Psychiatrists in New York
![Photo of Dr. Dobgima Erick, DNP, FNP-BC, PMHNP, -BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8c48feaa-be18-45c6-9d6f-cf88f9122441/4/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Dobgima Erick
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP-BC, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
Riverdale, NY 10463
Does everything seem to be a burden for you these days? Do you find it difficult to keep on going? Does it feel like nobody seems to understand what your are going through but always judging you? Are your finding it difficult to concentrate and function at work, at school, at home, with your co-workers, friends, family and other loved ones? Are your struggling with regulating your emotions?... You are not alone. Help is available. It's private, discrete, judgement free, and at your own pace. Medication is not always the answer (unless clinically necessary); so let's connect and explore the options together.
Does everything seem to be a burden for you these days? Do you find it difficult to keep on going? Does it feel like nobody seems to understand what your are going through but always judging you? Are your finding it difficult to concentrate and function at work, at school, at home, with your co-workers, friends, family and other loved ones? Are your struggling with regulating your emotions?... You are not alone. Help is available. It's private, discrete, judgement free, and at your own pace. Medication is not always the answer (unless clinically necessary); so let's connect and explore the options together.
![Photo of Megan Wynne, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9200e16b-c16e-4a0f-be17-875df2dc0b14/3/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Megan Wynne is board certified in adult psychiatry and completed fellowship training in Consultation-Liaison Psychiatry (Psychosomatic Medicine). She has been in practicing psychiatry since 2006. Dr. Wynne completed her medical degree at Drexel University School of Medicine in Philadelphia, PA, her psychiatric residency at Thomas Jefferson University Hospital in Philadelphia, PA and her consultation/liaison psychiatric fellowship at Long Island Jewish Hospital in Queens, NY. Following a move to New Zealand, she worked as lead psychiatrist for Te Puna Waiora, Maori Mental Health team at Counties Manakau District Health Board.
Dr. Megan Wynne is board certified in adult psychiatry and completed fellowship training in Consultation-Liaison Psychiatry (Psychosomatic Medicine). She has been in practicing psychiatry since 2006. Dr. Wynne completed her medical degree at Drexel University School of Medicine in Philadelphia, PA, her psychiatric residency at Thomas Jefferson University Hospital in Philadelphia, PA and her consultation/liaison psychiatric fellowship at Long Island Jewish Hospital in Queens, NY. Following a move to New Zealand, she worked as lead psychiatrist for Te Puna Waiora, Maori Mental Health team at Counties Manakau District Health Board.
![Photo of Mara Weinberg, PMHNP, BC, PNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/56dcbac2-5774-4a13-a79f-504578a76ff9/1/320x400.jpeg)
Mara Weinberg
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC, PNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New York, NY 10016
I’m dedicated to helping people achieve their goals and improve their quality of life. Life is full of challenges and uncertainties which can lead to overwhelming stress, anxiety, and/or depression. I will tailor treatment to meet you where you are and help you move forward.
I’m dedicated to helping people achieve their goals and improve their quality of life. Life is full of challenges and uncertainties which can lead to overwhelming stress, anxiety, and/or depression. I will tailor treatment to meet you where you are and help you move forward.
![Photo of Taqialdeen Zamil, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b5cd0cfe-32b0-4905-be5d-7981c34c7bf5/1/320x400.jpeg)
Taqialdeen Zamil
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Smithtown, NY 11787 (Online Only)
Welcome to my practice. With over a decade of diverse clinical experience, I've had the privilege of guiding clients through the intricate landscape of mental health. From adolescents struggling with identity issues, adults combating anxiety, to those deciphering the layers of substance use, depressive or bipolar disorders, PTSD, or OCD, I've witnessed the resilience of the human spirit. I'm passionate about providing evidence-based, compassionate care to empower individuals to reclaim control and joy in their lives. If you seek a deeper understanding and the tools to flourish, I'm here to support you on this transformative journey.
Welcome to my practice. With over a decade of diverse clinical experience, I've had the privilege of guiding clients through the intricate landscape of mental health. From adolescents struggling with identity issues, adults combating anxiety, to those deciphering the layers of substance use, depressive or bipolar disorders, PTSD, or OCD, I've witnessed the resilience of the human spirit. I'm passionate about providing evidence-based, compassionate care to empower individuals to reclaim control and joy in their lives. If you seek a deeper understanding and the tools to flourish, I'm here to support you on this transformative journey.
