Psychiatrists in Philadelphia, PA
Linda Kim
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19118
I strive to offer a holistic and warmer approach to emotional health treatment. I am passionate about supporting people in their life journeys, and have taken specialized training to offer the most comprehensive care possible. My vision is to create a nurturing space that supports you through unique issues that we face – whether it be depression, anxiety, work-life balance, mood disorders in pregnancy, infertility, menopause, and more. Patients state that they look forward to their appointments with me as an opportunity to heal, to learn, and to grow in ways that were surprising to them.
I strive to offer a holistic and warmer approach to emotional health treatment. I am passionate about supporting people in their life journeys, and have taken specialized training to offer the most comprehensive care possible. My vision is to create a nurturing space that supports you through unique issues that we face – whether it be depression, anxiety, work-life balance, mood disorders in pregnancy, infertility, menopause, and more. Patients state that they look forward to their appointments with me as an opportunity to heal, to learn, and to grow in ways that were surprising to them.
Leon Cushenberry
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19103
Leon Cushenberry, MD Leon Cushenberry is a Psychiatrist in Pennsylvania who has been practicing since 2018. He completed medical school at the University of California, Davis and psychiatry residency at the Medical University of South Carolina in Charleston, SC. Afterwards, he completed additional training at the University of Pennsylvania as a Public Psychiatry Fellow which allowed him to understand the impact of an individual's community and social factors on their lived experiences.
Leon Cushenberry, MD Leon Cushenberry is a Psychiatrist in Pennsylvania who has been practicing since 2018. He completed medical school at the University of California, Davis and psychiatry residency at the Medical University of South Carolina in Charleston, SC. Afterwards, he completed additional training at the University of Pennsylvania as a Public Psychiatry Fellow which allowed him to understand the impact of an individual's community and social factors on their lived experiences.
Philadelphia Child & Adolescent Psychiatry
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19103
I am a board certified child, adolescent and adult psychiatrist who works hard to practice psychotherapy and psychopharmacology in both a private & supportive setting. While I strongly believe in pharmacologic interventions backed by empirical evidence, I am a firm believer in the value of therapy & more holistic interventions (exercise, diet, meditation, mindfulness). I understand the importance of shoring up wellness rather than treating illness, and you can expect to spend a significant amount of time discussing the importance of sleep, fitness and nutrition, in addition to tackling deeper psychological issues.
I am a board certified child, adolescent and adult psychiatrist who works hard to practice psychotherapy and psychopharmacology in both a private & supportive setting. While I strongly believe in pharmacologic interventions backed by empirical evidence, I am a firm believer in the value of therapy & more holistic interventions (exercise, diet, meditation, mindfulness). I understand the importance of shoring up wellness rather than treating illness, and you can expect to spend a significant amount of time discussing the importance of sleep, fitness and nutrition, in addition to tackling deeper psychological issues.
SinclairMethod
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19103
We provide the Sinclair Method for Alcohol Use Disorders exclusively through secure online video appointments. It is a scientific approach to problem drinking that uses the FDA-approved drug Naltrexone to gradually reduce your alcohol use. We will help you regain control over alcohol, which you can use to maintain abstinence or drink in moderation.
We provide the Sinclair Method for Alcohol Use Disorders exclusively through secure online video appointments. It is a scientific approach to problem drinking that uses the FDA-approved drug Naltrexone to gradually reduce your alcohol use. We will help you regain control over alcohol, which you can use to maintain abstinence or drink in moderation.
Robert F. McFadden
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
10 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19107
I have expertise in psychodynamics, CBT, and psychopharmacology. I have experience in the clinical assessment and treatment of Adult ADHD, depression and anxiety. In 2015, I was named a Fellow of the American Psychiatric Association. I am a Three Best Rated Psychiatrist in Philadelphia. I was named a Top Doc in Psychiatry in 2020. I offer initial assessments, coordination of care, and the choice of several treatment modalities (including medication). I do not accept insurance. I can help you submit reimbursement forms to your insurance. Watch "What to Expect at Our First Meeting" on YouTube: https://youtu.be/sv9GGBp0AOU
I have expertise in psychodynamics, CBT, and psychopharmacology. I have experience in the clinical assessment and treatment of Adult ADHD, depression and anxiety. In 2015, I was named a Fellow of the American Psychiatric Association. I am a Three Best Rated Psychiatrist in Philadelphia. I was named a Top Doc in Psychiatry in 2020. I offer initial assessments, coordination of care, and the choice of several treatment modalities (including medication). I do not accept insurance. I can help you submit reimbursement forms to your insurance. Watch "What to Expect at Our First Meeting" on YouTube: https://youtu.be/sv9GGBp0AOU
Dr. Allen Masry
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19103
I am Board Certified in Adult Psychiatry and have been practicing since 2005. I completed my residency from Tufts University in Boston, Massachusetts and my Fellowship in Addictions from the Robert Johnson Wood Foundation. In 2014, I was featured in SJ Magazine as one of New Jersey’s top psychiatrists. I have experience working with adults as well as adolescents suffering from both psychiatric diagnosis and substance use disorders and have extensive experience working in both out-patient and in-patient settings.
