Psychiatrists in Rockcastle County, KY
![Photo of Linda Thomas - Parsons Medication Management, PMHNP, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/482bfdcc-3e1c-4378-a701-a57cb120d907/1/320x400.png)
Parsons Medication Management
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN
Verified Verified
Mount Vernon, KY 40456
At Parsons Counseling, we believe each person deserves to feel seen, heard, and understood. Our goal is to care for you, your family, and your unique situation to help you learn, heal, and thrive! When counseling alone falls short, our psychiatric nurse practitioners are here to support you and help find the right solution for your mental health.
At Parsons Counseling, we believe each person deserves to feel seen, heard, and understood. Our goal is to care for you, your family, and your unique situation to help you learn, heal, and thrive! When counseling alone falls short, our psychiatric nurse practitioners are here to support you and help find the right solution for your mental health.
Online Psychiatrists
![Photo of Patricia Estes, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/54c0c628-9358-4e5b-85fc-93f3054953b2/1/320x400.jpeg)
Amber Estes is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Kentucky who has been practicing since 2020. She has an MSN from Northern Kentucky University, a BSN in Nursing from University of Kentucky, and a BA in Psychology from University of Kentucky. Amber specifically has experience in helping patients cope with stressors associated with chronic health conditions and other major life stressors. She strives to provide individualized care that supports the unique differences of each client she sees. Outside of work, Amber enjoys hiking, spending time with family, and traveling.
Amber Estes is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Kentucky who has been practicing since 2020. She has an MSN from Northern Kentucky University, a BSN in Nursing from University of Kentucky, and a BA in Psychology from University of Kentucky. Amber specifically has experience in helping patients cope with stressors associated with chronic health conditions and other major life stressors. She strives to provide individualized care that supports the unique differences of each client she sees. Outside of work, Amber enjoys hiking, spending time with family, and traveling.
![Photo of Brian Richardson, PMHNP, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6d32e879-e987-4845-a720-70a61e9a6cb4/1/320x400.jpeg)
Brian Richardson is a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner who received his"¯Master's"¯Degree"¯from Northern Kentucky University. "¯ He received a bachelor's degree in nursing and environmental studies from Eastern Kentucky University. "¯ He has"¯experience"¯working"¯at Cardinal Hill dealing with traumatic brain injury patients and"¯the"¯rehabilitative needs of patients with acute medical conditions. "¯ He has"¯also"¯worked at the Ridge inpatient"¯services"¯with children, adolescents, and adult populations. "¯ His special interests include treatment of depression, anxiety, and bipolar disorders.
Brian Richardson is a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner who received his"¯Master's"¯Degree"¯from Northern Kentucky University. "¯ He received a bachelor's degree in nursing and environmental studies from Eastern Kentucky University. "¯ He has"¯experience"¯working"¯at Cardinal Hill dealing with traumatic brain injury patients and"¯the"¯rehabilitative needs of patients with acute medical conditions. "¯ He has"¯also"¯worked at the Ridge inpatient"¯services"¯with children, adolescents, and adult populations. "¯ His special interests include treatment of depression, anxiety, and bipolar disorders.
![Photo of Kim Vilt, APRN, PMH-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f8e9dc45-e931-4ac0-ab76-5d8fd73ea7e9/2/320x400.jpeg)
Kim Vilt
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMH-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Louisville, KY 40223
Accepting New Patients May 28, 2024. Hello! I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner experienced working with patients in both inpatient and outpatient psychiatric settings. I welcome the opportunity to work with you and support you on your journey to better mental health. I am experienced in helping adult patients navigate depression, anxiety, Bipolar Spectrum Disorders, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, PTSD, Schizophrenia Disorders and cognitive challenges. I particularly enjoy providing care to individuals who are experiencing emotional and psychological challenges during pregnancy and the postpartum period.
Accepting New Patients May 28, 2024. Hello! I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner experienced working with patients in both inpatient and outpatient psychiatric settings. I welcome the opportunity to work with you and support you on your journey to better mental health. I am experienced in helping adult patients navigate depression, anxiety, Bipolar Spectrum Disorders, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, PTSD, Schizophrenia Disorders and cognitive challenges. I particularly enjoy providing care to individuals who are experiencing emotional and psychological challenges during pregnancy and the postpartum period.
