Psychiatrists in Hobe Sound, FL
![Photo of John J Murphy, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/44e48ff1-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I excel in healing depression, anxiety, attention/focus, sleep, and weight problems. I know the proper use of medications and know how to get you off medications you do not need. Overall I treat the whole body and mind by enabling patients to return to a natural balance in life. Many physical symptoms including pain and metabolic disorders can also be treated by addressing brain health. Not all drugs are good or beneficial and having a doctor who played a role in researching and developing the medications you may take is to your advantage. I offer these services generally three days a week.
I excel in healing depression, anxiety, attention/focus, sleep, and weight problems. I know the proper use of medications and know how to get you off medications you do not need. Overall I treat the whole body and mind by enabling patients to return to a natural balance in life. Many physical symptoms including pain and metabolic disorders can also be treated by addressing brain health. Not all drugs are good or beneficial and having a doctor who played a role in researching and developing the medications you may take is to your advantage. I offer these services generally three days a week.
More Psychiatrists Nearby
![Photo of Debra Hain, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fafe55a3-5091-4adb-8e20-e271ae155106/1/320x400.jpeg)
Hello, I am so happy you are taking the time to read this. I am here to partner with you in your mental healthcare. As a nurse practitioner for over 20 years, I have provided care for persons living with chronic health conditions and more recently those with mental health conditions.
Hello, I am so happy you are taking the time to read this. I am here to partner with you in your mental healthcare. As a nurse practitioner for over 20 years, I have provided care for persons living with chronic health conditions and more recently those with mental health conditions.
![Photo of Gundu Reddy - Dr. Gundu Reddy, Online Psychiatrist in Stuart, FL, MD, MBBS, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8ec5ef34-2e86-43eb-b43d-fc4240ace16d/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Gundu Reddy, Online Psychiatrist in Stuart, FL
Psychiatrist, MD, MBBS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Stuart, FL 34997 (Online Only)
I am a Board Certified Psychiatrist in New York City. I have trained in Psychodynamic psychotherapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Family and Marital therapy, as well as Psychiatric Medication Management. I have always believed that brain health is the key to every form of well being and every individual regardless of their diagnosis or symptoms has the potential to be healthier. Whether your reasons for seeking treatment include treatment-resistant hallucinations, persistent irritability, dysphoria, insomnia, wanting to perform better at work- the core principles of treatment are often similar.
I am a Board Certified Psychiatrist in New York City. I have trained in Psychodynamic psychotherapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Family and Marital therapy, as well as Psychiatric Medication Management. I have always believed that brain health is the key to every form of well being and every individual regardless of their diagnosis or symptoms has the potential to be healthier. Whether your reasons for seeking treatment include treatment-resistant hallucinations, persistent irritability, dysphoria, insomnia, wanting to perform better at work- the core principles of treatment are often similar.
![Photo of Joseph Lalia - Disambiguation Psychiatry, DO, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/23bfa3ef-d00d-4aa2-a9d9-69c053bfdb21/3/320x400.jpeg)
Now accepting new patients. Operating remotely as a general psychiatrist. New clients in FL and NY are seen within days of inquiring, via telepsychiatry. Our practice suits high-functioning individuals with busy lives. Focus areas include: anxiety, ADHD, insomnia, and depression. Forensic psychiatry services, disability evaluations, power of attorney/capacity evaluations, etc., are also available to attorneys, agencies, and other professionals.
Now accepting new patients. Operating remotely as a general psychiatrist. New clients in FL and NY are seen within days of inquiring, via telepsychiatry. Our practice suits high-functioning individuals with busy lives. Focus areas include: anxiety, ADHD, insomnia, and depression. Forensic psychiatry services, disability evaluations, power of attorney/capacity evaluations, etc., are also available to attorneys, agencies, and other professionals.
![Photo of Michelle McCarthy, APN, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/36066119-29dc-4639-9dfd-4eaf5e371668/2/320x400.png)
Michelle McCarthy
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Stuart, FL 34997
I am passionate about delivering care to individuals suffering from anxiety, substance use, and depression. Client motivation and dedication are key to utilizing the tools provided during our sessions including medication management, implementing lifestyle interventions, and therapy to help develop and implement a successful treatment plan. Relief of the client's suffering in dealing with their mental health issues and striving for an improvement in their quality of life is key to treatment.
I am passionate about delivering care to individuals suffering from anxiety, substance use, and depression. Client motivation and dedication are key to utilizing the tools provided during our sessions including medication management, implementing lifestyle interventions, and therapy to help develop and implement a successful treatment plan. Relief of the client's suffering in dealing with their mental health issues and striving for an improvement in their quality of life is key to treatment.
