Psychiatrists in New York, NY
Jonathan Easton
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10001 (Online Only)
I have been in private practice of psychiatry and psychotherapy since 1986 at my New York City office. Prior to the pandemic I also had an office in Morristown, New Jersey. I am currently working by Zoom video only.
I have been in private practice of psychiatry and psychotherapy since 1986 at my New York City office. Prior to the pandemic I also had an office in Morristown, New Jersey. I am currently working by Zoom video only.
Dr. Alden Bush
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, MPH
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
New York, NY 10004 (Online Only)
I'm Dr. Alden Bush, a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I specialize in working with adults dealing with mental health issues like ADHD, trauma, depression, anxiety, and insomnia. I offer medication services only and am fully bilingual in English/Spanish. Currently, I only see patients virtually. It's important to note that I am not a Psychiatrist (MD), but I am a prescribing clinician in Psychiatry. I do NOT provide psychotherapy. Please feel free to email me or book directly with me on my website link to Headway.
I'm Dr. Alden Bush, a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I specialize in working with adults dealing with mental health issues like ADHD, trauma, depression, anxiety, and insomnia. I offer medication services only and am fully bilingual in English/Spanish. Currently, I only see patients virtually. It's important to note that I am not a Psychiatrist (MD), but I am a prescribing clinician in Psychiatry. I do NOT provide psychotherapy. Please feel free to email me or book directly with me on my website link to Headway.
Betty Lau
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10004
Not accepting new clients
While all psychiatrists receive some child psychiatry training, I’m a Board-certified child psychiatrist, in private practice. Simultaneously, as the director of one of the largest public, child psychiatry clinics in New York City, 90% of my patients are under the age of 18. I’ve dedicated my entire career to working with children and families. I manage the gamut of high acuity cases in the emergency room, to recent hospitalizations, to stable young adults. I’m well-versed in long-term and short-term dynamic, as well as, cognitive-behavioral therapy, and am able to integrate pharmacotherapy into the treatment of patients of all
While all psychiatrists receive some child psychiatry training, I’m a Board-certified child psychiatrist, in private practice. Simultaneously, as the director of one of the largest public, child psychiatry clinics in New York City, 90% of my patients are under the age of 18. I’ve dedicated my entire career to working with children and families. I manage the gamut of high acuity cases in the emergency room, to recent hospitalizations, to stable young adults. I’m well-versed in long-term and short-term dynamic, as well as, cognitive-behavioral therapy, and am able to integrate pharmacotherapy into the treatment of patients of all
Anees Benferhat
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New York, NY 10019
*Video Sessions Available* I welcome you as you are. You may be seeking to shift a pattern of thinking or behavior, to heal trauma from your past, or to just stop feeling so lousy. We will partner together to understand your strengths, stuck points, and goals, and we will tailor our work to meet your specific needs. We will help you create the life that you want and deserve, one step at a time, at your pace. You may see me for psychotherapy, medications, or both. I work with all adults 18 and older, and I specialize in anxiety, lack of fulfillment, trauma, creativity/performance challenges, and spiritual & cultural issues.
*Video Sessions Available* I welcome you as you are. You may be seeking to shift a pattern of thinking or behavior, to heal trauma from your past, or to just stop feeling so lousy. We will partner together to understand your strengths, stuck points, and goals, and we will tailor our work to meet your specific needs. We will help you create the life that you want and deserve, one step at a time, at your pace. You may see me for psychotherapy, medications, or both. I work with all adults 18 and older, and I specialize in anxiety, lack of fulfillment, trauma, creativity/performance challenges, and spiritual & cultural issues.
Yewande Mikoku
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New York, NY 10028 (Online Only)
Yewande Mikoku is a board-certified Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. Yewande empowers her patients by working in collaboration with them to choose the best treatment for their mental health needs. As a holistically-minded provider, she uses active listening and shared decision making in helping patients find right treatment. Yewande encourages patients to live up to their full potential. Yewande provides practicals that are easy to implement to promote optimal health. Yewande's approach begins with commitment to individuals needs and resources that support evidence based practices. Yewande works with patients 18-64.
Yewande Mikoku is a board-certified Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. Yewande empowers her patients by working in collaboration with them to choose the best treatment for their mental health needs. As a holistically-minded provider, she uses active listening and shared decision making in helping patients find right treatment. Yewande encourages patients to live up to their full potential. Yewande provides practicals that are easy to implement to promote optimal health. Yewande's approach begins with commitment to individuals needs and resources that support evidence based practices. Yewande works with patients 18-64.
