Psychiatrists in 28201
![Photo of Kim English, PMHNP, FNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1b10db5d-7b06-48d9-b463-aad436acbb30/3/320x400.jpeg)
At Safe Haven Psychiatrics, we provide quality psychiatric services while taking a holistic approach to each patients mental health. Our goal is to focus not only on the diagnoses but also on the over-all well being of the individual, while empowering them to take control of their mental health.
At Safe Haven Psychiatrics, we provide quality psychiatric services while taking a holistic approach to each patients mental health. Our goal is to focus not only on the diagnoses but also on the over-all well being of the individual, while empowering them to take control of their mental health.
![Photo of Stephanie Price, DO, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/22bff30c-ae37-4510-b69b-66bbe8346568/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Stephanie Price is a board-certified psychiatrist. Her practice focuses on medication management and supportive therapy. She believes in a collaborative approach to treatment planning because shared decision-making helps provide the best outcome for patients. She went to college at the University of Rochester in Rochester, NY and received her degree in Microbiology. She completed her medical education at Edward Via College of Osteopathic Medicine in Spartanburg, SC, and completed her residency training at Creighton University School of Medicine-Valleywise Health in Phoenix, AZ.
Dr. Stephanie Price is a board-certified psychiatrist. Her practice focuses on medication management and supportive therapy. She believes in a collaborative approach to treatment planning because shared decision-making helps provide the best outcome for patients. She went to college at the University of Rochester in Rochester, NY and received her degree in Microbiology. She completed her medical education at Edward Via College of Osteopathic Medicine in Spartanburg, SC, and completed her residency training at Creighton University School of Medicine-Valleywise Health in Phoenix, AZ.
![Photo of Meredith Barrett, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bf019ece-247b-4c81-9135-a91c130506a4/2/320x400.jpeg)
Do you find yourself struggling to get by each day? Do you feel like you keep hitting a wall? Or that no matter what you do, you cannot climb your way out of the hole? To struggle is to be human, but it is possible to find balance. It is possible to find contentment and joy. It is possible to discover release, to experience freedom from mental anguish. Unrelieved mental and emotional hurdles make our worlds small, and tend to propel us further and further into isolation. I am here to listen, and to help you achieve mental wellness by giving you the tools you need to regain control of your life.
Do you find yourself struggling to get by each day? Do you feel like you keep hitting a wall? Or that no matter what you do, you cannot climb your way out of the hole? To struggle is to be human, but it is possible to find balance. It is possible to find contentment and joy. It is possible to discover release, to experience freedom from mental anguish. Unrelieved mental and emotional hurdles make our worlds small, and tend to propel us further and further into isolation. I am here to listen, and to help you achieve mental wellness by giving you the tools you need to regain control of your life.
![Photo of Denise Michel, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/45ff4143-dcd6-46ce-9050-18f592b0e900/2/320x400.jpeg)
Denise Michel
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28201 (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
I am a board certified adult psychiatrist. I take a holistic approach to help you to improve your life and achieve the goals that you have set for yourself. During our initial intake evaluation, I will take the time to understand you and your concerns. Together we will formulate a treatment plan.
I am a board certified adult psychiatrist. I take a holistic approach to help you to improve your life and achieve the goals that you have set for yourself. During our initial intake evaluation, I will take the time to understand you and your concerns. Together we will formulate a treatment plan.
![Photo of Xiomara Nieves Alvarado, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/537b8da8-a991-4a3c-9c89-0233c1639a92/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Nieves-Alvarado is a recent psychiatry graduate from Duke Psychiatry Residency program. She is board-certified and has experience with psychodynamic and supportive therapy. Dr. Nieves-Alvarado is originally from Puerto Rico and practices psychiatry in both English and Spanish.
Dr. Nieves-Alvarado is a recent psychiatry graduate from Duke Psychiatry Residency program. She is board-certified and has experience with psychodynamic and supportive therapy. Dr. Nieves-Alvarado is originally from Puerto Rico and practices psychiatry in both English and Spanish.
![Photo of Philip Atanmo, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0cee5e66-741c-4683-b20c-3d7510ce9cea/2/320x400.jpeg)
Philip Atanmo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28201 (Online Only)
As a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I believe prioritizing mental health is key to happiness and stability in life. Seeking help can be one of the hardest parts, so congratulations on taking that step! As a nurse of over 15 years, I have always been passionate about helping people. I have always believed in caring for a person as a whole and pivoted my focus to mental health three years ago. I am eager to learn how to meet your individualized needs.
