Psychiatrists in Covington, IN
![Photo of Whitney Allen, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f058a284-6b43-41d4-9f39-f56ea30be37d/1/320x400.png)
I am FNP-C is a certified Family Nurse Practitioner at Two Roads Wellness Clinic's Covington, Indiana office. I received my Bachelor of Science in Biology from Saint Mary of the Woods College, and a Bachelors of Science in Nursing from Lakeview College of Nursing. I earned my Masters of Science in Orthopedics at Grace College and my Masters of Science in Nursing from Purdue University Northwest.
I am FNP-C is a certified Family Nurse Practitioner at Two Roads Wellness Clinic's Covington, Indiana office. I received my Bachelor of Science in Biology from Saint Mary of the Woods College, and a Bachelors of Science in Nursing from Lakeview College of Nursing. I earned my Masters of Science in Orthopedics at Grace College and my Masters of Science in Nursing from Purdue University Northwest.
Online Psychiatrists
![Photo of Cameron Chappell, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e3cddc91-c352-4145-8630-d635c7dd8a1b/2/320x400.jpeg)
I believe that our mental health is the most important thing we have in this world, and I want to help as many people as I can. My goal is to improve access to mental health treatment.
I believe that our mental health is the most important thing we have in this world, and I want to help as many people as I can. My goal is to improve access to mental health treatment.
![Photo of Nesrin Abu Ata, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ae1491a6-4489-4655-9eb2-52015eab21fc/1/320x400.jpeg)
We all tend to seek help when what we are doing is no longer working, or we feel stuck , dissatisfied or our life is out of control, or someone we care about says that we should get help. I view these pivotal moments as potential moments of alchemy, if we are willing to be mindful with what is, staying with our experience and working through it. Remaining mindFUL allows the experience to teach us what we are supposed to learn, if we are open to it. I am here to support you as you go through your journey, face your challenges, identify patterns with you that keep you feel stuck so that you can be more free to be your best self.
We all tend to seek help when what we are doing is no longer working, or we feel stuck , dissatisfied or our life is out of control, or someone we care about says that we should get help. I view these pivotal moments as potential moments of alchemy, if we are willing to be mindful with what is, staying with our experience and working through it. Remaining mindFUL allows the experience to teach us what we are supposed to learn, if we are open to it. I am here to support you as you go through your journey, face your challenges, identify patterns with you that keep you feel stuck so that you can be more free to be your best self.
![Photo of Katie Larson (Kleckner), MMS, PA-C, CAQ-Psy, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/33e9e658-ab97-4287-baf5-7ce6e52f2ece/1/320x400.jpeg)
Since 2010, I have practiced medicine as a psychiatric Physician Assistant in IL, CA, and IN, working in outpatient, partial hospitalization, residential, and inpatient settings. Ultimately, my goal is to help end the unfortunate stigma and lack of resources that plague those with mental illness. And mental illness does not discriminate - it can afflict anyone at virtually any point during the lifespan and in any socioeconomic population. But, it is debilitating. It is often hard to identify or understand the symptoms and consequences of mental illness if it’s happening to you…let alone explain it to others. Let me help you!
Since 2010, I have practiced medicine as a psychiatric Physician Assistant in IL, CA, and IN, working in outpatient, partial hospitalization, residential, and inpatient settings. Ultimately, my goal is to help end the unfortunate stigma and lack of resources that plague those with mental illness. And mental illness does not discriminate - it can afflict anyone at virtually any point during the lifespan and in any socioeconomic population. But, it is debilitating. It is often hard to identify or understand the symptoms and consequences of mental illness if it’s happening to you…let alone explain it to others. Let me help you!
![Photo of Bethany Monte, CNM, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/854f891d-b523-4137-ab20-04312521fb98/1/320x400.jpeg)
Bethany Monte
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CNM
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Indianapolis, IN 46203
As a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner specializing in integrative psychiatry, I offer holistic care to men, women, and teens. Beyond conventional medication management, my approach delves into the root causes of mental health issues. I emphasize informed choices regarding medication, tailored to your needs, while also integrating lifestyle changes, nutritional guidance, and mindfulness. Committed to understanding and respecting your unique experiences, we'll collaborate on a treatment plan that empowers you towards lasting wellness.
As a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner specializing in integrative psychiatry, I offer holistic care to men, women, and teens. Beyond conventional medication management, my approach delves into the root causes of mental health issues. I emphasize informed choices regarding medication, tailored to your needs, while also integrating lifestyle changes, nutritional guidance, and mindfulness. Committed to understanding and respecting your unique experiences, we'll collaborate on a treatment plan that empowers you towards lasting wellness.
