Psychiatrists in Miami, FL
Envision Mindcare, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, FNP-BC, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Miami, FL 33137
Lourdes E. Velazquez Perez, ARNP, FNP B-C, PMHNP-BC is a professionally trained Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with a strong background in psychiatric services. She is a foreign Medical Doctor who graduated in Cuba from the University of Medicine of Havana, “Calixto Garcia.” She has more than eight years of experience in the medical field. She treats patients with psychiatric conditions like depression, anxiety disorders, ADHD, Bipolar Disorder, and other mental health diagnoses. She is passionate and dedicated to her work and patients’ health outcomes.
Lourdes E. Velazquez Perez, ARNP, FNP B-C, PMHNP-BC is a professionally trained Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with a strong background in psychiatric services. She is a foreign Medical Doctor who graduated in Cuba from the University of Medicine of Havana, “Calixto Garcia.” She has more than eight years of experience in the medical field. She treats patients with psychiatric conditions like depression, anxiety disorders, ADHD, Bipolar Disorder, and other mental health diagnoses. She is passionate and dedicated to her work and patients’ health outcomes.
Envision Mindcare LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Miami, FL 33137
Laura Pinero, APRN, PMHNP-BC Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and currently assisting patient's needs in Envision Mindcare with our focus on mental health and wellness. Laura speaks both English and Spanish fluently. This linguistic proficiency, coupled with her innate empathy, has been instrumental in her ability to connect with and provide comprehensive care to patients from various cultural backgrounds. Her dedication, empathy, and commitment to cultural competence make her a valued healthcare provider in the vibrant and diverse city of Miami.
Laura Pinero, APRN, PMHNP-BC Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and currently assisting patient's needs in Envision Mindcare with our focus on mental health and wellness. Laura speaks both English and Spanish fluently. This linguistic proficiency, coupled with her innate empathy, has been instrumental in her ability to connect with and provide comprehensive care to patients from various cultural backgrounds. Her dedication, empathy, and commitment to cultural competence make her a valued healthcare provider in the vibrant and diverse city of Miami.
Dr. Chenhang Zou
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Miami, FL 33131
Embark on your healing journey with Dr. Zou, a Board-certified psychiatrist who blends the precision of medicine with the art of psychotherapy. Trained at Emory and UAlabama, Dr. Zou is expert at integrating medication management and psychotherapy, including CBT. But her approach is not just about effective treatment; it's about empowering you with self-knowledge and tools for sustainable mental well-being. With Dr. Zou, you can explore a personalized, empathetic approach that resonates uniquely with you.
Embark on your healing journey with Dr. Zou, a Board-certified psychiatrist who blends the precision of medicine with the art of psychotherapy. Trained at Emory and UAlabama, Dr. Zou is expert at integrating medication management and psychotherapy, including CBT. But her approach is not just about effective treatment; it's about empowering you with self-knowledge and tools for sustainable mental well-being. With Dr. Zou, you can explore a personalized, empathetic approach that resonates uniquely with you.
Dorrett McDonald-Lovell
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Miami, FL 33130 (Online Only)
Dorrett McDonald-Lovell is a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC) who is a virtual provider in Florida. She is deeply committed to providing individualized and culturally competent care. She possesses a broad range of experience in treating mentally ill individuals from various demographic backgrounds. Her expertise spans a wide array of mental health disorders, including, but not limited to, bipolar disorder, depression, anxiety, panic attacks, sleep disorders, and trauma. She employs a patient-centered therapeutic approach, focusing on the individual's needs, goals, and circumstances.
Dorrett McDonald-Lovell is a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC) who is a virtual provider in Florida. She is deeply committed to providing individualized and culturally competent care. She possesses a broad range of experience in treating mentally ill individuals from various demographic backgrounds. Her expertise spans a wide array of mental health disorders, including, but not limited to, bipolar disorder, depression, anxiety, panic attacks, sleep disorders, and trauma. She employs a patient-centered therapeutic approach, focusing on the individual's needs, goals, and circumstances.
Michael Boas
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN-BC
Verified Verified
Miami, FL 33131 (Online Only)
I work with a wide array of individuals. I have chosen to focus on ADHD/ADD, anxiety, & depression, which are issues personal to me. The only thing I ask of my clients is that they are invested in themselves and our treatment plan. I promise to give my all to you and just want the same commitment back.
I work with a wide array of individuals. I have chosen to focus on ADHD/ADD, anxiety, & depression, which are issues personal to me. The only thing I ask of my clients is that they are invested in themselves and our treatment plan. I promise to give my all to you and just want the same commitment back.
