Psychiatrists in 98502
![Photo of Donna Elam, MPA-C, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/53c4a236-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Seeking services for mental health support is an important decision. My purpose in doing this work of psychiatry is to provide clarity and understanding of symptoms that interrupt function and compromise quality of life. It is with this purpose that we, together, devise strategies for raising stress tolerance, setting attainable goals and reaching them. Since 1990 I have been working in health care, from holistic beginnings in massage therapy and nutrition, to addiction medicine, family medicine and migrant health, and now psychiatry and behavioral medicine. I am a Psychiatric Physician Associate.
Seeking services for mental health support is an important decision. My purpose in doing this work of psychiatry is to provide clarity and understanding of symptoms that interrupt function and compromise quality of life. It is with this purpose that we, together, devise strategies for raising stress tolerance, setting attainable goals and reaching them. Since 1990 I have been working in health care, from holistic beginnings in massage therapy and nutrition, to addiction medicine, family medicine and migrant health, and now psychiatry and behavioral medicine. I am a Psychiatric Physician Associate.
![Photo of Harvey William Hall - Genuine Healthcare, PLLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/12fb8141-c7af-4d58-b554-761b8f24a497/2/320x400.png)
Now accepting new patients! Genuine Healthcare is proud to serve a diverse population of mental health clients. We see patients from all walks of life and in all age groups, providing support for children as young as six years old. By offering our appointments both in person or via telemedicine, we are able to serve a wider community across the state of Washington. We value the importance of building a strong patient-provider relationship, which is why we have four providers from various backgrounds so that you may find one who fits your specific needs. To explore our providers' bios, visit the About Us section of our website.
Now accepting new patients! Genuine Healthcare is proud to serve a diverse population of mental health clients. We see patients from all walks of life and in all age groups, providing support for children as young as six years old. By offering our appointments both in person or via telemedicine, we are able to serve a wider community across the state of Washington. We value the importance of building a strong patient-provider relationship, which is why we have four providers from various backgrounds so that you may find one who fits your specific needs. To explore our providers' bios, visit the About Us section of our website.
![Photo of Harvey Hall, PMHNP, FNP-C, ARNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/00a49ee2-4086-4a88-a7b6-365f315d78fc/1/320x400.jpeg)
Accepting New Patients, even on Saturday and can see patients through Telepsychiatry or Telemedicine, and we do have some evening appts available as well. Trained as a family and psychiatric nurse practitioner. Master’s trained from the University of Cincinnati and Touro University; also have degrees from Pacific Lutheran University in Nursing and the University of Oklahoma. I have a background in military medicine, and have served populations that have been diverse and underserved. I have also served in case management for Washington State DSHS, working with social workers and caregivers for and in behalf of foster children.
Accepting New Patients, even on Saturday and can see patients through Telepsychiatry or Telemedicine, and we do have some evening appts available as well. Trained as a family and psychiatric nurse practitioner. Master’s trained from the University of Cincinnati and Touro University; also have degrees from Pacific Lutheran University in Nursing and the University of Oklahoma. I have a background in military medicine, and have served populations that have been diverse and underserved. I have also served in case management for Washington State DSHS, working with social workers and caregivers for and in behalf of foster children.
![Photo of Dr. Uhunoma Osadolor - Ample Grace Psychiatry , DNP , PMHNP, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/495443f6-7546-459b-be8d-cf7b3c12eadb/1/320x400.jpeg)
Ample Grace Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP , PMHNP, APRN
Verified Verified
Olympia, WA 98502 (Online Only)
We are currently accepting new patients for ADHD Neuropsychological testing. Think you have ADHD? No problem! We offer ADHD Objective Testing that can be used to guide ADHD diagnosis for patients. The testing can also be done at the office and via telehealth. We also offer adult autism assessment and DBT-informed therapy. At Ample Grace Psychiatry, we offer a custom approach for each client! We start with understanding where you are now and your challenges. We help you put a plan in place to help you move forward, and we celebrate your successes along the way. We offer an inclusive, safe space with visits to suit your schedule.
We are currently accepting new patients for ADHD Neuropsychological testing. Think you have ADHD? No problem! We offer ADHD Objective Testing that can be used to guide ADHD diagnosis for patients. The testing can also be done at the office and via telehealth. We also offer adult autism assessment and DBT-informed therapy. At Ample Grace Psychiatry, we offer a custom approach for each client! We start with understanding where you are now and your challenges. We help you put a plan in place to help you move forward, and we celebrate your successes along the way. We offer an inclusive, safe space with visits to suit your schedule.