As a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I believe prioritizing mental health is key to happiness and stability in life. Seeking help can be one of the hardest parts, so congratulations on taking that step! As a nurse of over 15 years, I have always been passionate about helping people. I have always believed in caring for a person as a whole and pivoted my focus to mental health three years ago. I am eager to learn how to meet your individualized needs.
![Photo of Charlene Staff, PA-C, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/06e2612b-81bd-4ca8-bec8-a32a329dfb9a/1/320x400.jpeg)
We provide outpatient behavioral health medical evaluations. Every patient is treated with respect and heard. We want to assist you in improving your quality of life. We offer a holistic approach to behavioral health. A tailored treatment plan will be made based upon your needs and goals. Your mental health matters. You matter!
We provide outpatient behavioral health medical evaluations. Every patient is treated with respect and heard. We want to assist you in improving your quality of life. We offer a holistic approach to behavioral health. A tailored treatment plan will be made based upon your needs and goals. Your mental health matters. You matter!
![Photo of Kelly Cobb, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f2172197-5d48-4a27-93b5-f6c0867c3eda/1/320x400.jpeg)
Kelly Cobb
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28201 (Online Only)
I service clients across diverse age groups, from children to seniors, who are facing mental health challenges and substance misuse issues. Their needs often include managing ADHD, anxiety, depression, and etc. as well as achieving emotional balance and improving their overall quality of life. Their goals are to find effective coping strategies, enhance their mental health, and lead fulfilling lives. They seek compassionate, culturally sensitive care that addresses their unique circumstances and helps them achieve lasting well-being.
I service clients across diverse age groups, from children to seniors, who are facing mental health challenges and substance misuse issues. Their needs often include managing ADHD, anxiety, depression, and etc. as well as achieving emotional balance and improving their overall quality of life. Their goals are to find effective coping strategies, enhance their mental health, and lead fulfilling lives. They seek compassionate, culturally sensitive care that addresses their unique circumstances and helps them achieve lasting well-being.
![Photo of Shari Sengupta, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/aa5d8597-efc3-4221-8dfb-0afd34c69480/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Shari Sengupta attended the University of OK as a National Merit Scholar and went on to graduate from from Eastern Virginia Medical School. She specialized in Adult Psychiatry at the University of NC Hospitals where she was a chief resident. She received psychotherapy training in insight-oriented and cognitive-behavioral approaches and trained at the Psychoanalytic Institute of the Carolinas. She has 18 years of experience providing medication management and psychotherapy in both private practice and community mental health settings and over 10 years of experience in telepsychiatry providing care to underserved communities.
Dr. Shari Sengupta attended the University of OK as a National Merit Scholar and went on to graduate from from Eastern Virginia Medical School. She specialized in Adult Psychiatry at the University of NC Hospitals where she was a chief resident. She received psychotherapy training in insight-oriented and cognitive-behavioral approaches and trained at the Psychoanalytic Institute of the Carolinas. She has 18 years of experience providing medication management and psychotherapy in both private practice and community mental health settings and over 10 years of experience in telepsychiatry providing care to underserved communities.
![Photo of Siera Kirkland, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/dc234503-4b4b-47e3-b477-4cfab65f5a71/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Siera Kirkland is an adult general psychiatrist. She is a diplomate of the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. Dr. Kirkland focuses on collaborative and evidence-based care. She believes it is imperative to form a therapeutic relationship with each individual and work together as a team to formulate the best treatment plan. Her passion is to educate, empower and support. She specializes in medication management and brief psychotherapy.
Dr. Siera Kirkland is an adult general psychiatrist. She is a diplomate of the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. Dr. Kirkland focuses on collaborative and evidence-based care. She believes it is imperative to form a therapeutic relationship with each individual and work together as a team to formulate the best treatment plan. Her passion is to educate, empower and support. She specializes in medication management and brief psychotherapy.
![Photo of Jean Jubert, DO, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/40c9c7a4-642d-47ed-be88-95d3f4e6a713/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Jubert is a board-certified staff psychiatrist at Talkiatry. He has been practicing for 5 years. Dr. Jubert's practice focuses predominately on medication management, often in conjunction with supportive therapy, during 30-minute follow-up visits. He approaches medicine holistically with an emphasis on understanding how a patient’s socioeconomic status, spirituality, social connection and physical health affect their overall mental health and well-being. Dr. Jubert received his undergraduate degree from Louisiana State University in Baton Rouge, LA.
Dr. Jubert is a board-certified staff psychiatrist at Talkiatry. He has been practicing for 5 years. Dr. Jubert's practice focuses predominately on medication management, often in conjunction with supportive therapy, during 30-minute follow-up visits. He approaches medicine holistically with an emphasis on understanding how a patient’s socioeconomic status, spirituality, social connection and physical health affect their overall mental health and well-being. Dr. Jubert received his undergraduate degree from Louisiana State University in Baton Rouge, LA.
