Psychiatrists in Seattle, WA
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.
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
Dr. Catherine R Royalty
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98119 (Online Only)
I am a doctorally-prepared, board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I utilize a holistic, trauma-informed, culturally sensitive, and collaborative approach to managing a variety of mental health conditions requiring medication treatment. Although I specialize in psychiatric (medication) treatment, I value integrative and complementary therapies and will offer these options alongside medications as requested or indicated. Additionally, I offer the option of conducting visits virtually. In doing so, I aim to increase access to psychiatric care with the use of Telemedicine, an evidence-based healthcare delivery model.
I am a doctorally-prepared, board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I utilize a holistic, trauma-informed, culturally sensitive, and collaborative approach to managing a variety of mental health conditions requiring medication treatment. Although I specialize in psychiatric (medication) treatment, I value integrative and complementary therapies and will offer these options alongside medications as requested or indicated. Additionally, I offer the option of conducting visits virtually. In doing so, I aim to increase access to psychiatric care with the use of Telemedicine, an evidence-based healthcare delivery model.
Jaimee L Brielmaier
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98119
I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with 15 years of experience in ICU nursing and mental health. I believe mental wellness is achieved through a balance of the mind and the body. My process is holistic, collaborative, and person-centered. My goal as your provider will be to help you reach your personal mental health goals through a combination of medication management and psychotherapy.
I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with 15 years of experience in ICU nursing and mental health. I believe mental wellness is achieved through a balance of the mind and the body. My process is holistic, collaborative, and person-centered. My goal as your provider will be to help you reach your personal mental health goals through a combination of medication management and psychotherapy.
Trae Stewart
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD, MPH, MSN, PMHNP, APRN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98122 (Online Only)
Accepting NEW patients! Make appointments directly at www.psychmatters.net Dr. Stewart is a Board Certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with full prescriptive authority. He provides quality mental health care through assessment, diagnosis, and medication management via virtual appointments. Dr. Stewart focuses on medication management for adolescents and adults (13+ years old). He treats mental health disorders like anxiety, OCD, depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, ADHD, and sleep disorders.
Accepting NEW patients! Make appointments directly at www.psychmatters.net Dr. Stewart is a Board Certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with full prescriptive authority. He provides quality mental health care through assessment, diagnosis, and medication management via virtual appointments. Dr. Stewart focuses on medication management for adolescents and adults (13+ years old). He treats mental health disorders like anxiety, OCD, depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, ADHD, and sleep disorders.
Hopeflower Psychiatry and Consulting
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98103 (Online Only)
I'm so glad you're here. It takes courage to seek help, and I'm here to support you every step of the way. I'm Kristina, a psychiatric nurse practitioner with a deep commitment to helping women like you navigate ADHD from diagnosis to ongoing management. My journey with mental health drives my passion to enhance your life quality. In our sessions, we'll create a safe, open environment to develop a personalized care strategy that’s effective and tailored to your unique needs. I work remotely and am licensed in Washington and Arizona. I am here to listen, understand, and move forward toward your well-being together.
I'm so glad you're here. It takes courage to seek help, and I'm here to support you every step of the way. I'm Kristina, a psychiatric nurse practitioner with a deep commitment to helping women like you navigate ADHD from diagnosis to ongoing management. My journey with mental health drives my passion to enhance your life quality. In our sessions, we'll create a safe, open environment to develop a personalized care strategy that’s effective and tailored to your unique needs. I work remotely and am licensed in Washington and Arizona. I am here to listen, understand, and move forward toward your well-being together.
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.
Cheryl Cooke
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD, DNP, ARNP, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98105 (Online Only)
I am primarily seeing folks for therapy. I am familiar with the challenges experienced by communities of Color, academics, women at transitions in life, and individuals experiencing parenting and relationship challenges. I also see children with anxiety, depression, ADHD and autism spectrum disorder between the ages of 5 & 12.
