Psychiatrists in Galt, CA

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More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Jagdeep Kaur, MD, Psychiatrist
Jagdeep Kaur
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Elk Grove, CA 95757
Dr. Kaur has special clinical interest in medication management of psychiatric symptoms, treating treatment resistant psychiatric conditions and substance use disorders. Dr. Kaur is experienced in using advanced treatment modalities e.g, ketamine, esketamine ( nasal spray) and Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) for treatment-resistant depression. Please send us referrals to our secure and confidential fax at 866-481-8756. Visit our webpage at www.truistpsychiatrists.com
Dr. Kaur has special clinical interest in medication management of psychiatric symptoms, treating treatment resistant psychiatric conditions and substance use disorders. Dr. Kaur is experienced in using advanced treatment modalities e.g, ketamine, esketamine ( nasal spray) and Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) for treatment-resistant depression. Please send us referrals to our secure and confidential fax at 866-481-8756. Visit our webpage at www.truistpsychiatrists.com
(916) 675-3074 View (916) 675-3074
Photo of Dr. Vishal Patel, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Vishal Patel
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Elk Grove, CA 95759
Dr. Vishal Patel is a board-certified adult psychiatrist. Dr. Patel is guided by psychodynamic and mindfulness-based approaches.
Dr. Vishal Patel is a board-certified adult psychiatrist. Dr. Patel is guided by psychodynamic and mindfulness-based approaches.
(855) 743-2006 View (855) 743-2006
Photo of Jonathan Allotey, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Jonathan Allotey
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Elk Grove, CA 95759  (Online Only)
Are you struggling to balance your mental and physical health and in need of a more comprehensive approach? No problem! I provide Telemedicine (Online Psychiatry) Services, so that you can conveniently be seen from your home for psychiatry appointments and medication management without the need to travel! I provide the same psychiatry services as an in-person office visit and I can also address other aspects that encompass your complete wellness. My aim is to help you to thrive at your best! You can easily self-schedule a Telepsychiatry video appointment now at: www.pwpsychiatry.com/CA
Are you struggling to balance your mental and physical health and in need of a more comprehensive approach? No problem! I provide Telemedicine (Online Psychiatry) Services, so that you can conveniently be seen from your home for psychiatry appointments and medication management without the need to travel! I provide the same psychiatry services as an in-person office visit and I can also address other aspects that encompass your complete wellness. My aim is to help you to thrive at your best! You can easily self-schedule a Telepsychiatry video appointment now at: www.pwpsychiatry.com/CA
(559) 345-9942 View (559) 345-9942
Photo of Jalia Kizito, DNP, MSW, FNP, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Jalia Kizito
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, MSW, FNP, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Elk Grove, CA 95757  (Online Only)
I am a doctorally-prepared, board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with dual master’s degrees in nursing and social work. With a holistic approach, I collaborate with clients to diagnose and treat Bipolar Disorder, Schizophrenia, Depression, Anxiety, Substance use disorders and Trauma/PTSD.
I am a doctorally-prepared, board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with dual master’s degrees in nursing and social work. With a holistic approach, I collaborate with clients to diagnose and treat Bipolar Disorder, Schizophrenia, Depression, Anxiety, Substance use disorders and Trauma/PTSD.
(916) 520-1409 View (916) 520-1409
Photo of Ryan Thebo, DNP, PMHNP, FNP, CICP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Ryan Thebo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP, CICP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Elk Grove, CA 95757
Unsure if medication is right for you or need help optimizing your current treatment? While medication can be beneficial, the most effective approach to mental health challenges often combines the right medications with holistic treatments. Sadly, the profit-driven mental healthcare system may not always prioritize your well-being. My goal is to help you thrive through holistic psychiatry, enabling you to achieve optimal wellness. Easily schedule an online appointment for personalized medication management at www.pwpsychiatry.com/CA and take the first step towards a healthier you.
Unsure if medication is right for you or need help optimizing your current treatment? While medication can be beneficial, the most effective approach to mental health challenges often combines the right medications with holistic treatments. Sadly, the profit-driven mental healthcare system may not always prioritize your well-being. My goal is to help you thrive through holistic psychiatry, enabling you to achieve optimal wellness. Easily schedule an online appointment for personalized medication management at www.pwpsychiatry.com/CA and take the first step towards a healthier you.
(559) 744-0489 View (559) 744-0489
Photo of Jack Mkroyan, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Jack Mkroyan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Elk Grove, CA 95757
