Psychiatrists in Miami, FL
Marietta Castellanos, MD
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Miami, FL 33165 (Online Only)
I am an adult psychiatrist with over 25 years of experience. I specialize in psychopharmacology and research in the treatments of ADHD, depression, anxiety, OCD, bipolar disorders and psychosis. When possible I use natural alternatives in combination with therapy, I also work in conjunction with therapists and medical doctors when appropriate. The initial evaluation is one hour, it includes an evaluation of the current symptoms, stressors and genetic history; past psychiatric history, prior medications, medical history, substance abuse, and other questions pertinent to your diagnosis. The follow up sessions are usually half an hour.
I am an adult psychiatrist with over 25 years of experience. I specialize in psychopharmacology and research in the treatments of ADHD, depression, anxiety, OCD, bipolar disorders and psychosis. When possible I use natural alternatives in combination with therapy, I also work in conjunction with therapists and medical doctors when appropriate. The initial evaluation is one hour, it includes an evaluation of the current symptoms, stressors and genetic history; past psychiatric history, prior medications, medical history, substance abuse, and other questions pertinent to your diagnosis. The follow up sessions are usually half an hour.
Amy Brannon
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
Miami, FL 33130 (Online Only)
Do you feel your quality of life is not where you would like it to be? Are you struggling to maintain meaningful relationships, participate in work, find joy in the things you used to, or be present in the moment? I am a nurse practitioner in psychiatric-mental health focusing on the medication management of mental disorders and mental illness. These terms are often used interchangeably. Mental disorders can impact anyone for a variety of reasons.
Do you feel your quality of life is not where you would like it to be? Are you struggling to maintain meaningful relationships, participate in work, find joy in the things you used to, or be present in the moment? I am a nurse practitioner in psychiatric-mental health focusing on the medication management of mental disorders and mental illness. These terms are often used interchangeably. Mental disorders can impact anyone for a variety of reasons.
Melinda Hansen
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Miami, FL 33130
Someone who is committed to improving the quality of their life and mental health. Someone looking for a trusted partner in their journey to achieving success in their life.
Someone who is committed to improving the quality of their life and mental health. Someone looking for a trusted partner in their journey to achieving success in their life.
Soniya Marwaha
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Miami, FL 33132 (Online Only)
Depression, anxiety, and trauma can cast a dark shadow over your life, affecting your relationships, work, and overall happiness. I specialize in evidence-based psychiatric treatments that help people overcome life's challenges and emerge with resilience. Medication can be a crucial component of mental health treatment, and I am experienced in prescribing and managing psychiatric medications through convenient Telepsychiatry services. As part of my holistic, patient-centered approach to care, we'll explore your history, lifestyle factors, goals, and support networks to create a comprehensive and effective treatment plan.
Depression, anxiety, and trauma can cast a dark shadow over your life, affecting your relationships, work, and overall happiness. I specialize in evidence-based psychiatric treatments that help people overcome life's challenges and emerge with resilience. Medication can be a crucial component of mental health treatment, and I am experienced in prescribing and managing psychiatric medications through convenient Telepsychiatry services. As part of my holistic, patient-centered approach to care, we'll explore your history, lifestyle factors, goals, and support networks to create a comprehensive and effective treatment plan.
Vivian Thomas
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Miami, FL 33179 (Online Only)
When working with me, we are a team; I will cheer your wins and help you hold the losses. Like other providers, I can easily prescribe medications, but my holistic approach also investigates and develops a clear understanding of diagnosis, medication, and treatment. The possible time expectancies are 55-60 minutes for an initial appointment and 25- 30 for medication follow-ups. I have an open policy regarding emails with a turnaround answer of less than 10 hours and a standard eight-hour prior cancellation. I use a combination of the Carlat Podcast, Doximity, the Neuroscience Education Institute (NEI), Psych Congress, and ADDitude.
When working with me, we are a team; I will cheer your wins and help you hold the losses. Like other providers, I can easily prescribe medications, but my holistic approach also investigates and develops a clear understanding of diagnosis, medication, and treatment. The possible time expectancies are 55-60 minutes for an initial appointment and 25- 30 for medication follow-ups. I have an open policy regarding emails with a turnaround answer of less than 10 hours and a standard eight-hour prior cancellation. I use a combination of the Carlat Podcast, Doximity, the Neuroscience Education Institute (NEI), Psych Congress, and ADDitude.
