Psychiatrists in Waverly, IA
![Photo of Jennifer Nelsen, ARNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/655cf69a-1294-4900-aa33-84bc29016cd8/1/320x400.png)
Jennifer Nelsen
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Waverly, IA 50677 (Online Only)
Jennifer is accepting NEW Patients 14+. Jennifer is here to hold space during times of crisis. She wants to help you build a treatment plan with your goals in mind. She finds meaning in helping patients who are in times of struggle, as well as, those who are ready to move from feeling “good enough” to feeling truly like themselves again.
Jennifer is accepting NEW Patients 14+. Jennifer is here to hold space during times of crisis. She wants to help you build a treatment plan with your goals in mind. She finds meaning in helping patients who are in times of struggle, as well as, those who are ready to move from feeling “good enough” to feeling truly like themselves again.
![Photo of Kristina (Krissy) Gates, DNP, PMHNP, ARNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/55c238f8-c248-4acb-b96a-4aa268d3ea71/3/320x400.jpeg)
Kristina (Krissy) Gates
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, ARNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Waverly, IA 50677
Krissy’s areas of specialty include working with ages 5+, LGBTQ+ community, crisis management, substance abuse (Medication Assisted Treatment-30client limit), ADHD, PTSD, mood, anxiety, and schizophrenia disorders.
Krissy’s areas of specialty include working with ages 5+, LGBTQ+ community, crisis management, substance abuse (Medication Assisted Treatment-30client limit), ADHD, PTSD, mood, anxiety, and schizophrenia disorders.
Online Psychiatrists
![Photo of Larry Newman, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3f5a08cc-b6c9-4269-9554-e4e3e8659391/1/320x400.jpeg)
Larry Newman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Cedar Falls, IA 50613 (Online Only)
I am Larry Newman, DNP, AGNPPC, PMHNP. I am dually board-certified as both a Psychiatric Mental Health and an Adult/Gerontological Primary Care Nurse Practitioner. I provide services to adults and children. My areas of focus include mental health in adults, LGBTQIA+, immigrant community members, Native Americans and other marginalized communities. Trauma-informed care is foundational in my practice. I collaborate with clients in all decision making. I use motivational interviewing techniques, person-centered therapy, cognitive-behavioral technique.
I am Larry Newman, DNP, AGNPPC, PMHNP. I am dually board-certified as both a Psychiatric Mental Health and an Adult/Gerontological Primary Care Nurse Practitioner. I provide services to adults and children. My areas of focus include mental health in adults, LGBTQIA+, immigrant community members, Native Americans and other marginalized communities. Trauma-informed care is foundational in my practice. I collaborate with clients in all decision making. I use motivational interviewing techniques, person-centered therapy, cognitive-behavioral technique.
![Photo of Anna K Shudzeka, PMHNP, -, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/686a523b-efc4-4a53-b11f-f1e65ac2af1b/1/320x400.jpeg)
Anna K Shudzeka
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, -, BC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Cedar Rapids, IA 52401
As a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC), my goal is to support your well-being with compassionate and personalized care. I understand that everyone is unique, and I tailor my approach to meet your specific needs and goals. Using proven treatments, including medication, therapy, and lifestyle changes, I focus on your overall health. I am dedicated to professionalism, confidentiality, and ethical practice, helping you face mental health challenges. My aim is to empower you to regain control and look forward to a future filled with strength and hope.
As a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC), my goal is to support your well-being with compassionate and personalized care. I understand that everyone is unique, and I tailor my approach to meet your specific needs and goals. Using proven treatments, including medication, therapy, and lifestyle changes, I focus on your overall health. I am dedicated to professionalism, confidentiality, and ethical practice, helping you face mental health challenges. My aim is to empower you to regain control and look forward to a future filled with strength and hope.
![Photo of Morgan Christy Huls, ARNP, PMHNP, CFMP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4ae6b0f1-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Morgan Christy Huls
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARNP, PMHNP, CFMP
Verified Verified
Cedar Falls, IA 50613
Morgan created Transcend out of a passion for holistic wellness. She believes in a mind-body approach to optimal mental health and offers clients personalized, integrative care in attempt to uncover the root cause of a condition. She offers her services through telemedicine and in-person.
Morgan created Transcend out of a passion for holistic wellness. She believes in a mind-body approach to optimal mental health and offers clients personalized, integrative care in attempt to uncover the root cause of a condition. She offers her services through telemedicine and in-person.
