Psychiatrists in Lehi, UT
![Photo of Laura Maw, DNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f8c399a1-e6d3-4768-83dc-57a280af655b/1/320x400.jpeg)
Laura Maw is an Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN) and provides psychiatric medication management in by telehealth and at our Lehi Clinic in Thanksgiving Point. She has over 31 years of nursing experience with 22 years in psychiatric medication management. She earned a Doctorate in Nurse Practices (DNP) from the University of Utah specializing in Family Nurse Practice (FNP).
Laura Maw is an Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN) and provides psychiatric medication management in by telehealth and at our Lehi Clinic in Thanksgiving Point. She has over 31 years of nursing experience with 22 years in psychiatric medication management. She earned a Doctorate in Nurse Practices (DNP) from the University of Utah specializing in Family Nurse Practice (FNP).
![Photo of Tauna Young, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/271b66dc-f1c3-4fc6-84e8-02a63df58c99/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am passionate about helping people achieve “total health” by assisting them to honor the connection between the emotional and physical impacts of all of life’s experiences. I believe that as a healthcare provider who is passionate about promoting total health, it is my duty and honor to provide a safe, judgement-free zone where patients can discuss their mental health concerns in a positive environment.
I am passionate about helping people achieve “total health” by assisting them to honor the connection between the emotional and physical impacts of all of life’s experiences. I believe that as a healthcare provider who is passionate about promoting total health, it is my duty and honor to provide a safe, judgement-free zone where patients can discuss their mental health concerns in a positive environment.
![Photo of Dr. Marianne Haines, DNP, APRN, NNP-BC, PCNS-BC, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4b881216-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Marianne Haines
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, NNP-BC, PCNS-BC, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Lehi, UT 84043
Dr. Haines has over 25 years of clinical experience, the majority of which has been spent treating children and families. She is nationally board-certified in Neonatology, Pediatrics, and Psychiatry specialties. In both clinical and residential treatment settings, Dr. Haines has worked extensively with individuals suffering from a variety of traumas and mental health disorders. She specializes in Child, Adolescent and Family Psychiatry and provides diagnosis, medication management, psychotherapy, as well as collaboration with other psychiatrists, therapists, and healthcare providers to optimize the patient's treatment plan.
Dr. Haines has over 25 years of clinical experience, the majority of which has been spent treating children and families. She is nationally board-certified in Neonatology, Pediatrics, and Psychiatry specialties. In both clinical and residential treatment settings, Dr. Haines has worked extensively with individuals suffering from a variety of traumas and mental health disorders. She specializes in Child, Adolescent and Family Psychiatry and provides diagnosis, medication management, psychotherapy, as well as collaboration with other psychiatrists, therapists, and healthcare providers to optimize the patient's treatment plan.
![Photo of Shad Wyatt Tillotson - Premier Psychiatry Solutions, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/74e86558-dc57-4341-ad22-4ed62e950f10/1/320x400.jpeg)
Premier Psychiatry Solutions
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Lehi, UT 84043
Thank you for choosing Premier Psychiatry Solutions. Insurance credentialing is in process and will soon be available. Open Appointments Now. Visit our website for scheduling today. We are accepting new clients over age 12. We offer a simplified approach to complex issues with kind interactions. People enjoy that we are relatable, personable, and easy to discuss all topics of concern. One could expect a conservative approach to using medicines, and we highly encourage counseling concurrently with local therapists we recommend.
Thank you for choosing Premier Psychiatry Solutions. Insurance credentialing is in process and will soon be available. Open Appointments Now. Visit our website for scheduling today. We are accepting new clients over age 12. We offer a simplified approach to complex issues with kind interactions. People enjoy that we are relatable, personable, and easy to discuss all topics of concern. One could expect a conservative approach to using medicines, and we highly encourage counseling concurrently with local therapists we recommend.
![Photo of Dr. Brian Berrett, MD, MPH, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/52ff1eec-e32a-4644-842c-fb2fdbec544a/2/320x400.jpeg)
Hello, my name is Brian Berrett. I am a child, adolescent, and adult psychiatrist who is committed to providing high quality care in a timely manner - we will get you in within 2 weeks guaranteed. I specialize in depression, anxiety, eating disorders, ADHD, autism, trauma, and other mental health conditions. If we work together, I will enjoy finding solutions to help you live your best life -- a life built on striving towards your values, or the things you hold most dear in life. I take great joy when such achievements are more prevalent or poignant in your life due to the improved capacity you have gained.
