Psychiatrists in Lee County, FL
![Photo of Rosa Smith - Sunshine Psychiatry, LLC, MSN, APRN-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c9ab7adb-01d9-42f1-968a-95db4dedf79e/3/320x400.jpeg)
Sunshine Psychiatry, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN-BC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Fort Myers, FL 33913
I offer medication management with basic therapy. My ideal client is the person looking to gain control of their daily life and is willing to comply with treatment modalities. The best result will come from the individual whom has support at home and away from the practice. I offer appointments in both English and Spanish; depending on what is most comfortable to our patients.
I offer medication management with basic therapy. My ideal client is the person looking to gain control of their daily life and is willing to comply with treatment modalities. The best result will come from the individual whom has support at home and away from the practice. I offer appointments in both English and Spanish; depending on what is most comfortable to our patients.
![Photo of Jacqueline Carlson, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1a50beb0-e339-4530-b69f-184d93cb284e/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jacqueline Carlson is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Florida who has been practicing since 2002. Integrity, empathy, caring, and honesty are the principles that forge the foundation of Jacqueline's practice. Being entrusted by an individual to guide them through difficult times is a privilege. Everyone has the right to happiness, but sometimes we need help. Jacqueline is grateful to have been afforded the opportunity to attain the knowledge, skills, and abilities to help others achieve their best selves.
Jacqueline Carlson is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Florida who has been practicing since 2002. Integrity, empathy, caring, and honesty are the principles that forge the foundation of Jacqueline's practice. Being entrusted by an individual to guide them through difficult times is a privilege. Everyone has the right to happiness, but sometimes we need help. Jacqueline is grateful to have been afforded the opportunity to attain the knowledge, skills, and abilities to help others achieve their best selves.
![Photo of Claudia Adrian - The Traveling Therapist LLC, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d7ea00c0-7545-4352-8a7a-53ad5c7124ac/1/320x400.png)
The Traveling Therapist LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Fort Myers, FL 33907
Welcome to our practice! Here's a little about our psychiatric practitioners: Denay is a compassionate Nurse Practitioner specializing in family practice, emergency medicine, Psychiatry and hospital medicine. She has a rich educational background, including a Master's in Nursing, Double Board Certified in family practice and psychiatric mental health. Her goal is to support you in your health journey with empathy, skillful care, and a commitment to help you achieve the healthiest version of yourself. She's cultivated a wealth of expertise to ensure you receive top-notch care tailored to your needs.
Welcome to our practice! Here's a little about our psychiatric practitioners: Denay is a compassionate Nurse Practitioner specializing in family practice, emergency medicine, Psychiatry and hospital medicine. She has a rich educational background, including a Master's in Nursing, Double Board Certified in family practice and psychiatric mental health. Her goal is to support you in your health journey with empathy, skillful care, and a commitment to help you achieve the healthiest version of yourself. She's cultivated a wealth of expertise to ensure you receive top-notch care tailored to your needs.
![Photo of Rebecca Fox, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0e63247d-59bc-4602-bdc5-38d23bd9f9c6/1/320x400.jpeg)
Rebecca Fox
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Fort Myers, FL 33908 (Online Only)
Treatment aims to alleviate symptoms, improve daily functioning, enhance coping skills, foster self-awareness, and promote long-term mental well-being. With the incorporation of therapy and medication when necessary, individuals are empowered to actively engage in their mental health journey.
Treatment aims to alleviate symptoms, improve daily functioning, enhance coping skills, foster self-awareness, and promote long-term mental well-being. With the incorporation of therapy and medication when necessary, individuals are empowered to actively engage in their mental health journey.
![Photo of Fhteachia Andrews, FNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3275a9ac-35d5-4430-936b-0df839566a68/2/320x400.jpeg)
Fhteachia Andrews
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fort Myers, FL 33907 (Online Only)
I joyfully see clients throughout the whole life span, ranging from ages 5 and up. I treat ADHD, ODD, DMDD, PTSD, OCD, Bipolar Disorder, MDD, GAD, cyclothymic disorder, sleep disorders, and intermittent explosive disorders. Also, I am a Health & Wellness Practitioner/Coach where I help people to achieve their optimal and healthy weight, but most importantly help people focus on obtaining a healthy mind and healthy body for life. I am also a licensed and ordained Elder of a church, who truly walks by faith and not by sight.