Are you struggling to balance your mental and physical health and in need of a more comprehensive approach? No problem! I provide Telemedicine (Telepsychiatry) Services, so that you can conveniently be seen from your home for psychiatry appointments and medication management without the need to travel! I provide the same psychiatry services as an in-person office visit and I can also address other aspects that encompass your complete wellness. My aim is to help you to thrive at your best! You can easily self-schedule a Telepsychiatry video appointment now at: www.pwpsychiatry.com/CA
Are you struggling to balance your mental and physical health and in need of a more comprehensive approach? No problem! I provide Telemedicine (Telepsychiatry) Services, so that you can conveniently be seen from your home for psychiatry appointments and medication management without the need to travel! I provide the same psychiatry services as an in-person office visit and I can also address other aspects that encompass your complete wellness. My aim is to help you to thrive at your best! You can easily self-schedule a Telepsychiatry video appointment now at: www.pwpsychiatry.com/CA
(559) 245-7442 View (559) 245-7442
Photo of Amanda Horrocks, DNP, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Amanda Horrocks
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Elk Grove, CA 95759
Amanda has over 22 years of experience treating children, adolescents, and young adults using medication management. She has experience treating attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, oppositional defiant disorder, Asperger’s, and autism spectrum disorder.
Amanda has over 22 years of experience treating children, adolescents, and young adults using medication management. She has experience treating attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, oppositional defiant disorder, Asperger’s, and autism spectrum disorder.
(855) 743-2006 View (855) 743-2006
Photo of Leah Haddad, MSN, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Leah Haddad
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Elk Grove, CA 95759
Are you struggling to balance your mental and physical health and in need of a more comprehensive approach? No problem! I provide Telemedicine (Online Psychiatry) Services, so that you can conveniently be seen from your home for psychiatry appointments and medication management without the need to travel! I provide the same psychiatry services as an in-person office visit and I can also address other aspects that encompass your complete wellness. My aim is to help you to thrive at your best! You can easily self-schedule a Telepsychiatry video appointment now at: www.pwpsychiatry.com/CA
Are you struggling to balance your mental and physical health and in need of a more comprehensive approach? No problem! I provide Telemedicine (Online Psychiatry) Services, so that you can conveniently be seen from your home for psychiatry appointments and medication management without the need to travel! I provide the same psychiatry services as an in-person office visit and I can also address other aspects that encompass your complete wellness. My aim is to help you to thrive at your best! You can easily self-schedule a Telepsychiatry video appointment now at: www.pwpsychiatry.com/CA
(559) 785-0476 View (559) 785-0476
Photo of Tinuke (Tinu) Olalere, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Tinuke (Tinu) Olalere
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Elk Grove, CA 95757  (Online Only)
Hi, I am Tinu, dedicated and devoted ANCC board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with over 18 years working in different areas of healthcare sector. My career is defined by my unwavering commitment to the well-being and personal growth of each client. I don't just see you as a case to be treated, but a unique individual deserving of respect, understanding, and support. My approach is rooted in fostering genuine connections with you and empowering you to take ownership of your mental health journey.
Hi, I am Tinu, dedicated and devoted ANCC board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with over 18 years working in different areas of healthcare sector. My career is defined by my unwavering commitment to the well-being and personal growth of each client. I don't just see you as a case to be treated, but a unique individual deserving of respect, understanding, and support. My approach is rooted in fostering genuine connections with you and empowering you to take ownership of your mental health journey.
(916) 659-8370 View (916) 659-8370
Photo of Dr. Mark Chofla - Dr. Mark Chofla | Empathy Therapy, DO, Psychiatrist
Dr. Mark Chofla | Empathy Therapy
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
Lodi, CA 95241  (Online Only)
Dr. Mark Chofla is a board-certified psychiatrist and physician who completed his specialty residency training at the Los Angeles County + University of Southern California Medical Center. After receiving his Bachelor of Science degree in Neurobiology, Physiology, and Behavior from the University of California at Davis, Dr. Chofla earned his medical degree from Midwestern University: Arizona College of Osteopathic Medicine.
Dr. Mark Chofla is a board-certified psychiatrist and physician who completed his specialty residency training at the Los Angeles County + University of Southern California Medical Center. After receiving his Bachelor of Science degree in Neurobiology, Physiology, and Behavior from the University of California at Davis, Dr. Chofla earned his medical degree from Midwestern University: Arizona College of Osteopathic Medicine.
(209) 899-1404 View (209) 899-1404