Hello, my name is Brian Berrett. I am a child, adolescent, and adult psychiatrist who is committed to providing high quality care in a timely manner - we will get you in within 2 weeks guaranteed. I specialize in depression, anxiety, eating disorders, ADHD, autism, trauma, and other mental health conditions. If we work together, I will enjoy finding solutions to help you live your best life -- a life built on striving towards your values, or the things you hold most dear in life. I take great joy when such achievements are more prevalent or poignant in your life due to the improved capacity you have gained.
![Photo of Fernanda - SMILE Psychiatry and Behavioral Health PLLC, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8456f5ad-902b-4b63-a583-ddb2d2de4d6f/1/320x400.jpeg)
SMILE Psychiatry and Behavioral Health PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Lehi, UT 84043
Hello, I'm Fernanda Johnston “Nanda.” A Brazilian native who speaks Portuguese and Spanish fluently and is a United States Armed Services veteran. I believe in treating the individual, not just the diagnosis, by collaborating with her patients to design and implement a treatment plan tailored to their needs.
Hello, I'm Fernanda Johnston “Nanda.” A Brazilian native who speaks Portuguese and Spanish fluently and is a United States Armed Services veteran. I believe in treating the individual, not just the diagnosis, by collaborating with her patients to design and implement a treatment plan tailored to their needs.
![Photo of Bruno Silva, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7b9c697c-a138-4bf8-8e08-cefd4f6c4c9c/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am a nurse practitioner specializing in the treatment of individuals facing mental health challenges. In my approach to patient care, I prioritize understanding each individual's unique circumstances and aspirations. Recognizing that we are all different, I tailor treatments to align with each patient's specific needs and goals. I draw upon a diverse range of resources, integrating techniques from both western medicine and holistic care practices.
I am a nurse practitioner specializing in the treatment of individuals facing mental health challenges. In my approach to patient care, I prioritize understanding each individual's unique circumstances and aspirations. Recognizing that we are all different, I tailor treatments to align with each patient's specific needs and goals. I draw upon a diverse range of resources, integrating techniques from both western medicine and holistic care practices.
![Photo of Celeste Setters, PhD, PMHNP, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/78678a3b-6cfd-465e-a4b2-10f35454842f/2/320x400.jpeg)
My name is Dr. Celeste Setters. I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I have extensive training treating children, adolescents, and adults in multiple practice settings. My approach is aimed to treat the person as a whole and promote optimal life-long health.
My name is Dr. Celeste Setters. I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I have extensive training treating children, adolescents, and adults in multiple practice settings. My approach is aimed to treat the person as a whole and promote optimal life-long health.
![Photo of Nicholas Baker, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0792de78-9d4e-417c-9178-9ab51b4d74b2/1/320x400.jpeg)
Hello, I'm Nick Baker, an adult psychiatrist who specializes in treating anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, ADHD, OCD, and trauma, as well as other mental health disorders. My educational background includes a bachelor's degree from Brown University and a Medical Doctorate from the University of California, Irvine. I then furthered my training through Psychiatry Residency at the University of Utah.
Hello, I'm Nick Baker, an adult psychiatrist who specializes in treating anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, ADHD, OCD, and trauma, as well as other mental health disorders. My educational background includes a bachelor's degree from Brown University and a Medical Doctorate from the University of California, Irvine. I then furthered my training through Psychiatry Residency at the University of Utah.
![Photo of Sharee Hendricks, APRN (C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/704f5278-2bb7-4a9f-bd6a-82cae3ebdf0d/1/320x400.jpeg)
Sharee Hendricks is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Utah who has been practicing since 2024. She has an Associate degree from BYU-Idaho, a Bachelor’s in Nursing from Boise State University, and a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner from Walden University. Sharee wants to be able to assist clients in achieving mental wellness in whatever way that looks like for them with guidance that may include medications, psychotherapy, lifestyle changes, or forming new healthy habits.
Sharee Hendricks is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Utah who has been practicing since 2024. She has an Associate degree from BYU-Idaho, a Bachelor’s in Nursing from Boise State University, and a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner from Walden University. Sharee wants to be able to assist clients in achieving mental wellness in whatever way that looks like for them with guidance that may include medications, psychotherapy, lifestyle changes, or forming new healthy habits.
