Psychiatrists in Portland, OR
![Photo of Michelle Schilz, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/430b6974-646c-438d-ba31-e41f849a0a29/1/320x400.jpeg)
Now taking new clients. To contact me, make an appointment for a phone call at calendly.com/rainfallwellness. (I am bad at voicemail and email.) I welcome TRANS and GNB folks. I welcome PLURALS and SYSTEMS. I work with people who have ADHD and I prescribe ADHD meds. I teach clients about how our brain causes our symptoms. I do my best to provide safe and respectful care to my Queer and Gender-nonconforming sibs. Together, we will find a treatment plan that suits best.
Now taking new clients. To contact me, make an appointment for a phone call at calendly.com/rainfallwellness. (I am bad at voicemail and email.) I welcome TRANS and GNB folks. I welcome PLURALS and SYSTEMS. I work with people who have ADHD and I prescribe ADHD meds. I teach clients about how our brain causes our symptoms. I do my best to provide safe and respectful care to my Queer and Gender-nonconforming sibs. Together, we will find a treatment plan that suits best.
![Photo of Ayisha Sanda, MSN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1357dc1f-90a5-4ef7-b984-477ade825754/1/320x400.jpeg)
Ayisha Sanda
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97204 (Online Only)
Accepting new patients/ Appointments are available within 48HRS/ Offering free 15mins consultations. I am a board-certified Psychiatric mental health practitioner. Before becoming a nurse, I was a social worker who provided targeted case management to people with mental health disorders. I am a dedicated, compassionate, knowledgeable nurse practitioner who offers high-quality of care to individuals presenting with diverse psychiatric diagnoses such as anxiety, ADHD(testing available) , depression, PTSD, bipolar disorder and many more . My approach is holistic, evidenced based individualized strategies tailored towards your needs.
Accepting new patients/ Appointments are available within 48HRS/ Offering free 15mins consultations. I am a board-certified Psychiatric mental health practitioner. Before becoming a nurse, I was a social worker who provided targeted case management to people with mental health disorders. I am a dedicated, compassionate, knowledgeable nurse practitioner who offers high-quality of care to individuals presenting with diverse psychiatric diagnoses such as anxiety, ADHD(testing available) , depression, PTSD, bipolar disorder and many more . My approach is holistic, evidenced based individualized strategies tailored towards your needs.
![Photo of Taqialdeen Zamil, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/87a15166-66f5-42b6-9d1e-3b569484f9a7/1/320x400.jpeg)
Taqialdeen Zamil
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97210 (Online Only)
Welcome to my practice. With over a decade of diverse clinical experience, I've had the privilege of guiding clients through the intricate landscape of mental health. From adolescents struggling with identity issues, adults combating anxiety, to those deciphering the layers of substance use, depressive or bipolar disorders, PTSD, or OCD, I've witnessed the resilience of the human spirit. I'm passionate about providing evidence-based, compassionate care to empower individuals to reclaim control and joy in their lives. If you seek a deeper understanding and the tools to flourish, I'm here to support you on this transformative journey.
Welcome to my practice. With over a decade of diverse clinical experience, I've had the privilege of guiding clients through the intricate landscape of mental health. From adolescents struggling with identity issues, adults combating anxiety, to those deciphering the layers of substance use, depressive or bipolar disorders, PTSD, or OCD, I've witnessed the resilience of the human spirit. I'm passionate about providing evidence-based, compassionate care to empower individuals to reclaim control and joy in their lives. If you seek a deeper understanding and the tools to flourish, I'm here to support you on this transformative journey.
![Photo of Shinichi Daimyo, MSN, MPH, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5d99987e-5d20-4945-adc8-5782b51ce9fd/1/320x400.jpeg)
Shinichi Daimyo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, MPH, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97229 (Online Only)
CURRENTLY ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS! I aim to bring empathy into every moment of care I provide to my clients. I strive to create an empowering and empathy-focused environment, where the needs, goals, and aspirations of my client's mental health and life are the driving force in how I provide psychiatry and psychotherapy care. My approach is collaborative and client-centered, valuing a client’s experience and perspective as important as my expertise as a mental health provider.
CURRENTLY ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS! I aim to bring empathy into every moment of care I provide to my clients. I strive to create an empowering and empathy-focused environment, where the needs, goals, and aspirations of my client's mental health and life are the driving force in how I provide psychiatry and psychotherapy care. My approach is collaborative and client-centered, valuing a client’s experience and perspective as important as my expertise as a mental health provider.