![Photo of Gabrielle Caniglia, PMHNPBC, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/05518941-41cd-4b13-872e-0e2228112c05/1/320x400.png)
Gabrielle Caniglia
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC, APRN
Verified Verified
Louisville, KY 40223 (Online Only)
I have been in practice as a nurse practitioner since 2016 working in various outpatient settings. I treat children, adolescents and adults. Let’s work together as a team to create a treatment plan that best suits you as an individual. I accept most insurances as well as cash pay. I currently only offer telehealth sessions.
I have been in practice as a nurse practitioner since 2016 working in various outpatient settings. I treat children, adolescents and adults. Let’s work together as a team to create a treatment plan that best suits you as an individual. I accept most insurances as well as cash pay. I currently only offer telehealth sessions.
![Photo of Shakaola Pinero, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/030878ea-8712-472b-bd28-d7ab0f4b292c/1/320x400.jpeg)
Shakaola Pinero
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Lexington, KY 40504 (Online Only)
Shakaola is an Intuitive Nurse Practitioner with 14 years of experience in mental health and 11 years of experience as a Provider treating adults. She received her Masters from Emory University in Atlanta, Georgia. Shakaola takes a holistic approach in caring for her clients.
Shakaola is an Intuitive Nurse Practitioner with 14 years of experience in mental health and 11 years of experience as a Provider treating adults. She received her Masters from Emory University in Atlanta, Georgia. Shakaola takes a holistic approach in caring for her clients.
![Photo of Jessica Sibbie, PMHNP, BSN, RN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c08e371e-8225-451c-9da2-8030a3b9ff1e/3/320x400.png)
Jessica Sibbie
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BSN, RN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Louisville, KY 40222
I have been a registered nurse since 2015. My experience as bedside nurse in the hospital made me realize how important mental health is in treating patients holistically. My knowledge and experience motivated me to focus on a critical area in a person’s life that is often overlooked. I believe your feelings, emotions, and thoughts are valid. Although I am a newly graduated board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner, together we can focus on building a better version of you. Your treatment plan will be guided by evidence base practice and the latest clinical guidelines. Please know I do not prescribe benzodiazepines.
I have been a registered nurse since 2015. My experience as bedside nurse in the hospital made me realize how important mental health is in treating patients holistically. My knowledge and experience motivated me to focus on a critical area in a person’s life that is often overlooked. I believe your feelings, emotions, and thoughts are valid. Although I am a newly graduated board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner, together we can focus on building a better version of you. Your treatment plan will be guided by evidence base practice and the latest clinical guidelines. Please know I do not prescribe benzodiazepines.
![Photo of Ashley Staten - Brightside Health, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/766f4037-9241-47b4-8872-d8b24e2f6f75/1/320x400.jpeg)
Brightside Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Frankfort, KY 40601 (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 Ashley Ann Ricketts, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6803987f-9b75-4a9e-9aa3-54efd5067954/1/320x400.jpeg)
Adolescent, teen and adult psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) - I believe in patient-centered, individualized, & holistic approaches to one's well-being. I will take my time in assessing your mental, physical, environmental and spiritual needs. I encourage utilizing physical activity, nutrition, and social connectedness in addition to conventional treatments such as medication management or therapy. My hope is to help you identify your strengths and challenges to create a roadmap in establishing customized goals and treatment plan.
Adolescent, teen and adult psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) - I believe in patient-centered, individualized, & holistic approaches to one's well-being. I will take my time in assessing your mental, physical, environmental and spiritual needs. I encourage utilizing physical activity, nutrition, and social connectedness in addition to conventional treatments such as medication management or therapy. My hope is to help you identify your strengths and challenges to create a roadmap in establishing customized goals and treatment plan.
![Photo of Autumn Shutt, PMHNP, PMH-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/dfe9aa9b-9985-4562-a96b-9316ccb79716/1/320x400.jpeg)
Autumn Shutt is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and offers medication management for adults and adolescents ages 14 and older. Her areas of interest include women's mental health, perinatal mood disorders, depression, anxiety, post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), bipolar disorder, obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD), and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). She has specialized training including Advanced Perinatal Mental Health Psychopharmacology through Postpartum Support International and is a certified Perinatal Mental Health Provider.
Autumn Shutt is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and offers medication management for adults and adolescents ages 14 and older. Her areas of interest include women's mental health, perinatal mood disorders, depression, anxiety, post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), bipolar disorder, obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD), and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). She has specialized training including Advanced Perinatal Mental Health Psychopharmacology through Postpartum Support International and is a certified Perinatal Mental Health Provider.