![Photo of Allen Masry - Harmony Bay (TMS Treatment), MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2855e9cf-18f2-4eba-8978-c7657ec73186/1/320x400.png)
At Harmony Bay, we offer cutting-edge Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) therapy for adults 18 and over. TMS is a non-invasive, FDA-approved treatment designed to address Major Depressive Disorder when antidepressants fall short. Using targeted magnetic pulses, TMS stimulates brain areas linked to mood regulation, helping to normalize brain activity and reduce depression symptoms without the side effects of medication. Our clean, calming environment enhances your therapy experience, providing a supportive setting for your mental health journey.
At Harmony Bay, we offer cutting-edge Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) therapy for adults 18 and over. TMS is a non-invasive, FDA-approved treatment designed to address Major Depressive Disorder when antidepressants fall short. Using targeted magnetic pulses, TMS stimulates brain areas linked to mood regulation, helping to normalize brain activity and reduce depression symptoms without the side effects of medication. Our clean, calming environment enhances your therapy experience, providing a supportive setting for your mental health journey.
![Photo of Shannon Bucciarelli, MSN, PMHNP, B-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/52015170-1430-478c-be21-7dcaf435ae15/2/320x400.png)
Shannon Bucciarelli
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, B-C
Verified Verified
Stuart, FL 34997
My ideal client would understand that the journey to wellness and recovery requires time, effort, and patience. They would be receptive to treatment suggestions which may include psychotherapy, behavioral interventions, and medication options. My patients would take an active role in their care, and engage in open and honest communication with their provider.
My ideal client would understand that the journey to wellness and recovery requires time, effort, and patience. They would be receptive to treatment suggestions which may include psychotherapy, behavioral interventions, and medication options. My patients would take an active role in their care, and engage in open and honest communication with their provider.
![Photo of Sheila Barthelemy, PMHNP-B, APRN , MPH, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5697eb17-58dc-4a45-8241-8b94122141b1/1/320x400.png)
Sheila Barthelemy
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-B, APRN , MPH
Verified Verified
Stuart, FL 34997
Do you seek to understand your emotions, manage stress, and build resilience? Do you face anxiety or depression, seeking tools to navigate life's challenges? You crave a safe space to express yourself, fostering self-awareness and empowerment. Your goal is holistic well-being, aiming for inner peace and a fulfilling life. You want to thrive, not just survive, embracing your journey with courage and compassion.
Do you seek to understand your emotions, manage stress, and build resilience? Do you face anxiety or depression, seeking tools to navigate life's challenges? You crave a safe space to express yourself, fostering self-awareness and empowerment. Your goal is holistic well-being, aiming for inner peace and a fulfilling life. You want to thrive, not just survive, embracing your journey with courage and compassion.
![Photo of Dr. Maryam Davari, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/32839d1d-e587-45c4-b95d-a5fdb0e92364/2/320x400.png)
My ideal client would be one who is open to learning ways to be the best version of themselves and willing to work on making those changes with the help of their healthcare team.
My ideal client would be one who is open to learning ways to be the best version of themselves and willing to work on making those changes with the help of their healthcare team.
![Photo of Lyssa Brooks, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/551b45fe-3282-4059-a4c0-ba8c8d69be82/2/320x400.png)
Lyssa Brooks
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Stuart, FL 34997
My ideal client is open-minded and motivated and would like to explore medication as part of their treatment plan. They may struggle with various mental health issues such as anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, depression, or other mood disorders. Their goal is to find relief from their symptoms and improve their overall quality of life.
My ideal client is open-minded and motivated and would like to explore medication as part of their treatment plan. They may struggle with various mental health issues such as anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, depression, or other mood disorders. Their goal is to find relief from their symptoms and improve their overall quality of life.
![Photo of Erin Smith, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/16e77055-c620-4b9e-b541-f7d2ad4248e5/2/320x400.jpeg)
As a nurse, with almost 15 years of experience in caring for patients, I found my passion in helping those struggle with mental health disorders such as anxiety, depression, bipolar, ADD, and self-esteem issues. I have a particular interest in the pediatric/adolescent population as they are facing stressors that this population has never had to face before and have been experiencing mental health concerns at an alarming rate, however I work with clients up to the age of 60. I provide comprehensive care through medication management and talk therapy and I believe in a conservative approach when possible.
As a nurse, with almost 15 years of experience in caring for patients, I found my passion in helping those struggle with mental health disorders such as anxiety, depression, bipolar, ADD, and self-esteem issues. I have a particular interest in the pediatric/adolescent population as they are facing stressors that this population has never had to face before and have been experiencing mental health concerns at an alarming rate, however I work with clients up to the age of 60. I provide comprehensive care through medication management and talk therapy and I believe in a conservative approach when possible.