![Photo of Mary Fredericks, ARNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cbd20e06-2798-4552-b5a1-6aae6d67df60/1/320x400.jpeg)
Mary Fredericks
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Olympia, WA 98502 (Online Only)
Mary Fredericks is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She graduated from Washington State University with a Master of Science in Nursing. Mary has several years of experience in the healthcare field and has an extensive background in Emergency Medicine. She has spent the last 10 years in psychiatry working with both inpatient and outpatient clients. Her experience includes but is not limited to: the assessment and treatment of depression, anxiety, adjustment disorders, mood disorders, ADHD, OCD, and PTSD.
Mary Fredericks is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She graduated from Washington State University with a Master of Science in Nursing. Mary has several years of experience in the healthcare field and has an extensive background in Emergency Medicine. She has spent the last 10 years in psychiatry working with both inpatient and outpatient clients. Her experience includes but is not limited to: the assessment and treatment of depression, anxiety, adjustment disorders, mood disorders, ADHD, OCD, and PTSD.
![Photo of Thomas Yarber, ARNP, PMHNP, FNP, CNS, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2eaefb0c-cecf-460f-87e0-867f99b4639c/1/320x400.jpeg)
Thomas Yarber
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARNP, PMHNP, FNP, CNS
Verified Verified
Olympia, WA 98502
Not accepting new clients
I am a triple board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, Family Nurse Practitioner, and Adult Psychiatric Clinical Nurse Specialist. I have practiced in various specialties, including community mental health, corrections, and acute inpatient psychiatry.
I am a triple board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, Family Nurse Practitioner, and Adult Psychiatric Clinical Nurse Specialist. I have practiced in various specialties, including community mental health, corrections, and acute inpatient psychiatry.
![Photo of Linda Kellams-Keith, ARNP, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/71c4cab2-6a80-4026-b3c7-50059f859ad2/2/320x400.jpeg)
Linda Kellams-Keith
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARNP, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Olympia, WA 98502
Waitlist for new clients
I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who has worked in this specialty for over 20 years. My office is a warm and welcoming place and my goal is to ensure that my clients feel safe and heard. However, I am not accepting new clients at this time.
I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who has worked in this specialty for over 20 years. My office is a warm and welcoming place and my goal is to ensure that my clients feel safe and heard. However, I am not accepting new clients at this time.
![Photo of Ann Song, DNP, PMHNP, ARNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8aa16f93-d7ca-40b6-9de0-bdb6ad382977/1/320x400.jpeg)
As a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I aim to work collaboratively with clients on their journey to wellness. We work together through evaluation and assessment to clarify depression, anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, and other mood disorders.
As a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I aim to work collaboratively with clients on their journey to wellness. We work together through evaluation and assessment to clarify depression, anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, and other mood disorders.
![Photo of Kristen Pace, MSN, ARNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9433e0ec-9f02-4eab-9d49-620f67a24743/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with a master’s degree in psychiatric nursing from Seattle University. I have experience working with diverse client populations in both inpatient and outpatient settings and strive to create an environment of collaboration and acceptance. I focus on a holistic, client-centered approach and have training in both trauma-informed care and motivational interviewing. I use an individualized approach focused on evidence-based practice to assist clients in their recovery and wellness journeys.
I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with a master’s degree in psychiatric nursing from Seattle University. I have experience working with diverse client populations in both inpatient and outpatient settings and strive to create an environment of collaboration and acceptance. I focus on a holistic, client-centered approach and have training in both trauma-informed care and motivational interviewing. I use an individualized approach focused on evidence-based practice to assist clients in their recovery and wellness journeys.
![Photo of Harvey Hall - Genuine Healthcare, PLLC, ARNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3e325fc7-c9ca-433d-ad3c-8cafe8f22a20/1/320x400.png)
Now accepting new patients! Genuine Healthcare is proud to serve a diverse population of mental health clients. We see patients from all walks of life and in all age groups, providing support for children as young as six years old. By offering our appointments both in person or via telemedicine, we are able to serve a wider community across the state of Washington. We value the importance of building a strong patient-provider relationship, which is why we have four providers from various backgrounds so that you may find one who fits your specific needs. To explore our providers' bios, visit the About Us section of our website.
Now accepting new patients! Genuine Healthcare is proud to serve a diverse population of mental health clients. We see patients from all walks of life and in all age groups, providing support for children as young as six years old. By offering our appointments both in person or via telemedicine, we are able to serve a wider community across the state of Washington. We value the importance of building a strong patient-provider relationship, which is why we have four providers from various backgrounds so that you may find one who fits your specific needs. To explore our providers' bios, visit the About Us section of our website.
