Psychiatrists in Chicago, IL
![Photo of Laura Craig, MD , Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/dd441997-c726-4987-ad51-708208852b8d/1/320x400.jpeg)
I enjoy working with people from all backgrounds including LGBTQIA+ and those with marginalized identities. I specialize in trauma and post-traumatic stress disorder. I am also very holistic in my style and always try to incorporate complementary and alternative therapies with treatment. I also enjoy working with people in recovery or working towards recovery.
I enjoy working with people from all backgrounds including LGBTQIA+ and those with marginalized identities. I specialize in trauma and post-traumatic stress disorder. I am also very holistic in my style and always try to incorporate complementary and alternative therapies with treatment. I also enjoy working with people in recovery or working towards recovery.
![Photo of Shumeka Hill, PMHNP, FNP-BC, CPNP-AC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/52589d76-df01-44a6-974e-882c1ef3a272/2/320x400.jpeg)
Shumeka Hill
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP-BC, CPNP-AC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60629 (Online Only)
Relationship problems, struggles at work, and life events can challenge our ability to cope and ultimately to thrive in life. Patterns may emerge in your life that are confusing, that make you feel stuck, uncertain, and conflicted. Life transitions can tax our internal resources, and we may find ourselves lacking in fulfillment and happiness. Above all, I strive to support my clients to increase their life satisfaction, reduce their suffering, and strengthen their relationships and capacity for joy.
Relationship problems, struggles at work, and life events can challenge our ability to cope and ultimately to thrive in life. Patterns may emerge in your life that are confusing, that make you feel stuck, uncertain, and conflicted. Life transitions can tax our internal resources, and we may find ourselves lacking in fulfillment and happiness. Above all, I strive to support my clients to increase their life satisfaction, reduce their suffering, and strengthen their relationships and capacity for joy.
![Photo of Claire Oliver, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/120b253d-b8f5-4f44-b3b8-fc9a62c31efd/1/320x400.jpeg)
Are you struggling with identifying issues in your life and reaching your treatment goals? Finding the right therapist can be difficult but I want my clients to know that I am here to help you be the best version of yourself.
Are you struggling with identifying issues in your life and reaching your treatment goals? Finding the right therapist can be difficult but I want my clients to know that I am here to help you be the best version of yourself.
![Photo of Dr. Utpal Dhruve, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3d8c369e-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
PeaklifeMD.com is a boutique clinic focused on life optimization. Our members feel they are not performing to their true potential at work, school, or home. Together, we will work to identify your concerns, goals, and strengths in order to make substantial progress towards achieving a better you.
PeaklifeMD.com is a boutique clinic focused on life optimization. Our members feel they are not performing to their true potential at work, school, or home. Together, we will work to identify your concerns, goals, and strengths in order to make substantial progress towards achieving a better you.
![Photo of Robert Noonan, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e1855d60-be7f-4c70-a776-b6a1e211c461/2/320x400.png)
Hello, my name is Brian Noonan, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I am Licensed in Arizona, California, Colorado, D.C., Hawaii, Idaho, Montana, New York, Nevada, New Mexico, Oregon, and Washington State. I have experience in outpatient clinics, inpatient hospitals, and telehealth, as well as an instructor for Seattle University’s Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner program. Education: Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN; University of Georgia, Athens, GA, Psychology, BA
Hello, my name is Brian Noonan, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I am Licensed in Arizona, California, Colorado, D.C., Hawaii, Idaho, Montana, New York, Nevada, New Mexico, Oregon, and Washington State. I have experience in outpatient clinics, inpatient hospitals, and telehealth, as well as an instructor for Seattle University’s Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner program. Education: Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN; University of Georgia, Athens, GA, Psychology, BA
![Photo of Emily Berwald, MSN APN, FNP-C, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1e75a914-6f98-4b18-9e03-e47ed564ccf1/1/320x400.jpeg)
Emily Berwald
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN APN, FNP-C, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60602
Despite us being more digitally connected than ever before, a disproportionate number of people today are struggling with loneliness, detachment, and chronic stress. Even in a city of three million people, it can be difficult to find community, connection, and fulfillment amongst our fellow humans. If you’re feeling anxious and overwhelmed under the demands of our fast-paced society, or if you’re experiencing exhaustion or hopelessness, know that you’re not alone.