![Photo of Paige Thacker, APRN, PMH-NP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e727d8e5-ee33-405c-b811-eae13c100ec1/2/320x400.jpeg)
Paige Thacker
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMH-NP, BC
Verified Verified
Des Moines, IA 50311 (Online Only)
There is nothing worse than hearing that alarm clock day in and out, only to wake up feeling like you didn’t sleep at all. All the thoughts begin to flood in, your “to-do’s”, this or that meeting or appointment. You haven’t even made it out the door before feeling completely overwhelmed, defeated, or maybe even hopeless. Depressed, anxious, moody, or irritable may be words that describe how you’re feeling; perhaps your loved ones have said similar things. I have helped countless others like yourself, and I am confident that together we can get you feeling better. I treat a wide range of mental health disorders adolescents and adults
There is nothing worse than hearing that alarm clock day in and out, only to wake up feeling like you didn’t sleep at all. All the thoughts begin to flood in, your “to-do’s”, this or that meeting or appointment. You haven’t even made it out the door before feeling completely overwhelmed, defeated, or maybe even hopeless. Depressed, anxious, moody, or irritable may be words that describe how you’re feeling; perhaps your loved ones have said similar things. I have helped countless others like yourself, and I am confident that together we can get you feeling better. I treat a wide range of mental health disorders adolescents and adults
![Photo of Chelsea Davis, DNP, ARNP, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/05c391bb-98af-4a74-bb8d-c49a19a17e03/1/320x400.jpeg)
Chelsea Davis
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, ARNP, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
Dubuque, IA 52003
You are an independent individual who deserves your very own unique treatment plan. Starting from the first day we meet, I will work with you to develop that medication plan, making adjustments along the way as needed. I promise to listen to your needs and to only make decisions based on trusted research along with your continued input.
You are an independent individual who deserves your very own unique treatment plan. Starting from the first day we meet, I will work with you to develop that medication plan, making adjustments along the way as needed. I promise to listen to your needs and to only make decisions based on trusted research along with your continued input.
![Photo of Kristina Flanagan, MSN, FPMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b9c35a11-b74d-466b-9452-dcb815335088/1/320x400.jpeg)
Kristina Flanagan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, FPMHNP
Verified Verified
Coralville, IA 52241
I practice patient centered care and see each patient as an individual not a diagnosis. I provided a thorough assessment, diagnosis, medication management, and help guide you to an individualized treatment plan.
I practice patient centered care and see each patient as an individual not a diagnosis. I provided a thorough assessment, diagnosis, medication management, and help guide you to an individualized treatment plan.
![Photo of Shelby Leppin, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7cc642e1-f57c-4c61-bf1d-eab2a8caf789/1/320x400.jpeg)
My name is Shelby Leppin, and I am a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. I see patients in Iowa via telehealth. I work with adults and specialize in depression, PTSD, Bipolar, and ADHD using motivational interviewing, EMDR, and alternative behavioral therapy to help my clients learn how to regulate their emotions and reach their goals. My approach is determined by the goals of the individual client. I focus on helping clients learn how to regulate their emotions and understand their brain pattern.
My name is Shelby Leppin, and I am a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. I see patients in Iowa via telehealth. I work with adults and specialize in depression, PTSD, Bipolar, and ADHD using motivational interviewing, EMDR, and alternative behavioral therapy to help my clients learn how to regulate their emotions and reach their goals. My approach is determined by the goals of the individual client. I focus on helping clients learn how to regulate their emotions and understand their brain pattern.
![Photo of Danielle Van Oosbree, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ae5f43bb-beb5-4b6b-8dd9-8cb2de80f736/1/320x400.png)
Hi, I'm Danielle Van Oosbree. I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I use a client-centered approach with hopes in providing quality, compassionate, and comprehensive mental health services, along with medication management. I create a relaxed atmosphere, so the patient feels comfortable being able to express themselves without feeling judged.
Hi, I'm Danielle Van Oosbree. I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I use a client-centered approach with hopes in providing quality, compassionate, and comprehensive mental health services, along with medication management. I create a relaxed atmosphere, so the patient feels comfortable being able to express themselves without feeling judged.