![Photo of Megan Freeman, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5fee0350-5ddd-4b03-b7da-8b73a48d13e6/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Megan Freeman is board certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology in Adult Psychiatry. She completed her residency training at Vidant Medical Center at East Carolina University in Greenville, North Carolina in 2021 where she was the chief resident. Since then, she has worked as an attending physician at an inpatient adult psychiatric unit in Burlington, North Carolina. As a resident and attending she has treated adults of all ages and in all areas of mental health.
Dr. Megan Freeman is board certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology in Adult Psychiatry. She completed her residency training at Vidant Medical Center at East Carolina University in Greenville, North Carolina in 2021 where she was the chief resident. Since then, she has worked as an attending physician at an inpatient adult psychiatric unit in Burlington, North Carolina. As a resident and attending she has treated adults of all ages and in all areas of mental health.
![Photo of Krista Alexander, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/20056fcb-ec24-410f-9fed-c3724586a457/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Krista Alexander is a board-certified psychiatrist who loves equipping her fellow human beings to feel and function better. She studied medicine at the University of Texas Southwestern Medical School and completed her residency at Duke University. She has worked in both private practice and integrated primary care/behavioral health care settings. She is a member of the American Psychiatric Association and the North Carolina Psychiatric Association. Krista offers medication management and supportive psychotherapy for mood disorders, anxiety disorders, trauma, ADHD, substance use disorders, and other mental health issues.
Dr. Krista Alexander is a board-certified psychiatrist who loves equipping her fellow human beings to feel and function better. She studied medicine at the University of Texas Southwestern Medical School and completed her residency at Duke University. She has worked in both private practice and integrated primary care/behavioral health care settings. She is a member of the American Psychiatric Association and the North Carolina Psychiatric Association. Krista offers medication management and supportive psychotherapy for mood disorders, anxiety disorders, trauma, ADHD, substance use disorders, and other mental health issues.
![Photo of Michele Schaefer, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/88862622-ffec-4131-8bcc-40eb0518780b/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Schaefer is board certified in adult psychiatry and has been practicing for over 16 years. Dr. Schaefer's practice focuses on medication management, offered in conjunction with supportive therapy and elements of cognitive-behavioral therapy. Most follow up visits are 30 minutes, and if additional therapy is needed, a therapist may be brought into the care team to provide the best outcome.
Dr. Schaefer is board certified in adult psychiatry and has been practicing for over 16 years. Dr. Schaefer's practice focuses on medication management, offered in conjunction with supportive therapy and elements of cognitive-behavioral therapy. Most follow up visits are 30 minutes, and if additional therapy is needed, a therapist may be brought into the care team to provide the best outcome.
![Photo of Jessica Grimes, DO, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/39a3407b-e78f-4608-8140-87f75aa79e1e/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Jessica Grimes is a board-eligible child and adolescent and adult psychiatrist. She is originally from Sylva, NC. She earned a bachelor’s degree in religion and minored in biology at The University of the South in Sewanee, TN. She graduated cum laude and was inducted into the order of the gownsmen, an honor society. She earned her doctorate from the West Virginia School of Osteopathic Medicine in Lewisburg, WV.
Dr. Jessica Grimes is a board-eligible child and adolescent and adult psychiatrist. She is originally from Sylva, NC. She earned a bachelor’s degree in religion and minored in biology at The University of the South in Sewanee, TN. She graduated cum laude and was inducted into the order of the gownsmen, an honor society. She earned her doctorate from the West Virginia School of Osteopathic Medicine in Lewisburg, WV.
![Photo of Amiee Myatt - Thrive Together Telehealth - Amiee Myatt, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/efdb8818-7b54-4a3d-b238-9ab2c82be9da/2/320x400.jpeg)
Thrive Together Telehealth - Amiee Myatt
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28201 (Online Only)
Openings available this week... Are you dealing with the effects of anxiety, depression, ADHD, or a mood disorder on you and your loved ones' lives? In today’s fast-paced society the stress and challenges of life are difficult enough by themselves, much less dealing with mental health issues on your own. Let me help you navigate a course to improved mental health so you can be your best self and thrive rather than just survive.
Openings available this week... Are you dealing with the effects of anxiety, depression, ADHD, or a mood disorder on you and your loved ones' lives? In today’s fast-paced society the stress and challenges of life are difficult enough by themselves, much less dealing with mental health issues on your own. Let me help you navigate a course to improved mental health so you can be your best self and thrive rather than just survive.