![Photo of Daniella Gavito, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6019f636-e09e-4de4-85d7-392e8a227f14/2/320x400.jpeg)
I offer high quality evaluations and treatment for young adults, adolescents, and children. Mental health problems often start in childhood and continue on into adulthood. Left untreated, mental health problems can affect social interactions, school performance, job performance, health, self image, and quality of life. Getting the correct diagnosis and treatment early on is crucial. All too often I see people misdiagnosed and on treatments that are not working. I have had excellent training to identify the correct diagnosis and apply evidenced based treatment. I also use rating scales to identify symptoms and track progress.
I offer high quality evaluations and treatment for young adults, adolescents, and children. Mental health problems often start in childhood and continue on into adulthood. Left untreated, mental health problems can affect social interactions, school performance, job performance, health, self image, and quality of life. Getting the correct diagnosis and treatment early on is crucial. All too often I see people misdiagnosed and on treatments that are not working. I have had excellent training to identify the correct diagnosis and apply evidenced based treatment. I also use rating scales to identify symptoms and track progress.
![Photo of Treven Back, APRN , PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/51038fbc-4023-4969-b00d-fcb98e2e9594/2/320x400.jpeg)
Treven Back
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN , PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lexington, KY 40509
As a provider, I believe in treating everyone has human and not labeling someone based on their diagnosis. As the need for mental health care continues to increase, I provide a warm and opening setting for clients to seek help. My focus is on the client and making sure that they are prepared to face everyday life.
As a provider, I believe in treating everyone has human and not labeling someone based on their diagnosis. As the need for mental health care continues to increase, I provide a warm and opening setting for clients to seek help. My focus is on the client and making sure that they are prepared to face everyday life.
![Photo of Melissa Barnett, MSN, APRN , PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/46a262a1-18d4-42c8-8def-1c4d0fe71e47/1/320x400.jpeg)
Melissa Barnett
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN , PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
Irvine, KY 40336
The majority of my professional career has been spent caring for individuals in Central and Eastern Kentucky, thus, providing me with a greater appreciation of the unique circumstances facing my patients. My passion for behavioral health and addiction medicine lead me to Trinity Health Group where I hope to continue providing exceptional care to individuals in Estill and surrounding counties.
The majority of my professional career has been spent caring for individuals in Central and Eastern Kentucky, thus, providing me with a greater appreciation of the unique circumstances facing my patients. My passion for behavioral health and addiction medicine lead me to Trinity Health Group where I hope to continue providing exceptional care to individuals in Estill and surrounding counties.
![Photo of William Nunley, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/36be5966-45f6-4fed-9204-e97a0ac48c08/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am a psychiatrist and psychoanalyst serving OR and KY. I work primarily with mental health professionals, physicians, attorneys, entrepreneurs, and people in transition in their personal or professional identity. Most people begin therapy with me to improve their mood, sleep, or a more general sense of deep suffering. I can help understand patterns of distressing conflicts in one or more areas of your life such that you feel less isolated by intense emotions and build anew patterns in relating.
I am a psychiatrist and psychoanalyst serving OR and KY. I work primarily with mental health professionals, physicians, attorneys, entrepreneurs, and people in transition in their personal or professional identity. Most people begin therapy with me to improve their mood, sleep, or a more general sense of deep suffering. I can help understand patterns of distressing conflicts in one or more areas of your life such that you feel less isolated by intense emotions and build anew patterns in relating.
![Photo of Mechibelle Lynch - Ohio Valley Psychiatry, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2d693b9e-7f60-4d83-8942-52774352ec4d/1/320x400.jpeg)
Ohio Valley Psychiatry provides excellent, quality care. Medications in conjunction with other treatment modalities promote self-management strategies and foster development of resilience. We want patients to develop the ability to manage symptoms amidst daily stressors and major life changes. Emphasis is placed on personal growth and sustaining meaningful, interpersonal relationships.
Ohio Valley Psychiatry provides excellent, quality care. Medications in conjunction with other treatment modalities promote self-management strategies and foster development of resilience. We want patients to develop the ability to manage symptoms amidst daily stressors and major life changes. Emphasis is placed on personal growth and sustaining meaningful, interpersonal relationships.
![Photo of Carol S McLennan, MSN, APRN, PMHCNS, NP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9f7370f5-f25b-4a8e-bcc8-f16259a77ec9/2/320x400.jpeg)
Carol S McLennan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHCNS, NP-C
Verified Verified
Lyndon, KY 40222
I am a psychiatric Nurse practitioner and a Family nurse practitioner with over 20 years experience treating a variety of diagnoses including PTSD, Depression, Anxiety, ADHD, Bipolar Type I & II, as well as schizophrenia; ages 12 to 65; Specializing in military populations. Can provide in person & Telehealth appts. Psychiatric evaluations & medication management.