![Photo of Geoffrey Sinner, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e5ee628a-1505-4a8e-816e-762ba90bd808/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Sinner is Board Certified in Psychiatry. He completed his psychiatry residency training at Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center. He has practiced in various settings over his career including 5 years in inpatient settings in Vermont, where he also served as Medical Director for a state hospital psychiatric unit and taught medical students, followed by 5 years in an outpatient community mental health center in Pennsylvania before beginning his telepsychiatry practice serving individuals in Pennsylvania, Florida and New York.
Dr. Sinner is Board Certified in Psychiatry. He completed his psychiatry residency training at Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center. He has practiced in various settings over his career including 5 years in inpatient settings in Vermont, where he also served as Medical Director for a state hospital psychiatric unit and taught medical students, followed by 5 years in an outpatient community mental health center in Pennsylvania before beginning his telepsychiatry practice serving individuals in Pennsylvania, Florida and New York.
![Photo of Yelena Geller-Berdichevsky - MYM Child & Adult Psychiatry, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1ffdc77b-7f48-4ba5-bc98-5945882e071e/1/320x400.png)
MYM Child & Adult Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brooklyn, NY 11235 (Online Only)
Our Goal is to find the right balance between your need for appropriate therapeutic interventions and safe medication management for struggles with Depression, Anxiety, ADHD, PTSD, Mood Disturbances, Sleep Challenges, Obsessive-Compulsive, Trauma & Autism Spectrum Disorder.
Our Goal is to find the right balance between your need for appropriate therapeutic interventions and safe medication management for struggles with Depression, Anxiety, ADHD, PTSD, Mood Disturbances, Sleep Challenges, Obsessive-Compulsive, Trauma & Autism Spectrum Disorder.
![Photo of Christine Reyes, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/333139fb-c98a-40a7-8aff-c941916b021e/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Christine Reyes is a bilingual Spanish Adult Psychiatrist. She has 25 years of experience providing patients compassionate psychiatric care for anxiety, depressive and bipolar disorders, post-traumatic stress disorder, and many other psychiatric conditions.
Dr. Christine Reyes is a bilingual Spanish Adult Psychiatrist. She has 25 years of experience providing patients compassionate psychiatric care for anxiety, depressive and bipolar disorders, post-traumatic stress disorder, and many other psychiatric conditions.
![Photo of Saaema Pastron, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a2a680fd-8cac-4598-b789-3af534b5bbe0/3/320x400.jpeg)
Saaema Pastron
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brooklyn, NY 11215 (Online Only)
Saaema (she/her) is a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who is passionate about helping individuals attain mental well-being, using a collaborative and individualized approach with each client. She works closely with her clients to help them achieve their goals using a combination of evidence-based treatments and within the context of the clients’ cultural, spiritual, and religious beliefs. Saaema specializes in medication management and non-pharmacological approaches that link our mind and body experiences. She will work with you to tailor a medication regimen after a thorough evaluation.
Saaema (she/her) is a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who is passionate about helping individuals attain mental well-being, using a collaborative and individualized approach with each client. She works closely with her clients to help them achieve their goals using a combination of evidence-based treatments and within the context of the clients’ cultural, spiritual, and religious beliefs. Saaema specializes in medication management and non-pharmacological approaches that link our mind and body experiences. She will work with you to tailor a medication regimen after a thorough evaluation.
![Photo of Daina Kakana, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/763f57de-4337-490c-bbd0-cd26924ec819/1/320x400.png)
Daina Kakana
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Verified Verified
Roslyn Heights, NY 11577 (Online Only)
Hello! My name is Daina Kakana and I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I understand how difficult life’s challenges can be and believe that everyone can use support as they navigate through life. Throughout our sessions, I will always endeavor to provide a space where clients feel comfortable and at ease as they receive the help they need and deserve to live a more balanced and happy life. Often, we may feel bogged down by anxiety, depression, stress, relationship issues, and other struggles that make life feel overwhelming. We may also feel as though we are not on the right path, or that we are too broken to be successful.
Hello! My name is Daina Kakana and I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I understand how difficult life’s challenges can be and believe that everyone can use support as they navigate through life. Throughout our sessions, I will always endeavor to provide a space where clients feel comfortable and at ease as they receive the help they need and deserve to live a more balanced and happy life. Often, we may feel bogged down by anxiety, depression, stress, relationship issues, and other struggles that make life feel overwhelming. We may also feel as though we are not on the right path, or that we are too broken to be successful.