Vivian Lockett
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Miami, FL 33130 (Online Only)
Have you been feeling anxious, unhappy, and overwhelmed? Have you been in therapy, and considering adding or changing medications to improve your symptoms? I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, who focuses on the whole person, with a foundation in Christian principles. I do not prescribe controlled substances, and I am happy to help you find alternative options as it relates to medication management. My goal is to help you manage conditions including help depression, mood disorder, and anxiety, to name a few keeping the whole person in mind, individualizing a personalized plan based on medical history,
Have you been feeling anxious, unhappy, and overwhelmed? Have you been in therapy, and considering adding or changing medications to improve your symptoms? I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, who focuses on the whole person, with a foundation in Christian principles. I do not prescribe controlled substances, and I am happy to help you find alternative options as it relates to medication management. My goal is to help you manage conditions including help depression, mood disorder, and anxiety, to name a few keeping the whole person in mind, individualizing a personalized plan based on medical history,
Elevate Psychiatry Doral
Psychiatrist, MD, PA-C, PMHNP, LMHC, LPC
Verified Verified
Miami, FL 33166
Elevate Psychiatry Doral provides friendly, affordable psychiatric care in Doral! We offer comprehensive psychiatric evaluation, medication management, and therapy for common mental health disorders including depression, anxiety, bipolar, and ADHD. Our patients receive expert, individualized care with dedicated time to spend with your provider. We include telepsychiatry, e-prescriptions, and DNA swab testing in our services. We're proud that our patients have rated Elevate Psychiatry the number one Psychiatrist in Miami on Yelp!
Elevate Psychiatry Doral provides friendly, affordable psychiatric care in Doral! We offer comprehensive psychiatric evaluation, medication management, and therapy for common mental health disorders including depression, anxiety, bipolar, and ADHD. Our patients receive expert, individualized care with dedicated time to spend with your provider. We include telepsychiatry, e-prescriptions, and DNA swab testing in our services. We're proud that our patients have rated Elevate Psychiatry the number one Psychiatrist in Miami on Yelp!
Today Telemedicine
Psychiatrist, PA-C
Verified Verified
Miami, FL 33131 (Online Only)
ADD/ADHD computer testing and stimulants (Adderall, Vyvanse ect) available for Florida residents via telemedicine. see program details. fully online psychiatry, therapy and urgent care. Genetic testing for psychiatric medication available (nearly all medication available except NO benzodiazepines) . Easy self-scheduling from our website www.TodayTelemedicine.com and book a session this week! Insurance accepted, self pay rates initial visit $199, follow ups $99, Qb Test for ADD/ADHD $130.
ADD/ADHD computer testing and stimulants (Adderall, Vyvanse ect) available for Florida residents via telemedicine. see program details. fully online psychiatry, therapy and urgent care. Genetic testing for psychiatric medication available (nearly all medication available except NO benzodiazepines) . Easy self-scheduling from our website www.TodayTelemedicine.com and book a session this week! Insurance accepted, self pay rates initial visit $199, follow ups $99, Qb Test for ADD/ADHD $130.
Leilani R Davis
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, RN, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Miami, FL 33187 (Online Only)
Taking care of your mental health is one of the best gifts one can give themselves.
Taking care of your mental health is one of the best gifts one can give themselves.
Randy T Warner
Psychiatrist, MD, ABN
Verified Verified
Miami, FL 33137
Each and every individual is unique and has had their own collective experience to shape the person that they have become. Also, each and every individual has variances in how they might respond to standard or novel treatments. Decades of experience in post-residency training and thousands of patients of all ages later have shaped my treatment approach. That would be one that is extremely methodical. You can be assured that every step along the way will be executed to the highest professional standards. I will work tirelessly to see that you are returned to your baseline functioning and won't stop trying until that is attained.
Each and every individual is unique and has had their own collective experience to shape the person that they have become. Also, each and every individual has variances in how they might respond to standard or novel treatments. Decades of experience in post-residency training and thousands of patients of all ages later have shaped my treatment approach. That would be one that is extremely methodical. You can be assured that every step along the way will be executed to the highest professional standards. I will work tirelessly to see that you are returned to your baseline functioning and won't stop trying until that is attained.
Envision Mindcare LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Miami, FL 33137
Margarita Lopez, APRN, PMHNP-BC Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and currently assisting patient's needs in Envision Mindcare with our focus on mental health and wellness. Margarita's experience has helped her develop an in-depth understanding of the healthcare needs of her community, and she is dedicated to supporting the underserved and ensuring that all her patients receive the best possible care. She is committed to providing a safe and supportive environment where her patients can feel comfortable sharing their concerns and working together towards their goals.