![Photo of Rachel C Ward, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3aa533f7-ec15-4c77-a83e-d096ab490e23/1/320x400.jpeg)
Rachel C Ward
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97225
Struggling with relationships, feeling overwhelmed, and finding it hard to keep up with school or work because of difficulty in social situations, inability to organize yourself, disrupted sleep, or tumultuous moods? You're not alone. I understand the dread and paralyzing effects these symptoms can have on your life.
Struggling with relationships, feeling overwhelmed, and finding it hard to keep up with school or work because of difficulty in social situations, inability to organize yourself, disrupted sleep, or tumultuous moods? You're not alone. I understand the dread and paralyzing effects these symptoms can have on your life.
![Photo of Lynaudry Louise Vickers, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a87c018e-4262-4118-b576-395c02c6cdfe/2/320x400.jpeg)
Lynaudry Louise Vickers
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97209 (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) and have earned Bachelor of Science in Nursing, Master of Science in Nursing, and Doctorate of Nursing Practice degrees from Oregon Health & Science University. I specialize in the assessment, diagnosis, and pharmacological management of psychiatric conditions throughout the lifespan. I am passionate about providing a holistic and evidence-based approach to psychiatric care.
I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) and have earned Bachelor of Science in Nursing, Master of Science in Nursing, and Doctorate of Nursing Practice degrees from Oregon Health & Science University. I specialize in the assessment, diagnosis, and pharmacological management of psychiatric conditions throughout the lifespan. I am passionate about providing a holistic and evidence-based approach to psychiatric care.
![Photo of Annie Hood, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/44eec3ae-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I received advanced practice training at OHSU, graduating with MSN in addition to a Psychology MA from the University of British Columbia. I am Board Certified by the American Nurses Credentialing Center as lifespan Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC). I provide psychiatric services to individuals ages 16 and older and have expertise in treatments for anxiety, depression, trauma, psychosis, and medication-assisted treatments for substance use. My approach is client-centered, warm, and collaborative; employing evidence-based pharmacotherapeutic and functional interventions to support individual wellness goals.
I received advanced practice training at OHSU, graduating with MSN in addition to a Psychology MA from the University of British Columbia. I am Board Certified by the American Nurses Credentialing Center as lifespan Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC). I provide psychiatric services to individuals ages 16 and older and have expertise in treatments for anxiety, depression, trauma, psychosis, and medication-assisted treatments for substance use. My approach is client-centered, warm, and collaborative; employing evidence-based pharmacotherapeutic and functional interventions to support individual wellness goals.
![Photo of Naomi Suhler, MS, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3c123cec-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Welcome. I'm a Board Certified and Licensed Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with advanced training in medication management, mindful based cognitive therapy and Acceptance Commitment Therapy (ACT). I provide trauma informed, person-centered care utilizing medications, cognitive-behavioral approaches, mindfulness and coping skills training to individuals seeking relief from mental health symptoms that have impacted their happiness, connection with others, work productivity and quality of life.
Welcome. I'm a Board Certified and Licensed Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with advanced training in medication management, mindful based cognitive therapy and Acceptance Commitment Therapy (ACT). I provide trauma informed, person-centered care utilizing medications, cognitive-behavioral approaches, mindfulness and coping skills training to individuals seeking relief from mental health symptoms that have impacted their happiness, connection with others, work productivity and quality of life.
![Photo of Kristen Fernandez-Kong, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a1425f0a-2150-4fc6-a6e1-81967c806878/3/320x400.jpeg)
Kristen Fernandez-Kong
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97232
I believe that patients are essential members of their healthcare team and should be involved in making decisions that affect their wellbeing. Patients are often experts of their own body and experiences; if not, we will work through blockages disconnecting oneself from one's body to gain insights. It can be overwhelming to seek help for mental health and be vulnerable with a new provider, so I want patients to know that I am here for you with an open heart and nonjudgmental mind. Since I have worked with patients who felt misunderstood or mistreated by healthcare professionals, I intentionally endeavor to break that pattern.
I believe that patients are essential members of their healthcare team and should be involved in making decisions that affect their wellbeing. Patients are often experts of their own body and experiences; if not, we will work through blockages disconnecting oneself from one's body to gain insights. It can be overwhelming to seek help for mental health and be vulnerable with a new provider, so I want patients to know that I am here for you with an open heart and nonjudgmental mind. Since I have worked with patients who felt misunderstood or mistreated by healthcare professionals, I intentionally endeavor to break that pattern.
