Psychiatrists in Brooklyn, NY
Zoe Goldberg
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, DNP
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11201 (Online Only)
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I obtained my Masters of Science and Doctorate of Nursing Practice from Columbia University and completed my clinical training at Bellevue Hospital. I have worked with adults of all ages experiencing anxiety, depression, insomnia, and various other mental health concerns.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I obtained my Masters of Science and Doctorate of Nursing Practice from Columbia University and completed my clinical training at Bellevue Hospital. I have worked with adults of all ages experiencing anxiety, depression, insomnia, and various other mental health concerns.
Janika Emmanuel
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11210 (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner currently providing medication management services to adults ages 18 and older. I have experience treating various mental health conditions, including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and trauma-related disorders, such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Using an integrative approach, I aim to assist my clients with achieving their treatment goals and reaching mental wellness.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner currently providing medication management services to adults ages 18 and older. I have experience treating various mental health conditions, including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and trauma-related disorders, such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Using an integrative approach, I aim to assist my clients with achieving their treatment goals and reaching mental wellness.
Psychiatric services NYC, PC
Psychiatrist, MD
Not Verified Not Verified
3 Endorsed
Brooklyn, NY 11201
I am board-certified in Psychiatry and Addiction Medicine specializing in the diagnosis and treatment of a broad spectrum of psychiatric conditions and addiction issues. I have completed fellowship at the Institute of Psychoanalytic Education. I have extensive experience in psychopharmacology and psychotherapy and am committed to providing compassionate, top quality mental health care and addiction problems that is customized to meet each of my patient's individual needs. Initial consultation consists of a comprehensive psychiatric assessment. I will also carefully screen for commonly missed coexisting conditions.
I am board-certified in Psychiatry and Addiction Medicine specializing in the diagnosis and treatment of a broad spectrum of psychiatric conditions and addiction issues. I have completed fellowship at the Institute of Psychoanalytic Education. I have extensive experience in psychopharmacology and psychotherapy and am committed to providing compassionate, top quality mental health care and addiction problems that is customized to meet each of my patient's individual needs. Initial consultation consists of a comprehensive psychiatric assessment. I will also carefully screen for commonly missed coexisting conditions.
Abigail Cohen
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brooklyn, NY 11201
I am a double board-certified child, adolescent, and adult psychiatrist, treating the full spectrum of psychiatric conditions with care for each individual and their needs. I specialize in the treatment of ADHD across the lifespan, with particular attention to the intersection of ADHD and substance use and the unique problems faced by college students and young adults. Prior to medical training, I studied Art History at Rice University and Art Education at Columbia Teacher’s College. I attended Drexel University College of Medicine and completed residency and fellowship training at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai.
I am a double board-certified child, adolescent, and adult psychiatrist, treating the full spectrum of psychiatric conditions with care for each individual and their needs. I specialize in the treatment of ADHD across the lifespan, with particular attention to the intersection of ADHD and substance use and the unique problems faced by college students and young adults. Prior to medical training, I studied Art History at Rice University and Art Education at Columbia Teacher’s College. I attended Drexel University College of Medicine and completed residency and fellowship training at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai.
Charlotte Coates
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11235 (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Charlotte Coates is a board certified Psychiatric Mental-Health Nurse practitioner in the state of New York. She graduated from NYU School of Nursing with a masters degree in nursing science in 2019. She also holds a bachelors of science in nursing from Columbia University School of Nursing. Charlotte focuses on helping individuals with depression, anxiety, mood disorders, ADHD and trauma as well as relationship challenges, work-related stress, and adjusting to aging. She believes in an individualized and collaborative approach to treatment. She offers medication management with supportive psychotherapy.
Charlotte Coates is a board certified Psychiatric Mental-Health Nurse practitioner in the state of New York. She graduated from NYU School of Nursing with a masters degree in nursing science in 2019. She also holds a bachelors of science in nursing from Columbia University School of Nursing. Charlotte focuses on helping individuals with depression, anxiety, mood disorders, ADHD and trauma as well as relationship challenges, work-related stress, and adjusting to aging. She believes in an individualized and collaborative approach to treatment. She offers medication management with supportive psychotherapy.
Trevor Brown
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11201
I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner providing collaborative, holistic, and client-oriented care. My approach to treatment emphasizes improving self-esteem, enhancing meaning, and reducing suffering. I have an in-depth knowledge of psychiatric medications and their ability to increase energy, reduce symptoms, and improve daily functioning. However, medications are only one aspect of overall treatment. I am trained in cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, and motivational interviewing, which I use to address issues with relationships, anxiety, and life transitions.
