Psychiatrists in Seattle, WA
Dr. Mark Ellestad
Psychiatrist, MD, ABPN
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98103 (Online Only)
Hi! I am a Notre Dame and University of Washington trained addiction and integrative psychiatrist who believes that connection and compassion are at the heart of psychiatry. I integrate holistic approaches with scientifically proven methods and focus on delivering personalized treatment for depression, anxiety, ADHD, and trauma for people who might also struggle with chronic medical conditions, chronic pain, or addiction. My practice is not limited to treating just these conditions. As a gay psychiatrist, I also have lived-experience of the challenges LGBTQIA+ individuals face. I connect and enjoy working with this community.
Hi! I am a Notre Dame and University of Washington trained addiction and integrative psychiatrist who believes that connection and compassion are at the heart of psychiatry. I integrate holistic approaches with scientifically proven methods and focus on delivering personalized treatment for depression, anxiety, ADHD, and trauma for people who might also struggle with chronic medical conditions, chronic pain, or addiction. My practice is not limited to treating just these conditions. As a gay psychiatrist, I also have lived-experience of the challenges LGBTQIA+ individuals face. I connect and enjoy working with this community.
Ashley Bouzis
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98109 (Online Only)
Hello and welcome! I'm guessing you're here because the road of life is feeling pretty bumpy these days and it's left you feeling uncertain, anxious or sad. Maybe you're trying to figure out answers to questions like "Why aren't my relationships/goals/jobs working out the way I'd hoped?", "What do I really want out of life or relationships?" or maybe it's something more along the lines of "Why do I feel so damn stressed, sad, disorganized and untethered all the time, and more importantly....how can I feel less of that and get back to feeling like myself?"
Hello and welcome! I'm guessing you're here because the road of life is feeling pretty bumpy these days and it's left you feeling uncertain, anxious or sad. Maybe you're trying to figure out answers to questions like "Why aren't my relationships/goals/jobs working out the way I'd hoped?", "What do I really want out of life or relationships?" or maybe it's something more along the lines of "Why do I feel so damn stressed, sad, disorganized and untethered all the time, and more importantly....how can I feel less of that and get back to feeling like myself?"
Debbie Singh PMHNP / Ideal Mental Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98101
Accepting new clients: I specialize in treating adults and children with a wide range of mental health conditions, including Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Schizophrenia, PTSD, Autism Medication Management, ADHD, ODD, and Learning Disabilities. If you're feeling overwhelmed, tired, irritable, struggling with daily tasks, experiencing poor concentration, sadness, anxiety, frequent mood swings, or anger issues, it's crucial not to let these symptoms define you. Seek help today, as many of these symptoms may be linked to your mental health and are often treatable. To schedule a free 15 consult visit our website.
Accepting new clients: I specialize in treating adults and children with a wide range of mental health conditions, including Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Schizophrenia, PTSD, Autism Medication Management, ADHD, ODD, and Learning Disabilities. If you're feeling overwhelmed, tired, irritable, struggling with daily tasks, experiencing poor concentration, sadness, anxiety, frequent mood swings, or anger issues, it's crucial not to let these symptoms define you. Seek help today, as many of these symptoms may be linked to your mental health and are often treatable. To schedule a free 15 consult visit our website.
Deborah Seidel ARNP
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARNP, BC
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98115
Welcome! I am looking forward to meeting you.I am a Board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. You may be considering therapy or medications because you are experiencing distress or dissatisfaction with some part of your life. I believe that I can help you to move through a challenging time by creating a safe place to talk about difficult situations. Therapy will be mutually designed to assst you to examing the cognitive, psychological and behavioral patterns that may interefere with your experiences of fulfillment in life. Sessions will be supportive and challenge you to examine your current life situation.
Welcome! I am looking forward to meeting you.I am a Board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. You may be considering therapy or medications because you are experiencing distress or dissatisfaction with some part of your life. I believe that I can help you to move through a challenging time by creating a safe place to talk about difficult situations. Therapy will be mutually designed to assst you to examing the cognitive, psychological and behavioral patterns that may interefere with your experiences of fulfillment in life. Sessions will be supportive and challenge you to examine your current life situation.
Kyl Dinsio, MD, PLLC
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98102
If you find yourself internet searching for a psychiatrist, you're probably asking questions like: why aren’t things (jobs/relationships/goals) working out for me? How do I balance what I want and what I need? How do I even KNOW what I need? Why do I fall into the same relationship patterns with family, friends, bosses, and intimate partners? Of course you feel overwhelmed, these are tough questions! Perhaps you’ve sought help for anxiety or depression, but haven't found medications to be helpful, or helpful enough.