Shelly Cohen
Psychiatrist, MD, JD
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10001
I am a board certified adult psychiatrist specializing in women’s mental health/reproductive psychiatry, licensed in both NY and CA. I have advanced training in diagnosing and treating mental health disorders related to infertility, pregnancy, postpartum, menopause, and PMDD. I also treat the general adult population with mood, anxiety, OCD, ADHD, bipolar and psychotic disorders. With a holistic and patient centered approach, I combine an understanding of psychopharmacology and psychodynamic psychiatry to both alleviate symptoms and further, to help patients strive towards achieving meaning, balance and well-being in their lives.
I am a board certified adult psychiatrist specializing in women’s mental health/reproductive psychiatry, licensed in both NY and CA. I have advanced training in diagnosing and treating mental health disorders related to infertility, pregnancy, postpartum, menopause, and PMDD. I also treat the general adult population with mood, anxiety, OCD, ADHD, bipolar and psychotic disorders. With a holistic and patient centered approach, I combine an understanding of psychopharmacology and psychodynamic psychiatry to both alleviate symptoms and further, to help patients strive towards achieving meaning, balance and well-being in their lives.
Josefina Sta Romana
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10009 (Online Only)
It's unrealistic for me to say I can instantly and magically make all your troubles disappear ,so I won't promise you that. But I promise to do my best to help you. I am a board-certified telepsychiatrist with 22 years of clinical experience seeing adults from all walks of life. I completed my psychiatric residency at Brown University in Providence, RI where I learned the art and science of psychiatry. I provide psychotherapy and medication management online . I only prescribe psychotropic medications when medically necessary. I have a 100% multi-state telepsychiatry practice.
It's unrealistic for me to say I can instantly and magically make all your troubles disappear ,so I won't promise you that. But I promise to do my best to help you. I am a board-certified telepsychiatrist with 22 years of clinical experience seeing adults from all walks of life. I completed my psychiatric residency at Brown University in Providence, RI where I learned the art and science of psychiatry. I provide psychotherapy and medication management online . I only prescribe psychotropic medications when medically necessary. I have a 100% multi-state telepsychiatry practice.
Jocelyn Soffer
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10016
Jocelyn Soffer, M.D. is a child, adolescent, and adult psychiatrist in private practice, offering psychotherapy and psychopharmacology treatment. She received her B.A. in Philosophy from Yale University, and her M.D. from the Yale University School of Medicine. She completed her Adult Psychiatry Internship and Residency at Mount Sinai, serving as chief resident, with Board Certification by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. She also completed a fellowship in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry at NYU, and is now on faculty there as Clinical Assistant Professor of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, teaching undergraduates.
Jocelyn Soffer, M.D. is a child, adolescent, and adult psychiatrist in private practice, offering psychotherapy and psychopharmacology treatment. She received her B.A. in Philosophy from Yale University, and her M.D. from the Yale University School of Medicine. She completed her Adult Psychiatry Internship and Residency at Mount Sinai, serving as chief resident, with Board Certification by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. She also completed a fellowship in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry at NYU, and is now on faculty there as Clinical Assistant Professor of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, teaching undergraduates.
Sonal Harneja
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10001
Dr. Sonal Harneja is board-certified in adult psychiatry and specializes in medication management and various psychotherapies to treat anxiety and depressive disorders. Dr. Harneja completed her undergraduate studies at Stony Brook University and received her medical degree from the University at Buffalo School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences (now called Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences). She completed her adult psychiatry residency at Montefiore Medical Center/Albert Einstein College of Medicine.
Dr. Sonal Harneja is board-certified in adult psychiatry and specializes in medication management and various psychotherapies to treat anxiety and depressive disorders. Dr. Harneja completed her undergraduate studies at Stony Brook University and received her medical degree from the University at Buffalo School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences (now called Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences). She completed her adult psychiatry residency at Montefiore Medical Center/Albert Einstein College of Medicine.
Greer Richardson
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10101 (Online Only)
Greer Richardson, MD attended college at Baylor University majoring in Philosophy. He graduated medical school from the University of Tennessee, Health Sciences Center in 1997 and completed his residency in Psychiatry from Yale University in 2001. He has been on the Yale University clinical faculty since 2001 where he taught classes and supervised psychiatry residents for over 20 years. He has lectured extensively on Post Traumatic Stress Disorder and taught Cognitive Processing Therapy, a psychotherapy for PTSD, all over the United States.
Greer Richardson, MD attended college at Baylor University majoring in Philosophy. He graduated medical school from the University of Tennessee, Health Sciences Center in 1997 and completed his residency in Psychiatry from Yale University in 2001. He has been on the Yale University clinical faculty since 2001 where he taught classes and supervised psychiatry residents for over 20 years. He has lectured extensively on Post Traumatic Stress Disorder and taught Cognitive Processing Therapy, a psychotherapy for PTSD, all over the United States.