I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner providing collaborative, holistic, and client-oriented care. My approach to treatment emphasizes improving self-esteem, enhancing meaning, and reducing suffering. I have an in-depth knowledge of psychiatric medications and their ability to increase energy, reduce symptoms, and improve daily functioning. However, medications are only one aspect of overall treatment. I am trained in cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, and motivational interviewing, which I use to address issues with relationships, anxiety, and life transitions.
Kimberly Jackson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN , FNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11211 (Online Only)
I'm so glad you found me! I have 30 years of experience and am double board certified in family medicine and psychiatry. Many of the major insurances are accepted. I treat adults 18 and over, with specialty training in women's mental health, perinatal & reproductive psychiatry. My undergraduate education is from New York University & I have masters degrees from George Washington University & Pace University. I am a former professor at the College of New Rochelle. -Email us or visit wellspaceforwomen.com for a free phone consultation.
I'm so glad you found me! I have 30 years of experience and am double board certified in family medicine and psychiatry. Many of the major insurances are accepted. I treat adults 18 and over, with specialty training in women's mental health, perinatal & reproductive psychiatry. My undergraduate education is from New York University & I have masters degrees from George Washington University & Pace University. I am a former professor at the College of New Rochelle. -Email us or visit wellspaceforwomen.com for a free phone consultation.
Empire Psychiatric Services,P.C.
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brooklyn, NY 11230
Our Behavioral Health office is the unique place to learn more about inner resources that will help you live a healthier, fuller and more satisfied life and to get right, integrative and professional treatment of different emotional problems. Our licensed psychiatrists, psychologists and psychotherapists together with certified hypnotists are skilled in a wide range of behavioral treatments, psycho pharmacological approach, counseling, evaluations for schools, colleges and attorneys. Also we professionally use guided imagery techniques, Eriksonian therapy and Neuro Linguistic therapy.
Our Behavioral Health office is the unique place to learn more about inner resources that will help you live a healthier, fuller and more satisfied life and to get right, integrative and professional treatment of different emotional problems. Our licensed psychiatrists, psychologists and psychotherapists together with certified hypnotists are skilled in a wide range of behavioral treatments, psycho pharmacological approach, counseling, evaluations for schools, colleges and attorneys. Also we professionally use guided imagery techniques, Eriksonian therapy and Neuro Linguistic therapy.
Park Slope Psychiatry
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brooklyn, NY 11215
Kari Groff, MD founded Park Slope Psychiatry to provide excellent and thoughtful psychopharmacology and therapy to children and adults. She is frequently consulted for her extensive training and experience in psychopharmacology, her gentle and appropriate use of medication, and her wellness-centered approach focusing on a patient’s strengths and goals. Dr. Groff trained at the University of Pennsylvania, where she was the chief resident, and completed her child training at NYU Child Study Center. She is an award-winning psychiatrist who values connection and compassion.
Kari Groff, MD founded Park Slope Psychiatry to provide excellent and thoughtful psychopharmacology and therapy to children and adults. She is frequently consulted for her extensive training and experience in psychopharmacology, her gentle and appropriate use of medication, and her wellness-centered approach focusing on a patient’s strengths and goals. Dr. Groff trained at the University of Pennsylvania, where she was the chief resident, and completed her child training at NYU Child Study Center. She is an award-winning psychiatrist who values connection and compassion.
Svetlana Zak
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PNP-BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brooklyn, NY 11235 (Online Only)
I can help you figure out the best medication to take for your symptoms. I have been practicing the art of psychopharmacology for 17 years. Getting on the right medication can be life changing. Symptoms of anxiety, depression, mood swings and ADHD can be reduced dramatically with medication. Many of my patients are surprised how well the medication can work. If you have tried therapy unsuccessfully, you may need to start a medication regimen that only an experienced psychiatric NP can put together. I see adults age 18 and up.
I can help you figure out the best medication to take for your symptoms. I have been practicing the art of psychopharmacology for 17 years. Getting on the right medication can be life changing. Symptoms of anxiety, depression, mood swings and ADHD can be reduced dramatically with medication. Many of my patients are surprised how well the medication can work. If you have tried therapy unsuccessfully, you may need to start a medication regimen that only an experienced psychiatric NP can put together. I see adults age 18 and up.
Beata Bliss Lewis
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Brooklyn, NY 11217
You deserve to live your best life, and I would like to help. I am an experienced, compassionate psychiatrist and psychotherapist serving the Brooklyn community. I utilize a balanced blend of psychotherapy, medication, and complementary approaches to help you find lasting solutions for both your mental health and your overall well-being. While I can assist with many concerns, I specialize in anxiety, depression, bipolar disorders, ADHD, trauma, life transitions, and relationship issues. I am experienced in treating children, adolescents, adults, and individuals of all sexual orientations. We'll take a collaborative approach to help you achieve your goals.