![Photo of Gavin Friedman, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4fa189b8-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
I aim to provide a comprehensive bio-psycho-social approach to mental wellbeing. Together we'll come to a formulation of your story and collaborate on a multi-pronged plan.
I aim to provide a comprehensive bio-psycho-social approach to mental wellbeing. Together we'll come to a formulation of your story and collaborate on a multi-pronged plan.
![Photo of Arashinder Dhaliwal, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5455c818-2484-4c82-a7f2-20fdd0d4fa27/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am Board certified in Adult and Child psychiatry by American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. I have 12+ years of experience working with wide range of mental health issues. I believes that a thorough assessment of all aspects of mental health followed by collaborative treatment planning is key to successful treatment. I partner with patients for their treatment goals and strives to provide holistic mental health care using up to date advancements in medications and therapy.
I am Board certified in Adult and Child psychiatry by American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. I have 12+ years of experience working with wide range of mental health issues. I believes that a thorough assessment of all aspects of mental health followed by collaborative treatment planning is key to successful treatment. I partner with patients for their treatment goals and strives to provide holistic mental health care using up to date advancements in medications and therapy.
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![Photo of Zhanna Berman At Core Psychiatry, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5f223b9d-2787-4ced-91df-67b517af398d/1/320x400.jpeg)
Zhanna Berman At Core Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Verified Verified
Yonkers, NY 10701 (Online Only)
Book an appointment online today via our website corepsychiatry.org!
Book an appointment online today via our website corepsychiatry.org!
![Photo of Jessica Chichester, PMHNP, BC, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6e4695a7-9035-431c-a458-8c746f54c306/1/320x400.png)
Jessica Chichester
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC, NP
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10003 (Online Only)
Being an experienced adult psychiatric and mental health nurse practitioner, I deliver expert care through virtual consultations at Orenda Psychiatry in New York, NY. I offer personalized support to patients with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), hyperactive disorder (ADD / ADHD), and bipolar disorder.
Being an experienced adult psychiatric and mental health nurse practitioner, I deliver expert care through virtual consultations at Orenda Psychiatry in New York, NY. I offer personalized support to patients with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), hyperactive disorder (ADD / ADHD), and bipolar disorder.
![Photo of Dr. Saide Altinsan, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f4e858ac-78e6-43a8-8b0c-f42c08480765/1/320x400.jpeg)
I'm Dr. Saide Altinsan, a board-certified psychiatrist offering tele-psychiatry services to adult patients ages 18 and up. With nearly 30 years of experience, I specialize in treating anxiety, depression, and PTSD, as well as a wide range of other mental health conditions, from mild to severe. Throughout my career, I have worked in academic, clinical-trial, and private-practice settings, both as an outpatient and inpatient psychiatrist. When we begin our work together, I will conduct a thorough initial evaluation to understand your unique needs.
I'm Dr. Saide Altinsan, a board-certified psychiatrist offering tele-psychiatry services to adult patients ages 18 and up. With nearly 30 years of experience, I specialize in treating anxiety, depression, and PTSD, as well as a wide range of other mental health conditions, from mild to severe. Throughout my career, I have worked in academic, clinical-trial, and private-practice settings, both as an outpatient and inpatient psychiatrist. When we begin our work together, I will conduct a thorough initial evaluation to understand your unique needs.
![Photo of John A. Zagat, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0a6a3be2-fa1d-4958-a319-f5754c915dd2/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am a board-certified psychiatrist working in private practice in Westchester county (Harrison) as well as Greenwich Village. In addition to my practice, I am affiliated with NYU Child Study Center as an Adjunct Faculty Member, and I am a volunteer faculty member at New York Medical College. Previously, I was an attending psychiatrist at the Behavioral Health Center at Westchester Medical Center, and an Assistant Clinical Professor at New York Medical College.
I am a board-certified psychiatrist working in private practice in Westchester county (Harrison) as well as Greenwich Village. In addition to my practice, I am affiliated with NYU Child Study Center as an Adjunct Faculty Member, and I am a volunteer faculty member at New York Medical College. Previously, I was an attending psychiatrist at the Behavioral Health Center at Westchester Medical Center, and an Assistant Clinical Professor at New York Medical College.
![Photo of Aleen Boyd, DNP, PMHNP-, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/40c49a57-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Aleen Boyd
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP-, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Valley Stream, NY 11580
My passion is to help others achieve wellness. I am a board certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with over 10 years of experience. I currently work both inpatient and outpatient facilities within New York City. I specialize in the diagnoses and treatment of adults with a range of mental health issues.