Dr. Morgan Alexander
Psychiatrist, MD
Not Verified Not Verified
Miami, FL 33131 (Online Only)
Meet Dr. Alexander: a psychiatrist with a distinctive blend of empathy and expertise. Trained at Wright State University with a focus on integrating psychotherapy and psychopharmacology, Dr. Alexander excels in delivering personalized treatment plans with proven effectiveness. She actively engages with the narratives that shape patients' lives, forging therapeutic alliances as unique as the individuals she serves. This patient-first approach, combined with a rich background in community engagement, positions Dr. Alexander as a psychiatrist who understands the complexities of the complete human experience - mind, body and spirit.
Meet Dr. Alexander: a psychiatrist with a distinctive blend of empathy and expertise. Trained at Wright State University with a focus on integrating psychotherapy and psychopharmacology, Dr. Alexander excels in delivering personalized treatment plans with proven effectiveness. She actively engages with the narratives that shape patients' lives, forging therapeutic alliances as unique as the individuals she serves. This patient-first approach, combined with a rich background in community engagement, positions Dr. Alexander as a psychiatrist who understands the complexities of the complete human experience - mind, body and spirit.
Miami Mental Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
Miami, FL 33166 (Online Only)
Do you need help or guidance? Let's work together! Lazaro Gafas has been working in the field of psychiatry and mental health since 2016. His experiences in mental health began long before any of his studies. Lazaro saw firsthand how mental illness (Major Depressive Disorder) affected his mother, who sadly passed away in 2019. "I saw how mental illness consumed her, how it impacted our family, and how if left untreated can destroy and leave psychological scars". Lazaro seeks to treat each one of his clients with the same empathy and understanding that he would his mother. "I'm hopeful we can work on this together!"
Do you need help or guidance? Let's work together! Lazaro Gafas has been working in the field of psychiatry and mental health since 2016. His experiences in mental health began long before any of his studies. Lazaro saw firsthand how mental illness (Major Depressive Disorder) affected his mother, who sadly passed away in 2019. "I saw how mental illness consumed her, how it impacted our family, and how if left untreated can destroy and leave psychological scars". Lazaro seeks to treat each one of his clients with the same empathy and understanding that he would his mother. "I'm hopeful we can work on this together!"
Ismel Fernandez-Calienes
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Miami, FL 33130 (Online Only)
Hello! I am Ismel Fernandez-Calienes, your PMHNP-BC currently located in the Miami area. I am a big fan of good music, good movies, fishing, and reading. My office is based in Miami, FL, but I have patients in all of Florida whom I assess via Telemedicine for their convenience and their best time management.
Hello! I am Ismel Fernandez-Calienes, your PMHNP-BC currently located in the Miami area. I am a big fan of good music, good movies, fishing, and reading. My office is based in Miami, FL, but I have patients in all of Florida whom I assess via Telemedicine for their convenience and their best time management.
Envision Mindcare LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Miami, FL 33137
Laura Pinero, APRN, PMHNP-BC Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and currently assisting patient's needs in Envision Mindcare with our focus on mental health and wellness. Laura speaks both English and Spanish fluently. This linguistic proficiency, coupled with her innate empathy, has been instrumental in her ability to connect with and provide comprehensive care to patients from various cultural backgrounds. Her dedication, empathy, and commitment to cultural competence make her a valued healthcare provider in the vibrant and diverse city of Miami.
Laura Pinero, APRN, PMHNP-BC Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and currently assisting patient's needs in Envision Mindcare with our focus on mental health and wellness. Laura speaks both English and Spanish fluently. This linguistic proficiency, coupled with her innate empathy, has been instrumental in her ability to connect with and provide comprehensive care to patients from various cultural backgrounds. Her dedication, empathy, and commitment to cultural competence make her a valued healthcare provider in the vibrant and diverse city of Miami.
Envision Mindcare, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, FNP-BC, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Miami, FL 33137
Lourdes E. Velazquez Perez, ARNP, FNP B-C, PMHNP-BC is a professionally trained Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with a strong background in psychiatric services. She is a foreign Medical Doctor who graduated in Cuba from the University of Medicine of Havana, “Calixto Garcia.” She has more than eight years of experience in the medical field. She treats patients with psychiatric conditions like depression, anxiety disorders, ADHD, Bipolar Disorder, and other mental health diagnoses. She is passionate and dedicated to her work and patients’ health outcomes.
Lourdes E. Velazquez Perez, ARNP, FNP B-C, PMHNP-BC is a professionally trained Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with a strong background in psychiatric services. She is a foreign Medical Doctor who graduated in Cuba from the University of Medicine of Havana, “Calixto Garcia.” She has more than eight years of experience in the medical field. She treats patients with psychiatric conditions like depression, anxiety disorders, ADHD, Bipolar Disorder, and other mental health diagnoses. She is passionate and dedicated to her work and patients’ health outcomes.