![Photo of Shyrl Hoag, ANRP, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1e5c3d2c-f631-4573-abf7-c6ba5165ab32/2/320x400.jpeg)
From time to time, our lives take an unexpected turn for the worse. We may suffer from emotional illness, or experience conflict, loss, misfortune. Trauma and chronic disability may affect our loved ones or us. Life adversities may temporarily overwhelm our ability to carry on. We may turn pessimistic, doubtful, and hopeless. Feel demoralized, worried, and anxious. Suffer sadness, distress, and anguish. Become angry and resentful. Feel distrustful and quarrel with others. At such times, we could benefit from treatment, including psychotherapy treatment, including psychotherapy, and prescription medicine.
From time to time, our lives take an unexpected turn for the worse. We may suffer from emotional illness, or experience conflict, loss, misfortune. Trauma and chronic disability may affect our loved ones or us. Life adversities may temporarily overwhelm our ability to carry on. We may turn pessimistic, doubtful, and hopeless. Feel demoralized, worried, and anxious. Suffer sadness, distress, and anguish. Become angry and resentful. Feel distrustful and quarrel with others. At such times, we could benefit from treatment, including psychotherapy treatment, including psychotherapy, and prescription medicine.
![Photo of Brittni Reifschneider, ARNP, FNP-C, PMH-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c45f6aa8-fbef-4b2f-838b-efd04c612742/2/320x400.jpeg)
Brittni Reifschneider
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARNP, FNP-C, PMH-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Des Moines, IA 50309
I have been working as a Nurse Practitioner for several years in a variety of fields including primary care, urgent care, mental health, and women's health. I enjoy connecting with patients and helping them through the many phases of their life that bring stressors and challenges. I work along side our therapists at Cascade to treat anxiety, depression, ADHD, and perinatal (pre and post-partum) mental health in adults over age 18.
I have been working as a Nurse Practitioner for several years in a variety of fields including primary care, urgent care, mental health, and women's health. I enjoy connecting with patients and helping them through the many phases of their life that bring stressors and challenges. I work along side our therapists at Cascade to treat anxiety, depression, ADHD, and perinatal (pre and post-partum) mental health in adults over age 18.
![Photo of Katie Foltz, DNP, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/10017977-0625-4374-a45c-e1943f0265ed/1/320x400.jpeg)
I work with adults and adolescents for Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, Borderline Personality Disorder, and ADHD.
I work with adults and adolescents for Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, Borderline Personality Disorder, and ADHD.
![Photo of Kelly Jo Scheffert, MSN, ARNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/21d87716-55c0-4b9e-a621-df47c40dd48b/1/320x400.jpeg)
Kelly Jo Scheffert
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, ARNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Waterloo, IA 50701
I have been working in psychiatry since 2008 in variety settings including inpatient, outpatient, corrections and academia. I am here to help you become the best version of yourself because you deserve it!
I have been working in psychiatry since 2008 in variety settings including inpatient, outpatient, corrections and academia. I am here to help you become the best version of yourself because you deserve it!
![Photo of Sarah Schuller, ARNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/810f6a01-6dea-4fbf-bf1d-c8a2757acd4c/3/320x400.jpeg)
Sarah Schuller
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Ankeny, IA 50023
Waitlist for new clients
I have provided assessment and skilled intervention with patients and families for more than 25 years. I have extensive experience working in the acute inpatient, outpatient, and in-homes settings, and have recently joined the Medication Management Team at Central Iowa Psychological Services. Serving patient ages 5-adulthood to help meet personalized mental health goals.
I have provided assessment and skilled intervention with patients and families for more than 25 years. I have extensive experience working in the acute inpatient, outpatient, and in-homes settings, and have recently joined the Medication Management Team at Central Iowa Psychological Services. Serving patient ages 5-adulthood to help meet personalized mental health goals.
![Photo of Elizabeth Brake, APRN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/86e72934-e7af-494c-aee8-53c01d10327a/2/320x400.jpeg)
Elizabeth Brake
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Des Moines, IA 50309 (Online Only)
ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS, CAN GET NEW PATIENTS IN WITHIN A WEEK! Telemedicine, treating most psychiatric conditions. We also offer personalized ADHD diagnosis and treatment, treatment for depression, anxiety, OCD, PTSD, as well as some addiction and substance abuse! We accept most insurances and have discount self pay options. We offer comprehensive assessments and customized treatment plans, we work hard to improve your quality of life.
ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS, CAN GET NEW PATIENTS IN WITHIN A WEEK! Telemedicine, treating most psychiatric conditions. We also offer personalized ADHD diagnosis and treatment, treatment for depression, anxiety, OCD, PTSD, as well as some addiction and substance abuse! We accept most insurances and have discount self pay options. We offer comprehensive assessments and customized treatment plans, we work hard to improve your quality of life.