![Photo of Cecily Allen - Holistic Well, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d323e36b-8aef-482c-8e58-02fe767bcfd2/1/320x400.jpeg)
Great to meet you! Working in Psychiatric mental health since 2016, I help children and adults throughout the lifespan. I have an MSN from Regis College. Neurodivergent individuals and those with special needs are very welcome to my practice. I provide LGBTQAI+ affirming care. I offer no-rush care and supportive therapy for a range of issues. Your goals are my goals. Satisfaction and life-fulfillment are on the horizon and I can help you on this journey.
Great to meet you! Working in Psychiatric mental health since 2016, I help children and adults throughout the lifespan. I have an MSN from Regis College. Neurodivergent individuals and those with special needs are very welcome to my practice. I provide LGBTQAI+ affirming care. I offer no-rush care and supportive therapy for a range of issues. Your goals are my goals. Satisfaction and life-fulfillment are on the horizon and I can help you on this journey.
![Photo of Jaymie Stovall - La Lune Integrative Psychiatry PLLC, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6ec8eab8-5fc0-4a66-9a0c-687a61c1c871/1/320x400.png)
La Lune Integrative Psychiatry PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97239 (Online Only)
Accepting New Patients at joinlalune.com. Jaymie is a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner who has been working in healthcare for over 15 years. Since 2013, she has worked as a registered nurse and has experience in different areas such as critical care, inpatient medical care and specialty surgeries, cardiology, memory care and rehabilitation, and psychiatry. As a former member of a Program for Assertive Community Treatment (PACT), she became proficient in crisis prevention and intervention, and motivational interviewing. She is an instructor of mental health nursing at the undergraduate university level.
Accepting New Patients at joinlalune.com. Jaymie is a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner who has been working in healthcare for over 15 years. Since 2013, she has worked as a registered nurse and has experience in different areas such as critical care, inpatient medical care and specialty surgeries, cardiology, memory care and rehabilitation, and psychiatry. As a former member of a Program for Assertive Community Treatment (PACT), she became proficient in crisis prevention and intervention, and motivational interviewing. She is an instructor of mental health nursing at the undergraduate university level.
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![Photo of Anna Cox, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8e81c1ef-4c3b-49b8-84d4-5c2ef5067e70/1/320x400.jpeg)
Now Accepting New Clients! Are you ready to reach out for help, tired of feeling overwhelmed and confused? You've come to the right place. I have years of experience helping people feel better, and getting their lives going in the right direction again.
Now Accepting New Clients! Are you ready to reach out for help, tired of feeling overwhelmed and confused? You've come to the right place. I have years of experience helping people feel better, and getting their lives going in the right direction again.
![Photo of Linda Bett - Healthcore Psychiatry Consultants, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, -BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/49466927-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Healthcore Psychiatry Consultants
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97205 (Online Only)
Welcome to Healthcore Psychiatry Consultants! I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner providing care to Adults with various mental health conditions. My practice is focused on providing holistic-evidence based care centered on social, cultural, and preventive aspects of mental health.
Welcome to Healthcore Psychiatry Consultants! I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner providing care to Adults with various mental health conditions. My practice is focused on providing holistic-evidence based care centered on social, cultural, and preventive aspects of mental health.
![Photo of Kathryn Zerbe, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/dea2a323-a038-4648-85f4-64ddc9362917/3/320x400.jpeg)
I work with patients individually and have been inspired to witness personal transformation and growth even after the most difficult life circumstances. My practice includes longer term psychotherapy, psychoanalysis, short-term consultation, and supervision of mental health professionals of all disciplines. Although my approach is primarily psychodynamic, I believe it is important to maintain an integrated treatment perspective because every person is unique. Particular areas of interest include the impact and psychological cost of keeping family secrets, personal growth over the adult life cycle, building resiliency, privacy
I work with patients individually and have been inspired to witness personal transformation and growth even after the most difficult life circumstances. My practice includes longer term psychotherapy, psychoanalysis, short-term consultation, and supervision of mental health professionals of all disciplines. Although my approach is primarily psychodynamic, I believe it is important to maintain an integrated treatment perspective because every person is unique. Particular areas of interest include the impact and psychological cost of keeping family secrets, personal growth over the adult life cycle, building resiliency, privacy
![Photo of Stefan Bulatovic, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a8180355-1134-4de4-86c1-04e320c8230a/2/320x400.jpeg)
Stefan Bulatovic
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97220
Our therapeutic alliance is the very foundation of successful outcomes. By taking the time to listen to and understand the client, I explore various factors that could be contributing to the clinical presentation, and in turn, aim to develop a mutually agreeable, practical, and effective treatment plan.
