Psychiatrists in Kihei, HI
![Photo of Arica Keyser, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/87aea2f4-215e-406e-84ea-c464f33f0585/1/320x400.jpeg)
I've embarked on a lifelong journey of education both through formal trainings and programs, and also acknowledge that I've learned just as much from my clients and colleagues over the years. Clients can expect to feel respected, listened to, and most importantly, that they have someone on their team working with them to meet their goals.
I've embarked on a lifelong journey of education both through formal trainings and programs, and also acknowledge that I've learned just as much from my clients and colleagues over the years. Clients can expect to feel respected, listened to, and most importantly, that they have someone on their team working with them to meet their goals.
![Photo of Nagaprasad B Murthi - N B Murthi MD PC, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/42673a60-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Experienced and compassionate adult outpatient psychiatrist, with 35+ years experience in the diagnosis and treatment of severe and persistent mental disorders including Major Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Schizophrenia, Anxiety and Panic Disorders. Additional experience in the diagnosis and treatment of mental illness in the Developmentally Disabled.I recently relocated to Hawaii from Michigan and currently practice in Wailea HI in Maui County.
Experienced and compassionate adult outpatient psychiatrist, with 35+ years experience in the diagnosis and treatment of severe and persistent mental disorders including Major Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Schizophrenia, Anxiety and Panic Disorders. Additional experience in the diagnosis and treatment of mental illness in the Developmentally Disabled.I recently relocated to Hawaii from Michigan and currently practice in Wailea HI in Maui County.
![Photo of Konstantina Rose, FNP-BC, APRN-Rx, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bfa8fdef-4e91-4927-afcb-0109fde547ba/2/320x400.jpeg)
As a Family Nurse Practitioner, a nurse, a Nursing Instructor and a future Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I will always strive for excellence and compassionate patient management. I strongly believe in promoting patient autonomy. In my practice, I utilize a holistic approach in which the coordination of mind, body, spirit, and psychosocial concerns are emphasized and employed.
As a Family Nurse Practitioner, a nurse, a Nursing Instructor and a future Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I will always strive for excellence and compassionate patient management. I strongly believe in promoting patient autonomy. In my practice, I utilize a holistic approach in which the coordination of mind, body, spirit, and psychosocial concerns are emphasized and employed.
![Photo of Nikki Miller, APRN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/05e127ee-b305-434b-b429-8b9021071875/1/320x400.jpeg)
Nikki Miller
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Kihei, HI 96753
My areas of expertise include treating Post Traumatic Stress and Trauma-Related Disorders. My approach to therapy includes promotion of healing through cognitive behavioral and mindfulness-based therapy, as well as innovative evidence-based practices. With a focus on exploring lifestyle changes and skill building through therapeutic processing in conjunction with pharmacological influences. My background with SART/SANE has provided me with experience that helps me aid clients in making educated choices while processing stressful, traumatic life experiences or challenging circumstances.
My areas of expertise include treating Post Traumatic Stress and Trauma-Related Disorders. My approach to therapy includes promotion of healing through cognitive behavioral and mindfulness-based therapy, as well as innovative evidence-based practices. With a focus on exploring lifestyle changes and skill building through therapeutic processing in conjunction with pharmacological influences. My background with SART/SANE has provided me with experience that helps me aid clients in making educated choices while processing stressful, traumatic life experiences or challenging circumstances.
![Photo of Molly Palmer, APRN-Rx, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/17e75f7a-035e-4c59-9ddd-c4576777223b/2/320x400.jpeg)
Molly Palmer
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN-Rx, PMHNP
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Kihei, HI 96753
As a Nurse Practitioner, Molly has experience treating Post Traumatic Stress and Trauma-Related Disorders, Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar, and Substance Use Disorders. She is a strong believer in team work and collaboration with clients and their families to help them manage symptoms, enhance functioning, and improve quality of life. She attends monthly community meetings with Maui County Police Department, networks with other mental health providers, pharmacists, and engages with public health agencies to improve access and quality of care to individuals with mental illness.
As a Nurse Practitioner, Molly has experience treating Post Traumatic Stress and Trauma-Related Disorders, Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar, and Substance Use Disorders. She is a strong believer in team work and collaboration with clients and their families to help them manage symptoms, enhance functioning, and improve quality of life. She attends monthly community meetings with Maui County Police Department, networks with other mental health providers, pharmacists, and engages with public health agencies to improve access and quality of care to individuals with mental illness.