![Photo of Zeba Madni, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ae91e5ca-4bd9-4557-a5c1-6ec78b1964e0/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Zeba Madni is a Psychiatrist in Indiana who has been practicing since 2012. Dr. Madni completed her medical degree through Jawaharlal Nehru Medical College in Aligarh, India. She went on to complete her residency at Indiana University School of Medicine. Dr. Madni's interest to become a psychiatrist came from her interest in patients' stories and the need to help them, educate them and encourage them to take an active role in their care.
Dr. Zeba Madni is a Psychiatrist in Indiana who has been practicing since 2012. Dr. Madni completed her medical degree through Jawaharlal Nehru Medical College in Aligarh, India. She went on to complete her residency at Indiana University School of Medicine. Dr. Madni's interest to become a psychiatrist came from her interest in patients' stories and the need to help them, educate them and encourage them to take an active role in their care.
![Photo of Rhonda Palmer, PMHCNS-, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f1ef89d3-4f46-40eb-ac37-b81d62df5a82/1/320x400.jpeg)
Rhonda Palmer is a board certified child and adolescent mental health provider who began her career as a Licensed Practical Nurse serving both the geriatric population and children with terminal illnesses. She received her Bachelors and then Masters degree in Nursing from Indiana University in 2010. She was awarded her Doctor of Nursing Practice Degree (DNP) from Indiana Wesleyan University in 2017.
Rhonda Palmer is a board certified child and adolescent mental health provider who began her career as a Licensed Practical Nurse serving both the geriatric population and children with terminal illnesses. She received her Bachelors and then Masters degree in Nursing from Indiana University in 2010. She was awarded her Doctor of Nursing Practice Degree (DNP) from Indiana Wesleyan University in 2017.
![Photo of Kim M Hizer, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e3d4a132-e56b-47de-99ad-606e79f97666/1/320x400.jpeg)
Kim M Hizer
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Brownsburg, IN 46112 (Online Only)
Has life become overwhelming or unmanageable? Are you unsure where to look or how to choose a psychiatric provider? I understand the fear of choosing to reach out for help for the first time or leaving your current provider. You do not have to worry about being labeled or stigmatized. I am here to help YOU reach YOUR goals. I will listen to your concerns and develop an individualized treatment plan to help you overcome your barriers to reach your goals. I am currently accepting adult and teenagers (15 and older). I provide tele-health services. Please go to www.roadwaystorecovery.com soon to be Roadways to Wellness.
Has life become overwhelming or unmanageable? Are you unsure where to look or how to choose a psychiatric provider? I understand the fear of choosing to reach out for help for the first time or leaving your current provider. You do not have to worry about being labeled or stigmatized. I am here to help YOU reach YOUR goals. I will listen to your concerns and develop an individualized treatment plan to help you overcome your barriers to reach your goals. I am currently accepting adult and teenagers (15 and older). I provide tele-health services. Please go to www.roadwaystorecovery.com soon to be Roadways to Wellness.
![Photo of Michelle McCarthy, MSN, APN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4d6884a3-ed1e-4afd-8309-c2923c86ba40/1/320x400.png)
Michelle McCarthy
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Westfield, IN 46074
I am passionate in delivering care to individuals suffering from anxiety, substance use, and depression. Your motivation and dedication are key to utilize the tools provided during our sessions including medication management, implementing lifestyle interventions, and therapy to help develop and implement a successful treatment plan. Relief of suffering in dealing with mental health issues and striving for an improvement in quality of life is key to treatment.
I am passionate in delivering care to individuals suffering from anxiety, substance use, and depression. Your motivation and dedication are key to utilize the tools provided during our sessions including medication management, implementing lifestyle interventions, and therapy to help develop and implement a successful treatment plan. Relief of suffering in dealing with mental health issues and striving for an improvement in quality of life is key to treatment.
![Photo of Shawn McClure - Brightside Health, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cc63c6fb-4f65-48b9-b48a-48fe43a1b7b6/1/320x400.jpeg)
Brightside Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Beech Grove, IN 46107 (Online Only)
It gets much better from here. No matter what you're going through, our expert providers are here to help with online mental health care tailored to you. Brightside Health offers personalized psychiatry, proven therapy, or both to help you feel better. Get started right from home, with appointments in as little as 2 days.
It gets much better from here. No matter what you're going through, our expert providers are here to help with online mental health care tailored to you. Brightside Health offers personalized psychiatry, proven therapy, or both to help you feel better. Get started right from home, with appointments in as little as 2 days.