Our therapeutic alliance is the very foundation of successful outcomes. By taking the time to listen to and understand the client, I explore various factors that could be contributing to the clinical presentation, and in turn, aim to develop a mutually agreeable, practical, and effective treatment plan.
![Photo of Tara O'Connor, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cc2fdbb3-6af2-4d06-815f-d1bd1764d98e/1/320x400.png)
Tara O'Connor
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97213
Not accepting new clients
Healing is intimidating. It invites you to create new pathways in your brain, new patterns in your daily habits, and new ways of being with yourself. I believe in a therapeutic relationship as the cornerstone to creating space for health, healing, and personal growth. We will collaborate on a whole person approach to your mental health, including whether or not medication management is right for you. -Email is my preferred method of initial contact-
Healing is intimidating. It invites you to create new pathways in your brain, new patterns in your daily habits, and new ways of being with yourself. I believe in a therapeutic relationship as the cornerstone to creating space for health, healing, and personal growth. We will collaborate on a whole person approach to your mental health, including whether or not medication management is right for you. -Email is my preferred method of initial contact-
![Photo of Lindsay Ann Howard - Headlight / Portland, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/120254ad-b841-4859-a406-bba2f1015cf3/1/320x400.jpeg)
Headlight is proud to offer Portland, OR a full circle of mental health care services, including therapy, coaching, support groups, medication management, and an online library of self-care resources. We make world-class mental health care accessible for everyone!
Headlight is proud to offer Portland, OR a full circle of mental health care services, including therapy, coaching, support groups, medication management, and an online library of self-care resources. We make world-class mental health care accessible for everyone!
![Photo of Carl Glissmeyer, PA-C, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/de7f6ae6-d660-4158-b2a4-055cee2ce0cf/2/320x400.png)
I seek to create an opportunity for real change through both reflection and action. My belief is that each person has a unique story that deserves attention, and I am committed to listening. Approaching discussions in a relaxed and practical way, I have seen many positive shifts in people. Let's make decisions together – I want you to feel well-informed and actively engaged in your care.
I seek to create an opportunity for real change through both reflection and action. My belief is that each person has a unique story that deserves attention, and I am committed to listening. Approaching discussions in a relaxed and practical way, I have seen many positive shifts in people. Let's make decisions together – I want you to feel well-informed and actively engaged in your care.
![Photo of Shayna Loomis, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2c8e82aa-afcd-40cb-9249-d3d3bb55c4ab/1/320x400.jpeg)
While medication management plays a pivotal role in recovery, the connection, support and care from a provider is the foundation for a powerful growth process. As an experienced mental healthcare professional, I understand the benefits and challenges that can come with psychiatric medications and I know the importance of staying current with evidence.
While medication management plays a pivotal role in recovery, the connection, support and care from a provider is the foundation for a powerful growth process. As an experienced mental healthcare professional, I understand the benefits and challenges that can come with psychiatric medications and I know the importance of staying current with evidence.
Maggie Gareau
Psychiatric Nurse, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97219 (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Are you experiencing distress due to trauma, relationships, fears, internal conflicts, self esteem, or feeling stuck. Some things are just too difficult to go through or examine alone and having compassionate, open and knowlegeable accompaniment can be the key to understanding and growth. I provide psychodynamic therapy to adults.
Are you experiencing distress due to trauma, relationships, fears, internal conflicts, self esteem, or feeling stuck. Some things are just too difficult to go through or examine alone and having compassionate, open and knowlegeable accompaniment can be the key to understanding and growth. I provide psychodynamic therapy to adults.
See more therapy options for Portland
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Portland, OR
400+
Average cost per session
$250
Psychiatrists in Portland, OR who prioritize treating:
95% | Depression |
95% | Anxiety |
81% | Medication Management |
74% | Trauma and PTSD |
73% | Bipolar Disorder |
72% | ADHD |
64% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
Average years in practice
10 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
74% | Aetna |
73% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
66% | PacificSource |
How Psychiatrists in Portland, OR see their clients
62% | In Person and Online | |
38% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
73% | Female | |
26% | Male | |
1% | Non-Binary |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Portland?
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.