Psych by Tammy/Healthy Mindz
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Miami, FL 33130 (Online Only)
Are you tired of struggling to maintain true wellness that encompasses the mind, body, and soul? At Healthy Mindz, we believe that the key to optimal health begins with a healthy mind. We deliver care that is aimed at treating the whole person; not just their mental health needs. It is understood by our practitioners that all of these aspects affect your overall health and wellbeing so our support is aimed at patients’ social, physical, spiritual, and emotional needs as well as their mental health.
Are you tired of struggling to maintain true wellness that encompasses the mind, body, and soul? At Healthy Mindz, we believe that the key to optimal health begins with a healthy mind. We deliver care that is aimed at treating the whole person; not just their mental health needs. It is understood by our practitioners that all of these aspects affect your overall health and wellbeing so our support is aimed at patients’ social, physical, spiritual, and emotional needs as well as their mental health.
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Envision Mindcare LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Miami, FL 33137
Lemoya Bennett, APRN, PMHNP-BC Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and currently assisting patient's needs in Envision Mindcare with our focus on mental health and wellness. She is a compassionate and dedicated Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, who is committed to empowering and advocating for her patients. She firmly believes that mental health is as crucial as physical health and places great value on the unique experiences and perspectives of each patient. Her commitment to creating a safe and supportive environment allows her clients to openly express their concerns and challenges.
Lemoya Bennett, APRN, PMHNP-BC Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and currently assisting patient's needs in Envision Mindcare with our focus on mental health and wellness. She is a compassionate and dedicated Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, who is committed to empowering and advocating for her patients. She firmly believes that mental health is as crucial as physical health and places great value on the unique experiences and perspectives of each patient. Her commitment to creating a safe and supportive environment allows her clients to openly express their concerns and challenges.
Envision Mindcare LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Miami, FL 33137
Margarita Lopez, APRN, PMHNP-BC Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and currently assisting patient's needs in Envision Mindcare with our focus on mental health and wellness. Margarita's experience has helped her develop an in-depth understanding of the healthcare needs of her community, and she is dedicated to supporting the underserved and ensuring that all her patients receive the best possible care. She is committed to providing a safe and supportive environment where her patients can feel comfortable sharing their concerns and working together towards their goals.
Margarita Lopez, APRN, PMHNP-BC Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and currently assisting patient's needs in Envision Mindcare with our focus on mental health and wellness. Margarita's experience has helped her develop an in-depth understanding of the healthcare needs of her community, and she is dedicated to supporting the underserved and ensuring that all her patients receive the best possible care. She is committed to providing a safe and supportive environment where her patients can feel comfortable sharing their concerns and working together towards their goals.
Brave Health
Psychiatrist, LCSW, PhD, MD
Verified Verified
Miami, FL 33136 (Online Only)
Brave Health is a virtual mental health provider dedicated to helping people thrive by engaging them in high-quality, affordable, and easily accessible mental health care. Our diverse clinical staff includes licensed psychiatrists, nurse practitioners, and therapists with expertise in treating mental health and substance use disorders. One size doesn’t fit all when it comes to your health. We’ll work together to create a customized treatment plan for your needs. Our programs are evidence-based, drawing on approaches to treatment that are clinically proven to be effective.
Brave Health is a virtual mental health provider dedicated to helping people thrive by engaging them in high-quality, affordable, and easily accessible mental health care. Our diverse clinical staff includes licensed psychiatrists, nurse practitioners, and therapists with expertise in treating mental health and substance use disorders. One size doesn’t fit all when it comes to your health. We’ll work together to create a customized treatment plan for your needs. Our programs are evidence-based, drawing on approaches to treatment that are clinically proven to be effective.
Envision Mindcare LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Miami, FL 33137
Lemoya Bennett, APRN, PMHNP-BC Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and currently assisting patient's needs in Envision Mindcare with our focus on mental health and wellness. She is a compassionate and dedicated Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, who is committed to empowering and advocating for her patients. She firmly believes that mental health is as crucial as physical health and places great value on the unique experiences and perspectives of each patient. Her commitment to creating a safe and supportive environment allows her clients to openly express their concerns and challenges.
Lemoya Bennett, APRN, PMHNP-BC Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and currently assisting patient's needs in Envision Mindcare with our focus on mental health and wellness. She is a compassionate and dedicated Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, who is committed to empowering and advocating for her patients. She firmly believes that mental health is as crucial as physical health and places great value on the unique experiences and perspectives of each patient. Her commitment to creating a safe and supportive environment allows her clients to openly express their concerns and challenges.
Envision Mindcare LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Miami, FL 33137
Dianelys Rodriguez, APRN, PMHNP-BC Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and currently assisting patient's needs in Envision Mindcare with our focus on mental health and wellness. I am a bilingual Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with extensive experience in treating a wide range of mental health disorders in both adults and children. I ensure effective communication and culturally sensitive care for all patients. I am passionate about making a meaningful difference in the lives of those struggling with mental illness.