![Photo of Claudia Adrian - New Perspectives Psychiatric Care , LLC, APRN, CNM, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/519a412b-4500-4b87-8153-adf93b4d4a8b/3/320x400.jpeg)
New Perspectives Psychiatric Care , LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, CNM, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Stuart, FL 34997 (Online Only)
My name is Claudia Adrian. I believe inner balance and mental wellness are the key to living well regardless of a diagnosis or symptoms. As a psychiatric nurse practitioner, I specialize in psychopharmacology and brief supportive therapy. I have been in healthcare for over 15 years and have worked with various populations with diverse backgrounds including clients suffering with depression, anxiety, bipolar, antenatal depression, postpartum depression, premenstrual dysphoric disorder, as well as other mental health conditions. My goal is to help clients achieve maximum symptom reduction with the lowest effective medication doses.
My name is Claudia Adrian. I believe inner balance and mental wellness are the key to living well regardless of a diagnosis or symptoms. As a psychiatric nurse practitioner, I specialize in psychopharmacology and brief supportive therapy. I have been in healthcare for over 15 years and have worked with various populations with diverse backgrounds including clients suffering with depression, anxiety, bipolar, antenatal depression, postpartum depression, premenstrual dysphoric disorder, as well as other mental health conditions. My goal is to help clients achieve maximum symptom reduction with the lowest effective medication doses.
![Photo of Jorge Padron, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/608cd9f8-8a43-40e6-a7ce-59789b43419d/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jorge Padron, psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner trained in medication management and psychotherapy. I believe in addressing not only the symptoms but also the underlying causes of mental health issues. My goal is to guide individuals back to a sense of control over their lives and mental health, fostering lasting results by working on negative thought patterns and building resilience. I typically work with individuals dealing with depression and anxiety, striving to create a safe and non-judgmental environment.
Jorge Padron, psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner trained in medication management and psychotherapy. I believe in addressing not only the symptoms but also the underlying causes of mental health issues. My goal is to guide individuals back to a sense of control over their lives and mental health, fostering lasting results by working on negative thought patterns and building resilience. I typically work with individuals dealing with depression and anxiety, striving to create a safe and non-judgmental environment.
![Photo of John C Profera, ARNP, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3caa1e3d-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/5/320x400.jpeg)
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ANCC Board Certified. United States Navy Retired Lieutenant Commander. I have the education, training and clinical experience to relate to your needs. I specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of mental health disorders and substance abuse disorders. I am an expert mentor and life coach for adolescents and young adults.
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ANCC Board Certified. United States Navy Retired Lieutenant Commander. I have the education, training and clinical experience to relate to your needs. I specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of mental health disorders and substance abuse disorders. I am an expert mentor and life coach for adolescents and young adults.
![Photo of Tzvi Furer, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fa6dbab7-8a62-4a63-87ea-ee1f8eb5cecb/1/320x400.jpeg)
Do you or your child suffer from difficulties that stop you from being the absolute best self? Do you suffer from symptoms of ADHD, depression/ mood symptoms or anxiety? Do you feel overwhelmed and have difficulty knowing where to turn to? Our team at Palm Tree Psychiatry has seen the toll these conditions can play on relationships, school, work, and navigating life in the middle of numerous stressors. It is our goal to ensure that you not only feel better, but that you are better.
Do you or your child suffer from difficulties that stop you from being the absolute best self? Do you suffer from symptoms of ADHD, depression/ mood symptoms or anxiety? Do you feel overwhelmed and have difficulty knowing where to turn to? Our team at Palm Tree Psychiatry has seen the toll these conditions can play on relationships, school, work, and navigating life in the middle of numerous stressors. It is our goal to ensure that you not only feel better, but that you are better.
![Photo of Safir Azam Md, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f89b50da-f4c5-479a-9989-cd6ef49253b6/1/320x400.png)
Mission : My mission is to embody the values of accessibility, seamless communication, respect, and excellence in treatment for each patient. I am Medically trained Physician Psychiatrist.I had the privilege to train at Royal London & St Bartholomew’s Hospital for 4 years in various branches of Psychiatry before I moved to the USA. I had a further Residency Training at SUNY Downstate Hospital Brooklyn, NY followed by a one year of Child Psychiatry training at the University of Florida. I have a fellowship in psychoanalysis from NYU and a 2 year of psychodynamic psychotherapy training at Willam Alanson White Institute , NYC.
Mission : My mission is to embody the values of accessibility, seamless communication, respect, and excellence in treatment for each patient. I am Medically trained Physician Psychiatrist.I had the privilege to train at Royal London & St Bartholomew’s Hospital for 4 years in various branches of Psychiatry before I moved to the USA. I had a further Residency Training at SUNY Downstate Hospital Brooklyn, NY followed by a one year of Child Psychiatry training at the University of Florida. I have a fellowship in psychoanalysis from NYU and a 2 year of psychodynamic psychotherapy training at Willam Alanson White Institute , NYC.