Despite us being more digitally connected than ever before, a disproportionate number of people today are struggling with loneliness, detachment, and chronic stress. Even in a city of three million people, it can be difficult to find community, connection, and fulfillment amongst our fellow humans. If you’re feeling anxious and overwhelmed under the demands of our fast-paced society, or if you’re experiencing exhaustion or hopelessness, know that you’re not alone.
![Photo of Kiran Maharaja, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/51e83a2e-86d2-417f-b9b4-52ea29447f49/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am a friendly and insightful psychiatrist who provides compassionate, empathetic care that is tailored to your concerns. I am trained in the use of both psychotherapy and medication management to treat a variety of psychiatric disorders. I have developed expertise in anxiety, trauma, personality disorders and mood disorders including depression and bipolar disorder.
I am a friendly and insightful psychiatrist who provides compassionate, empathetic care that is tailored to your concerns. I am trained in the use of both psychotherapy and medication management to treat a variety of psychiatric disorders. I have developed expertise in anxiety, trauma, personality disorders and mood disorders including depression and bipolar disorder.
![Photo of Samantha O'Brien, PMHNP, APRN, MSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/869f8d7e-fc25-4d93-bbc3-8a36f3517f9d/1/320x400.jpeg)
Samantha O'Brien
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN, MSN
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60607
I am a board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with experience providing mental health services to patients across the lifespan in outpatient treatment settings.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with experience providing mental health services to patients across the lifespan in outpatient treatment settings.
![Photo of Michael Swiatkowski, DO, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/dee3dcac-c5d8-476e-9b13-52e8a9848532/1/320x400.jpeg)
Life is hard; I'm sure you've noticed. If you are one of the millions of Americans who doesn't like the way you feel, I may be able to help in some way. Most patients make an appointment because they are having difficulty in school, at home, at work, or in retirement. Some have seen a psychiatrist their whole life. Others are looking for the first time.
Life is hard; I'm sure you've noticed. If you are one of the millions of Americans who doesn't like the way you feel, I may be able to help in some way. Most patients make an appointment because they are having difficulty in school, at home, at work, or in retirement. Some have seen a psychiatrist their whole life. Others are looking for the first time.
![Photo of Alexander Morrill, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a215b338-1e36-430e-87bc-387e92d42095/1/320x400.jpeg)
Hello! I am a board certified psychiatrist with over 14 years of clinical experience. My approach to patients is holistic and collaborative. When needed, I will consult with your other healthcare providers (such as psychotherapists, general practitioners, nutritionists, or sleep specialists) to help you develop a comprehensive treatment plan.
Hello! I am a board certified psychiatrist with over 14 years of clinical experience. My approach to patients is holistic and collaborative. When needed, I will consult with your other healthcare providers (such as psychotherapists, general practitioners, nutritionists, or sleep specialists) to help you develop a comprehensive treatment plan.
![Photo of Julia Chevron, APRN, FNP-BC, FPA, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f95bac60-45c4-4c87-bf65-68137fe46ec8/1/320x400.jpeg)
Julia Chevron
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, FNP-BC, FPA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60614
My passion lies in helping people navigate the complexities of mental health, shaped by my approach that is rooted in the Golden Rule: treat others as you wish to be treated. I aim to embody approachability, trustworthiness, non-judgment, compassion, and empathy in understanding each person’s unique life story and circumstances. I believe in a collaborative relationship, and have particular interest and expertise in complex PTSD and ADHD (particularly in women). In our modern, time-crunched world, it is understandable to try and look for and rely on a quick fix rather than addressing the root cause of the issue.
My passion lies in helping people navigate the complexities of mental health, shaped by my approach that is rooted in the Golden Rule: treat others as you wish to be treated. I aim to embody approachability, trustworthiness, non-judgment, compassion, and empathy in understanding each person’s unique life story and circumstances. I believe in a collaborative relationship, and have particular interest and expertise in complex PTSD and ADHD (particularly in women). In our modern, time-crunched world, it is understandable to try and look for and rely on a quick fix rather than addressing the root cause of the issue.
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![Photo of Amanda Bowers, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a258516f-50a2-4d46-b47b-343d55cee48e/1/320x400.jpeg)
Amanda Bowers
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60606 (Online Only)
I’m a family nurse practitioner (FNP) as well as psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP). I have provided care for many years to women in an OBGYN setting that are suffering from mental needs as well as those with substance abuse disorders.