![Photo of Augusta Williams - CoreHealthPsych, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/08a12eb1-ca8e-4138-ad1e-3670133417c0/1/320x400.png)
CoreHealthPsych
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Grinnell, IA 50112 (Online Only)
We are a virtual-psychiatric mental health practice. We at CoreHealthPsych believe that everyone in need should have access to quality care. We provide patients with the knowledge and tools they need to live their best lives. Our experience enables us to offer effective outpatient telehealth and individualized psychiatric care. We provide a safe and non-judgmental environment.
We are a virtual-psychiatric mental health practice. We at CoreHealthPsych believe that everyone in need should have access to quality care. We provide patients with the knowledge and tools they need to live their best lives. Our experience enables us to offer effective outpatient telehealth and individualized psychiatric care. We provide a safe and non-judgmental environment.
![Photo of Nadine Smith - Magnolia Psychiatric Services, PLLC, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4be646d0-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/1/320x400.jpeg)
Magnolia Psychiatric Services, PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Des Moines, IA 50315 (Online Only)
If you're seeking a path to emotional and mental well-being, you're in the right place. With over 25 years of diverse experience in the healthcare field, I am dedicated to helping you achieve your best self with empathy and expertise. My approach is holistic and patient-centered, treating you as a whole person and integrating the physical, mental, and emotional aspects of your health. I conduct thorough psychiatric evaluations and offer a range of treatment options, including ketamine-assisted psychotherapy.
If you're seeking a path to emotional and mental well-being, you're in the right place. With over 25 years of diverse experience in the healthcare field, I am dedicated to helping you achieve your best self with empathy and expertise. My approach is holistic and patient-centered, treating you as a whole person and integrating the physical, mental, and emotional aspects of your health. I conduct thorough psychiatric evaluations and offer a range of treatment options, including ketamine-assisted psychotherapy.
![Photo of Michelle Swan, ARNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/aec009d2-8fe0-4f01-b802-4fb31dc2868c/1/320x400.jpeg)
Taking that first step of asking for help can be difficult, but I am here to provide support without judgment. My office is a safe space where you can be yourself — without judgement. I prioritize collaborating with you and, where appropriate, your family to create a person-centered approach to mental healthcare. As your medication prescriber, I will work with you to determine what mental health medications may help alleviate your symptoms and allow you to work towards your goals. You will have a voice and be an active participant in your mental health treatment.
Taking that first step of asking for help can be difficult, but I am here to provide support without judgment. My office is a safe space where you can be yourself — without judgement. I prioritize collaborating with you and, where appropriate, your family to create a person-centered approach to mental healthcare. As your medication prescriber, I will work with you to determine what mental health medications may help alleviate your symptoms and allow you to work towards your goals. You will have a voice and be an active participant in your mental health treatment.
![Photo of Esther Uangbaoje - Hecen Healthcare, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7cf89d4b-dbff-4955-87a2-2339a7f1c569/2/320x400.png)
Hecen Healthcare
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Iowa City, IA 52240 (Online Only)
Looking for someone to talk to? Well, look no further! At Hecen Healthcare, we provide medication management, psychoeducation, and psychiatric evaluation virtually. Our focus areas include anxiety, depression, ADHD, sleep problems, bipolar, PTSD, psychosis, attention & focus, and panic disorder. We provide patient-driven care and treat our patients with respect, honesty, and dignity. We are passionate and caring about our services and your utmost well-being is the goal, ensuring a non-judgmental approach.
Looking for someone to talk to? Well, look no further! At Hecen Healthcare, we provide medication management, psychoeducation, and psychiatric evaluation virtually. Our focus areas include anxiety, depression, ADHD, sleep problems, bipolar, PTSD, psychosis, attention & focus, and panic disorder. We provide patient-driven care and treat our patients with respect, honesty, and dignity. We are passionate and caring about our services and your utmost well-being is the goal, ensuring a non-judgmental approach.
See more therapy options for Waverly
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Waverly, IA
< 10
Psychiatrists in Waverly, IA who prioritize treating:
100% | Relationship Issues |
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
100% | ADHD |
100% | Grief |
100% | Trauma and PTSD |
100% | Psychosis |
Average years in practice
3 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | HealthPartners of MN and WI |
100% | Midlands Choice |
100% | Blue Cross |
How Psychiatrists in Waverly, IA see their clients
50% | In Person and Online | |
50% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
100% | Female |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Waverly?
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.