You deserve to live your best life, and I would like to help. I am an experienced, compassionate psychiatrist and psychotherapist serving the Brooklyn community. I utilize a balanced blend of psychotherapy, medication, and complementary approaches to help you find lasting solutions for both your mental health and your overall well-being. While I can assist with many concerns, I specialize in anxiety, depression, bipolar disorders, ADHD, trauma, life transitions, and relationship issues. I am experienced in treating children, adolescents, adults, and individuals of all sexual orientations. We'll take a collaborative approach to help you achieve your goals.
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Vera Udebhulu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11208
Vera Udebhulu is a board-certified mental health nurse practitioner who renders services to young teen and older adults (age range 14 and older). She has worked in different settings providing care to individuals and families suffering from acute to chronic mental illness. Vera is very passionate about delivering comprehensive, integrated, and individualized care to those seeking her services. She has been providing mental health services since 2013 and truly believes that effectively engaging her clients is an integral part of successful treatment.
Vera Udebhulu is a board-certified mental health nurse practitioner who renders services to young teen and older adults (age range 14 and older). She has worked in different settings providing care to individuals and families suffering from acute to chronic mental illness. Vera is very passionate about delivering comprehensive, integrated, and individualized care to those seeking her services. She has been providing mental health services since 2013 and truly believes that effectively engaging her clients is an integral part of successful treatment.
Vsevolod Rudoy
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11201
I am a fully licensed psychiatrist serving the NYC community with over 20 years of medical experience. Understanding the uniqueness of each patient’s situation is my main focus. I use my experience and continued learning to provide outstanding medication management therapy to promote healthy living and a better quality of life for all my patients. I stay dedicated to my patients and work in collaboration with them to identify the most effective treatment plan with consultations being catered appropriately to accommodate each individual’s needs and concerns so that they can meet their full potential.
I am a fully licensed psychiatrist serving the NYC community with over 20 years of medical experience. Understanding the uniqueness of each patient’s situation is my main focus. I use my experience and continued learning to provide outstanding medication management therapy to promote healthy living and a better quality of life for all my patients. I stay dedicated to my patients and work in collaboration with them to identify the most effective treatment plan with consultations being catered appropriately to accommodate each individual’s needs and concerns so that they can meet their full potential.
Jason Meisel
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHMP
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Brooklyn, NY 11215
Waitlist for new clients
I am a board certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with a Master's Degree in Nursing from Hunter-Bellevue School of Nursing. My goal is to work with you and utilize medications and therapy to get a handle and understanding on your mental health struggles.
I am a board certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with a Master's Degree in Nursing from Hunter-Bellevue School of Nursing. My goal is to work with you and utilize medications and therapy to get a handle and understanding on your mental health struggles.
Natalie Grant-Villegas
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11249
Hello and welcome! My name is Natalie and I’m a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with over five years of experience in the mental health field. I specialize in psychedelic medicine and currently offer ketamine-assisted psychotherapy at Healing Realms in Brooklyn. In a comfortable, safe, private office setting, I work with a co-therapist to collaboratively offer medical monitoring alongside transformative methods of depth-oriented psychotherapy. We personalize ketamine dosing for each client, administering via intramuscular injection in initial and subsequent doses as determined by client needs.
Hello and welcome! My name is Natalie and I’m a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with over five years of experience in the mental health field. I specialize in psychedelic medicine and currently offer ketamine-assisted psychotherapy at Healing Realms in Brooklyn. In a comfortable, safe, private office setting, I work with a co-therapist to collaboratively offer medical monitoring alongside transformative methods of depth-oriented psychotherapy. We personalize ketamine dosing for each client, administering via intramuscular injection in initial and subsequent doses as determined by client needs.
Avantgarde psychiatric consulting
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11235
Every life is a book, one which is filled with different chapters and different stories. It is filled with your emotions, your thoughts and feelings, your relationships and interactions with the world around you. At times those stories are full of joy and happiness other times darkness ,sadness and struggles. The beauty of the book of life is that in fact it is being authored by you, you are the main character, editor and publisher of those stories and chapters , it is about your journey and your destinations, your are at the helm
Every life is a book, one which is filled with different chapters and different stories. It is filled with your emotions, your thoughts and feelings, your relationships and interactions with the world around you. At times those stories are full of joy and happiness other times darkness ,sadness and struggles. The beauty of the book of life is that in fact it is being authored by you, you are the main character, editor and publisher of those stories and chapters , it is about your journey and your destinations, your are at the helm
Tashai Surgeon
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11201 (Online Only)
I am committed to providing a compassionate and supportive environment for you , while assisting you navigate through your life challenges and achieving your goals. I offer personalized treatment plans that are tailored to your unique needs. As a certified Gestalt psychotherapist, I specialize in helping individuals develop a stronger sense of self-awareness and self-understanding, allowing them to overcome personal barriers and reach their full potential. With my extensive knowledge and training, I can guide you towards achieving greater balance in your life, both emotionally and mentally.