Dianelys Rodriguez, APRN, PMHNP-BC Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and currently assisting patient's needs in Envision Mindcare with our focus on mental health and wellness. I am a bilingual Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with extensive experience in treating a wide range of mental health disorders in both adults and children. I ensure effective communication and culturally sensitive care for all patients. I am passionate about making a meaningful difference in the lives of those struggling with mental illness.
Junaid Hashim
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Miami, FL 33131
I am a board certified psychiatrist with many years of experience in both inpatient and outpatient practice settings. I have completed a fellowship in child & adolescent psychiatry and also have experience in consultations and ongoing continuum care. I offer telepsychiatry appointments and am experienced in a variety of mental health conditions.
I am a board certified psychiatrist with many years of experience in both inpatient and outpatient practice settings. I have completed a fellowship in child & adolescent psychiatry and also have experience in consultations and ongoing continuum care. I offer telepsychiatry appointments and am experienced in a variety of mental health conditions.
Brave Health
Psychiatrist, MD, LCSW, MSW, FNP-C, PhD
Verified Verified
Miami, FL 33136 (Online Only)
Brave Health is a virtual mental health provider dedicated to helping people thrive by engaging them in high-quality, affordable, and easily accessible mental health care. Our diverse clinical staff includes licensed psychiatrists, nurse practitioners, and therapists with expertise in treating mental health and substance use disorders. One size doesn’t fit all when it comes to your health. We’ll work together to create a customized treatment plan for your needs. Our programs are evidence-based, drawing on approaches to treatment that are clinically proven to be effective.
Brave Health is a virtual mental health provider dedicated to helping people thrive by engaging them in high-quality, affordable, and easily accessible mental health care. Our diverse clinical staff includes licensed psychiatrists, nurse practitioners, and therapists with expertise in treating mental health and substance use disorders. One size doesn’t fit all when it comes to your health. We’ll work together to create a customized treatment plan for your needs. Our programs are evidence-based, drawing on approaches to treatment that are clinically proven to be effective.
Hattie Runzheimer
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Miami, FL 33130 (Online Only)
Dr. Hattie Runzheimer is a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, board certified adult and gerontology acute care nurse practitioner, critical care registered nurse, and clinical facility at University of Miami School of Nursing and Health Studies. Hattie is passionate about both spectrums of healthcare involving physical and mental illnesses. She still works in intensive care units throughout south Florida’s Miami-Dade and Broward counties. As a dedicated clinical faculty member at the University of Miami School of Nursing and Health Studies, Hattie teaches undergraduate BSN and graduate PMHNP students.
Dr. Hattie Runzheimer is a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, board certified adult and gerontology acute care nurse practitioner, critical care registered nurse, and clinical facility at University of Miami School of Nursing and Health Studies. Hattie is passionate about both spectrums of healthcare involving physical and mental illnesses. She still works in intensive care units throughout south Florida’s Miami-Dade and Broward counties. As a dedicated clinical faculty member at the University of Miami School of Nursing and Health Studies, Hattie teaches undergraduate BSN and graduate PMHNP students.
Lourdez Velazquez
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Verified Verified
Miami, FL 33134
Lourdes E. Velazquez Perez, ARNP, FNP B-C, is a professionally trained Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with a strong background in psychiatric services. She is a foreign Medical Doctor who graduated in Cuba from the University of Medicine of Havana, “Calixto Garcia.” She has more than eight years of experience in the medical field. She treats patients with psychiatric conditions like depression, anxiety disorders, ADHD, Bipolar Disorder, and other mental health diagnoses. She is passionate and dedicated to her work and patients’ health outcomes.
Lourdes E. Velazquez Perez, ARNP, FNP B-C, is a professionally trained Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with a strong background in psychiatric services. She is a foreign Medical Doctor who graduated in Cuba from the University of Medicine of Havana, “Calixto Garcia.” She has more than eight years of experience in the medical field. She treats patients with psychiatric conditions like depression, anxiety disorders, ADHD, Bipolar Disorder, and other mental health diagnoses. She is passionate and dedicated to her work and patients’ health outcomes.
See more therapy options for Miami
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Miami, FL
400+
Average cost per session
$167
Psychiatrists in Miami, FL who prioritize treating:
96% | Depression |
96% | Anxiety |
81% | Bipolar Disorder |
78% | Trauma and PTSD |
76% | ADHD |
72% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
70% | Medication Management |
Average years in practice
8 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
96% | Cigna and Evernorth |
91% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
90% | Aetna |
How Psychiatrists in Miami, FL see their clients
50% | In Person and Online | |
50% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
74% | Female | |
26% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Miami?
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.