Brian Doyle
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10016 (Online Only)
Brian is a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner who has experience working in various mental health settings. Brian incorporate a holistic approach to treatment that focuses on lifestyle changes, supportive therapy, and medication management. He believes that a strong therapeutic relationship with clients helps them grow and achieve optimal health.
Brian is a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner who has experience working in various mental health settings. Brian incorporate a holistic approach to treatment that focuses on lifestyle changes, supportive therapy, and medication management. He believes that a strong therapeutic relationship with clients helps them grow and achieve optimal health.
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Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New York, NY 10010
I am a Harvard and NYU-trained psychiatrist practicing in New York City who treats adults, adolescents, and couples. I have special interests in mood and anxiety disorders, OCD, ADHD, weight and body image issues, relationship issues, and sleep disorders. I also have expertise in perinatal mental health and sexual dysfunction therapy. In my practice I see patients for both psychopharmacology and/or psychotherapy with emphasis on supportive, dynamic, interpersonal, cognitive behavioral, and sex therapy modalities.
I am a Harvard and NYU-trained psychiatrist practicing in New York City who treats adults, adolescents, and couples. I have special interests in mood and anxiety disorders, OCD, ADHD, weight and body image issues, relationship issues, and sleep disorders. I also have expertise in perinatal mental health and sexual dysfunction therapy. In my practice I see patients for both psychopharmacology and/or psychotherapy with emphasis on supportive, dynamic, interpersonal, cognitive behavioral, and sex therapy modalities.
David Jannain
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10013 (Online Only)
My name is David Jannain, and I am a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I completed nursing school at Columbia University and Nurse Practitioner school at CUNY Hunter College. I have worked with various populations and have a diverse background, including people with trauma, depression, anxiety, and dementia. I have worked in multiple clinical settings for various hospitals in New York, including New York Presbyterian Hospital, NYU, and Mount Sinai. I tailor treatment plans to suit individual needs, creating a safe space for clients to explore their thoughts and emotions freely.
My name is David Jannain, and I am a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I completed nursing school at Columbia University and Nurse Practitioner school at CUNY Hunter College. I have worked with various populations and have a diverse background, including people with trauma, depression, anxiety, and dementia. I have worked in multiple clinical settings for various hospitals in New York, including New York Presbyterian Hospital, NYU, and Mount Sinai. I tailor treatment plans to suit individual needs, creating a safe space for clients to explore their thoughts and emotions freely.
Sara Murphy
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMNHPBC
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10025
I listen, collaborate, and put medications and psychotherapy to work for you in a safe and shame-free environment. I offer medication management alone or in combination with psychotherapy for ages 18+, with a specialty in trauma-based challenges and trauma-informed care. I often work with clients to counteract harms from bigotry, prejudice, shame, and exclusion. I take the time to listen and to develop understanding before proposing medications or therapeutic approaches. I have an affinity for creators, artists, and performers of all types. While working together, we will be partners in creating your best life.
I listen, collaborate, and put medications and psychotherapy to work for you in a safe and shame-free environment. I offer medication management alone or in combination with psychotherapy for ages 18+, with a specialty in trauma-based challenges and trauma-informed care. I often work with clients to counteract harms from bigotry, prejudice, shame, and exclusion. I take the time to listen and to develop understanding before proposing medications or therapeutic approaches. I have an affinity for creators, artists, and performers of all types. While working together, we will be partners in creating your best life.
Magdalena Spariosu
Psychiatrist, FAPA, MD
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10021 (Online Only)
Hello and welcome to my page! As a Brain Injury Medicine Psychiatrist, I am passionate about helping high-achieving individuals who are facing the challenges of medical and neurological co-morbidities, particularly those who have experienced Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI), whether recently or in the past. I am dedicated to providing compassionate care and guidance to patients recovering from TBI, who may be dealing with issues such as depression, anxiety, memory deficits and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), as they work towards reclaiming their sense of self and achieving their optimal well-being once again.
Hello and welcome to my page! As a Brain Injury Medicine Psychiatrist, I am passionate about helping high-achieving individuals who are facing the challenges of medical and neurological co-morbidities, particularly those who have experienced Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI), whether recently or in the past. I am dedicated to providing compassionate care and guidance to patients recovering from TBI, who may be dealing with issues such as depression, anxiety, memory deficits and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), as they work towards reclaiming their sense of self and achieving their optimal well-being once again.