![Photo of Gary Wharton, MSN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f2b1fb24-29f7-414c-8cfd-a4e4b5d6fc19/2/320x400.jpeg)
Do you ever feel as if life is like a giant puzzle? You get one piece positioned just to discover another is out of place. Mental health issues can make you feel like all the puzzle pieces are out of place. As a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, I want to assist you in getting the pieces back in order. Helping my patients achieve their mental health goals is my priority, and it begins in a safe, judgment-free environment where active listening is utilized to gain perspective into your concerns. Medications are not always the answer, and it is my job to help you decide if medications are right for you.
Do you ever feel as if life is like a giant puzzle? You get one piece positioned just to discover another is out of place. Mental health issues can make you feel like all the puzzle pieces are out of place. As a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, I want to assist you in getting the pieces back in order. Helping my patients achieve their mental health goals is my priority, and it begins in a safe, judgment-free environment where active listening is utilized to gain perspective into your concerns. Medications are not always the answer, and it is my job to help you decide if medications are right for you.
![Photo of Nick Kelly, FNP-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9c01b7ba-8928-4281-928f-3d578c92c82c/1/320x400.jpeg)
Hello and thank you for visiting my page! My name is Nick and I specialize in ADHD, addiction, and mood disorders. As a mental health provider I believe it's my duty to legitimize and de-stigmatize mental health. Many of my patients have suffered with ADHD for most of their lives, but haven't been given the time, attention, or resources they need to thrive and live their best lives.
Hello and thank you for visiting my page! My name is Nick and I specialize in ADHD, addiction, and mood disorders. As a mental health provider I believe it's my duty to legitimize and de-stigmatize mental health. Many of my patients have suffered with ADHD for most of their lives, but haven't been given the time, attention, or resources they need to thrive and live their best lives.
![Photo of Dorothy Bodur, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/10540553-9776-4d75-99ea-48ad65ab9f69/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dorothy Bodur is board-certified by the American Nurses Credentialing Center as a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. She received her bachelor's and master's degree in nursing from University of Southern Indiana. Dorothy has experience treating patients in inpatient, outpatient, community, and home-based visits. She has extensive experience in pairing behavioral training with medication management. She specializes in treating children, adolescents, and adults with neurodiverse conditions such as autism spectrum disorder, intellectual disability, and attention deficit-hyperactivity disorder.
Dorothy Bodur is board-certified by the American Nurses Credentialing Center as a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. She received her bachelor's and master's degree in nursing from University of Southern Indiana. Dorothy has experience treating patients in inpatient, outpatient, community, and home-based visits. She has extensive experience in pairing behavioral training with medication management. She specializes in treating children, adolescents, and adults with neurodiverse conditions such as autism spectrum disorder, intellectual disability, and attention deficit-hyperactivity disorder.
![Photo of Michelle McCarthy, APN, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cd94fa28-d433-4197-86b2-b6ab1540f38c/1/320x400.png)
Michelle McCarthy
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Indianapolis, IN 46240
Michelle is passionate about delivering care to individuals suffering from anxiety, substance use, and depression. Client motivation and dedication are key to utilizing the tools provided during our sessions including medication management, implementing lifestyle interventions, and therapy to help develop and implement a successful treatment plan. Relief of the client's suffering in dealing with their mental health issues and striving for an improvement in their quality of life is key to treatment.
Michelle is passionate about delivering care to individuals suffering from anxiety, substance use, and depression. Client motivation and dedication are key to utilizing the tools provided during our sessions including medication management, implementing lifestyle interventions, and therapy to help develop and implement a successful treatment plan. Relief of the client's suffering in dealing with their mental health issues and striving for an improvement in their quality of life is key to treatment.
![Photo of Amber R Phebus, MSN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4425d82a-6b75-43c3-a62a-56421ac5815d/1/320x400.jpeg)
Amber R Phebus
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Lafayette, IN 47904
Hello, my name is Amber, and I am excited to get to know you! I have worked as a RN since 2008 after being in the U.S. Navy. I started my mental health career in 2016 and have worked as a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) since 2022 after graduating with my master's from Indiana Wesleyan University. I feel that the provider and patient relationship is very important, and that we should work together to meet your goals for your mental health outcomes! I take pride in being compassionate and understanding to your situations and to work together to create the best treatment plan tailored to your needs.
Hello, my name is Amber, and I am excited to get to know you! I have worked as a RN since 2008 after being in the U.S. Navy. I started my mental health career in 2016 and have worked as a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) since 2022 after graduating with my master's from Indiana Wesleyan University. I feel that the provider and patient relationship is very important, and that we should work together to meet your goals for your mental health outcomes! I take pride in being compassionate and understanding to your situations and to work together to create the best treatment plan tailored to your needs.