I am Board Certified in Adult Psychiatry and have been practicing since 2005. I completed my residency from Tufts University in Boston, Massachusetts and my Fellowship in Addictions from the Robert Johnson Wood Foundation. In 2014, I was featured in SJ Magazine as one of New Jersey’s top psychiatrists. I have experience working with adults as well as adolescents suffering from both psychiatric diagnosis and substance use disorders and have extensive experience working in both out-patient and in-patient settings.
Elizabeth Milburn
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, CRNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19102
I love working with any individual 18 and older who is experiencing difficulty with their mental well-being. My services include psychiatric evaluation, medication management, and meds + supportive therapy. I am an ally to the LGBTQIA+ community. I encourage folks to be active collaborators in their treatment. I am happy to now offer medication treatment for opioid use disorder.
I love working with any individual 18 and older who is experiencing difficulty with their mental well-being. My services include psychiatric evaluation, medication management, and meds + supportive therapy. I am an ally to the LGBTQIA+ community. I encourage folks to be active collaborators in their treatment. I am happy to now offer medication treatment for opioid use disorder.
Cyndia Choi
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19125 (Online Only)
Dr. Cyndia Choi has been board certified in psychiatry since 1991. Her specialty is medication management, however she believes that a therapeutic relationship is crucial to treatment. Dr. Choi values the privilege of getting to know each patient personally to develop a patient-centered plan of care. Follow-up appointments with Dr. Choi are 30 minutes to check on medication effects and provide supportive therapy. If she believes that you may benefit from additional therapy, Dr. Choi may recommend including a therapist to your treatment team. Dr. Choi also believes in a holistic approach toward helping you achieve a healthy life.
Dr. Cyndia Choi has been board certified in psychiatry since 1991. Her specialty is medication management, however she believes that a therapeutic relationship is crucial to treatment. Dr. Choi values the privilege of getting to know each patient personally to develop a patient-centered plan of care. Follow-up appointments with Dr. Choi are 30 minutes to check on medication effects and provide supportive therapy. If she believes that you may benefit from additional therapy, Dr. Choi may recommend including a therapist to your treatment team. Dr. Choi also believes in a holistic approach toward helping you achieve a healthy life.
Angel Marie Augustin
Psychiatrist
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19104 (Online Only)
I am Dr. Angel Augustin, a board-certified psychiatrist based out of Philadelphia, the city of brotherly love! I completed my psychiatric training at the University of Pennsylvania. I have expertise in the treatment of various psychiatric conditions including depression, anxiety, OCD, bipolar disorder, PTSD, low self-esteem, grief, cultural identity, and struggles with life transitions. I believe in taking a holistic and collaborative approach to creating a treatment plan that aligns with your goals.
I am Dr. Angel Augustin, a board-certified psychiatrist based out of Philadelphia, the city of brotherly love! I completed my psychiatric training at the University of Pennsylvania. I have expertise in the treatment of various psychiatric conditions including depression, anxiety, OCD, bipolar disorder, PTSD, low self-esteem, grief, cultural identity, and struggles with life transitions. I believe in taking a holistic and collaborative approach to creating a treatment plan that aligns with your goals.
Erin Bahmer
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CNP
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19103
Erin Bahmer, PMHNP People heal in relationships. The foundation of Erin's practice starts with this fundamental belief. Through the therapeutic relationship you and Erin will work towards the goals you have. For many people this includes attaining wellness, creating a quality of life, managing troubling symptoms, and building healthy relationships. The specialized care Erin provides as a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner includes medication management, though not always.
Erin Bahmer, PMHNP People heal in relationships. The foundation of Erin's practice starts with this fundamental belief. Through the therapeutic relationship you and Erin will work towards the goals you have. For many people this includes attaining wellness, creating a quality of life, managing troubling symptoms, and building healthy relationships. The specialized care Erin provides as a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner includes medication management, though not always.
Harmony Bay
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19103
Harmony Bay is a psychiatry and therapy office that provides primary mental health treatment programs for psychiatric conditions such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, and ADHD. We offer a clean, bright environment with a calming and positive tone. We offer programs and services for both therapy and psychiatry including individual therapy, group therapy, couples therapy, and medication management.