I’m a family nurse practitioner (FNP) as well as psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP). I have provided care for many years to women in an OBGYN setting that are suffering from mental needs as well as those with substance abuse disorders.
![Photo of Melissa Vitale, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5da9d49d-c557-45e0-84d6-d71f9f90ce40/1/320x400.jpeg)
Melissa Vitale is currently accepting new patients. Melissa Vitale is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She provides general psychiatric services for adult patients who are experiencing symptoms of depression, anxiety disorders, bipolar disorder, or thought disorders such as schizophrenia. For every new patient, Melissa provides a comprehensive initial psychiatric assessment, and offers subsequent mental health treatment including medication management and individual psychotherapy.
Melissa Vitale is currently accepting new patients. Melissa Vitale is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She provides general psychiatric services for adult patients who are experiencing symptoms of depression, anxiety disorders, bipolar disorder, or thought disorders such as schizophrenia. For every new patient, Melissa provides a comprehensive initial psychiatric assessment, and offers subsequent mental health treatment including medication management and individual psychotherapy.
![Photo of Zainab Taiwo, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/499ccaf7-b0f6-4253-ba8b-b86c3e3bb81f/1/320x400.jpeg)
As a seasoned psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, I bring a wealth of experience to my practice. Throughout my career, I've had the privilege of working with a wide spectrum of patients, each navigating their unique mental health challenges. From depression and PTSD to bipolar disorder, anxiety, ADHD, and beyond, I've cultivated a deep understanding of diverse diagnoses. My approach is firmly rooted in evidence-based medicine, ensuring that every treatment plan I develop is tailored to meet the specific needs of each individual under my care.
As a seasoned psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, I bring a wealth of experience to my practice. Throughout my career, I've had the privilege of working with a wide spectrum of patients, each navigating their unique mental health challenges. From depression and PTSD to bipolar disorder, anxiety, ADHD, and beyond, I've cultivated a deep understanding of diverse diagnoses. My approach is firmly rooted in evidence-based medicine, ensuring that every treatment plan I develop is tailored to meet the specific needs of each individual under my care.
![Photo of Luke Swift, DNP, APN-FPA, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c52c9b2a-5d5b-4fcb-8da2-8cd908383b7b/3/320x400.jpeg)
Luke Swift
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APN-FPA, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60602
Have you been feeling unwell? Do you feel like you do not have a voice when it comes to your own health and wellness? Have you ever felt like your medications are continually increased or new medications and supplements are added without any improvement in your symptoms? The humanity we share is more important than the illness or circumstance we may not. As a Nurse Practitioner specializing in psychiatry, hormone optimization, and functional medicine, I strive to bring focus back to treating you as a whole rather than an isolated disorder.
Have you been feeling unwell? Do you feel like you do not have a voice when it comes to your own health and wellness? Have you ever felt like your medications are continually increased or new medications and supplements are added without any improvement in your symptoms? The humanity we share is more important than the illness or circumstance we may not. As a Nurse Practitioner specializing in psychiatry, hormone optimization, and functional medicine, I strive to bring focus back to treating you as a whole rather than an isolated disorder.
![Photo of Dr. Katie Washington Cole, MD, PhD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/92e97879-9f68-414b-818e-5bee10e186a9/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Katie Washington Cole
Psychiatrist, MD, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60602
Not accepting new clients
Dr. Katie Washington Cole is an addiction and recovery psychiatrist with expertise in mental health and substance use treatment in adults. She takes a relationship-centered approach to psychiatric care, using shared decision-making to prioritize your goals and values. Dr. Washington Cole completed medical school and a PhD in Social and Behavioral Sciences in Public Health at the Johns Hopkins University. She completed general adult psychiatry residency at the University of Chicago and addiction psychiatry fellowship at the University of Illinois-Chicago.
Dr. Katie Washington Cole is an addiction and recovery psychiatrist with expertise in mental health and substance use treatment in adults. She takes a relationship-centered approach to psychiatric care, using shared decision-making to prioritize your goals and values. Dr. Washington Cole completed medical school and a PhD in Social and Behavioral Sciences in Public Health at the Johns Hopkins University. She completed general adult psychiatry residency at the University of Chicago and addiction psychiatry fellowship at the University of Illinois-Chicago.