I joyfully see clients throughout the whole life span, ranging from ages 5 and up. I treat ADHD, ODD, DMDD, PTSD, OCD, Bipolar Disorder, MDD, GAD, cyclothymic disorder, sleep disorders, and intermittent explosive disorders. Also, I am a Health & Wellness Practitioner/Coach where I help people to achieve their optimal and healthy weight, but most importantly help people focus on obtaining a healthy mind and healthy body for life. I am also a licensed and ordained Elder of a church, who truly walks by faith and not by sight.
![Photo of Leslie Erin Taylor, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/807d2006-30d6-4b32-ab5f-99801aa0c82c/1/320x400.jpeg)
I utilize holistic and evidence-based practices to help guide individuals through difficult feelings and situations related to anxiety, depression, PTSD, personality disorders and neurocognitive disorders, such as dementia and Parkinson’s disease. I am passionate about providing high-quality mental health care to those who are suffering.
I utilize holistic and evidence-based practices to help guide individuals through difficult feelings and situations related to anxiety, depression, PTSD, personality disorders and neurocognitive disorders, such as dementia and Parkinson’s disease. I am passionate about providing high-quality mental health care to those who are suffering.
![Photo of Mary Pintarro - Providence Psychiatric Services , MSN, APNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1fb734e2-5b2c-48c4-a1aa-b1c8f693236d/1/320x400.jpeg)
Providence Psychiatric Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Fort Myers, FL 33907 (Online Only)
Seeing new clients within 3 weeks! I offer evening follow up appointments and weekend intake appointments to ensure you don't struggle without treatment. If you are looking for a provider to ensure you have ability to be seen in a timely fashion, please reach out. I am licensed in multiple states for clients who travel.
Seeing new clients within 3 weeks! I offer evening follow up appointments and weekend intake appointments to ensure you don't struggle without treatment. If you are looking for a provider to ensure you have ability to be seen in a timely fashion, please reach out. I am licensed in multiple states for clients who travel.
![Photo of Gina Valo, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/13009c43-744d-4bf0-9f98-83578e737ec1/1/320x400.jpeg)
Gina Valo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Bonita Springs, FL 34134 (Online Only)
As a psychiatric nurse practitioner, my ideal clients are individuals of all ages facing mental health challenges. They may struggle with anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, trauma-related issues, or substance use disorders. Their needs include accurate assessments, personalized treatment plans, therapy, medication management, and support. Our goals are to alleviate symptoms, enhance coping skills, improve overall functioning, foster resilience, and promote long-term well-being. Together, we strive to empower clients on their journey towards optimal mental health and a fulfilling life.
As a psychiatric nurse practitioner, my ideal clients are individuals of all ages facing mental health challenges. They may struggle with anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, trauma-related issues, or substance use disorders. Their needs include accurate assessments, personalized treatment plans, therapy, medication management, and support. Our goals are to alleviate symptoms, enhance coping skills, improve overall functioning, foster resilience, and promote long-term well-being. Together, we strive to empower clients on their journey towards optimal mental health and a fulfilling life.
![Photo of Editha Anne Butler, PMHNP, AGNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0901d604-848c-4249-b957-d57079146d62/1/320x400.png)
Editha Anne Butler
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, AGNP
Verified Verified
24 Endorsed
North Fort Myers, FL 33903
Hello! My name is Editha Anne but most people call me EA. I'm a nurse practitioner passionate about mental wellness, exercise, and nutrition. I started my practice, Blue Sky Medical, with the mission to empower and help others in their journey to whole-health. By blending integrative psychiatry and functional medicine, I work with you in creating individualized strategies to support your unique needs.
Hello! My name is Editha Anne but most people call me EA. I'm a nurse practitioner passionate about mental wellness, exercise, and nutrition. I started my practice, Blue Sky Medical, with the mission to empower and help others in their journey to whole-health. By blending integrative psychiatry and functional medicine, I work with you in creating individualized strategies to support your unique needs.
![Photo of Owen Kelchner, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/16be8e1b-b208-4754-9cbb-11633e7808a3/1/320x400.png)
Owen Kelchner
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fort Myers, FL 33916
As a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I’m dedicated to enhancing the mental well-being of individuals and families in my community and throughout Southwest Florida through personalized psychiatric care. I am passionate about providing evidence-based care, promoting patient empowerment, and fostering a supportive environment.
As a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I’m dedicated to enhancing the mental well-being of individuals and families in my community and throughout Southwest Florida through personalized psychiatric care. I am passionate about providing evidence-based care, promoting patient empowerment, and fostering a supportive environment.
![Photo of Renee Samuels, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7976f8b9-6488-4761-8d0e-762938763ce3/1/320x400.jpeg)
Renee Samuels
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Fort Myers, FL 33905 (Online Only)
Reneé is a nationally board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with extensive experiencing working with clients dealing with depression, anxiety, trauma, serious mental illness, and addiction. Her goal is to assist you in obtaining optimal mental wellness.