I am primarily seeing folks for therapy. I am familiar with the challenges experienced by communities of Color, academics, women at transitions in life, and individuals experiencing parenting and relationship challenges. I also see children with anxiety, depression, ADHD and autism spectrum disorder between the ages of 5 & 12.
Zachary Feldman
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98103
I believe mental health results from a complex constellation of past and present interpersonal, intrapersonal, and bio-physiologic influence. My approach is toward narrative and understanding within a safe, dyadic relationship. I offer psychodynamic psychotherapy, psychoanalysis, and judicious prescribing in a small, referral-based psychiatric private practice. I concurrently maintain a clinical faculty appointment at the University of Washington, am a clinical associate at the Seattle Psychoanalytic Society and Institute, and work as an attending psychiatrist at Overlake Medical Center.
I believe mental health results from a complex constellation of past and present interpersonal, intrapersonal, and bio-physiologic influence. My approach is toward narrative and understanding within a safe, dyadic relationship. I offer psychodynamic psychotherapy, psychoanalysis, and judicious prescribing in a small, referral-based psychiatric private practice. I concurrently maintain a clinical faculty appointment at the University of Washington, am a clinical associate at the Seattle Psychoanalytic Society and Institute, and work as an attending psychiatrist at Overlake Medical Center.
Rafael Achacoso
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
13 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98121 (Online Only)
As a dedicated Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, my mission is to offer a safe, warm, and inviting space. I provide comprehensive medication management, ensuring that any medications prescribed are effectively addressing your symptoms while minimizing side effects. As an immigrant from the Philippines & a member of the LGBTQ+ community, I offer a distinct viewpoint on mental health. My experience as an inpatient psychiatric provider, treating clients with complex symptoms and those in active crisis, significantly deepens my understanding and knowledge base.
As a dedicated Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, my mission is to offer a safe, warm, and inviting space. I provide comprehensive medication management, ensuring that any medications prescribed are effectively addressing your symptoms while minimizing side effects. As an immigrant from the Philippines & a member of the LGBTQ+ community, I offer a distinct viewpoint on mental health. My experience as an inpatient psychiatric provider, treating clients with complex symptoms and those in active crisis, significantly deepens my understanding and knowledge base.
Joyce Aiyeojenku - New Mexico Texas Washington State
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98119 (Online Only)
Joyce Aiyeojenku PMHNP-BC is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who has obtained rigorous training and is credentialed in providing individualized holistic care for each patient based on their unique needs. She specializes in treating and managing a wide range of psychiatric disorders such as Anxiety, Depression, Mood Disorders, Bipolar, PTSD and ADHD among others in various populations - child, adolescent and adult psychiatry.
Joyce Aiyeojenku PMHNP-BC is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who has obtained rigorous training and is credentialed in providing individualized holistic care for each patient based on their unique needs. She specializes in treating and managing a wide range of psychiatric disorders such as Anxiety, Depression, Mood Disorders, Bipolar, PTSD and ADHD among others in various populations - child, adolescent and adult psychiatry.
15 Second Videos
Ike Uzowulu
Ideal Mental Health and Wellness Care
Heather Sanudo
Mental Health For All Services
Sean Dunn
Amanda Jayaraman
Victoria Abolarin
Deidre McHugh
Rachel Ann Jimenes
Mark Ellestad
Dr Mark Chofla | Empathy Therapy
Cate Gerrity
Balance Psychiatric Services
Honorine Betah
Pw Psych NP Services Pllc
Jade Goodloe
Jacqueline Marcell-Koledin | TMS
John Anthony Meunier
Nancy Masters
Debbie Singh PMHNP / Ideal Mental Health
Kelsey Knox
Talia Baruch
Alexandra Scott
Arezu Piroozmandi
Grace Martin
Albert Quainoo
Levi Williams
Dao Nguyen
Fatima Omar
Kathryn (Kat) McNeil
Hannah Cantrell
Embodied Wellness Psychiatry
Raven Young
Lynn-Marie Peashka
Ashley Cedar
David G Zacharias
Talia Baruch
Transformational Psychiatry NW & TMS Clinic
Hope Mental Health
MindsMatter LLC
Casilda Jennings Vigil
Katharine Frissora
Steven Pline
Felicia Turner, APRN | Text #Enroll 503-925-6606
Nicholas Hatcher
Shannon Eaton
Anna Long
Ideal Mental Health and Wellness - Debbie Singh
Dianna Smith
PeaceHaven Behavioral Center LLC
Ideal Mental Health and Wellness Care
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98101
Debbie is now accepting new patients, she provides specialized mental health services for adults and children. Debbie is dedicated to supporting individuals facing various mental health conditions and symptoms, including anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, PTSD, autism medication management, ADHD, ODD, and learning disabilities. Scheduling an appointment is convenient and hassle-free through our website, WWW.idealmentalcare.com.