If you find yourself internet searching for a psychiatrist, you're probably asking questions like: why aren’t things (jobs/relationships/goals) working out for me? How do I balance what I want and what I need? How do I even KNOW what I need? Why do I fall into the same relationship patterns with family, friends, bosses, and intimate partners? Of course you feel overwhelmed, these are tough questions! Perhaps you’ve sought help for anxiety or depression, but haven't found medications to be helpful, or helpful enough.
Nikki Gaines
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MBA, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98195 (Online Only)
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with more than ten years of experience in various facets of mental health. My philosophy includes a focus on whole mind and body wellness. I strive to deliver excellent, compassionate care through active listening and thoughtful collaboration with my patients – with a splash of humor. You will feel heard and validated, never rushed or ignored. My interest is in the person with a symptom rather than the symptom of a person.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with more than ten years of experience in various facets of mental health. My philosophy includes a focus on whole mind and body wellness. I strive to deliver excellent, compassionate care through active listening and thoughtful collaboration with my patients – with a splash of humor. You will feel heard and validated, never rushed or ignored. My interest is in the person with a symptom rather than the symptom of a person.
Freedom Psychiatry Center
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98126 (Online Only)
Are you feeling down or hopeless about your future? Do you always feeling anxious or have panic attacks that you are scared to go out in a public place? Are you struggling to concentrate better on tasks either at work or in school? You are not alone. We are here to help you balance your physical and mental health and improve your performance. We treat clients with ADHD, Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, and many more. We are currently accepting new clients and we accept most of commercial health insurance. We accept Kaiser Permanente Insurance. Check out what other people are saying about us: provider.kareo.com/paul-okoronkwo
Are you feeling down or hopeless about your future? Do you always feeling anxious or have panic attacks that you are scared to go out in a public place? Are you struggling to concentrate better on tasks either at work or in school? You are not alone. We are here to help you balance your physical and mental health and improve your performance. We treat clients with ADHD, Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, and many more. We are currently accepting new clients and we accept most of commercial health insurance. We accept Kaiser Permanente Insurance. Check out what other people are saying about us: provider.kareo.com/paul-okoronkwo
Julie Nugent-Carney
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, ARNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98116
I am a doctorally prepared psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner and have been a registered nurse for over 20 years, helping families cope with change, from childbirth to end-of-life. I provide life coaching for managing life transitions and relationship challenges. I've treated patients with a wide variety of mental health conditions including anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, ADHD, personality disorder, insomnia and other common psychiatric diagnoses. In addition to prescribing medications when necessary, my focus with psychotherapy is to assist people with achieving their goals.
I am a doctorally prepared psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner and have been a registered nurse for over 20 years, helping families cope with change, from childbirth to end-of-life. I provide life coaching for managing life transitions and relationship challenges. I've treated patients with a wide variety of mental health conditions including anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, ADHD, personality disorder, insomnia and other common psychiatric diagnoses. In addition to prescribing medications when necessary, my focus with psychotherapy is to assist people with achieving their goals.
Maycelin Ramos
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98121 (Online Only)
I am a doctoral-prepared licensed Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I have a strong background in acute, subacute and chronic mental health disorders stemming from at least 10 years of inpatient psychiatric and mental health care experience. Though I am certified to work with all ages, I believe that I especially excel in working with adult individuals who are particularly having difficulty from various mood disorders and anxiety disorders along with schizophrenia spectrum disorders.
I am a doctoral-prepared licensed Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I have a strong background in acute, subacute and chronic mental health disorders stemming from at least 10 years of inpatient psychiatric and mental health care experience. Though I am certified to work with all ages, I believe that I especially excel in working with adult individuals who are particularly having difficulty from various mood disorders and anxiety disorders along with schizophrenia spectrum disorders.
Jordin Johnson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98119
My passion for mental health stems from my desire to help individuals achieve optimal well-being and lead fulfilling lives. I am committed to providing personalized care that meets patients' unique needs. I take the time to get to know each patient and work collaboratively to develop a treatment plan that promotes lasting health and wellness. Creating a safe, non-judgmental environment where my patients feel comfortable sharing their experiences and emotions is of utmost importance to me. My ultimate goal is to empower my patients to take control of their mental healing and achieve their full potential.
My passion for mental health stems from my desire to help individuals achieve optimal well-being and lead fulfilling lives. I am committed to providing personalized care that meets patients' unique needs. I take the time to get to know each patient and work collaboratively to develop a treatment plan that promotes lasting health and wellness. Creating a safe, non-judgmental environment where my patients feel comfortable sharing their experiences and emotions is of utmost importance to me. My ultimate goal is to empower my patients to take control of their mental healing and achieve their full potential.