Harmony Bay is a psychiatry and therapy office that provides primary mental health treatment programs for psychiatric conditions such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, and ADHD. We offer a clean, bright environment with a calming and positive tone. We offer programs and services for both therapy and psychiatry including individual therapy, group therapy, couples therapy, and medication management.
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Karen (Yang) Chen
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP, PMHNP, MSN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19102
Rittenhouse Psychiatric Associates is a network of over 20 psychiatric providers including Psychiatrists, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioners, and Psychotherapists. We offer in-office and Virtual Telehealth appointments in Philadelphia, The Main Line of Philadelphia and Virtually to NJ, NY and FL. I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner specializing in medication management for a variety of mental health conditions in adults ages 18+, including depression, anxiety, ADHD, PTSD, PMDD, bipolar disorder, and more.
Rittenhouse Psychiatric Associates is a network of over 20 psychiatric providers including Psychiatrists, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioners, and Psychotherapists. We offer in-office and Virtual Telehealth appointments in Philadelphia, The Main Line of Philadelphia and Virtually to NJ, NY and FL. I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner specializing in medication management for a variety of mental health conditions in adults ages 18+, including depression, anxiety, ADHD, PTSD, PMDD, bipolar disorder, and more.
Gregory Salmon
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19107
My philosophy of care as a psych nurse practitioners direct me toward diagnose and treating mental illness through psychotherapy, psychopharmacology, case management, and clinical supervision. I as a provider function independently to meet patient care needs within my scope of practice. Psychiatric Nursing to me is all about the relationship you establish with your patients, understanding them from their perspective and asking them what they think is going on with their health or what has been changing in their body and mind.
My philosophy of care as a psych nurse practitioners direct me toward diagnose and treating mental illness through psychotherapy, psychopharmacology, case management, and clinical supervision. I as a provider function independently to meet patient care needs within my scope of practice. Psychiatric Nursing to me is all about the relationship you establish with your patients, understanding them from their perspective and asking them what they think is going on with their health or what has been changing in their body and mind.
Rachel Reis
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19102
Rittenhouse Psychiatric Associates offers virtual and in-office appts. As a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, my goal is to facilitate overall wellness and quality of life for those struggling with their mental health, through the application of evidence-based interventions including medication management and supportive psychotherapy. Fundamental to my practice is truly listening to what an individual is communicating, relieving them of their burden of struggling alone. I strive for a genuine partnership in treatment, encouraging individuals to take an active role in their care, facilitating resilience and growth.
Rittenhouse Psychiatric Associates offers virtual and in-office appts. As a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, my goal is to facilitate overall wellness and quality of life for those struggling with their mental health, through the application of evidence-based interventions including medication management and supportive psychotherapy. Fundamental to my practice is truly listening to what an individual is communicating, relieving them of their burden of struggling alone. I strive for a genuine partnership in treatment, encouraging individuals to take an active role in their care, facilitating resilience and growth.
Nicole Carissimi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19103
Nicole Carissimi, PMHNP-BC, is a board-certified mental health nurse practitioner. She is a graduate of the University of Pennsylvania Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner program and completed her clinical work at Presbyterian Hospital and Pennsylvania Hospital. As a registered nurse, Nicole has worked in the areas of neurosurgery, intensive care, and hospice. Nicole first came to Philadelphia in 2006 to attend nursing school at Drexel University, and fell in love with the city and never left. She enjoys working with adults, with a special interest in substance abuse.
Nicole Carissimi, PMHNP-BC, is a board-certified mental health nurse practitioner. She is a graduate of the University of Pennsylvania Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner program and completed her clinical work at Presbyterian Hospital and Pennsylvania Hospital. As a registered nurse, Nicole has worked in the areas of neurosurgery, intensive care, and hospice. Nicole first came to Philadelphia in 2006 to attend nursing school at Drexel University, and fell in love with the city and never left. She enjoys working with adults, with a special interest in substance abuse.
Alejandra Wortman
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19103
Are you or a loved one facing the daunting struggle of mental health challenges? I'm here to extend my hand, to listen without judgment, and to guide you through this transformative process. If the weight of depression, anxiety, ADHD, learning disabilities, or other difficulties feel like an insurmountable burden, you're not alone in this journey, and you don't have to carry this weight by yourself. Mental health isn't just about our minds—it's the cornerstone of our work, studies, and relationships. Seeking help and support is a sign of strength, not weakness. Together, we can explore and enhance your well-being; help you thrive!
Are you or a loved one facing the daunting struggle of mental health challenges? I'm here to extend my hand, to listen without judgment, and to guide you through this transformative process. If the weight of depression, anxiety, ADHD, learning disabilities, or other difficulties feel like an insurmountable burden, you're not alone in this journey, and you don't have to carry this weight by yourself. Mental health isn't just about our minds—it's the cornerstone of our work, studies, and relationships. Seeking help and support is a sign of strength, not weakness. Together, we can explore and enhance your well-being; help you thrive!