Reneé is a nationally board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with extensive experiencing working with clients dealing with depression, anxiety, trauma, serious mental illness, and addiction. Her goal is to assist you in obtaining optimal mental wellness.
15 Second Videos
The Traveling Therapist LLC
Editha Anne Butler
Harmony United Psychiatric Care
Harmony United Psychiatric Care
Leonard A Lado
Susan George
Dove Behavioral Health LLC
Kazim Mohammed
Dinar Sajan
Morgan Alexander
Harmony United Psychiatric Care
Harmony United Psychiatric Care
Chenhang Zou
Anne Phan-Huy
Jamie Stickler
Harmony United Psychiatric Care
Jaclyn Bellassai
Harmony United Psychiatric Care
Andrea Papa-Molter
Laura Pohl ~Women's Mental Health Specialists
TMZ Behavioral Care, LLC
Mark Sylvester
![Photo of Jason Farrah - Harmony United Psychiatric Care, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/edb4a81b-3857-41e5-98c3-1c3f0ffed23c/2/320x400.jpeg)
Accepting New Clients. Appointments are typically available within 7 days. We offer Medication Management, Counseling/Psychotherapy, and Neuropsychological Testing online via our Telepsychiatry Services throughout Florida. Our team of experienced mental health professionals includes Psychiatrists, Psychologists, Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioners, Certified Physician Assistants, and Licensed Therapists. We care for adults, adolescents, and children, ages 5 and above. We accept most insurance plans including Medicare.
Accepting New Clients. Appointments are typically available within 7 days. We offer Medication Management, Counseling/Psychotherapy, and Neuropsychological Testing online via our Telepsychiatry Services throughout Florida. Our team of experienced mental health professionals includes Psychiatrists, Psychologists, Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioners, Certified Physician Assistants, and Licensed Therapists. We care for adults, adolescents, and children, ages 5 and above. We accept most insurance plans including Medicare.
![Photo of Louis-Jacques Joseph, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ceb9c5cc-0a38-4466-806c-35cb3e648d3a/2/320x400.png)
I have been working a a psychiatric nurse for the past 10 years. I have used my skills and experience to better care for patients. I have used a holistic approach to provide the best quality of care. I strive to help patients find meaning in their daily lives.
I have been working a a psychiatric nurse for the past 10 years. I have used my skills and experience to better care for patients. I have used a holistic approach to provide the best quality of care. I strive to help patients find meaning in their daily lives.
Janice Margaret McKendrick
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Fort Myers, FL 33966 (Online Only)
I have over 30 years experience in mental health care provision, spanning all age groups and delivery of care in hospitals and out patient clinics. I have practiced in the United Kingdom and now resident in the United States. With my knowledge and experience, I can help adults with mental health needs. In particular those with depression, anxiety and disorders of mood could benefit from my calm, empathetic approach, to diagnosis, medication management, symptom management, increasing coping strategies and attaining mental wellness.
I have over 30 years experience in mental health care provision, spanning all age groups and delivery of care in hospitals and out patient clinics. I have practiced in the United Kingdom and now resident in the United States. With my knowledge and experience, I can help adults with mental health needs. In particular those with depression, anxiety and disorders of mood could benefit from my calm, empathetic approach, to diagnosis, medication management, symptom management, increasing coping strategies and attaining mental wellness.
![Photo of Adil Mohammed - Harmony United Psychiatric Care, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ca028200-069c-448b-bdfe-e76c78630b76/2/320x400.jpeg)
Accepting New Clients. Appointments are typically available within 7 days. We offer Medication Management, Counseling/Psychotherapy, and Neuropsychological Testing online via our Telepsychiatry Services throughout Florida. Our team of experienced mental health professionals includes Psychiatrists, Psychologists, Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioners, Certified Physician Assistants, and Licensed Therapists. We care for adults, adolescents, and children, ages 5 and above. We accept most insurance plans including Medicare.
Accepting New Clients. Appointments are typically available within 7 days. We offer Medication Management, Counseling/Psychotherapy, and Neuropsychological Testing online via our Telepsychiatry Services throughout Florida. Our team of experienced mental health professionals includes Psychiatrists, Psychologists, Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioners, Certified Physician Assistants, and Licensed Therapists. We care for adults, adolescents, and children, ages 5 and above. We accept most insurance plans including Medicare.