Dr. Rachael Davison@ Family Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98103 (Online Only)
Accepting New Patients. I enjoy working with patients across the lifespan and have particular interests in Anxiety disorders, ADHD, Depression and Bipolar disorder. I strive to create positive and lasting change for my patients by utilizing both pharmacotherapy and holistic treatment options by understanding the biological basis of mental health disorders along with the psychosocial stressors. Please contact me to arrange a Video conference. Patients can complete intake paperwork online.
Accepting New Patients. I enjoy working with patients across the lifespan and have particular interests in Anxiety disorders, ADHD, Depression and Bipolar disorder. I strive to create positive and lasting change for my patients by utilizing both pharmacotherapy and holistic treatment options by understanding the biological basis of mental health disorders along with the psychosocial stressors. Please contact me to arrange a Video conference. Patients can complete intake paperwork online.
15 Second Videos
Mark Ellestad
Debbie Singh PMHNP / Ideal Mental Health
Ike Uzowulu
Nancy Masters
Dao Nguyen
Albert Quainoo
PsychiatryProvider.com
Embodied Wellness Psychiatry
Heather Sanudo
Kathryn (Kat) McNeil
Pw Psych NP Services Pllc
Arezu Piroozmandi
Honorine Betah
Steven Pline
Katharine Frissora
Victoria Abolarin
Ideal Mental Health and Wellness Care
Nicholas Hatcher
Anna Long
Alexandra Scott
Lynn-Marie Peashka
Felicia Turner, APRN | Text #Enroll 503-925-6606
Hannah Cantrell
Dr Mark Chofla | Empathy Therapy
Balance Psychiatric Services
Rachel Ann Jimenes
Kelsey Knox
Sean Dunn
Fatima Omar
Talia Baruch
Deidre McHugh
Mental Health For All Services
Grace Martin
John Anthony Meunier
Hope Mental Health
Raven Young
David G Zacharias
Ideal Mental Health and Wellness - Debbie Singh
Levi Williams
Jacqueline Marcell-Koledin | TMS
Ross Brown
Jade Goodloe
Talia Baruch
Shannon Eaton
Ashley Cedar
MindsMatter LLC
Inno Ogbede
Cate Gerrity
Casilda Jennings Vigil
Transformational Psychiatry NW & TMS Clinic
Amy Renee
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, ARNP, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98103 (Online Only)
-Now accepting clients via telehealth- Is this your first time seeking mental health services or is your current provider not a great fit? Do you have a distrust around medicine? Do you not feel seen or heard? Do you feel alone, depressed, anxious or overwhelmed? You are not alone. You’ve taken the first step. Together, with you in charge, I hope to help you aim to reframe, successfully with life’s challenges through a holistic and person-centered perspective.
-Now accepting clients via telehealth- Is this your first time seeking mental health services or is your current provider not a great fit? Do you have a distrust around medicine? Do you not feel seen or heard? Do you feel alone, depressed, anxious or overwhelmed? You are not alone. You’ve taken the first step. Together, with you in charge, I hope to help you aim to reframe, successfully with life’s challenges through a holistic and person-centered perspective.
Wes Weidle
Physician Assistant, PA-C, CAQ-PSY
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98133
I am motivated to work with individuals that want to improve and feel better, and are open to approaching their mental healthcare from multiple evidence-based avenues.
I am motivated to work with individuals that want to improve and feel better, and are open to approaching their mental healthcare from multiple evidence-based avenues.
Vernon LaFreniere
Psychiatric Nurse, ARNP
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98101
Are you feeling disconnected from your life? Overwhelmed with tasks which lead to little satisfaction? Does it seem like you are not enjoying activities that were once fun? Do you cry more often, feel like nothing can be done to fix your life, or feel disappointed when you wake up in the morning? I come through for people when they have been trying and are close to giving up. My main tool is Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation, a new alternative to traditional therapy and medication management. You could finally feel like yourself again. Stop hiding how you feel and free yourself to project who you really are. Call us today.
Are you feeling disconnected from your life? Overwhelmed with tasks which lead to little satisfaction? Does it seem like you are not enjoying activities that were once fun? Do you cry more often, feel like nothing can be done to fix your life, or feel disappointed when you wake up in the morning? I come through for people when they have been trying and are close to giving up. My main tool is Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation, a new alternative to traditional therapy and medication management. You could finally feel like yourself again. Stop hiding how you feel and free yourself to project who you really are. Call us today.