Debbie is now accepting new patients, she provides specialized mental health services for adults and children. Debbie is dedicated to supporting individuals facing various mental health conditions and symptoms, including anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, PTSD, autism medication management, ADHD, ODD, and learning disabilities. Scheduling an appointment is convenient and hassle-free through our website, WWW.idealmentalcare.com.
Laura Frantz
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, ARNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98104 (Online Only)
My priority is to get to know my clients individually and understand their unique needs. As a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner I provide comprehensive client centered psychiatric services for adults that begins with a diagnostic evaluation and development of an evidence-based treatment plan. I strive to provide compassionate care that is individualized and collaborative. I offer services via Telehealth with a fully integrated electronic health record to make accessing care easy. I enjoy working with adults across the lifespan with a specific interest in working with individuals in the perinatal period.
My priority is to get to know my clients individually and understand their unique needs. As a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner I provide comprehensive client centered psychiatric services for adults that begins with a diagnostic evaluation and development of an evidence-based treatment plan. I strive to provide compassionate care that is individualized and collaborative. I offer services via Telehealth with a fully integrated electronic health record to make accessing care easy. I enjoy working with adults across the lifespan with a specific interest in working with individuals in the perinatal period.
Danielle Hammons
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98119
Dr. Danielle Hammons is a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC), with a Doctorate in Nursing Practice (DNP). Danielle possesses over 15 years of nursing experience with over 4 years of advanced nursing practice in the field of psychiatry. She is passionate about providing quality, compassionate, and comprehensive mental health services across the lifespan.
Dr. Danielle Hammons is a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC), with a Doctorate in Nursing Practice (DNP). Danielle possesses over 15 years of nursing experience with over 4 years of advanced nursing practice in the field of psychiatry. She is passionate about providing quality, compassionate, and comprehensive mental health services across the lifespan.
Edward Macias
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98104 (Online Only)
Blue Mountain Psychiatry is a distinguished mental health and psychiatry practice conveniently located in Seattle, Washington. Led by the experienced mental health nurse practitioner Edward Macias, PMHNP-BC, the dedicated team offers comprehensive, patient-centered care. They embrace a holistic philosophy that recognizes the intricate connections between physical, emotional, and social well-being. “Life isn't about waiting for the storm to pass...It's about learning to dance in the rain.” -Vivian Greene
Blue Mountain Psychiatry is a distinguished mental health and psychiatry practice conveniently located in Seattle, Washington. Led by the experienced mental health nurse practitioner Edward Macias, PMHNP-BC, the dedicated team offers comprehensive, patient-centered care. They embrace a holistic philosophy that recognizes the intricate connections between physical, emotional, and social well-being. “Life isn't about waiting for the storm to pass...It's about learning to dance in the rain.” -Vivian Greene
Jonnae Tillman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98103 (Online Only)
Dr. Jonnae Tillman is board-certified as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and holds a doctoral degree as a Doctor of Nursing Practice. Her training allows her to conduct psychiatric evaluations, make diagnoses, prescribe medication, and provide psychotherapy services. Dr. Tillman provides services to adults ages 23-65.