Online Psychiatrists

Photo of Shararah Aziz, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Shararah Aziz
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Modesto, CA 95350
Dr. Shararah Aziz is a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. Dr. Aziz’s areas of focus include substance use disorders, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, depression, schizophrenia, and bipolar disorders. She has a holistic, patient-centered approach that involves active listening and therapeutic communication. Dr. Aziz’s treatment modalities may include motivational interviewing, crisis intervention, behavioral health management, and trauma-informed care. Her goal is to destigmatize mental health and encourage a better quality of life by offering hope and evidence-based treatment options.
Dr. Shararah Aziz is a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. Dr. Aziz’s areas of focus include substance use disorders, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, depression, schizophrenia, and bipolar disorders. She has a holistic, patient-centered approach that involves active listening and therapeutic communication. Dr. Aziz’s treatment modalities may include motivational interviewing, crisis intervention, behavioral health management, and trauma-informed care. Her goal is to destigmatize mental health and encourage a better quality of life by offering hope and evidence-based treatment options.
(855) 743-2006 View (855) 743-2006
Photo of Keith Lui - Mindful Health Solutions - Keith Lui, MD, MD, Psychiatrist
Mindful Health Solutions - Keith Lui, MD
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Sacramento, CA 95825
I treat patients who suffer from depression and anxiety. I see Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) as a safe treatment with limited side effects that can create lasting improvement for patients, especially for patients who have not found a medication regiment that provides the relief they seek.
I treat patients who suffer from depression and anxiety. I see Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) as a safe treatment with limited side effects that can create lasting improvement for patients, especially for patients who have not found a medication regiment that provides the relief they seek.
(916) 758-9109 View (916) 758-9109
Photo of Benedicta Osuji, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Benedicta Osuji
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94610
I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with extensive experience in managing mental health challenges across the lifespan. My practice involves working with adolescents, adults, and seniors. I hold a bachelor's degree in nursing from the University of Phoenix and a Doctorate in Nursing Science with a specialization in psychiatric mental health from Brandman University in Irvine, California.
I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with extensive experience in managing mental health challenges across the lifespan. My practice involves working with adolescents, adults, and seniors. I hold a bachelor's degree in nursing from the University of Phoenix and a Doctorate in Nursing Science with a specialization in psychiatric mental health from Brandman University in Irvine, California.
(510) 617-1806 View (510) 617-1806
Photo of Keleigh Jefferson, DNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Keleigh Jefferson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP
Verified Verified
Vallejo, CA 94590  (Online Only)
Keleigh Jefferson is a Doctorate Prepared Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) who is passionate about providing evidence-based and individualized care to teens and adults who are seeking assistance in coping with depression, anxiety, behavioral issues, stress management, bipolar disorder, postpartum depression, PTSD, and self-esteem management. She believes it is crucial to evaluate the interconnectedness of a patient's environment, emotions, culture, physical health, spiritual beliefs, and relationships in order to gain a deeper understanding of their goals for improving health and wellness.
Keleigh Jefferson is a Doctorate Prepared Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) who is passionate about providing evidence-based and individualized care to teens and adults who are seeking assistance in coping with depression, anxiety, behavioral issues, stress management, bipolar disorder, postpartum depression, PTSD, and self-esteem management. She believes it is crucial to evaluate the interconnectedness of a patient's environment, emotions, culture, physical health, spiritual beliefs, and relationships in order to gain a deeper understanding of their goals for improving health and wellness.
(707) 513-4952 View (707) 513-4952
Photo of Mu Xu, MD, PhD, Psychiatrist
Mu Xu
Psychiatrist, MD, PhD
Verified Verified
Los Altos, CA 94024  (Online Only)
Dr. Xu is a University of Chicago Pritzker School of Medicine and New York University trained psychiatrist with expertise in treating a variety of psychiatric disorders. Dr. Xu provides both medication management and psychotherapy (aka talk therapy). Dr. Xu offers online and in-person visits to residents of San Francisco Bay Area and online visits across California.
Dr. Xu is a University of Chicago Pritzker School of Medicine and New York University trained psychiatrist with expertise in treating a variety of psychiatric disorders. Dr. Xu provides both medication management and psychotherapy (aka talk therapy). Dr. Xu offers online and in-person visits to residents of San Francisco Bay Area and online visits across California.
(650) 648-7343 View (650) 648-7343
Photo of Kenneth Etefia, MD, Psychiatrist
Kenneth Etefia
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
San Mateo, CA 94402