![Photo of Alyssa Anne Lee, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8cef48d7-d7fa-4874-81af-9bbcc2224cae/2/320x400.jpeg)
Alyssa Anne Lee
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Lehi, UT 84043 (Online Only)
Alyssa is nationally board certified in psychiatry, skilled in comprehensive psychiatric evaluations, medication management, and psychotherapy. Her expertise is in child and adolescent psychiatry, but she has training across the lifespan. Alyssa enjoys an integrative approach and doesn’t believe that “one size fits all.” She is aware of social, economic, family, biological, behavioral, and community factors that play into treating each individual. Many modalities are available in treatment of psychiatric disorders and she is committed to finding the best combination for her patients and families.
Alyssa is nationally board certified in psychiatry, skilled in comprehensive psychiatric evaluations, medication management, and psychotherapy. Her expertise is in child and adolescent psychiatry, but she has training across the lifespan. Alyssa enjoys an integrative approach and doesn’t believe that “one size fits all.” She is aware of social, economic, family, biological, behavioral, and community factors that play into treating each individual. Many modalities are available in treatment of psychiatric disorders and she is committed to finding the best combination for her patients and families.
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![Photo of Hayden Chevalier, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c4d2c4f0-3919-4eff-af2c-13b2dfde113e/3/320x400.jpeg)
I believe that patient care is individualized and focused on helping individuals improve their day-to-day life and reach their goals. I have found that improving mental healthcare takes a high level of detail, and all aspects of an individual’s life need to be considered in order for them to receive the highest level of personal success. Because of this, my approach to patient care is not simply focused on the patient, but also on helping each individual establish a support network and healthy habits that will provide strength during their mental health journey.
I believe that patient care is individualized and focused on helping individuals improve their day-to-day life and reach their goals. I have found that improving mental healthcare takes a high level of detail, and all aspects of an individual’s life need to be considered in order for them to receive the highest level of personal success. Because of this, my approach to patient care is not simply focused on the patient, but also on helping each individual establish a support network and healthy habits that will provide strength during their mental health journey.
![Photo of Misty Shields, PMHNP, BSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9bb3faf9-0877-458e-9c5b-8ee0433783ab/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am passionate about helping people discover their purpose and self worth so that they can show up as the best versions of themselves. I believe in the power of our brains and our thoughts and would love to explore this with you. I also know firsthand that life can be hard and that sometimes a little bit of medication can really help. I would love to be given the opportunity to work with you and help you live a life that is full of purpose, love and connection.
I am passionate about helping people discover their purpose and self worth so that they can show up as the best versions of themselves. I believe in the power of our brains and our thoughts and would love to explore this with you. I also know firsthand that life can be hard and that sometimes a little bit of medication can really help. I would love to be given the opportunity to work with you and help you live a life that is full of purpose, love and connection.
![Photo of Gayle Scanlan, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/586a74a8-f194-4e50-b760-81467e5aa649/1/320x400.jpeg)
Gayle Scanlan is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Utah who has been practicing since 2022. Gayle believes approaching patients from all walks of life with empathy and kindness in an open-minded way will allow them to achieve their mental health goals. She values therapeutic communication and has cared for numerous patients and families undergoing crises. Gayle approaches patients in an unbiased and nonjudgmental manner, caring for them with empathy. Outside of work, Gayle enjoys hiking, yoga, learning new things, and spending time with her family.
Gayle Scanlan is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Utah who has been practicing since 2022. Gayle believes approaching patients from all walks of life with empathy and kindness in an open-minded way will allow them to achieve their mental health goals. She values therapeutic communication and has cared for numerous patients and families undergoing crises. Gayle approaches patients in an unbiased and nonjudgmental manner, caring for them with empathy. Outside of work, Gayle enjoys hiking, yoga, learning new things, and spending time with her family.
![Photo of David L Paulson - Alliance Behavioral Psychiatry, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/db9d2f29-35aa-40da-a286-1ec0615366bd/1/320x400.jpeg)
Welcome to Alliance Behavioral Psychiatry! We have offices in Orem (near the University Mall) and Lehi (off of Main Street, close to Saratoga Springs). We offer medication management and psychotherapy as well as pharmacogenetic testing, where appropriate. Our providers are: David Paulson, MD, Traci Naylor, APRN, PMHNP; Mekenzie Cooper, APRN, PMHNP; Rebecca Harvey, APRN, DNP; Joel Covington, APRN, DNP; Dan Muster, APRN, DNP; Corrine Freeman, APRN, DNP; Brooke Merrill, APRN, PMHNP; and Karina McDonald APRN, PMHNP. We believe patients receive the best care when they have strong alliance with their providers.