Dr. Jonnae Tillman is board-certified as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and holds a doctoral degree as a Doctor of Nursing Practice. Her training allows her to conduct psychiatric evaluations, make diagnoses, prescribe medication, and provide psychotherapy services. Dr. Tillman provides services to adults ages 23-65.
Heather Sanudo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, -BC, FNP-BC
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98103 (Online Only)
Hello, I look forward to meeting you! My name is Heather and I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner In the state of Washington. I specialize in medication management, depression and anxiety. 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 Heather and I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner In the state of Washington. I specialize in medication management, depression and anxiety. 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.
Clear Path Psychiatry
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98107
I am board certified in both general and geriatric psychiatry. I received my B.S. in Human Biology from Stanford University. I graduated from the University of Washington School of Medicine in 2001 and completed a general psychiatry residency and geriatric psychiatry fellowship at Oregon Health & Science University. Following my training, I joined the faculty at OHSU as a geriatric psychiatrist, specializing in treating patients with refractory mood disorders with electroconvulsive therapy.
I am board certified in both general and geriatric psychiatry. I received my B.S. in Human Biology from Stanford University. I graduated from the University of Washington School of Medicine in 2001 and completed a general psychiatry residency and geriatric psychiatry fellowship at Oregon Health & Science University. Following my training, I joined the faculty at OHSU as a geriatric psychiatrist, specializing in treating patients with refractory mood disorders with electroconvulsive therapy.
Uchenna Joseph Ekeabu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DBA, MBA, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98103 (Online Only)
Central to my professional ethos is the belief in holistic and patient-centered care, recognizing the multifaceted nature of individuals and their unique healthcare needs. By approaching patients with cultural sensitivity and an empathetic demeanor, I aim to foster a therapeutic environment that empowers patients to actively participate in their care decisions. As the cornerstone of my practice, each patient is regarded as a vital partner in their treatment journey. I will invest ample time to comprehend their individual circumstances, listen attentively to their concerns, and collaborate closely to develop tailored treatment plans.
Central to my professional ethos is the belief in holistic and patient-centered care, recognizing the multifaceted nature of individuals and their unique healthcare needs. By approaching patients with cultural sensitivity and an empathetic demeanor, I aim to foster a therapeutic environment that empowers patients to actively participate in their care decisions. As the cornerstone of my practice, each patient is regarded as a vital partner in their treatment journey. I will invest ample time to comprehend their individual circumstances, listen attentively to their concerns, and collaborate closely to develop tailored treatment plans.
Fresh Therapeutic Solutions PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP, PMHNP, MPH
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98107
Have you or your loved one's life recently taken a turn for the worse? Are you experiencing a loss or stress? We recognize the difficulties of living with mental illness, particularly when we are uncertain of what is occurring. You are not alone in your challenges. We think we can provide the necessary assistance to get you or your loved one's life back on track. At Fresh Therapeutic Solutions, you are part of a holistic team, not simply another patient. We believe a comprehensive approach should be used to treat diverse mental illnesses. Both the outward and internal struggle of mental health stigma can be quite burdensome.
Have you or your loved one's life recently taken a turn for the worse? Are you experiencing a loss or stress? We recognize the difficulties of living with mental illness, particularly when we are uncertain of what is occurring. You are not alone in your challenges. We think we can provide the necessary assistance to get you or your loved one's life back on track. At Fresh Therapeutic Solutions, you are part of a holistic team, not simply another patient. We believe a comprehensive approach should be used to treat diverse mental illnesses. Both the outward and internal struggle of mental health stigma can be quite burdensome.
See more therapy options for Seattle
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Seattle, WA
500+
Average cost per session
$227
Psychiatrists in Seattle, WA who prioritize treating:
95% | Anxiety |
94% | Depression |
84% | Medication Management |
81% | Bipolar Disorder |
77% | Trauma and PTSD |
76% | ADHD |
71% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
Average years in practice
8 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
79% | Aetna |
75% | Cigna and Evernorth |
66% | Premera |
How Psychiatrists in Seattle, WA see their clients
55% | In Person and Online | |
45% | 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.