Telepsychiatrist_Piedmont Behavioral Services
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10019
We provide Child and Adult Psychiatry, Therapy and Substance abuse services via video across New York. Our Board Certified Psychiatrists and Therapists are available to help everyday and we can offer same day appointments. Telepsychiatry or Telemedicine uses video link (via computer or smartphone) to offer appointments from home or outside clinic. It offers the option to see a psychiatrist any time as long as you have access to your smart phone or computer. Please use our website or below link to make an appointment. https://piedmontbs.com/telepsychiatry/
We provide Child and Adult Psychiatry, Therapy and Substance abuse services via video across New York. Our Board Certified Psychiatrists and Therapists are available to help everyday and we can offer same day appointments. Telepsychiatry or Telemedicine uses video link (via computer or smartphone) to offer appointments from home or outside clinic. It offers the option to see a psychiatrist any time as long as you have access to your smart phone or computer. Please use our website or below link to make an appointment. https://piedmontbs.com/telepsychiatry/
Danielle Cora
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10016 (Online Only)
Hello, I look forward to meeting you! My name is Danielle and I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner In the state of New York. I specialize in Anxiety, ADHD, Bipolar Disorder, College & Graduate Student Mental Health, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Relationship Issues and Depression. I 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 Danielle and I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner In the state of New York. I specialize in Anxiety, ADHD, Bipolar Disorder, College & Graduate Student Mental Health, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Relationship Issues and Depression. I 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.
Neda Behrouzi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
New York, NY 10038
At this time I am not accepting any new patients.------------------------- I am a Columbia-trained and ANCC board-certified psychiatric/mental health nurse practitioner with experience in helping people with treating anxiety, depression, ADHD, insomnia, panic attacks, bipolar disorder. Accompanying these things are often challenges with self-image/self-esteem, work, family, romantic and other personal relationships that are also often the focus of treatment. I work along side patients to empower them in these and other aspects of their lives in a safe, supportive environment.
At this time I am not accepting any new patients.------------------------- I am a Columbia-trained and ANCC board-certified psychiatric/mental health nurse practitioner with experience in helping people with treating anxiety, depression, ADHD, insomnia, panic attacks, bipolar disorder. Accompanying these things are often challenges with self-image/self-esteem, work, family, romantic and other personal relationships that are also often the focus of treatment. I work along side patients to empower them in these and other aspects of their lives in a safe, supportive environment.
Simon Dosovitz
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10021 (Online Only)
I am a Columbia trained, board-certified psychiatrist and psychotherapist. My practice focuses on mood, anxiety, and substance use disorders, as well as individuals who are facing problems with relationships, their career, or self-esteem. One of my primary aims is to cultivate a comfortable and accepting atmosphere where we can address your concerns. I hope that I can help you to manage troubling symptoms and behaviors, as well as to find more satisfaction in life and greater self-understanding.
I am a Columbia trained, board-certified psychiatrist and psychotherapist. My practice focuses on mood, anxiety, and substance use disorders, as well as individuals who are facing problems with relationships, their career, or self-esteem. One of my primary aims is to cultivate a comfortable and accepting atmosphere where we can address your concerns. I hope that I can help you to manage troubling symptoms and behaviors, as well as to find more satisfaction in life and greater self-understanding.
Connie Yip
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
New York, NY 10017 (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
As a psychiatric nurse practitioner (NP), I do talk therapy and prescribe psychiatric medication for individuals with a variety of therapeutic needs. As a certified advanced schema therapist, I integrate CBT, psychodynamic, and gestalt therapy. My experience includes working with adolescents, families, and adults in hospital, residential, and school settings. Whether you are going through a difficult transition in your life or addressing a longstanding issue, I can help you meet your individual goals with pragmatic tools. I focus on the strengths of each individual, providing a safe space to discuss your personal narrative.
As a psychiatric nurse practitioner (NP), I do talk therapy and prescribe psychiatric medication for individuals with a variety of therapeutic needs. As a certified advanced schema therapist, I integrate CBT, psychodynamic, and gestalt therapy. My experience includes working with adolescents, families, and adults in hospital, residential, and school settings. Whether you are going through a difficult transition in your life or addressing a longstanding issue, I can help you meet your individual goals with pragmatic tools. I focus on the strengths of each individual, providing a safe space to discuss your personal narrative.
See more therapy options for New York
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in New York, NY
1,000+
Average cost per session
$300
Psychiatrists in New York, NY who prioritize treating:
94% | Depression |
94% | Anxiety |
83% | Medication Management |
71% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
70% | Trauma and PTSD |
69% | ADHD |
69% | Bipolar Disorder |
Average years in practice
10 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
90% | Aetna |
84% | Cigna and Evernorth |
84% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Psychiatrists in New York, NY see their clients
53% | In Person and Online | |
47% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
62% | Female | |
37% | Male | |
1% | Non-Binary |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in New York?
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.