Margarita Lopez, APRN, PMHNP-BC Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and currently assisting patient's needs in Envision Mindcare with our focus on mental health and wellness. Margarita's experience has helped her develop an in-depth understanding of the healthcare needs of her community, and she is dedicated to supporting the underserved and ensuring that all her patients receive the best possible care. She is committed to providing a safe and supportive environment where her patients can feel comfortable sharing their concerns and working together towards their goals.
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Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Miami, FL 33174 (Online Only)
As a doctorally prepared and board certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I subscribe to a blended mental health needs approach. That is, clinical expertise in diagnosing and treating mental health conditions, with an added emphasis on patient-centered care and holistic management. I aim to provide a comprehensive perspective and personal touch to psychiatric care. Specialized training and focus areas include LGBTQ practice sensitivity, ADHD, anxiety, child and adolescents, depression, as well as sleep disturbances.
As a doctorally prepared and board certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I subscribe to a blended mental health needs approach. That is, clinical expertise in diagnosing and treating mental health conditions, with an added emphasis on patient-centered care and holistic management. I aim to provide a comprehensive perspective and personal touch to psychiatric care. Specialized training and focus areas include LGBTQ practice sensitivity, ADHD, anxiety, child and adolescents, depression, as well as sleep disturbances.
Envision Mindcare, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, FNP-BC, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Miami, FL 33137
Lourdes E. Velazquez Perez, ARNP, FNP B-C, PMHNP-BC is a professionally trained Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with a strong background in psychiatric services. She is a foreign Medical Doctor who graduated in Cuba from the University of Medicine of Havana, “Calixto Garcia.” She has more than eight years of experience in the medical field. She treats patients with psychiatric conditions like depression, anxiety disorders, ADHD, Bipolar Disorder, and other mental health diagnoses. She is passionate and dedicated to her work and patients’ health outcomes.
Lourdes E. Velazquez Perez, ARNP, FNP B-C, PMHNP-BC is a professionally trained Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with a strong background in psychiatric services. She is a foreign Medical Doctor who graduated in Cuba from the University of Medicine of Havana, “Calixto Garcia.” She has more than eight years of experience in the medical field. She treats patients with psychiatric conditions like depression, anxiety disorders, ADHD, Bipolar Disorder, and other mental health diagnoses. She is passionate and dedicated to her work and patients’ health outcomes.
SSM Behavioral Health Inc
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC, PPCNPBC, FMG
Verified Verified
Miami, FL 33169 (Online Only)
Has your child been acting differently lately? Are they easily angered, irritable, having nightmares, difficulty sleeping, isolating, having interrupted appetite, hyperactive, declining in school performance, not finding joy in activities or not communicating? Are you the caretaker of an elderly family member? Have you recognized them isolating, tearful, declining in communication, decreased appetite, sad or lonely? Undiagnosed psychiatric illnesses can cause major decline in function in the family setting, at work, at school, and in the community. SSM Behavioral Health experts are here to help optimize your quality of life
Has your child been acting differently lately? Are they easily angered, irritable, having nightmares, difficulty sleeping, isolating, having interrupted appetite, hyperactive, declining in school performance, not finding joy in activities or not communicating? Are you the caretaker of an elderly family member? Have you recognized them isolating, tearful, declining in communication, decreased appetite, sad or lonely? Undiagnosed psychiatric illnesses can cause major decline in function in the family setting, at work, at school, and in the community. SSM Behavioral Health experts are here to help optimize your quality of life
Silvia Cuba
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Miami, FL 33183
As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I believe that addressing mental health concerns is just as important as addressing physical concerns. I enjoy working with a wide array of clients and assisting with their mental health needs. I am described as personable and caring, and desire to provide an individualized approach to treatment in a safe and welcoming environment. I specialize in treating Anxiety, Depression, and Women's Health. I am bilingual in English and Spanish.
As a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I believe that addressing mental health concerns is just as important as addressing physical concerns. I enjoy working with a wide array of clients and assisting with their mental health needs. I am described as personable and caring, and desire to provide an individualized approach to treatment in a safe and welcoming environment. I specialize in treating Anxiety, Depression, and Women's Health. I am bilingual in English and Spanish.
Envision Mindcare, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Miami, FL 33137
Yumays Torres, ARRN, PMHNP-BC Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and currently assisting patient's needs in Envision Mindcare with our focus on mental health and wellness. As a first-generation graduate, I received my master’s degree from St. Thomas University and started treating patients in 2023. As a compassionate caregiver and advocate for patient-centered care, I previously worked in hospital, outpatient, and telehealth settings as a Registered Nurse for 7 years in Miami, FL.