![Photo of Dr. Marc Ettensohn: Ketamine And Spravato Specialist, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a4f0577a-2ca7-4441-8c2f-4d456f5e139c/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Marc Ettensohn: Ketamine And Spravato Specialist
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Jupiter, FL 33458
Marc Ettensohn, MD graduated from the University of Louisville School of Medicine and completed his psychiatry residency program at the University of Florida College of Medicine, where he served as Chief Resident for the University of Florida Department of Psychiatry. He also completed an ECT fellowship at Emory University and an administrative fellowship at the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. After his training, he became the medical director for the private practice, Actify of South Florida, specializing in the use of intravenous and intranasal ketamine for treatment-resistant anxiety and depressive disorders.
Marc Ettensohn, MD graduated from the University of Louisville School of Medicine and completed his psychiatry residency program at the University of Florida College of Medicine, where he served as Chief Resident for the University of Florida Department of Psychiatry. He also completed an ECT fellowship at Emory University and an administrative fellowship at the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. After his training, he became the medical director for the private practice, Actify of South Florida, specializing in the use of intravenous and intranasal ketamine for treatment-resistant anxiety and depressive disorders.
![Photo of Christopher Rienas, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6b269fb5-b783-4ac8-8822-b2e1336b8a8d/1/320x400.jpeg)
I pride myself most on being an active listener and taking a highly individualized approach to each patient. I am double board certified in General Psychiatry and Addiction Psychiatry and trained at the University of California San Francisco. In addition to medication management and therapy, my recommendations often include lifestyle modifications to better connect and mind and body which aids in healing and recovery.
I pride myself most on being an active listener and taking a highly individualized approach to each patient. I am double board certified in General Psychiatry and Addiction Psychiatry and trained at the University of California San Francisco. In addition to medication management and therapy, my recommendations often include lifestyle modifications to better connect and mind and body which aids in healing and recovery.
![Photo of Dr. Tzvi Furer, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8cf57220-79d5-4b1d-9099-24b9c1b7f7e6/1/320x400.jpeg)
Do you or your child suffer from difficulties that stop you from being the absolute best self? Do you suffer from symptoms of ADHD, depression/ mood symptoms or anxiety? Dr. Tzvi Furer of Palm Tree Psychiatry has seen the toll these conditions can play on relationships, school, work, and navigating life in the middle of numerous stressors. It is our goal to ensure that you not only feel better, but that you are better.
Do you or your child suffer from difficulties that stop you from being the absolute best self? Do you suffer from symptoms of ADHD, depression/ mood symptoms or anxiety? Dr. Tzvi Furer of Palm Tree Psychiatry has seen the toll these conditions can play on relationships, school, work, and navigating life in the middle of numerous stressors. It is our goal to ensure that you not only feel better, but that you are better.
![Photo of Dr. Christopher J Smallwood - Dr. Christopher J. Smallwood, PhD, PMHNP, PhD, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d6a562af-4751-4aaf-a19c-e30e9ea3ad6f/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Christopher J. Smallwood, PhD, PMHNP
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Jupiter, FL 33477
My patients receive individualized treatment that is focused on them as a “whole person” with a unique set of needs and goals that guide their lives. I do not believe in a one-size-fits-all approach to treatment. I take the time and listen to my patients' needs to understand their symptoms and to identify the correct diagnosis(es). Then, we will work together to integrate my wealth of knowledge and experience into each treatment decision we mutually reach. My approach is scientific and constructivist, as I focus on the physiological aspects of disorders with the understanding that each person's perception of the world is unique.
My patients receive individualized treatment that is focused on them as a “whole person” with a unique set of needs and goals that guide their lives. I do not believe in a one-size-fits-all approach to treatment. I take the time and listen to my patients' needs to understand their symptoms and to identify the correct diagnosis(es). Then, we will work together to integrate my wealth of knowledge and experience into each treatment decision we mutually reach. My approach is scientific and constructivist, as I focus on the physiological aspects of disorders with the understanding that each person's perception of the world is unique.
See more therapy options for Hobe Sound
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Hobe Sound, FL
< 10
Psychiatrists in Hobe Sound, FL who prioritize treating:
100% | Relationship Issues |
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
100% | Child |
100% | Life Coaching |
100% | Grief |
100% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
Average years in practice
38 Years
Gender breakdown
100% | Male |
How Psychiatrists in Hobe Sound, FL see their clients
100% | In Person and Online |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Hobe Sound?
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.