Ike Uzowulu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FPMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98121 (Online Only)
I am a board-certified family psychiatric nurse practitioner. I have a master's degree in psychiatric nursing specializing in mental and behavioral health medicine. I have verifiable experience in treating variety of psychiatric disorders such as; mood disorders including resistant depression, eating disorders, ADHD, OCD, PTSD, schizophrenia, stress and sleep related disorders
I am a board-certified family psychiatric nurse practitioner. I have a master's degree in psychiatric nursing specializing in mental and behavioral health medicine. I have verifiable experience in treating variety of psychiatric disorders such as; mood disorders including resistant depression, eating disorders, ADHD, OCD, PTSD, schizophrenia, stress and sleep related disorders
LaToyia Neal
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98119 (Online Only)
I am a highly motivated board-certified Advanced Practice Registered Nurse. I have over 10 years of nursing experience. I received my Bachelor of Science in Nursing Degree from Georgia Southwestern State University in 2011. In 2017 I obtained my Master of Science in Nursing (APRN) degree from Clayton State University and my Post Masters Psychiatric Mental Health Degree in July 2021 from Valdosta State University.
I am a highly motivated board-certified Advanced Practice Registered Nurse. I have over 10 years of nursing experience. I received my Bachelor of Science in Nursing Degree from Georgia Southwestern State University in 2011. In 2017 I obtained my Master of Science in Nursing (APRN) degree from Clayton State University and my Post Masters Psychiatric Mental Health Degree in July 2021 from Valdosta State University.
Nicole Ervin
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98118 (Online Only)
I support young adults in feeling empowered to address the things that are preventing you from being your most genuine self. I started my career as a primary care provider, where I learned that it is difficult to improve your physical health if your emotional health isn’t in a stable place. My background provides me with the expertise to help you navigate the interplay between physical and emotional concerns.
I support young adults in feeling empowered to address the things that are preventing you from being your most genuine self. I started my career as a primary care provider, where I learned that it is difficult to improve your physical health if your emotional health isn’t in a stable place. My background provides me with the expertise to help you navigate the interplay between physical and emotional concerns.
MiraMinds Holistic Care
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP-C, ACNP-BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98121 (Online Only)
Are you struggling with mental health issues? You should never suffer alone or in silence. Your mental health is essential and matters a lot. I strive to promote physical, mental, and emotional wellness and work diligently to help my clients achieve a better quality of life. I work with children and adults struggling with varying mental health disorders, including anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, ADHD, amongst others. I also assist with medication management. I am GENDER sensitive and use an individualized approach to care for you and your needs. Call to schedule an appointment NOW.
Are you struggling with mental health issues? You should never suffer alone or in silence. Your mental health is essential and matters a lot. I strive to promote physical, mental, and emotional wellness and work diligently to help my clients achieve a better quality of life. I work with children and adults struggling with varying mental health disorders, including anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, ADHD, amongst others. I also assist with medication management. I am GENDER sensitive and use an individualized approach to care for you and your needs. Call to schedule an appointment NOW.
Taylor Fancher
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, ARNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98119
Let's level with each other. You're struggling. Maybe you thought you could deal with it on your own. Maybe you thought you'd grow out of it. Maybe you feel like things shouldn't constantly be so hard. You're irritated, distracted, overwhelmed and feeling low. Your moods are anything but stable. You try to help yourself but nothing is working and you can't catch a break. You're not convinced therapy could help. Maybe you're nervous about the idea of medication. Maybe you feel misunderstood and unheard. You feel like no one will actually listen to you or consider what you want and need.
Let's level with each other. You're struggling. Maybe you thought you could deal with it on your own. Maybe you thought you'd grow out of it. Maybe you feel like things shouldn't constantly be so hard. You're irritated, distracted, overwhelmed and feeling low. Your moods are anything but stable. You try to help yourself but nothing is working and you can't catch a break. You're not convinced therapy could help. Maybe you're nervous about the idea of medication. Maybe you feel misunderstood and unheard. You feel like no one will actually listen to you or consider what you want and need.
Family Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98103 (Online Only)
Accepting New Patients. We provides supportive and empathic medication management for a variety of conditions including Anxiety, Depression and ADHD for both Kids and Adults. We strive to create positive and lasting change by building a therapeutic relationship for every one of my patients. We have advanced knowledge in pharmacotherapy and developmental pediatrics.
Accepting New Patients. We provides supportive and empathic medication management for a variety of conditions including Anxiety, Depression and ADHD for both Kids and Adults. We strive to create positive and lasting change by building a therapeutic relationship for every one of my patients. We have advanced knowledge in pharmacotherapy and developmental pediatrics.
See more therapy options for Seattle
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Seattle, WA
500+
Average cost per session
$250
Psychiatrists in Seattle, WA who prioritize treating:
95% | Anxiety |
94% | Depression |
85% | Medication Management |
81% | Bipolar Disorder |
77% | Trauma and PTSD |
75% | ADHD |
71% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
Average years in practice
8 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
79% | Aetna |
74% | Cigna and Evernorth |
66% | Premera |
How Psychiatrists in Seattle, WA see their clients
54% | In Person and Online | |
46% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
70% | Female | |
29% | Male | |
1% | Non-Binary |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Seattle?
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.