![Photo of Jasmine Zaman - Traverse Therapy Services, PA-C, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9c20f522-dd81-4f7f-b7f3-adf1c1a099d7/1/320x400.jpeg)
Welcome! We are accepting new clients with immediate availability. Jasmine Zaman is a board-certified Physician Assistant providing care to patients in Washington State via telehealth. Jasmine is passionate about mental health and working with underserved communities. She believes that access to high quality, affordable care is an essential foundation for improving our physical, mental, and emotional health. Her goal is to build a trusting, honest, and judgement free environment for her patients.
Welcome! We are accepting new clients with immediate availability. Jasmine Zaman is a board-certified Physician Assistant providing care to patients in Washington State via telehealth. Jasmine is passionate about mental health and working with underserved communities. She believes that access to high quality, affordable care is an essential foundation for improving our physical, mental, and emotional health. Her goal is to build a trusting, honest, and judgement free environment for her patients.
![Photo of David Penner, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bc57ceec-cff1-441a-82e9-fa3b2d21b117/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am a double board-certified Harvard-trained child, adolescent, and adult psychiatrist specializing in treating hard-to-treat depression through Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS). For over ten years, I've treated adults and children with a wide range of acute and chronic mental illnesses and implemented TMS into my services when I saw the incredible results my patients were achieving.
I am a double board-certified Harvard-trained child, adolescent, and adult psychiatrist specializing in treating hard-to-treat depression through Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS). For over ten years, I've treated adults and children with a wide range of acute and chronic mental illnesses and implemented TMS into my services when I saw the incredible results my patients were achieving.
![Photo of Lindsay Nourse, DMSc, PA-C, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c3851b09-5410-47a2-a8b6-f43f3976e7e5/1/320x400.jpeg)
Lindsay Nourse
Physician Assistant, DMSc, PA-C
Verified Verified
Olympia, WA 98502
Not accepting new clients
I have 12 years of experience working in family medicine. While working in family medicine, I developed a passion for treating those with mental health conditions and decided I wanted to practice in this area of medicine full time. I am a native of the Pacific Northwest, and earned my undergraduate degree from the University of Oregon. I earned her master’s degree and P.A. education at Rocky Mountain College in Billings, MT.
I have 12 years of experience working in family medicine. While working in family medicine, I developed a passion for treating those with mental health conditions and decided I wanted to practice in this area of medicine full time. I am a native of the Pacific Northwest, and earned my undergraduate degree from the University of Oregon. I earned her master’s degree and P.A. education at Rocky Mountain College in Billings, MT.
![Photo of Edward Rosanski, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/55681ecc-9e50-47ee-a370-089ff263b07f/1/320x400.jpeg)
Edward Rosanski is a Nurse Practitioner in Arizona who has been practicing since 1996. Edward believes in a collaborative approach for medication management. Outside of work, Edward enjoys stained glass, glass fusing, woodworking, golf, and blues music.
Edward Rosanski is a Nurse Practitioner in Arizona who has been practicing since 1996. Edward believes in a collaborative approach for medication management. Outside of work, Edward enjoys stained glass, glass fusing, woodworking, golf, and blues music.
![Photo of Valerie Brandt, ARNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f06cb106-ddf5-4bcd-94c1-2408e30e267e/1/320x400.png)
Valerie Brandt
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Olympia, WA 98502 (Online Only)
As a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I provide compassionate and evidence-based care to clients ages 18 and up. I help clients work through issues including anxiety, depression, grief, PTSD, and ADHD. With a special focus and passion for healthcare workers and first responders, I bring a unique understanding of the challenges and stressors faced by those in demanding professions and the psychological impact of high-stress environments. Whether it's managing work-related stress, navigating trauma exposure, or addressing burnout, I provide a safe and supportive space for individuals to heal and thrive.
As a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I provide compassionate and evidence-based care to clients ages 18 and up. I help clients work through issues including anxiety, depression, grief, PTSD, and ADHD. With a special focus and passion for healthcare workers and first responders, I bring a unique understanding of the challenges and stressors faced by those in demanding professions and the psychological impact of high-stress environments. Whether it's managing work-related stress, navigating trauma exposure, or addressing burnout, I provide a safe and supportive space for individuals to heal and thrive.
![Photo of Margie Williams - Elroi Mental Health Services PLLC, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/41375156-2571-4fed-a047-18fa0baac32e/2/320x400.jpeg)
Elroi Mental Health Services PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Olympia, WA 98502
Finally, a provider of Christian faith, who understands and has a relationship with God. Great mental healthcare does not require you to sacrifice your faith. The practice treats the whole person. We at ElroiMHS are a BIPOC and LGBTQ+ supportive office. Margie Williams is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) qualified to practice psychiatry, diagnose, treat, and prescribe psychiatric medications across the lifespan, and provide Gene-Testing for medications. We are accepting new clients. We are here to provide a chance for you to get through life with positivity and greatness within yourself.