I am committed to providing a compassionate and supportive environment for you , while assisting you navigate through your life challenges and achieving your goals. I offer personalized treatment plans that are tailored to your unique needs. As a certified Gestalt psychotherapist, I specialize in helping individuals develop a stronger sense of self-awareness and self-understanding, allowing them to overcome personal barriers and reach their full potential. With my extensive knowledge and training, I can guide you towards achieving greater balance in your life, both emotionally and mentally.
Glenn Occhiogrosso
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11242
Finding a good psychiatrist can be enormously difficult. Whether you’re looking for the first time, or trying to find someone new, you should be exacting in your criteria and have high expectations. By coming here, you’ve taken the first difficult step towards making this choice. This doesn’t mean the next steps are any less challenging, but it does mean you don’t have to take them alone. You should have hard, probing questions for someone you might be entrusting to help you get better. Here, I aim to satisfy those criteria and expectations. I will answer all of the questions.
Finding a good psychiatrist can be enormously difficult. Whether you’re looking for the first time, or trying to find someone new, you should be exacting in your criteria and have high expectations. By coming here, you’ve taken the first difficult step towards making this choice. This doesn’t mean the next steps are any less challenging, but it does mean you don’t have to take them alone. You should have hard, probing questions for someone you might be entrusting to help you get better. Here, I aim to satisfy those criteria and expectations. I will answer all of the questions.
M and M Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner Services PL
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11206 (Online Only)
Please note I do not provide therapy- we have therapist available. My specialty is medication management. ADHD Certifled Specialist. Our bilingual (Spanish/English) practice treats people of different backgrounds, cultures, socioeconomic statuses, races, sexual orientations, and gender. Our expertise includes the treatment of major depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety, psychotic spectrum disorders, as well as attention and concentration issues (ADHD). Nosotras Podemos ayudarles en todas sus necesidades de salud mental, mediante la creacion de tratamientos personalizado, trabajando en conjunto con usted y su terapista.
Please note I do not provide therapy- we have therapist available. My specialty is medication management. ADHD Certifled Specialist. Our bilingual (Spanish/English) practice treats people of different backgrounds, cultures, socioeconomic statuses, races, sexual orientations, and gender. Our expertise includes the treatment of major depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety, psychotic spectrum disorders, as well as attention and concentration issues (ADHD). Nosotras Podemos ayudarles en todas sus necesidades de salud mental, mediante la creacion de tratamientos personalizado, trabajando en conjunto con usted y su terapista.
M And M Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner Services PL
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11206 (Online Only)
Hablo Espanol, I am a Nurse Practitioner, certified in Family medicine and Board certified in Psychiatric mental health. I have many years of experience working in the field of psychiatry. I have been fortunate to be exposed to settings such as emergency department, psychiatric inpatient and outpatient services, inpatient alcohol, and drug detoxification services. My experience has allowed me to interact with and to help patients with a wide range of conditions such as Schizophrenia, Major depression, Bipolar Disorder, Anxiety disorder, PTSD and Substance use Disorder.
Hablo Espanol, I am a Nurse Practitioner, certified in Family medicine and Board certified in Psychiatric mental health. I have many years of experience working in the field of psychiatry. I have been fortunate to be exposed to settings such as emergency department, psychiatric inpatient and outpatient services, inpatient alcohol, and drug detoxification services. My experience has allowed me to interact with and to help patients with a wide range of conditions such as Schizophrenia, Major depression, Bipolar Disorder, Anxiety disorder, PTSD and Substance use Disorder.
See more therapy options for Brooklyn
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Brooklyn, NY
500+
Average cost per session
$300
Psychiatrists in Brooklyn, NY who prioritize treating:
96% | Depression |
95% | Anxiety |
86% | Medication Management |
73% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
73% | Trauma and PTSD |
73% | Bipolar Disorder |
68% | ADHD |
Average years in practice
9 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
94% | Aetna |
89% | Cigna and Evernorth |
86% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Psychiatrists in Brooklyn, NY see their clients
53% | Online Only | |
47% | In Person and Online |
Gender breakdown
64% | Female | |
35% | Male | |
1% | Non-Binary |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Brooklyn?
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.