Welcome to Alliance Behavioral Psychiatry! We have offices in Orem (near the University Mall) and Lehi (off of Main Street, close to Saratoga Springs). We offer medication management and psychotherapy as well as pharmacogenetic testing, where appropriate. Our providers are: David Paulson, MD, Traci Naylor, APRN, PMHNP; Mekenzie Cooper, APRN, PMHNP; Rebecca Harvey, APRN, DNP; Joel Covington, APRN, DNP; Dan Muster, APRN, DNP; Corrine Freeman, APRN, DNP; Brooke Merrill, APRN, PMHNP; and Karina McDonald APRN, PMHNP. We believe patients receive the best care when they have strong alliance with their providers.
![Photo of Dr. Ronil Shah, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/239751d3-9039-4c86-b2df-3a2d243ad423/1/320x400.jpeg)
Why choose Dr. Ronil Shah? Because his top-notch expertise combines with compassionate, personalized care. Treatment with Dr. Shah is a two-way collaboration. Working together, you will design a mental wellness strategy that’s tailored just for you. His philosophy? Your path to wellness should be as unique as you are, shaped by empathy and expertise, and empowered by evidence-based insights and tools.
Why choose Dr. Ronil Shah? Because his top-notch expertise combines with compassionate, personalized care. Treatment with Dr. Shah is a two-way collaboration. Working together, you will design a mental wellness strategy that’s tailored just for you. His philosophy? Your path to wellness should be as unique as you are, shaped by empathy and expertise, and empowered by evidence-based insights and tools.
![Photo of Charlie Health, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d830a141-6389-4f99-8e88-c52fde9b9d87/1/320x400.png)
Charlie Health is a leading provider of virtual mental health treatment for people in need of more than once-weekly therapy. Whether you're struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, self-harm, suicidal ideation, or any ongoing mental health issue, Charlie Health’s Clinical Team is ready to help you start your healing journey today. You don’t have to struggle alone – we’re here for you. To get started today, reach out at t.ly/ch-ut
Charlie Health is a leading provider of virtual mental health treatment for people in need of more than once-weekly therapy. Whether you're struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, self-harm, suicidal ideation, or any ongoing mental health issue, Charlie Health’s Clinical Team is ready to help you start your healing journey today. You don’t have to struggle alone – we’re here for you. To get started today, reach out at t.ly/ch-ut
![Photo of Lin Clark, DNP, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/224174aa-88ab-4d14-87f9-f0ea9ea28ecf/2/320x400.jpeg)
Accepting new patients! I am currently providing telehealth appointments. Let's work together to improve your mental health.
Accepting new patients! I am currently providing telehealth appointments. Let's work together to improve your mental health.
![Photo of Dr. Morgan Alexander, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/94417e48-dfdf-4e3c-be50-816a1bb3738e/1/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Joni Lybbert, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b758d292-734c-4899-8a62-e9394af6e81b/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am passionate about helping perinatal women and have focused much of my training on caring for pregnant and postpartum clients. This passion led me to start a podcast, The Sad Mom's Club, dedicated to helping Utah women learn about and connect to local maternal mental health resources. I also volunteer on the Postpartum Support International Utah Chapter Board as Chair of Community Outreach. I also see people experiencing anxiety, depression, ADHD, and trauma symptoms.
I am passionate about helping perinatal women and have focused much of my training on caring for pregnant and postpartum clients. This passion led me to start a podcast, The Sad Mom's Club, dedicated to helping Utah women learn about and connect to local maternal mental health resources. I also volunteer on the Postpartum Support International Utah Chapter Board as Chair of Community Outreach. I also see people experiencing anxiety, depression, ADHD, and trauma symptoms.
See more therapy options for Lehi
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Lehi, UT
20+
Average cost per session
$325
Psychiatrists in Lehi, UT who prioritize treating:
81% | Depression |
81% | Anxiety |
73% | ADHD |
73% | Medication Management |
69% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
69% | Bipolar Disorder |
65% | Trauma and PTSD |
Average years in practice
7 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
82% | Cigna and Evernorth |
76% | Optum |
71% | Aetna |
How Psychiatrists in Lehi, UT see their clients
74% | In Person and Online | |
26% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
67% | Female | |
33% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Lehi?
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.