Finally, a provider of Christian faith, who understands and has a relationship with God. Great mental healthcare does not require you to sacrifice your faith. The practice treats the whole person. We at ElroiMHS are a BIPOC and LGBTQ+ supportive office. Margie Williams is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) qualified to practice psychiatry, diagnose, treat, and prescribe psychiatric medications across the lifespan, and provide Gene-Testing for medications. We are accepting new clients. We are here to provide a chance for you to get through life with positivity and greatness within yourself.
![Photo of Ashley Nicole Mabry - Balance Psychiatric Clinic, ARNP, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/067dcc1e-b495-465c-8520-40a7cb5b3fee/1/320x400.jpeg)
Balance Psychiatric Clinic
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARNP, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Olympia, WA 98502
As a PMHNP-BC in a rural, underserved, small community, I'm passionate about providing medication management services and serving my community. I understand the importance of treating people in a holistic manner, to maintain a balanced state so wellness is achieved. I focus on a “whole patient” approach and “patient-centered care” for better outcomes. For one to live their best life there must be balance in sleep hygiene, diet, and exercise. I strive to help patients reach their best potential, psychiatrically after other options have been exhausted through medication management and education. I look forward to serving my community.
As a PMHNP-BC in a rural, underserved, small community, I'm passionate about providing medication management services and serving my community. I understand the importance of treating people in a holistic manner, to maintain a balanced state so wellness is achieved. I focus on a “whole patient” approach and “patient-centered care” for better outcomes. For one to live their best life there must be balance in sleep hygiene, diet, and exercise. I strive to help patients reach their best potential, psychiatrically after other options have been exhausted through medication management and education. I look forward to serving my community.
![Photo of Albert Quainoo, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ba0a06c7-8dc8-4430-a7ed-501c5d2a5983/2/320x400.jpeg)
Need URGENT psychiatric care? Call 888-877-7022 now to start your healing journey. We understand how stress, anxiety, ADHD, depression, burnout, & overwhelming emotions can prevent you from living your best life. At AB Holistic, we believe in a compassionate, integrative approach. We offer personalized treatment plans that include traditional medications, therapy, counseling & holistic therapies to address the root causes of your distress. We're dedicated to supporting you every step of the way. Find the relief you deserve. We're conveniently located, offer flexible hours, and have telehealth options available. Call today.
Need URGENT psychiatric care? Call 888-877-7022 now to start your healing journey. We understand how stress, anxiety, ADHD, depression, burnout, & overwhelming emotions can prevent you from living your best life. At AB Holistic, we believe in a compassionate, integrative approach. We offer personalized treatment plans that include traditional medications, therapy, counseling & holistic therapies to address the root causes of your distress. We're dedicated to supporting you every step of the way. Find the relief you deserve. We're conveniently located, offer flexible hours, and have telehealth options available. Call today.
![Photo of Emmanuel Nwabude, PMHNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/709ec8c9-d95b-42db-bb21-a19f7bc98152/2/320x400.jpeg)
Are you having mood swings? Feeling anxious, down, inattentive, overwhelmed with stress, or having the overall feeling that life just keeps getting harder? Have you tried to explain how you feel to friends or family, but no one fully understands? Because you don't want to be a burden, you sometimes hide your true feelings. I understand these struggles, and will love to help you turn things around for the better. I want to see you live life to your fullest potential. If you are looking for a provider who sees you as a person and not just as your diagnosis, condition or past struggles, please feel free to contact me. I love to help.
Are you having mood swings? Feeling anxious, down, inattentive, overwhelmed with stress, or having the overall feeling that life just keeps getting harder? Have you tried to explain how you feel to friends or family, but no one fully understands? Because you don't want to be a burden, you sometimes hide your true feelings. I understand these struggles, and will love to help you turn things around for the better. I want to see you live life to your fullest potential. If you are looking for a provider who sees you as a person and not just as your diagnosis, condition or past struggles, please feel free to contact me. I love to help.
See more therapy options for 98502
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in 98502
10+
Average cost per session
$300
Psychiatrists in 98502 who prioritize treating:
95% | Anxiety |
89% | Depression |
89% | ADHD |
84% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
84% | Trauma and PTSD |
84% | Medication Management |
79% | Bipolar Disorder |
Average years in practice
10 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
89% | Regence |
84% | First Choice Health | FCH |
79% | Premera |
How Psychiatrists in 98502 see their clients
85% | In Person and Online | |
15% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
56% | Female | |
44% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in 98502?
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.