Psychiatrists in Gillespie, IL
![Photo of Melinda Edwards - Thrive Psychiatric Services, Melinda Edwards , APRN, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f95fbc81-345a-4aaa-8b33-e153aa35aed1/2/320x400.jpeg)
Thrive Psychiatric Services, Melinda Edwards
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Gillespie, IL 62033 (Online Only)
I am a psychiatric provider with over ten years experience in the field of mental health. I have both inpatient and outpatient experience as an RN and as a prescribing clinician. My goal as your practitioner is to provide a holistic treatment approach. We will work together to find a solution that allows you to easily cope with stressors, recognize potential and set goals, feel motivated, and have a physical and mental sense of well-being.
I am a psychiatric provider with over ten years experience in the field of mental health. I have both inpatient and outpatient experience as an RN and as a prescribing clinician. My goal as your practitioner is to provide a holistic treatment approach. We will work together to find a solution that allows you to easily cope with stressors, recognize potential and set goals, feel motivated, and have a physical and mental sense of well-being.
Online Psychiatrists
![Photo of Meagan Maas, MD, MPH, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fa9c86c8-f725-4b26-958b-12c1d9946e4e/1/320x400.jpeg)
Hi there! I am a board-certified Psychiatrist, with fellowship training in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. I have a wide range of experiences working with children, adolescents, and adults in clinical, educational, and research settings over the past fourteen years, and see clients 35 years of age and under!
Hi there! I am a board-certified Psychiatrist, with fellowship training in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. I have a wide range of experiences working with children, adolescents, and adults in clinical, educational, and research settings over the past fourteen years, and see clients 35 years of age and under!
![Photo of Brandy Eichelberger, FNP, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3160e883-3fe5-42a1-92e4-6a9dfc1f2e0b/1/320x400.jpeg)
Brandy Eichelberger
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Swansea, IL 62226
I found my greatest worth in treating individuals struggling with the challenges of life using a patient-centered and evidence-based approach. I connect and build therapeutic rapport with my patients through compassion, integrity, good communication skills and simply treating them how I want myself and my family to be treated.
I found my greatest worth in treating individuals struggling with the challenges of life using a patient-centered and evidence-based approach. I connect and build therapeutic rapport with my patients through compassion, integrity, good communication skills and simply treating them how I want myself and my family to be treated.
![Photo of Monique L Manderson - Stages Health & Wellness, MSN, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/937a1e6a-2557-4be2-83e3-48aebfd4ca6d/1/320x400.jpeg)
Stages Health & Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
O Fallon, IL 62269 (Online Only)
Are you feeling overwhelmed by depression, stress, or anxiety? As a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with dual certification in Family Medicine, I offer compassionate, holistic care tailored to your unique needs. Whether you're a preteen, teen, adult, or elderly, I provide evaluations and medication management via secure, HIPAA-compliant Tele-psychiatry video conferences.
Are you feeling overwhelmed by depression, stress, or anxiety? As a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with dual certification in Family Medicine, I offer compassionate, holistic care tailored to your unique needs. Whether you're a preteen, teen, adult, or elderly, I provide evaluations and medication management via secure, HIPAA-compliant Tele-psychiatry video conferences.
![Photo of Dr. Lori Anne Hopwood, DNP, PMHNP, FNP, WHNP, MPH, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3fc10ef4-0098-4662-ba41-d8edd9250b29/3/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Lori Anne Hopwood
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP, WHNP, MPH
Verified Verified
Springfield, IL 62701 (Online Only)
I provided non-judgmental, empathetic care. Over the years, I have developed a special interested in increasing access to mental health services. My goal is to effectively assess, diagnose and treat your mental health challenges. I provide safe, quality, evidence-based, patient-centered care.
I provided non-judgmental, empathetic care. Over the years, I have developed a special interested in increasing access to mental health services. My goal is to effectively assess, diagnose and treat your mental health challenges. I provide safe, quality, evidence-based, patient-centered care.
![Photo of Melinda Rader, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/179c56aa-f123-494d-b1be-a965f351bda9/1/320x400.jpeg)
Thank-you for considering me for your psychiatric medication management needs. I have experience working with adults and elders experiencing a wide array of mental health issues, including anxiety, chronic stress, depression, bipolar disorder, thought disorders, and alcohol and substance misuse issues.
