Psychiatrists in Philadelphia, PA
Michael W Huang
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19147
Engaging in the journey of psychotherapy can feel formidable, but I believe that it can also be transformative, freeing, and full of surprises. I specialize in psychoanalytic or psychodynamic psychotherapy, where I work closely with you to explore unconscious parts of the self and patterns of being with others. This process can lead not only to relief from symptoms, but also achieve sustained, deeper changes. This often looks like the following: increased curiosity and creativity, a sense of wellbeing, improved satisfaction in relationships, pursuing life goals with more vigor and conviction.
Engaging in the journey of psychotherapy can feel formidable, but I believe that it can also be transformative, freeing, and full of surprises. I specialize in psychoanalytic or psychodynamic psychotherapy, where I work closely with you to explore unconscious parts of the self and patterns of being with others. This process can lead not only to relief from symptoms, but also achieve sustained, deeper changes. This often looks like the following: increased curiosity and creativity, a sense of wellbeing, improved satisfaction in relationships, pursuing life goals with more vigor and conviction.
Jennifer G Reid
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19106
Not accepting new clients
I specialize in the treatment of anxiety disorders, reproductive and menopause related mood changes, and insomnia, as well as relationship difficulties and life transitions. I also specialize in treating physicians with anxiety and depression, and write and speak about mental health. My treatment plan may include medications, psychotherapy, sleep training including CBT for Insomnia (CBT-I), and relaxation exercises, among other techniques.
I specialize in the treatment of anxiety disorders, reproductive and menopause related mood changes, and insomnia, as well as relationship difficulties and life transitions. I also specialize in treating physicians with anxiety and depression, and write and speak about mental health. My treatment plan may include medications, psychotherapy, sleep training including CBT for Insomnia (CBT-I), and relaxation exercises, among other techniques.
Katherine Vital-Daley
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19125 (Online Only)
Dr. Katherine Vital-Daley is an adult psychiatrist at Talkiatry. She treats all adults and her passion lies in providing accessible care for women facing challenges throughout pregnancy, childbirth, and postpartum and in reproductive psychiatry. Dr. Vital-Daley's academic background is rooted in science, with an undergraduate degree in biochemistry and molecular biology from the University of California, Merced. She then pursued her medical doctorate at the Medical University of the Americas. Following medical school, she completed her psychiatry residency training.
Dr. Katherine Vital-Daley is an adult psychiatrist at Talkiatry. She treats all adults and her passion lies in providing accessible care for women facing challenges throughout pregnancy, childbirth, and postpartum and in reproductive psychiatry. Dr. Vital-Daley's academic background is rooted in science, with an undergraduate degree in biochemistry and molecular biology from the University of California, Merced. She then pursued her medical doctorate at the Medical University of the Americas. Following medical school, she completed her psychiatry residency training.
Rittenhouse Psychiatric Associates
Psychiatrist
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19102
Rittenhouse Psychiatric Associates is a private practice of Psychiatry, comprised of Johns Hopkins, University of Pennsylvania and similarly trained Physicians, Nurse Practitioners and therapists who treat Children, Adolescents & Adults for Depression, Bipolar Affective Disorder, Anxiety Disorders (GAD, OCD and Panic) and psychotherapy. We offer in-office and virtual Telehealth Psychiatric appointments for patients in the Philadelphia and Main Line areas, and Telehealth for patients in New Jersey, New York and Florida. Evidence based medicine from academically oriented providers, many of whom teach or have taught at academic centers
Rittenhouse Psychiatric Associates is a private practice of Psychiatry, comprised of Johns Hopkins, University of Pennsylvania and similarly trained Physicians, Nurse Practitioners and therapists who treat Children, Adolescents & Adults for Depression, Bipolar Affective Disorder, Anxiety Disorders (GAD, OCD and Panic) and psychotherapy. We offer in-office and virtual Telehealth Psychiatric appointments for patients in the Philadelphia and Main Line areas, and Telehealth for patients in New Jersey, New York and Florida. Evidence based medicine from academically oriented providers, many of whom teach or have taught at academic centers
Tuua Ruutiainen
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19103
People seek treatment for many different reasons including stress related to their career or relationships, difficulty coping with trauma and anxiety, or a desire to better understand themselves. As a psychiatrist and insight oriented psychotherapist, I offer a variety of different treatments including individual therapy and when indicated medications. My approach is empathic and collaborative. I work to gain a nuanced understanding of who you are and your reasons for seeking treatment. My goal is to help you better understand yourself, find new ways to cope with stress and anxiety, and achieve a greater sense of life satisfaction.