I am a psychiatric Nurse practitioner and a Family nurse practitioner with over 20 years experience treating a variety of diagnoses including PTSD, Depression, Anxiety, ADHD, Bipolar Type I & II, as well as schizophrenia; ages 12 to 65; Specializing in military populations. Can provide in person & Telehealth appts. Psychiatric evaluations & medication management.
![Photo of Markquetta Jackson, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a3a693bb-61e6-41a6-aaa5-52153dbfecc7/2/320x400.png)
Markquetta Jackson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Lexington, KY 40504 (Online Only)
Hello there, I'm Markquetta! Do you every feel overwhelmed, stressed and drained from daily life and the situations that may arise in it? Are you overthinking, worried, scattered brain, and have racing thoughts? Do you feel sad, moody, and want to isolate yourself from other people? I can help you achieve that sense of calm and mental wellbeing you are searching for.
Hello there, I'm Markquetta! Do you every feel overwhelmed, stressed and drained from daily life and the situations that may arise in it? Are you overthinking, worried, scattered brain, and have racing thoughts? Do you feel sad, moody, and want to isolate yourself from other people? I can help you achieve that sense of calm and mental wellbeing you are searching for.
![Photo of Sandra Edwards, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/88245594-7f20-4f85-9b8f-68e993c48f06/1/320x400.png)
Hello, I'm Sandra Edwards APRN, PMHNP-BC. I began my career in nursing in 1991 and obtained my MSN with a focus on Psychiatry in 2020. I have been practicing since that time seeing patients across the lifespan. I practice a Holistic approach to mental healthcare. I believe it is important to understand the impact whether negative or positive each patient's physical, emotional, social and spiritual wellbeing and challenges impact their mental health. I work with individuals across the lifespan. I have experience with mood disorders, personality disorders and substance use disorder.
Hello, I'm Sandra Edwards APRN, PMHNP-BC. I began my career in nursing in 1991 and obtained my MSN with a focus on Psychiatry in 2020. I have been practicing since that time seeing patients across the lifespan. I practice a Holistic approach to mental healthcare. I believe it is important to understand the impact whether negative or positive each patient's physical, emotional, social and spiritual wellbeing and challenges impact their mental health. I work with individuals across the lifespan. I have experience with mood disorders, personality disorders and substance use disorder.
![Photo of Amy Snowden, APRN (C, Psychiatric Nurse](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/efbc94e7-8ea0-4a2c-a803-2cc73636cde6/1/320x400.png)
Amy Snowden is a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner who has been practicing since 2019. She graduated from Eastern Kentucky University with a Master's of Science in Nursing with a focus in psychiatry. Amy's clinical career includes over 20 years of experience as a RN at inpatient hospitals, community mental health centers, and school-based settings. She enjoys working with children and adolescents and is certified to diagnose and treat all ages across the lifespan. Amy believes in providing compassionate, holistic and evidence-based care.
Amy Snowden is a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner who has been practicing since 2019. She graduated from Eastern Kentucky University with a Master's of Science in Nursing with a focus in psychiatry. Amy's clinical career includes over 20 years of experience as a RN at inpatient hospitals, community mental health centers, and school-based settings. She enjoys working with children and adolescents and is certified to diagnose and treat all ages across the lifespan. Amy believes in providing compassionate, holistic and evidence-based care.
![Photo of Lisa Sanchez, MSSW, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7ccc8604-1721-484c-9fa9-fde1cfb9726b/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am double board certified in Adult and Child Psychiatry. I primarily work with children and adolescents aged 6-18 years old. I provide med management to diagnosis such as ADHD,depression, anxiety, and other related mood disorders. I enjoy working with children and their families on symptom management, education and navigating mental health disorders so that they are on path to wellness.
I am double board certified in Adult and Child Psychiatry. I primarily work with children and adolescents aged 6-18 years old. I provide med management to diagnosis such as ADHD,depression, anxiety, and other related mood disorders. I enjoy working with children and their families on symptom management, education and navigating mental health disorders so that they are on path to wellness.
See more therapy options for Rockcastle County
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Rockcastle County, KY
< 10
Psychiatrists in Rockcastle County, KY who prioritize treating:
100% | Medication Management |
Gender breakdown
100% | Female |
How Psychiatrists in Rockcastle County, KY see their clients
100% | In Person and Online |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Rockcastle County?
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.