Thank-you for considering me for your psychiatric medication management needs. I have experience working with adults and elders experiencing a wide array of mental health issues, including anxiety, chronic stress, depression, bipolar disorder, thought disorders, and alcohol and substance misuse issues.
![Photo of Brittni Roldan - Britt the NP, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f9929d3b-9067-4478-befd-9e0cc00b5a41/2/320x400.jpeg)
Hello! I'm Britt ;) Thank you for visiting! My goals are to help your reach your goals and full potential. I love getting to know people and hearing your unique story. My goals are to use my listening skills and experience as a family & psych NP to help you identify and work on any issues. I am developing more interest in the integrative approach to health so will be exploring that more. I am open to working with you in flexible ways to deliver care that is meaningful to you. I have an open mind approach to life and care. I do not prescribe controlled meds.
Hello! I'm Britt ;) Thank you for visiting! My goals are to help your reach your goals and full potential. I love getting to know people and hearing your unique story. My goals are to use my listening skills and experience as a family & psych NP to help you identify and work on any issues. I am developing more interest in the integrative approach to health so will be exploring that more. I am open to working with you in flexible ways to deliver care that is meaningful to you. I have an open mind approach to life and care. I do not prescribe controlled meds.
![Photo of Gerthy Cipus Pierre - Sunrise Family Practice Mind & Body Wellness, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4aab82fb-6c7a-489f-b380-789d9cf33982/1/320x400.jpeg)
Sunrise Family Practice Mind & Body Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
O Fallon, IL 62269 (Online Only)
I specialize in clients dedicated to nurturing their mental and physical well-being, navigating challenges such as depression, anxiety, ADHD, Bipolar disorder, and a strong desire for relief. I am committed to enhancing mental health for both adults and children. Driven by a profound longing for an improved quality of life, my ideal client is prepared for a comprehensive treatment approach that integrates medication management with accessible therapy strategies.
I specialize in clients dedicated to nurturing their mental and physical well-being, navigating challenges such as depression, anxiety, ADHD, Bipolar disorder, and a strong desire for relief. I am committed to enhancing mental health for both adults and children. Driven by a profound longing for an improved quality of life, my ideal client is prepared for a comprehensive treatment approach that integrates medication management with accessible therapy strategies.
![Photo of Amber Altidor, DNP, APN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/17c209e7-8c83-401a-b275-cf564869ad1d/2/320x400.png)
Amber Altidor
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Springfield, IL 62704 (Online Only)
Are you struggling with anxiety or depression at home, at school, at work or socially? Have you become frustrated with not meeting your goals in these settings because of how you're feeling emotionally? Are you experiencing trouble concentrating or sleeping? Are you hoping to develop new coping strategies that support your lifestyle and functioning? I am able to provide medication management with psychotherapy to treat your symptoms so that you can start to or get back to enjoying your life and meeting your goals.
Are you struggling with anxiety or depression at home, at school, at work or socially? Have you become frustrated with not meeting your goals in these settings because of how you're feeling emotionally? Are you experiencing trouble concentrating or sleeping? Are you hoping to develop new coping strategies that support your lifestyle and functioning? I am able to provide medication management with psychotherapy to treat your symptoms so that you can start to or get back to enjoying your life and meeting your goals.
![Photo of Julie Haggerty, PMHNP, BC, APRN, MSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1090a760-4ab7-4f79-ae4f-b661d0fc4ba3/1/320x400.jpeg)
Julie Haggerty
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC, APRN, MSN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Canton, IL 61520 (Online Only)
I have 14 years experience as a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner treating patients of all ages dealing with a variety of mental health issues. I provide medication management and mental health therapy. I provide supportive and nonjudgmental treatment which allows patients to feel more comfortable talking about their issues which helps me better understand what they are dealing with so I can help them to better deal with their mental health issues and life stressors. To schedule an appointment click on my Website link at the bottom of the page or call the number and ask to be scheduled with me.
I have 14 years experience as a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner treating patients of all ages dealing with a variety of mental health issues. I provide medication management and mental health therapy. I provide supportive and nonjudgmental treatment which allows patients to feel more comfortable talking about their issues which helps me better understand what they are dealing with so I can help them to better deal with their mental health issues and life stressors. To schedule an appointment click on my Website link at the bottom of the page or call the number and ask to be scheduled with me.