![Photo of Janine Watters, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5e4c9bf8-c370-44f7-bc82-02126917c9f0/1/320x400.jpeg)
Janine Watters
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60601 (Online Only)
Hello, my name is Janine Watters and I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with extensive experience in the psychiatric field, serving individuals across all age groups, from pediatric to geriatric. I completed my studies at Walden University and subsequently undertook my internship with Beal Wellness in Atlanta, GA under the guidance of Dr. Eddie Beal. I have 3 years of experience as a PMHNP and 18 years of experience in Critical Care nursing. I have honed a holistic approach to patient care, focusing not only on their physical well-being but also their mental health.
Hello, my name is Janine Watters and I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with extensive experience in the psychiatric field, serving individuals across all age groups, from pediatric to geriatric. I completed my studies at Walden University and subsequently undertook my internship with Beal Wellness in Atlanta, GA under the guidance of Dr. Eddie Beal. I have 3 years of experience as a PMHNP and 18 years of experience in Critical Care nursing. I have honed a holistic approach to patient care, focusing not only on their physical well-being but also their mental health.
![Photo of Michael Bonifacio, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3283b663-d5ed-4997-b488-5d6a24bb36bd/2/320x400.jpeg)
Michael G. Bonifacio is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Illinois. Michael strongly believes in a people-centered, compassionate, and holistic approach to mental healthcare. With more than two decades of experience as a healthcare professional, he leverages his comprehensive skill set to devise treatment plans with his clients that foster understanding, personal growth, and long-lasting positive outcomes. Michael specializes in depression, anxiety, ADHD, and mood disorders. Outside of work, Michael enjoys cooking, traveling, and practicing aikido.
Michael G. Bonifacio is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Illinois. Michael strongly believes in a people-centered, compassionate, and holistic approach to mental healthcare. With more than two decades of experience as a healthcare professional, he leverages his comprehensive skill set to devise treatment plans with his clients that foster understanding, personal growth, and long-lasting positive outcomes. Michael specializes in depression, anxiety, ADHD, and mood disorders. Outside of work, Michael enjoys cooking, traveling, and practicing aikido.
![Photo of Anna Lucas, MS, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d12ca5c0-ad96-481d-a401-92174f4afe6a/1/320x400.jpeg)
Anna Lucas is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Illinois. Anna is dedicated to providing comprehensive psychiatric evaluations while developing personalized, evidence-based treatment plans that align with client goals. She specializes in treating mood disorders, anxiety, psychosis, neurodevelopmental disorders, and substance misuse. Outside of work, Anna enjoys gardening, hiking trails with her dog, crafting, and reading.
Anna Lucas is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Illinois. Anna is dedicated to providing comprehensive psychiatric evaluations while developing personalized, evidence-based treatment plans that align with client goals. She specializes in treating mood disorders, anxiety, psychosis, neurodevelopmental disorders, and substance misuse. Outside of work, Anna enjoys gardening, hiking trails with her dog, crafting, and reading.
![Photo of Sherann Ivy - Sunshine Psychiatry, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/53036dae-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Sunshine Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60612
*****NOW ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS**** Whether you need psychiatric evaluation and treatment for addiction, anxiety, depression, a mood disorder, ADHD, PTSD, or another mental health problem, as your provider, my goal is to help you get the solutions that will let you feel better soon. The belief in giving help with deep caring, and my style of listening, form the soul of my practice today. I see all patients as unique in their own way, and I value the privilege of giving the best care that my private practice in psychiatric medicine can provide.
*****NOW ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS**** Whether you need psychiatric evaluation and treatment for addiction, anxiety, depression, a mood disorder, ADHD, PTSD, or another mental health problem, as your provider, my goal is to help you get the solutions that will let you feel better soon. The belief in giving help with deep caring, and my style of listening, form the soul of my practice today. I see all patients as unique in their own way, and I value the privilege of giving the best care that my private practice in psychiatric medicine can provide.
See more therapy options for Chicago
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Chicago, IL
300+
Average cost per session
$200
Psychiatrists in Chicago, IL who prioritize treating:
93% | Anxiety |
92% | Depression |
71% | Bipolar Disorder |
66% | ADHD |
66% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
65% | Trauma and PTSD |
65% | Medication Management |
Average years in practice
9 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
92% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
82% | Aetna |
79% | Cigna and Evernorth |
How Psychiatrists in Chicago, IL see their clients
66% | In Person and Online | |
34% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
67% | Female | |
32% | Male | |
1% | Non-Binary |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Chicago?
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.