People seek treatment for many different reasons including stress related to their career or relationships, difficulty coping with trauma and anxiety, or a desire to better understand themselves. As a psychiatrist and insight oriented psychotherapist, I offer a variety of different treatments including individual therapy and when indicated medications. My approach is empathic and collaborative. I work to gain a nuanced understanding of who you are and your reasons for seeking treatment. My goal is to help you better understand yourself, find new ways to cope with stress and anxiety, and achieve a greater sense of life satisfaction.
Dr. Chenhang Zou
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19103
Dr. Zou is welcoming new patients seeking specialized treatment for anxiety, depression, trauma, OCD, bipolar disorder, and other psychiatric concerns. As a holistic psychiatrist, Dr. Zou draws from a wide-ranging toolbox of treatment options - including psychotherapy, psycho-education and lifestyle adaptations in addition to medication where appropriate. Consequently, patients benefit from a well-integrated approach to care that is both systematic and thorough.
Dr. Zou is welcoming new patients seeking specialized treatment for anxiety, depression, trauma, OCD, bipolar disorder, and other psychiatric concerns. As a holistic psychiatrist, Dr. Zou draws from a wide-ranging toolbox of treatment options - including psychotherapy, psycho-education and lifestyle adaptations in addition to medication where appropriate. Consequently, patients benefit from a well-integrated approach to care that is both systematic and thorough.
Erica Borman
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19103
Dr. Borman is board certified in Psychiatry and Neurology. Erica graduated from Cornell University with a BA in Biology and Society. After completing medical school at the University of Medicine and Dentistry of the NJ School of Osteopathic Medicine, she then trained for two years in Obstetrics and Gynecology before completing a psychiatry residency at Rowan University School of Osteopathic Medicine. She has experience in a wide array of mental health issues including mood disorders, anxiety disorders, eating disorders, and ADHD.
Dr. Borman is board certified in Psychiatry and Neurology. Erica graduated from Cornell University with a BA in Biology and Society. After completing medical school at the University of Medicine and Dentistry of the NJ School of Osteopathic Medicine, she then trained for two years in Obstetrics and Gynecology before completing a psychiatry residency at Rowan University School of Osteopathic Medicine. She has experience in a wide array of mental health issues including mood disorders, anxiety disorders, eating disorders, and ADHD.
Sonia Alam
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19106
I work with each client to come up with the best treatment plan for you. I like to be flexible in my approach. I focus on med management and I highly encourage therapy as a co treatment. I often recommend optimizing sleep whether that involves a sleep study, medication or therapeutic techniques. I encourage patients to help me communicate with their therapists. I value exercise and nutrition and like to help patients make goals towards optimal health.
I work with each client to come up with the best treatment plan for you. I like to be flexible in my approach. I focus on med management and I highly encourage therapy as a co treatment. I often recommend optimizing sleep whether that involves a sleep study, medication or therapeutic techniques. I encourage patients to help me communicate with their therapists. I value exercise and nutrition and like to help patients make goals towards optimal health.
Paula Bu
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19102
When depression, anxiety, or trauma overshadows your thoughts, it can be difficult to even imagine how life could be different. Whether you are struggling with work-life balance, relationships, or life transitions, I offer new ways of thinking and a personalized treatment plan that empowers you to live your most meaningful life. I also have significant experience treating college students, members of the LGBTQ+ community, and people of color.