![Photo of Dr. Chenhang Zou, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c7171edd-2d24-486d-9b4b-0fc5bdcf1832/1/320x400.jpeg)
Embark on your healing journey with Dr. Zou, a Board-certified psychiatrist who blends the precision of medicine with the art of psychotherapy. Trained at Emory and UAlabama, Dr. Zou is expert at integrating medication management and psychotherapy, including CBT. But her approach is not just about effective treatment; it's about empowering you with self-knowledge and tools for sustainable mental well-being. With Dr. Zou, you can explore a personalized, empathetic approach that resonates uniquely with you.
Embark on your healing journey with Dr. Zou, a Board-certified psychiatrist who blends the precision of medicine with the art of psychotherapy. Trained at Emory and UAlabama, Dr. Zou is expert at integrating medication management and psychotherapy, including CBT. But her approach is not just about effective treatment; it's about empowering you with self-knowledge and tools for sustainable mental well-being. With Dr. Zou, you can explore a personalized, empathetic approach that resonates uniquely with you.
![Photo of Melinda Rader, MSN, PMHNP-, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/17725866-41b0-43dc-88ef-ce84b3a61066/1/320x400.jpeg)
Mindy Rader is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Illinois who has been practicing since 2015. She has an AND from Lincolnland Community College, a BSN from Southern Illinois University at Edwardsville, an MSN from University of Phoenix, and a Postgraduate PMHNP certification from Saint Louis University. Mindy offers medication management with a supportive and collaborative attitude. She has a nonjudgmental manner and spends the time needed to get to know each of her clients so that she can understand each person’s unique history and needs.
Mindy Rader is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Illinois who has been practicing since 2015. She has an AND from Lincolnland Community College, a BSN from Southern Illinois University at Edwardsville, an MSN from University of Phoenix, and a Postgraduate PMHNP certification from Saint Louis University. Mindy offers medication management with a supportive and collaborative attitude. She has a nonjudgmental manner and spends the time needed to get to know each of her clients so that she can understand each person’s unique history and needs.
![Photo of Dagny Michel, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6691916b-ad86-407a-8ab5-f63e7dc588de/1/320x400.jpeg)
Hey there! I am a dual certified Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner located in Central Illinois.
Hey there! I am a dual certified Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner located in Central Illinois.
![Photo of Chandra Pierson-Rye, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b645f22a-367c-403c-847a-007f757372ab/2/320x400.jpeg)
Chandra A. Pierson-Rye is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Illinois who has been practicing since 2016. She has over 20 years of diverse clinical experience. She received her Bachelor's in Science & Nursing (BSN) from MacMurray college, her Master's in Nursing & Science (MSN) from Maryville University, and her Doctorate in Nursing Practice (DNP) from Southern Illinois University “ Edwardsville (SIU-E). She is a member of several organizations, including Sigma Theta Tau Nursing Honor Society.
Chandra A. Pierson-Rye is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Illinois who has been practicing since 2016. She has over 20 years of diverse clinical experience. She received her Bachelor's in Science & Nursing (BSN) from MacMurray college, her Master's in Nursing & Science (MSN) from Maryville University, and her Doctorate in Nursing Practice (DNP) from Southern Illinois University “ Edwardsville (SIU-E). She is a member of several organizations, including Sigma Theta Tau Nursing Honor Society.
![Photo of Ebele Nnenna Iloabachie, MSN, FNP-BC, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/443397c4-7e87-4d01-80f0-b385d1108e61/1/320x400.jpeg)
Ebele Nnenna Iloabachie
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, FNP-BC, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Fairview Heights, IL 62208 (Online Only)
Are you struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma, Bipolar disorder, Schizophrenia or any other mood alterations ? I am a dually certified Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in the state of Illinois with prescriptive authority. I received a BSN and master's degrees from Saint Louis University, a post- master degree as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner from University of Cincinnati. I believe that my dual certification puts me in a unique position to provide highly specialized, patient-centered holistic care that takes into consideration, the patient's physical ailments.
Are you struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma, Bipolar disorder, Schizophrenia or any other mood alterations ? I am a dually certified Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in the state of Illinois with prescriptive authority. I received a BSN and master's degrees from Saint Louis University, a post- master degree as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner from University of Cincinnati. I believe that my dual certification puts me in a unique position to provide highly specialized, patient-centered holistic care that takes into consideration, the patient's physical ailments.