I work best with patients who have a clear idea of their goals and are motivated to learn skills as well as gain deeper insights into themselves that will assist in fulfillment of their potential.
I work best with patients who have a clear idea of their goals and are motivated to learn skills as well as gain deeper insights into themselves that will assist in fulfillment of their potential.
(650) 206-8932 View (650) 206-8932
Photo of Dr. Rajdeep Ranade, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Rajdeep Ranade
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Sacramento, CA 95815
Dr. Rajdeep Ranade has been with Mindpath Health since 2009 and is deeply interested in adolescent and geriatric psychiatry and neuropsychiatry.
Dr. Rajdeep Ranade has been with Mindpath Health since 2009 and is deeply interested in adolescent and geriatric psychiatry and neuropsychiatry.
(855) 743-2006 View (855) 743-2006
Photo of Grace Liu, MD, Psychiatrist
Grace Liu
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Mountain View, CA 94040  (Online Only)
I am a board-certified, California-licensed and Stanford-trained psychiatrist providing assessments, medication treatments and deep psychotherapy for adult patients. I work to develop deep, trusting and safe alliances with my patients, and collaborate in fostering their own ability to reach their full potential by closely examining the dysfunctional patterns in their emotional and relational lives. Symptoms of anxiety, depression, obsessive compulsive tendencies, habit or substance addictions, disordered eating, and sleep problems can all emerge from underlying emotional distress/trauma and maladaptive ways of psychological coping.
I am a board-certified, California-licensed and Stanford-trained psychiatrist providing assessments, medication treatments and deep psychotherapy for adult patients. I work to develop deep, trusting and safe alliances with my patients, and collaborate in fostering their own ability to reach their full potential by closely examining the dysfunctional patterns in their emotional and relational lives. Symptoms of anxiety, depression, obsessive compulsive tendencies, habit or substance addictions, disordered eating, and sleep problems can all emerge from underlying emotional distress/trauma and maladaptive ways of psychological coping.
(650) 405-0980 View (650) 405-0980
Photo of Maryam Eskandari - Maryam Eskandari, M.D., MD, Psychiatrist
Maryam Eskandari, M.D.
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Albany, CA 94706
I see my patients first and foremost in a humanistic way as people, not simply as patients or their diagnoses. As such, I offer patients comprehensive treatment, not just from a neurobiological perspective, but also a from a humanistic one. I approach my patients with compassion, respect and a commitment to confidentiality. Some of the biggest obstacles to attainting self-awareness and self-acceptance are deeply buried feelings of guilt and shame. Working with a psychotherapist you trust, who is curious, empathic and understanding can help you expand your capacity for self-curiosity, self-awareness and self-acceptance, which in turn can help you expand your capacity to: •examine, understand & change problematic patterns in your life; •make choices freely & actively, instead of reactively; •ultimately lead a more thoughtful, authentic & fulfilling life.
I see my patients first and foremost in a humanistic way as people, not simply as patients or their diagnoses. As such, I offer patients comprehensive treatment, not just from a neurobiological perspective, but also a from a humanistic one. I approach my patients with compassion, respect and a commitment to confidentiality. Some of the biggest obstacles to attainting self-awareness and self-acceptance are deeply buried feelings of guilt and shame. Working with a psychotherapist you trust, who is curious, empathic and understanding can help you expand your capacity for self-curiosity, self-awareness and self-acceptance, which in turn can help you expand your capacity to: •examine, understand & change problematic patterns in your life; •make choices freely & actively, instead of reactively; •ultimately lead a more thoughtful, authentic & fulfilling life.
(415) 789-3595 View (415) 789-3595
Photo of Jack Mkroyan, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Jack Mkroyan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Mountain View, CA 94041
Are you struggling to balance your mental and physical health and in need of a more comprehensive approach? No problem! I provide Telemedicine (Telepsychiatry) Services, so that you can conveniently be seen from your home for psychiatry appointments and medication management without the need to travel! I provide the same psychiatry services as an in-person office visit and I can also address other aspects that encompass your complete wellness. My aim is to help you to thrive at your best! You can easily self-schedule a Telepsychiatry video appointment now at: www.pwpsychiatry.com/CA
Are you struggling to balance your mental and physical health and in need of a more comprehensive approach? No problem! I provide Telemedicine (Telepsychiatry) Services, so that you can conveniently be seen from your home for psychiatry appointments and medication management without the need to travel! I provide the same psychiatry services as an in-person office visit and I can also address other aspects that encompass your complete wellness. My aim is to help you to thrive at your best! You can easily self-schedule a Telepsychiatry video appointment now at: www.pwpsychiatry.com/CA
(650) 618-2811 View (650) 618-2811

See more therapy options for Galt

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Galt, CA

< 10

Psychiatrists in Galt, CA who prioritize treating:

How Psychiatrists in Galt, CA see their clients

2% Online Only
1% In Person and Online
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Galt?

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.