When depression, anxiety, or trauma overshadows your thoughts, it can be difficult to even imagine how life could be different. Whether you are struggling with work-life balance, relationships, or life transitions, I offer new ways of thinking and a personalized treatment plan that empowers you to live your most meaningful life. I also have significant experience treating college students, members of the LGBTQ+ community, and people of color.
Ifeoluwa Ajuwon
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19103 (Online Only)
I am a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner dedicated to helping clients enhance their quality of life. My approach is rooted in empathetic communication, patient advocacy, empowerment, and timely interventions. I strive to create a therapeutic environment that is respectful, nonjudgmental, and focused on your well-being. By combining evidence-based guidelines with my clinical experience, I aim to provide you with the highest standard of care. Together, we can work towards achieving your mental health goals.
I am a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner dedicated to helping clients enhance their quality of life. My approach is rooted in empathetic communication, patient advocacy, empowerment, and timely interventions. I strive to create a therapeutic environment that is respectful, nonjudgmental, and focused on your well-being. By combining evidence-based guidelines with my clinical experience, I aim to provide you with the highest standard of care. Together, we can work towards achieving your mental health goals.
Triston Wong
Psychiatrist
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19125 (Online Only)
Dr. Triston Wong is a board-certified adult psychiatrist who emphasizes a collaborative approach and strong therapeutic alliance in treatment of psychiatric conditions. Though his practice focuses on medication management, Dr. Wong advocates for a holistic approach to treatment. He may incorporate elements of various psychotherapies, including supportive, cognitive behavioral (CBT), and insight-oriented therapy. At times, Dr. Wong may believe that additional therapy is needed for best outcome and recommend that you bring a dedicated therapist into your care team.
Dr. Triston Wong is a board-certified adult psychiatrist who emphasizes a collaborative approach and strong therapeutic alliance in treatment of psychiatric conditions. Though his practice focuses on medication management, Dr. Wong advocates for a holistic approach to treatment. He may incorporate elements of various psychotherapies, including supportive, cognitive behavioral (CBT), and insight-oriented therapy. At times, Dr. Wong may believe that additional therapy is needed for best outcome and recommend that you bring a dedicated therapist into your care team.
15 Second Videos
Rittenhouse Psychiatric Associates
Paula Bu
Andrea Papa-Molter
Robert F. McFadden
Marcia Starkman
Rachel Reis
Shannon Bucciarelli
Karen (Yang) Chen
Richard M D'Amato
Paul Joseph Resignato
Edena Walden
Elizabeth Milburn
Linda Kim
Chris Pagnani MD PC
Allen Masry
Elizabeth Pak- Impak Psychiatry
Michelle McCarthy
Marie R. Dona
Renewing Mindsets
Michelle Antanovich
Bright Mind Wellness
Thomas Scary
DUO Mental Health
michaelsumdpc
Aviva Zohar
KetaMinds
Melissa Lopez-Larson
Ife Ajuwon
Theresa Webster
Conboy Psychiatry, LLC
Breeze Mental Health, specializing in stress
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.
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.
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.
Nichelle Jones
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP , PMHNP
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19103
My ideal client is dealing with a mental concern that is causing them distress that they are seeking relief from. They are looking for someone who will listen to their concerns and work with them to develop an individualized treatment plan that aligns with their unique goals. They seek a safe, nonjudgmental environment with a trustworthy provider to deliver quality care. Hi, my name is Nichelle and I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I have over 10 years of clinical experience in treating psychiatric disorders and specialize in treating major depression, anxiety disorder, mood disorders, PTSD & ADHD.
My ideal client is dealing with a mental concern that is causing them distress that they are seeking relief from. They are looking for someone who will listen to their concerns and work with them to develop an individualized treatment plan that aligns with their unique goals. They seek a safe, nonjudgmental environment with a trustworthy provider to deliver quality care. Hi, my name is Nichelle and I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I have over 10 years of clinical experience in treating psychiatric disorders and specialize in treating major depression, anxiety disorder, mood disorders, PTSD & ADHD.