![Photo of Kimberly G Kinard, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/911a46ca-7787-4424-b5d9-e71ed3bbe6cc/1/320x400.jpeg)
Now taking new patients! If you're ready to stop suffering and maximize the potential of your medication regimen, I'm the psychiatrist for you. I won't stop trying until we find the right treatment personalized for your needs. I specialize in online telepsychiatry for all mental health diagnoses including depression, bipolar, anxiety, OCD, and postpartum mood disorders. I have 16 years of experience practicing psychiatry and I am skilled at finding the right medications in as few appointments as possible.
Now taking new patients! If you're ready to stop suffering and maximize the potential of your medication regimen, I'm the psychiatrist for you. I won't stop trying until we find the right treatment personalized for your needs. I specialize in online telepsychiatry for all mental health diagnoses including depression, bipolar, anxiety, OCD, and postpartum mood disorders. I have 16 years of experience practicing psychiatry and I am skilled at finding the right medications in as few appointments as possible.
![Photo of Mariah Hazen, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/455abe47-0adb-42fd-b762-7ad79e8b51ea/1/320x400.jpeg)
Please EMAIL for faster response. Mariah Hazen is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner trained to evaluate, diagnose, and treat patients across the lifespan. Her integrative approach to treatment allows her to deliver care that is holistic and patient-centered. She has over 18+ years in the nursing field and has a special interest in treating bipolar disorders in addition to depression, anxiety, and PTSD symptoms. She works closely with her clients during their treatment and provides plans tailored to fit their needs.
Please EMAIL for faster response. Mariah Hazen is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner trained to evaluate, diagnose, and treat patients across the lifespan. Her integrative approach to treatment allows her to deliver care that is holistic and patient-centered. She has over 18+ years in the nursing field and has a special interest in treating bipolar disorders in addition to depression, anxiety, and PTSD symptoms. She works closely with her clients during their treatment and provides plans tailored to fit their needs.
![Photo of Corilin Meggitt - Raleigh Wellness & Behavioral Health, ACNP-AG, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d6eefad6-9016-4a3e-9a39-1ee7f2af3f7c/1/320x400.png)
Raleigh Wellness & Behavioral Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ACNP-AG
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28201 (Online Only)
Welcome to Raleigh Wellness and Behavioral Health! We are a private outpatient clinic providing virtual care and medication management for mental health disorders. Our goal is to alleviate suffering and promote recovery in the lives of people with mental health disorders. We provide psychiatric evaluations and medication management for a wide range of mental health conditions, including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, ADHD, post-traumatic stress, OCD, and more. Our providers specialize in treating the full-spectrum of related conditions with personalized treatment plans that are right for each patient. We treat ages 6 and up.
Welcome to Raleigh Wellness and Behavioral Health! We are a private outpatient clinic providing virtual care and medication management for mental health disorders. Our goal is to alleviate suffering and promote recovery in the lives of people with mental health disorders. We provide psychiatric evaluations and medication management for a wide range of mental health conditions, including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, ADHD, post-traumatic stress, OCD, and more. Our providers specialize in treating the full-spectrum of related conditions with personalized treatment plans that are right for each patient. We treat ages 6 and up.
![Photo of Shuntrickia Taylor, PMHNP, RN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/07864684-e5fe-4883-b276-f0b4f91cc116/1/320x400.jpeg)
Shuntrickia Taylor
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, RN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28201 (Online Only)
Shuntrickia is committed to delivering comprehensive and compassionate care to individuals facing mental health challenges. With a patient-centered approach, Shuntrickia emphasizes collaborative care, actively involving patients in treatment planning and decision-making processes. Through empathetic listening and effective communication, she establishes a therapeutic alliance built on trust and mutual respect, fostering a supportive environment.
Shuntrickia is committed to delivering comprehensive and compassionate care to individuals facing mental health challenges. With a patient-centered approach, Shuntrickia emphasizes collaborative care, actively involving patients in treatment planning and decision-making processes. Through empathetic listening and effective communication, she establishes a therapeutic alliance built on trust and mutual respect, fostering a supportive environment.
See more therapy options for 28201
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in 28201
20+
Average cost per session
$200
Psychiatrists in 28201 who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
91% | Bipolar Disorder |
87% | ADHD |
87% | Medication Management |
83% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
74% | Trauma and PTSD |
Average years in practice
4 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
91% | Aetna |
91% | Cigna and Evernorth |
74% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
How Psychiatrists in 28201 see their clients
56% | Online Only | |
44% | In Person and Online |
Gender breakdown
84% | Female | |
16% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in 28201?
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.