Katelyn Shaffer
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19107 (Online Only)
Dr. Katelyn Shaffer DNP, PMHNP-BC, CARN-AP is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner providing care to patients in Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and New York. Dr. Shaffer has taken on many roles as a psychiatric NP. She has worked with patients across the lifespan in settings including, outpatient psychiatry, acute inpatient care, research, and education. Working with adult patients in outpatient psychiatry has always been Dr. Shaffer’s primary interest and specialty. She is well-versed in treating an array of diagnoses including mood disorders, anxiety disorders, ADHD, and trauma-related disorders.
Dr. Katelyn Shaffer DNP, PMHNP-BC, CARN-AP is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner providing care to patients in Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and New York. Dr. Shaffer has taken on many roles as a psychiatric NP. She has worked with patients across the lifespan in settings including, outpatient psychiatry, acute inpatient care, research, and education. Working with adult patients in outpatient psychiatry has always been Dr. Shaffer’s primary interest and specialty. She is well-versed in treating an array of diagnoses including mood disorders, anxiety disorders, ADHD, and trauma-related disorders.
Edena Walden
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19103
Ideally my patient is as invested in their care as I am. They could have a variety of diagnoses but the thing they have in common is they are willing to give the process time, are open to new ideas, and know there is no magic pill to fix all their problems. My patients want to get to the best version of themselves and are willing to try therapy as well as medications to help them reach that goal. My patient wants an empathetic, listening provider who can guide their care based on the evidence, but tailored to their individual needs.
Ideally my patient is as invested in their care as I am. They could have a variety of diagnoses but the thing they have in common is they are willing to give the process time, are open to new ideas, and know there is no magic pill to fix all their problems. My patients want to get to the best version of themselves and are willing to try therapy as well as medications to help them reach that goal. My patient wants an empathetic, listening provider who can guide their care based on the evidence, but tailored to their individual needs.
Dr. Michael W. Antzis
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19103
Hello! I am a board-certified psychiatrist currently accepting new patients. I offer psychiatric evaluations, medication management, and psychotherapy for adults. I specialize in the treatment of depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and ADHD. I take a holistic approach to treatment, and take great care to listen carefully to my patients, partnering with them to move treatment forward and help them reach their goals.
Hello! I am a board-certified psychiatrist currently accepting new patients. I offer psychiatric evaluations, medication management, and psychotherapy for adults. I specialize in the treatment of depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and ADHD. I take a holistic approach to treatment, and take great care to listen carefully to my patients, partnering with them to move treatment forward and help them reach their goals.
Lori A. Albright
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19103
Hello! My practice is in Rittenhouse Square with Southeastern Executive Health, and I have immediate appointments available for in-office or telemedicine appointments for PA and NJ clients. Extensive experience utilizing an evidence based approach specializing in the care and medication management of individuals with mood disorders, psychosis, anxiety, depression, trauma, co-occurring disorders, and addiction. I practice while prioritizing the client-provider relationship and maximizing access and support. MAT provider. Spravato (esketamine) provider. Long term injectables are done in-office. Clients have my cell phone and email.
Hello! My practice is in Rittenhouse Square with Southeastern Executive Health, and I have immediate appointments available for in-office or telemedicine appointments for PA and NJ clients. Extensive experience utilizing an evidence based approach specializing in the care and medication management of individuals with mood disorders, psychosis, anxiety, depression, trauma, co-occurring disorders, and addiction. I practice while prioritizing the client-provider relationship and maximizing access and support. MAT provider. Spravato (esketamine) provider. Long term injectables are done in-office. Clients have my cell phone and email.
See more therapy options for Philadelphia
Nearby Searches for Philadelphia
- Ardmore
- Bala Cynwyd
- Bryn Mawr
- Drexel Hill
- Gladwyne
- Haverford
- Havertown
- Jenkintown
- Narberth
- Springfield
- Upper Darby
- Wynnewood
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Philadelphia, PA
200+
Average cost per session
$227
Psychiatrists in Philadelphia, PA who prioritize treating:
95% | Depression |
94% | Anxiety |
76% | Bipolar Disorder |
74% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
73% | Medication Management |
67% | Trauma and PTSD |
61% | ADHD |
Average years in practice
11 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
89% | Aetna |
83% | Cigna and Evernorth |
80% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Psychiatrists in Philadelphia, PA see their clients
60% | In Person and Online | |
40% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
71% | Female | |
29% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Philadelphia?
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.