![Photo of Ashley Hinojosa, MSN, APRN-Rx, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c8a93c72-ddda-460b-83f2-a0420cf17728/1/320x400.jpeg)
Ashley Hinojosa
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN-Rx, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kihei, HI 96753
Accepting new patients and offering in-person sessions or remote telehealth sessions which are conveniently accessible from your phone or computer. Wherever you are, help is just a call away. Imagine waking up not feeling controlled by your thoughts. What if you weren't caught in the constant tug-of-war with depression, anxiety, the echoes of past traumas, or the relentless whirl of ADHD? So many people carry the weight of these struggles silently, wondering if there's a way to feel balanced, understood, and genuinely happy. If reading this feels like I'm describing your daily battle, know that you're not alone, and there is hope.
Accepting new patients and offering in-person sessions or remote telehealth sessions which are conveniently accessible from your phone or computer. Wherever you are, help is just a call away. Imagine waking up not feeling controlled by your thoughts. What if you weren't caught in the constant tug-of-war with depression, anxiety, the echoes of past traumas, or the relentless whirl of ADHD? So many people carry the weight of these struggles silently, wondering if there's a way to feel balanced, understood, and genuinely happy. If reading this feels like I'm describing your daily battle, know that you're not alone, and there is hope.
![Photo of Brian Teliho - Maui Mind Care, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/438d82c1-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Aloha! Welcome to Maui Mind Care, where we are pleased to bring the latest and most advanced psychiatric treatments to the Valley Isle. Whether you are struggling with mild anxieties, or profound mood or thought disorders, we are here to help. We are the first and only center on Maui to offer transcranial magnetic stimulation, or TMS therapy. We also offer expertise in psychopharmacology, both in person and via tele-medicine to other islands. Our staff is caring and well qualified, with years of experience in psychiatric treatment, research, and teaching. Contact us today. Let us bring you peace of mind.
Aloha! Welcome to Maui Mind Care, where we are pleased to bring the latest and most advanced psychiatric treatments to the Valley Isle. Whether you are struggling with mild anxieties, or profound mood or thought disorders, we are here to help. We are the first and only center on Maui to offer transcranial magnetic stimulation, or TMS therapy. We also offer expertise in psychopharmacology, both in person and via tele-medicine to other islands. Our staff is caring and well qualified, with years of experience in psychiatric treatment, research, and teaching. Contact us today. Let us bring you peace of mind.
![Photo of Dennis D' Arcy Banks, MD, JD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/985bd6a6-6684-4671-bbf1-fa6dbfd2cb8c/1/320x400.jpeg)
I currently practice psychiatry in Wailea,Hawaii as Founder/Chairman of Maui Psychiatry LLC.Since 1999 I was Consulting Psychiatrist for the Greenwich,Connecticut Board of Education. I graduated Yale Medical School and completed residency training at Stanford University Hospital and the McAuley Neuropsychiatric Institute in San Francisco. My primary objective as a psychiatrist is to accurately assess whatever challenges are being faced by my patients and to address them as quickly and sympathetically as possible.I am available for Skype and FaceTime appointments and offer a Concierge Program for individuals who desire or require a more intensive therapeutic experience.
I currently practice psychiatry in Wailea,Hawaii as Founder/Chairman of Maui Psychiatry LLC.Since 1999 I was Consulting Psychiatrist for the Greenwich,Connecticut Board of Education. I graduated Yale Medical School and completed residency training at Stanford University Hospital and the McAuley Neuropsychiatric Institute in San Francisco. My primary objective as a psychiatrist is to accurately assess whatever challenges are being faced by my patients and to address them as quickly and sympathetically as possible.I am available for Skype and FaceTime appointments and offer a Concierge Program for individuals who desire or require a more intensive therapeutic experience.
![Photo of Kate Nicholas Hamzi, PMHNP, APRN-X, IBCLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/548a22af-b997-4ac4-a812-cee4b619ec93/2/320x400.jpeg)
Kate Nicholas Hamzi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN-X, IBCLC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kihei, HI 96753 (Online Only)
You should be proud that you are taking steps to healing your mental health! I know this can be a difficult decision, but I’m glad you are here. My goal is to empower you with various methods to manage your mental health. These tools may include medication, therapy and lifestyle changes. I use research and evidence-based practices to assist in choosing the best regimen. As your provider, I will actively listen to your concerns without any judgment and work on a holistic treatment plan with you.
You should be proud that you are taking steps to healing your mental health! I know this can be a difficult decision, but I’m glad you are here. My goal is to empower you with various methods to manage your mental health. These tools may include medication, therapy and lifestyle changes. I use research and evidence-based practices to assist in choosing the best regimen. As your provider, I will actively listen to your concerns without any judgment and work on a holistic treatment plan with you.