My passion is to help others achieve wellness. I am a board certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with over 10 years of experience. I currently work both inpatient and outpatient facilities within New York City. I specialize in the diagnoses and treatment of adults with a range of mental health issues.
![Photo of Sarah Lynn Otwell, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3fabae05-677e-4449-ac6a-8fbc3711336d/3/320x400.jpeg)
Sarah Lynn Otwell
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Buffalo, NY 14228
Not accepting new clients
Currently NOT taking new patients at the moment. Here to help people who are ready to be active in their treatment and improve their quality of life. PLEASE email me at sarahotwellnp(at)gmail.com for the quickest response. I take blue cross blue shield/highmark, Independent health and Univera. Once I review email I will contact you personally to set up an appointment. Response may take a few days, your patience is appreciated!
Currently NOT taking new patients at the moment. Here to help people who are ready to be active in their treatment and improve their quality of life. PLEASE email me at sarahotwellnp(at)gmail.com for the quickest response. I take blue cross blue shield/highmark, Independent health and Univera. Once I review email I will contact you personally to set up an appointment. Response may take a few days, your patience is appreciated!
![Photo of Zachary Rothwell, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fbbb73a1-da39-448a-942e-dc6d8be93ff4/2/320x400.png)
I do not prescribe medication. I provide therapy for adults struggling with relationship issues, addiction, depression, anxiety, and PTSD. Many of my clients are high performers who have become successful despite a difficult childhood. If you are curious how therapy can help you reduce your suffering, improve your relationships, and help you heal from past traumas, I encourage you to reach out for a free consultation. I use elements of EMDR therapy in my approach. I am kink allied and sex positive. I invite you to come as you are. I will respect, support, and encourage you during our time in therapy.
I do not prescribe medication. I provide therapy for adults struggling with relationship issues, addiction, depression, anxiety, and PTSD. Many of my clients are high performers who have become successful despite a difficult childhood. If you are curious how therapy can help you reduce your suffering, improve your relationships, and help you heal from past traumas, I encourage you to reach out for a free consultation. I use elements of EMDR therapy in my approach. I am kink allied and sex positive. I invite you to come as you are. I will respect, support, and encourage you during our time in therapy.
![Photo of Hugh McKenzie - Hugh McKenzie, PNP, PNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/40c1950d-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/1/320x400.jpeg)
I have been in the field of psychiatry since 1994; and have been licensed and board certified as a Family Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner since 2012. Our goal is for everyone to achieve optimal health from a holistic perspective. Therefore in addition to medication mgmt, we promote healthy- transitions4u: mind, body, spirit. We are here for you and provide an accommodating atmosphere where you will be heard and encouraged to achieve your very best you!
I have been in the field of psychiatry since 1994; and have been licensed and board certified as a Family Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner since 2012. Our goal is for everyone to achieve optimal health from a holistic perspective. Therefore in addition to medication mgmt, we promote healthy- transitions4u: mind, body, spirit. We are here for you and provide an accommodating atmosphere where you will be heard and encouraged to achieve your very best you!
![Photo of Muriel Gold Morris, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3bef1bba-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
My 30 years experience as a psychiatrist and psychoanalyst has taught me that people who are suffering need an approach that considers them as whole people in the context of their entire lives, their private concerns, family, work, and relationship experiences and problems, and not just for their symptom complexes. As a medical doctor originally, and in my teaching of others, I have always focussed on and addressed the clients' anxieties, depressions, and physical ailments from this broad viewpoint and as a result have found that physical health and well-being improve along with emotional improvement.
My 30 years experience as a psychiatrist and psychoanalyst has taught me that people who are suffering need an approach that considers them as whole people in the context of their entire lives, their private concerns, family, work, and relationship experiences and problems, and not just for their symptom complexes. As a medical doctor originally, and in my teaching of others, I have always focussed on and addressed the clients' anxieties, depressions, and physical ailments from this broad viewpoint and as a result have found that physical health and well-being improve along with emotional improvement.
See more therapy options for New York
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Average cost per session
$300
Psychiatrists in New York who prioritize treating:
93% | Anxiety |
92% | Depression |
79% | Medication Management |
71% | Bipolar Disorder |
69% | ADHD |
68% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
68% | Trauma and PTSD |
Average years in practice
10 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
90% | Aetna |
83% | Cigna and Evernorth |
78% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Psychiatrists in New York see their clients
60% | In Person and Online | |
40% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
66% | Female | |
33% | Male | |
1% | Non-Binary |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in New York?
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.