![Photo of Carl T Ratliff Jr, DO, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d5249528-4600-435a-b25b-d7cb26491da4/4/320x400.png)
As a double-board-certified psychiatrist with over fifteen years in the industry, I understand the difficulties families face in accessing quality mental health care. Although qualified to see people of all ages, I am passionate about caring for individuals under 18. I specialize in the treatment of depression, anxiety, ADHD, OCD, trauma-related disorders, autism spectrum disorders, as well as substance use disorders. The overall goal of treatment is to reduce symptoms, decrease stress, improve individual functioning, and improve family dynamics.
As a double-board-certified psychiatrist with over fifteen years in the industry, I understand the difficulties families face in accessing quality mental health care. Although qualified to see people of all ages, I am passionate about caring for individuals under 18. I specialize in the treatment of depression, anxiety, ADHD, OCD, trauma-related disorders, autism spectrum disorders, as well as substance use disorders. The overall goal of treatment is to reduce symptoms, decrease stress, improve individual functioning, and improve family dynamics.
![Photo of Danielle Perkins Manning, PhD, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fc3f53fe-7146-477a-b50e-3979b15053be/1/320x400.jpeg)
Danielle Perkins Manning
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Indianapolis, IN 46256
Just Mental Health, Incorporated, is a community-based outpatient mental health clinic owned and operated by Dr. Danielle Perkins Manning, a Black woman and native of Indianapolis, Indiana. She is a board-certified family psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with over 20 years of experience in nursing practice, education, and research.
Just Mental Health, Incorporated, is a community-based outpatient mental health clinic owned and operated by Dr. Danielle Perkins Manning, a Black woman and native of Indianapolis, Indiana. She is a board-certified family psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with over 20 years of experience in nursing practice, education, and research.
![Photo of Amanda V Kent, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ccd64e2a-406a-4fe1-9e06-03d9fd633200/2/320x400.jpeg)
Amanda V Kent
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Bloomington, IN 47401 (Online Only)
My clients come to me seeking help with various mental health conditions including depression, anxiety, PTSD, OCD, ADHD, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, substance use disorders, and many others. My goal is to work with my clients to help them find the right treatments and medications for them. You will leave my sessions feeling heard, cared for, and more hopeful.
My clients come to me seeking help with various mental health conditions including depression, anxiety, PTSD, OCD, ADHD, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, substance use disorders, and many others. My goal is to work with my clients to help them find the right treatments and medications for them. You will leave my sessions feeling heard, cared for, and more hopeful.
![Photo of Jill Lavonne Adams, MSN , ANP, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c0d203fd-d1bb-4e65-b117-ef2f3edb9831/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jill Lavonne Adams
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN , ANP, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Indianapolis, IN 46240 (Online Only)
Hello! I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Primary Care Nurse Practitioner with 20 years experience. You don't have to struggle alone I am here to help! You will have my undivided attention, patience and compassion. My practice philosophy is 'Holistic,' avoid symptom chasing- get to the underlying problem. If you're tired of trying many different treatments with no results and feel as though no one is listening, you have come to the right place! Together, we will formulate a treatment plan specific to your individual needs.
Hello! I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Primary Care Nurse Practitioner with 20 years experience. You don't have to struggle alone I am here to help! You will have my undivided attention, patience and compassion. My practice philosophy is 'Holistic,' avoid symptom chasing- get to the underlying problem. If you're tired of trying many different treatments with no results and feel as though no one is listening, you have come to the right place! Together, we will formulate a treatment plan specific to your individual needs.
![Photo of Jayanthi K Peters, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/edfbfedd-1e74-487f-8996-a6f19fe20b26/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am a double board certified child, adolescent and adult psychiatrist. I completed my general psychiatry residency at Yale University in 1996 and my child psychiatry fellowship at UCLA in 1998. I have practiced in various clinical settings in Canada and the U.S., including outpatient, inpatient, residential, partial hospitalization, and emergency room. My diverse clinical experience includes practice in academic centers, community mental health agencies, and private practice.
I am a double board certified child, adolescent and adult psychiatrist. I completed my general psychiatry residency at Yale University in 1996 and my child psychiatry fellowship at UCLA in 1998. I have practiced in various clinical settings in Canada and the U.S., including outpatient, inpatient, residential, partial hospitalization, and emergency room. My diverse clinical experience includes practice in academic centers, community mental health agencies, and private practice.
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How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Covington, IN
< 10
Psychiatrists in Covington, IN who prioritize treating:
Gender breakdown
100% | Female |
How Psychiatrists in Covington, IN see their clients
100% | In Person and Online |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Covington?
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.