Yumays Torres, ARRN, PMHNP-BC Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and currently assisting patient's needs in Envision Mindcare with our focus on mental health and wellness. As a first-generation graduate, I received my master’s degree from St. Thomas University and started treating patients in 2023. As a compassionate caregiver and advocate for patient-centered care, I previously worked in hospital, outpatient, and telehealth settings as a Registered Nurse for 7 years in Miami, FL.
Envision Mindcare LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Miami, FL 33137
Margarita Lopez, APRN, PMHNP-BC Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and currently assisting patient's needs in Envision Mindcare with our focus on mental health and wellness. Margarita's experience has helped her develop an in-depth understanding of the healthcare needs of her community, and she is dedicated to supporting the underserved and ensuring that all her patients receive the best possible care. She is committed to providing a safe and supportive environment where her patients can feel comfortable sharing their concerns and working together towards their goals.
Margarita Lopez, APRN, PMHNP-BC Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and currently assisting patient's needs in Envision Mindcare with our focus on mental health and wellness. Margarita's experience has helped her develop an in-depth understanding of the healthcare needs of her community, and she is dedicated to supporting the underserved and ensuring that all her patients receive the best possible care. She is committed to providing a safe and supportive environment where her patients can feel comfortable sharing their concerns and working together towards their goals.
Lucia Ricardo
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Miami, FL 33131
Hey there, I'm proficient bilingual physician, who has undergone training in both adult and pediatric psychiatry. I completed my Adult Psychiatry Residency at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai in Elmhurst, NY, where I acquired the skills to manage diverse and high-risk populations. Later, I returned to her hometown and pursued her Child and Adolescent Psychiatry Fellowship at the University of Miami’s Miller School of Medicine.
Hey there, I'm proficient bilingual physician, who has undergone training in both adult and pediatric psychiatry. I completed my Adult Psychiatry Residency at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai in Elmhurst, NY, where I acquired the skills to manage diverse and high-risk populations. Later, I returned to her hometown and pursued her Child and Adolescent Psychiatry Fellowship at the University of Miami’s Miller School of Medicine.
Kelly Lidz
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC, MSN
Verified Verified
Miami, FL 33137 (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
I am an ANCC board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with 10 years of practice as an RN and NP. I received my bachelor's and master of science in nursing from Columbia University. I have experience working in medication management; psychodynamic therapy (individual, family/couples, and group); cognitive behavioral therapy; motivational interviewing; psychiatric, psychotic, and personality disorders; PTSD; ADHD. I specialize in young adults and adult population.
I am an ANCC board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with 10 years of practice as an RN and NP. I received my bachelor's and master of science in nursing from Columbia University. I have experience working in medication management; psychodynamic therapy (individual, family/couples, and group); cognitive behavioral therapy; motivational interviewing; psychiatric, psychotic, and personality disorders; PTSD; ADHD. I specialize in young adults and adult population.
Envision Mindcare, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, FNP-BC, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Miami, FL 33137
Lourdes E. Velazquez Perez, ARNP, FNP B-C, PMHNP-BC is a professionally trained Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with a strong background in psychiatric services. She is a foreign Medical Doctor who graduated in Cuba from the University of Medicine of Havana, “Calixto Garcia.” She has more than eight years of experience in the medical field. She treats patients with psychiatric conditions like depression, anxiety disorders, ADHD, Bipolar Disorder, and other mental health diagnoses. She is passionate and dedicated to her work and patients’ health outcomes.
Lourdes E. Velazquez Perez, ARNP, FNP B-C, PMHNP-BC is a professionally trained Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with a strong background in psychiatric services. She is a foreign Medical Doctor who graduated in Cuba from the University of Medicine of Havana, “Calixto Garcia.” She has more than eight years of experience in the medical field. She treats patients with psychiatric conditions like depression, anxiety disorders, ADHD, Bipolar Disorder, and other mental health diagnoses. She is passionate and dedicated to her work and patients’ health outcomes.
See more therapy options for Miami
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Miami, FL
400+
Average cost per session
$160
Psychiatrists in Miami, FL who prioritize treating:
96% | Depression |
96% | Anxiety |
81% | Bipolar Disorder |
78% | Trauma and PTSD |
76% | ADHD |
72% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
70% | Medication Management |
Average years in practice
8 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
96% | Cigna and Evernorth |
92% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
90% | Aetna |
How Psychiatrists in Miami, FL see their clients
50% | In Person and Online | |
50% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
74% | Female | |
26% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Miami?
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.