![Photo of Melissa Hinds, APRN, NNP-BC, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cfbe00f0-024a-492c-a8ee-f318a8325b59/1/320x400.jpeg)
Melissa Hinds
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, NNP-BC, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Springfield, IL 62711
I'm a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner in Illinois. I have worked in the healthcare field for over 22 years with experience in emergency medicine, women's health, neonatology, and psychiatry. I offer psychotropic medication management as well as trauma-focused psychotherapy. Utilizing a holistic approach, I provide treatment for mood disorders, anxiety disorders, and trauma-related disorders. Each client's treatment plan is highly individualized and developed utilizing a shared decision-making model.
I'm a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner in Illinois. I have worked in the healthcare field for over 22 years with experience in emergency medicine, women's health, neonatology, and psychiatry. I offer psychotropic medication management as well as trauma-focused psychotherapy. Utilizing a holistic approach, I provide treatment for mood disorders, anxiety disorders, and trauma-related disorders. Each client's treatment plan is highly individualized and developed utilizing a shared decision-making model.
![Photo of Dr. Audrey Faulstich, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/09e26329-4208-4661-9824-d182bb9e1362/4/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Audrey Faulstich
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Maryville, IL 62062 (Online Only)
One model can’t fill all—which is why I take on an individualized integrative approach in treating patients struggling with mental illness. During your visit, you can choose as many treatment approaches as you want (e.g., natural supplements, medications, talk therapy, working with you spiritually, functional medicine ). For example, if you want to discuss medications, supplements, and do some counseling, you can. I have a lot of experience working with all types of mental illnesses from ages 4 to 75. I will work with you to find the underlying causes of your mental illness and above all, empower you towards your recovery.
One model can’t fill all—which is why I take on an individualized integrative approach in treating patients struggling with mental illness. During your visit, you can choose as many treatment approaches as you want (e.g., natural supplements, medications, talk therapy, working with you spiritually, functional medicine ). For example, if you want to discuss medications, supplements, and do some counseling, you can. I have a lot of experience working with all types of mental illnesses from ages 4 to 75. I will work with you to find the underlying causes of your mental illness and above all, empower you towards your recovery.
![Photo of Gil Gutierrez, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/049e7913-fb1d-4127-9363-e970087a19a2/1/320x400.jpeg)
Book with me now by clicking on my website. I am here to help people who prioritize their mental health but don't necessarily work traditional hours. I have worked the night shift for the last 13 years and know the challenges of such a schedule. The stressors of life are more difficult when you can't sleep, feel stressed, or have anxiety. Finding help shouldn't be that difficult so I offer flexible scheduling so you get the help when you need it most.
Book with me now by clicking on my website. I am here to help people who prioritize their mental health but don't necessarily work traditional hours. I have worked the night shift for the last 13 years and know the challenges of such a schedule. The stressors of life are more difficult when you can't sleep, feel stressed, or have anxiety. Finding help shouldn't be that difficult so I offer flexible scheduling so you get the help when you need it most.
![Photo of Stacey Davis, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e3582157-a8bc-4838-982b-5f21b0968dec/1/320x400.jpeg)
Stacey Davis
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Springfield, IL 62701 (Online Only)
I believe in patient-led care. As your provider, I am here to listen and to answer any questions that you may have.
I believe in patient-led care. As your provider, I am here to listen and to answer any questions that you may have.
![Photo of Crystal Stone - New Leaf Behavioral Health, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/02b888b0-e7b1-405e-8a40-2636bb9eb51c/1/320x400.jpeg)
New Leaf Behavioral Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Belleville, IL 62220
Empowering Minds, Transforming Lives: Your Path to Holistic Wellness! As a board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) and Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP-BC), I am dedicated to providing compassionate, comprehensive care that bridges the gap between mental and physical health. My approach is holistic, focusing on the whole person—mind, body, and spirit—to help you achieve your wellness goals.
Empowering Minds, Transforming Lives: Your Path to Holistic Wellness! As a board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) and Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP-BC), I am dedicated to providing compassionate, comprehensive care that bridges the gap between mental and physical health. My approach is holistic, focusing on the whole person—mind, body, and spirit—to help you achieve your wellness goals.
See more therapy options for Gillespie
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Gillespie, IL
< 10
Psychiatrists in Gillespie, IL who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
100% | Addiction |
100% | Child |
100% | ADHD |
100% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
100% | Parenting |
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
100% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
100% | Cigna and Evernorth |
How Psychiatrists in Gillespie, IL see their clients
100% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
100% | Female |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Gillespie?
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.