Franklin George Maleson
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19118
I regard empathy, responsiveness, and respect for the patient as core therapeutic values. While I tailor treatment to the individual, as a psychoanalyst I place special importance on gaining insight about unconscious contributors to current difficulties. I also appreciate the importance of clarifying and resolving here-and-now problems. When appropriate I prescribe medications or work short-term. My style is collaborative rather than authoritarian. For many years I have taught psychotherapy and psychoanalysis to trainees in these fields. I also teach professional ethics. I have published in the major journals in my field and am a training and supervising psychoanalyst.
I regard empathy, responsiveness, and respect for the patient as core therapeutic values. While I tailor treatment to the individual, as a psychoanalyst I place special importance on gaining insight about unconscious contributors to current difficulties. I also appreciate the importance of clarifying and resolving here-and-now problems. When appropriate I prescribe medications or work short-term. My style is collaborative rather than authoritarian. For many years I have taught psychotherapy and psychoanalysis to trainees in these fields. I also teach professional ethics. I have published in the major journals in my field and am a training and supervising psychoanalyst.
Dr. Andrea Papa-Molter
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19103
I am double board-certified in Psychiatry and Addiction Medicine. I believe in using both medication when indicated as well as therapy. I was trained in CBT and was given the Excellence in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy during my residency program. I use supportive therapy with each client I see. During my residency I served as Chief Resident and was awarded the Overall Excellence in Psychiatry Award as well as the Clinical Excellence Award.
I am double board-certified in Psychiatry and Addiction Medicine. I believe in using both medication when indicated as well as therapy. I was trained in CBT and was given the Excellence in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy during my residency program. I use supportive therapy with each client I see. During my residency I served as Chief Resident and was awarded the Overall Excellence in Psychiatry Award as well as the Clinical Excellence Award.
Alison Ercole
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19103
Have you been struggling with mental health symptoms despite your best effort to employ coping skills? Are you looking for individualized medication options? I am a PMHNP who utilizes a strengths-based approach. In our sessions together, I’ll meet you with compassion and evidenced-based psychopharmacological approaches so you can overcome life’s challenges.
Have you been struggling with mental health symptoms despite your best effort to employ coping skills? Are you looking for individualized medication options? I am a PMHNP who utilizes a strengths-based approach. In our sessions together, I’ll meet you with compassion and evidenced-based psychopharmacological approaches so you can overcome life’s challenges.
Cara Gouldey
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19102
The best psychiatric care is tailored to an individual's unique needs, understood through the context of their environment, relationships, and lived experience. With this foundation, I work with patients to identify and achieve their mental health and wellness goals. I am a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with over ten years of direct patient care experience in a diversity of roles, including diagnosing and treating mental health disorders in group practice, community settings, and via telehealth. I provide psychiatric evaluations and medication management for adults, adolescents, and school-aged children.
The best psychiatric care is tailored to an individual's unique needs, understood through the context of their environment, relationships, and lived experience. With this foundation, I work with patients to identify and achieve their mental health and wellness goals. I am a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with over ten years of direct patient care experience in a diversity of roles, including diagnosing and treating mental health disorders in group practice, community settings, and via telehealth. I provide psychiatric evaluations and medication management for adults, adolescents, and school-aged children.
Domonique Louis
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19103 (Online Only)
As a dedicated and compassionate board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, Domonique Louis APRN, PMHNP-BC has forged a distinguished career, blending academic excellence, community nursing, and synthesis of groundbreaking research in the field of psychiatry. She began her academic journey at the University of Memphis studying the development, structure and functioning of human society followed by a baccalaureate degree in nursing at Union University in Tennessee, laying the foundation for her passion for healthcare.
As a dedicated and compassionate board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, Domonique Louis APRN, PMHNP-BC has forged a distinguished career, blending academic excellence, community nursing, and synthesis of groundbreaking research in the field of psychiatry. She began her academic journey at the University of Memphis studying the development, structure and functioning of human society followed by a baccalaureate degree in nursing at Union University in Tennessee, laying the foundation for her passion for healthcare.
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 |
62% | 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.