
I've worked in some facet of psychiatric care for over 16 years. Currently, I see patients in private practice, work weekend days at Harborview Medical Center in the psychiatric ER and teach a graduate course on psychopharmacology. When working in private practice I consider it a priority that you know what medication you are taking and why it was chosen, what our 'working diagnosis' is and why, and that you maintain a sense of autonomy and choice regarding the treatments available to you for your needs.
Apex Behavioral Health Services,PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98107 (Online Only)
Please click on the website link to request an appointment. My name is Paul Kariuki, MSN PMHNP-BC. I graduated from the University of Texas Arlington and I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health NP. I am delighted to serve patients from preteen to older adults. I am experienced in treating patients with ADHD, depression, anxiety disorders, bipolar disorder, eating disorders, insomnia, substance use disorders among other disorders. I work closely with my patients to finding the best evidence based medication and psychotherapy modalities.
Please click on the website link to request an appointment. My name is Paul Kariuki, MSN PMHNP-BC. I graduated from the University of Texas Arlington and I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health NP. I am delighted to serve patients from preteen to older adults. I am experienced in treating patients with ADHD, depression, anxiety disorders, bipolar disorder, eating disorders, insomnia, substance use disorders among other disorders. I work closely with my patients to finding the best evidence based medication and psychotherapy modalities.
Lynn-Marie Peashka
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98103 (Online Only)
Hello, I look forward to meeting you! My name is Lynn-Marie and I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with 20 years of nursing experience. I specialize in depression, anxiety, PTSD. I earned my Master's Degree in Nursing in Washington State University and work with an amazing group of colleagues at Lavender, an online psychiatry and therapy office, where we believe psychiatric care shouldn't be expensive nor impossible to access.
Hello, I look forward to meeting you! My name is Lynn-Marie and I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with 20 years of nursing experience. I specialize in depression, anxiety, PTSD. I earned my Master's Degree in Nursing in Washington State University and work with an amazing group of colleagues at Lavender, an online psychiatry and therapy office, where we believe psychiatric care shouldn't be expensive nor impossible to access.
Grace Martin
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98107
I have been working as a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner since 2017. Prior to joining Spruce Psychiatric, I was employed at Pacific Medical Centers alongside primary care providers and other medical specialists. This improved my ability to see psychiatric concerns from multiple perspectives (e.g. sleep medicine, neuropsychology, gastroenterology). I understand that physical and mental health are inextricably linked. Finding the right diagnosis is foundational to successful treatment, which is why I devote significant time and care to get this right.
I have been working as a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner since 2017. Prior to joining Spruce Psychiatric, I was employed at Pacific Medical Centers alongside primary care providers and other medical specialists. This improved my ability to see psychiatric concerns from multiple perspectives (e.g. sleep medicine, neuropsychology, gastroenterology). I understand that physical and mental health are inextricably linked. Finding the right diagnosis is foundational to successful treatment, which is why I devote significant time and care to get this right.
See more therapy options for Seattle
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Seattle, WA
500+
Average cost per session
$247
Psychiatrists in Seattle, WA who prioritize treating:
95% | Anxiety |
94% | Depression |
84% | Medication Management |
81% | Bipolar Disorder |
77% | Trauma and PTSD |
75% | ADHD |
71% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
Average years in practice
8 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
79% | Aetna |
74% | Cigna and Evernorth |
66% | Premera |
How Psychiatrists in Seattle, WA see their clients
55% | In Person and Online | |
45% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
70% | Female | |
29% | Male | |
1% | Non-Binary |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Seattle?
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.