More Psychiatrists Nearby
![Photo of Michael Rimm, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3f6eaced-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
"Whatever it takes," describes Dr. Rimm's 30 years of gratifying experiences as a facilitator of change (Child/Adol/Adult Psychiatrist) for so many. Comfort and confidence are a priority as each individual invests in a potential life changing experience. "Change is always possible," we are reminded by "systems theory," as one thing effects the next, which effects the next, etc. Dr. Rimm has the expertise to determine whether only one or a few things require focus, such as a specific evidenced based therapy, medicine, alternative, or if there are many more unique opportunities to identify and focus on a "much broader canvas."
"Whatever it takes," describes Dr. Rimm's 30 years of gratifying experiences as a facilitator of change (Child/Adol/Adult Psychiatrist) for so many. Comfort and confidence are a priority as each individual invests in a potential life changing experience. "Change is always possible," we are reminded by "systems theory," as one thing effects the next, which effects the next, etc. Dr. Rimm has the expertise to determine whether only one or a few things require focus, such as a specific evidenced based therapy, medicine, alternative, or if there are many more unique opportunities to identify and focus on a "much broader canvas."
![Photo of Sharilyn J Scoppettone-Butteling - Maui Counseling Group, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4681e4b4-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
As a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner, my goal is to provide a safe and non-judgmental atmosphere for my clientele. My goal is to work as a team to help you get the best treatment available for you during this difficult time. Whether it is therapy, medication management or a combination of the two, we will work together to help you process your life experiences and concerns for the future. I don't want my clients feeling just "ok", I want them to feel better about themselves mentally, spiritually and physically.
As a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner, my goal is to provide a safe and non-judgmental atmosphere for my clientele. My goal is to work as a team to help you get the best treatment available for you during this difficult time. Whether it is therapy, medication management or a combination of the two, we will work together to help you process your life experiences and concerns for the future. I don't want my clients feeling just "ok", I want them to feel better about themselves mentally, spiritually and physically.
![Photo of Daniel Mattox - ADHD Wellness Hawai'i, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d28a4856-e042-4941-88e3-9189e8cf3a1e/2/320x400.jpeg)
Text or call: 808-563-4128. At ADHD Wellness Hawai'i our unwavering commitment is to cater to the unique needs of adults grappling with ADHD. We understand that navigating daily life with ADHD can be challenging, impacting not only personal well-being but also interpersonal relationships and professional pursuits. Our clinic stands out as a beacon of understanding and support, offering a personalized approach that goes beyond mere diagnosis and med management. We pride ourselves on being readily available to YOU when you need a last minute appointment, forgot to request that med refill, or don't want to wait months for an appt.
Text or call: 808-563-4128. At ADHD Wellness Hawai'i our unwavering commitment is to cater to the unique needs of adults grappling with ADHD. We understand that navigating daily life with ADHD can be challenging, impacting not only personal well-being but also interpersonal relationships and professional pursuits. Our clinic stands out as a beacon of understanding and support, offering a personalized approach that goes beyond mere diagnosis and med management. We pride ourselves on being readily available to YOU when you need a last minute appointment, forgot to request that med refill, or don't want to wait months for an appt.
Online Psychiatrists
![Photo of Angie Stanley, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c361a566-bfd9-4578-94da-f67cc7ab210e/2/320x400.jpeg)
Angie Stanley
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Kamuela, HI 96743 (Online Only)
I am passionate about behavioral health- both personally and professionally. My superpower is building relationships and using empathy to meet with clients where they are. I believe medication management is part of a three-legged stool. When paired with therapy and self-care the most optimal outcomes can be achieved and the stool will be balanced.
I am passionate about behavioral health- both personally and professionally. My superpower is building relationships and using empathy to meet with clients where they are. I believe medication management is part of a three-legged stool. When paired with therapy and self-care the most optimal outcomes can be achieved and the stool will be balanced.
![Photo of Alan Wolfson, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/397223cd-0c28-4a08-b7f5-ae104affd1e5/1/320x400.jpeg)
Why do you have anxiety or depression? Where does the anger come from? How will this discomfort be alleviated? Why are you unhappy in the relationship? Why does the pattern continue to repeat itself? You want answers and you want to feel better, but in order to do so, we must look at every part of YOU, not just medication management.
Why do you have anxiety or depression? Where does the anger come from? How will this discomfort be alleviated? Why are you unhappy in the relationship? Why does the pattern continue to repeat itself? You want answers and you want to feel better, but in order to do so, we must look at every part of YOU, not just medication management.
![Photo of Thomas Cook, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9ed1a37b-e8e8-4912-a62f-4331bb420694/1/320x400.png)
I am a board certified psychiatrist taking new patients in Honolulu. I specialize in the rapid treatment of depression, and in the transition to more effective alternatives, such as TMS, ketamine, medical cannabis, and more. Taking pills everyday is at times indicated, but often there are more sensible options. I sometimes prescribe books, and my style is upfront, down to earth, out of the box, and interactive. Please visit --> www.drcook.org.