![Photo of Michelle Sterban, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0da302d6-cf82-46e6-b497-bb3bdf0c2832/1/320x400.png)
Michelle Sterban
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Fort Myers, FL 33916
Hello. My name is Michelle Sterban. I am a nurse practitioner, board certified in psychiatry. My journey in nursing and mental health care began with a desire to make a difference in the lives of others.
Hello. My name is Michelle Sterban. I am a nurse practitioner, board certified in psychiatry. My journey in nursing and mental health care began with a desire to make a difference in the lives of others.
![Photo of Jennifer Randall, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/82c3b8ae-d83e-4385-a0f2-4895b2107ebe/1/320x400.png)
Jennifer Randall
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Fort Myers, FL 33916
As a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner at Elite DNA, I specialize in diagnosing and treating a wide range of mental health conditions. I work with patients of all ages, providing compassionate and effective care in a safe, non-judgmental environment. My goal is to support individuals from all communities with their mental health.
As a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner at Elite DNA, I specialize in diagnosing and treating a wide range of mental health conditions. I work with patients of all ages, providing compassionate and effective care in a safe, non-judgmental environment. My goal is to support individuals from all communities with their mental health.
![Photo of Leonard A Lado, MD, ABPN, RPh, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cc93ca8c-e84f-44f7-a477-20abb65b78df/1/320x400.png)
Welcome my name is Dr. Leonard A. Lado MD I am Founder and Medical Director of Lado Healing Institute, My practice is one of the largest Independent Psychiatry practice in Southwest Florida. Our specialty is the treatment of non-Methadone Detox, Oxycontin and Pain Killer Addiction, Cocaine Addiction, Alcohol dependence, and Crystal Meth Addiction using state of the art outpatient Suboxone medication treatments. Our Care Philosophy: Patients are intelligent and able to make choices in collaboration with their physicians.
Welcome my name is Dr. Leonard A. Lado MD I am Founder and Medical Director of Lado Healing Institute, My practice is one of the largest Independent Psychiatry practice in Southwest Florida. Our specialty is the treatment of non-Methadone Detox, Oxycontin and Pain Killer Addiction, Cocaine Addiction, Alcohol dependence, and Crystal Meth Addiction using state of the art outpatient Suboxone medication treatments. Our Care Philosophy: Patients are intelligent and able to make choices in collaboration with their physicians.
![Photo of Susan George, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fbb5f21b-e30e-4eab-b0e5-93bac30523da/2/320x400.png)
Susan George
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Fort Myers, FL 33916
I can help by offering specialized care for anxiety, depression, and bipolar disorder, as well as ADHD and mood disorders. I provide a welcoming and warm environment, using a comprehensive and holistic approach to mental health. My goal is to support your unique journey toward wellness, ensuring you receive personalized care to help you achieve your goals.
I can help by offering specialized care for anxiety, depression, and bipolar disorder, as well as ADHD and mood disorders. I provide a welcoming and warm environment, using a comprehensive and holistic approach to mental health. My goal is to support your unique journey toward wellness, ensuring you receive personalized care to help you achieve your goals.
![Photo of Jose Crossier - Dove Behavioral Health LLC, FNP, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2ad7d6fc-d22d-4b10-83ff-eadd88c62028/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dove Behavioral Health LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cape Coral, FL 33909
As a PMHNP, I am committed to providing compassionate and comprehensive mental health care to patients of all ages. With none to minimal waiting times and flexible payment options including insurance and affordable out-of-pocket plans, I prioritize accessibility and affordability. My dedication to holistic wellness ensures every patient receives the personalized attention and support they deserve to achieve their mental health goals. I'm bilingual in Spanish and English. What's you quality of life?
As a PMHNP, I am committed to providing compassionate and comprehensive mental health care to patients of all ages. With none to minimal waiting times and flexible payment options including insurance and affordable out-of-pocket plans, I prioritize accessibility and affordability. My dedication to holistic wellness ensures every patient receives the personalized attention and support they deserve to achieve their mental health goals. I'm bilingual in Spanish and English. What's you quality of life?
See more therapy options for Lee County
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Lee County, FL
80+
Average cost per session
$150
Psychiatrists in Lee County, FL who prioritize treating:
92% | Depression |
92% | Anxiety |
81% | ADHD |
81% | Bipolar Disorder |
78% | Trauma and PTSD |
68% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
67% | Medication Management |
Average years in practice
6 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
99% | Cigna and Evernorth |
92% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
86% | Aetna |
How Psychiatrists in Lee County, FL see their clients
56% | In Person and Online | |
44% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
79% | Female | |
21% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Lee County?
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.