I am a board certified psychiatrist taking new patients in Honolulu. I specialize in the rapid treatment of depression, and in the transition to more effective alternatives, such as TMS, ketamine, medical cannabis, and more. Taking pills everyday is at times indicated, but often there are more sensible options. I sometimes prescribe books, and my style is upfront, down to earth, out of the box, and interactive. Please visit --> www.drcook.org.
![Photo of Amanda Nall - Ohanapsych, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b82eada1-c12c-480a-a445-613cf480693e/1/320x400.jpeg)
Amanda Nall - Ohanapsych
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Verified Verified
Honolulu, HI 96817 (Online Only)
Amanda has experience treating patients across the lifespan, from toddlers to geriatric patients. She is driven to improve everyday life for those struggling with or affected by mental illness. Amanda’s treatment approach is client-centered and holistic with the goal of reducing or eliminating concerning symptoms.
Amanda has experience treating patients across the lifespan, from toddlers to geriatric patients. She is driven to improve everyday life for those struggling with or affected by mental illness. Amanda’s treatment approach is client-centered and holistic with the goal of reducing or eliminating concerning symptoms.
![Photo of Susan Guy, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/afe8c19e-4c0a-489b-8c99-4dec60840249/1/320x400.jpeg)
I like to focus on how our environment, behaviors, and beliefs impact our experience with the world. I work to empower my clients to help them realize their goals.
I like to focus on how our environment, behaviors, and beliefs impact our experience with the world. I work to empower my clients to help them realize their goals.
![Photo of Sayaka Reasoner, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cc7f5e07-38ec-4817-811d-73246de3a72f/1/320x400.jpeg)
I work with the clients with variety of mental health issues including mood disorders, depression, anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, schizophrenia, and behavior problems.
I work with the clients with variety of mental health issues including mood disorders, depression, anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, schizophrenia, and behavior problems.
![Photo of Lori Mattingly - Calming Waters Psychiatry , DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/91edeb46-6777-445e-885f-fa0d28d828ec/1/320x400.jpeg)
Calming Waters Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Honolulu, HI 96817 (Online Only)
I treat clients 18 years and older and follow the principles of patient-centered care and shared decision-making, holding the belief that patients should be actively involved in their care to optimize mental health outcomes. Strengthening a person's mental health and emotional well-being with a focus on improving quality of life measures are essential goals at Calming Waters Psychiatry. I understand the unique challenges of military members and families due to my personal experience. It is always an honor to serve those who have sacrificed so much to keep our nation safe.
I treat clients 18 years and older and follow the principles of patient-centered care and shared decision-making, holding the belief that patients should be actively involved in their care to optimize mental health outcomes. Strengthening a person's mental health and emotional well-being with a focus on improving quality of life measures are essential goals at Calming Waters Psychiatry. I understand the unique challenges of military members and families due to my personal experience. It is always an honor to serve those who have sacrificed so much to keep our nation safe.
![Photo of Dr. Gretchen Gavero- Mindhealthspace, DO, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c0361e5d-196d-4450-8c6c-09f671508abc/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Gretchen Gavero- Mindhealthspace
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
Honolulu, HI 96813 (Online Only)
Tailored care is essential to understand your unique biological, cultural, and psychological makeup to improve your health and develop the skills to overcome your life challenges. Your body and mind change when you're physically or emotionally stressed. Past experiences and anxieties about the future can keep you from living your best life now. I combine expert medical knowledge with real-life talk and individualized treatment to help you feel better and thrive. We'll address your health and emotional needs by working together.
Tailored care is essential to understand your unique biological, cultural, and psychological makeup to improve your health and develop the skills to overcome your life challenges. Your body and mind change when you're physically or emotionally stressed. Past experiences and anxieties about the future can keep you from living your best life now. I combine expert medical knowledge with real-life talk and individualized treatment to help you feel better and thrive. We'll address your health and emotional needs by working together.
See more therapy options for Kihei
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Kihei, HI
< 10
Psychiatrists in Kihei, HI who prioritize treating:
89% | Depression |
89% | Anxiety |
89% | ADHD |
89% | Medication Management |
78% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
78% | Trauma and PTSD |
78% | Bipolar Disorder |
Average years in practice
15 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
88% | Hawaii Medical Services Association |
75% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
50% | Aetna |
How Psychiatrists in Kihei, HI see their clients
78% | In Person and Online | |
22% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
63% | Female | |
37% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Kihei?
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.