Psychiatrists in White Plains, MD

Photo of Funmilayo Olugbemi, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Funmilayo Olugbemi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
White Plains, MD 20695
Funmilayo Olugbemi is a proficient Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with several years of experience in psychiatry and mental health issues.
Funmilayo Olugbemi is a proficient Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with several years of experience in psychiatry and mental health issues.
(240) 213-9460 View (240) 213-9460
Photo of Dawnette Campbell, CRNP , PMHNP , Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Dawnette Campbell
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP , PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
White Plains, MD 20695
Everbloom Psychiatric and Mental Health Providers specialize in the assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of children, adolescents, and adults with psychiatric illnesses such as Anxiety,Depression,Bipolar Disorder, ADHD,OCD, PTSD, Panic Disorder etc
Everbloom Psychiatric and Mental Health Providers specialize in the assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of children, adolescents, and adults with psychiatric illnesses such as Anxiety,Depression,Bipolar Disorder, ADHD,OCD, PTSD, Panic Disorder etc
(301) 381-5680 View (301) 381-5680
Photo of Tosin Fanimo - Great Touch Behavioral Health , DNP, CRNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Great Touch Behavioral Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, CRNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
White Plains, MD 20695
My ideal client is someone who recognizes the importance of their mental health and is motivated to actively engage in their journey towards well-being.This client may be dealing with a range of mental health issues and challenges, such as depression and anxiety, stress management, trauma, and PTSD. Relationship Issue, self-esteem and self-Identity, emotional healing addiction recovery and life satisfaction. My ideal client seeks help because they recognize that investing in their mental health is essential for a fulfilling and balanced life. They want to break free from the limitations imposed by mental health challenges
My ideal client is someone who recognizes the importance of their mental health and is motivated to actively engage in their journey towards well-being.This client may be dealing with a range of mental health issues and challenges, such as depression and anxiety, stress management, trauma, and PTSD. Relationship Issue, self-esteem and self-Identity, emotional healing addiction recovery and life satisfaction. My ideal client seeks help because they recognize that investing in their mental health is essential for a fulfilling and balanced life. They want to break free from the limitations imposed by mental health challenges
(240) 851-4369 View (240) 851-4369
Photo of Maryland Psychiatric Care Marshall James, PMHNP, BC , Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Maryland Psychiatric Care Marshall James
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
White Plains, MD 20695
Marshall James, CRNP-PMH is a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who specializes in the treatment both children and adults. He uses a patient-centered based approach to empower and improve mental wellness. Marshall began his career as a nurse on the adult inpatient psychiatric unit. He has experience working with a wide variety of adults, each with their own unique stressors and strengths. His experience includes people with severe mental illness as well as those struggling with substance abuse. Marshall has gained training and experience working with children and families, as well as adolescents and adults.
Marshall James, CRNP-PMH is a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who specializes in the treatment both children and adults. He uses a patient-centered based approach to empower and improve mental wellness. Marshall began his career as a nurse on the adult inpatient psychiatric unit. He has experience working with a wide variety of adults, each with their own unique stressors and strengths. His experience includes people with severe mental illness as well as those struggling with substance abuse. Marshall has gained training and experience working with children and families, as well as adolescents and adults.
(410) 888-0007 View (410) 888-0007
Photo of Mujidat Bolaji Obaro, PMHNP, MUJIDAT, OBARO, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Mujidat Bolaji Obaro
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MUJIDAT, OBARO
Verified Verified
White Plains, MD 20695  (Online Only)
My clients can expect a safe and therapeutic environment where they can collaborate with me to meet their treatment goals. This requires that clients will be actively involved in treatment and will understand their mental health concerns are important. Clients can expect to be inspired with hope to achieve their treatment goals and to manage their mental health concerns with support.
My clients can expect a safe and therapeutic environment where they can collaborate with me to meet their treatment goals. This requires that clients will be actively involved in treatment and will understand their mental health concerns are important. Clients can expect to be inspired with hope to achieve their treatment goals and to manage their mental health concerns with support.
(301) 710-6571 View (301) 710-6571
TDK Integrated Health, Inc
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, BC, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
White Plains, MD 20695
As an independent psychiatric nurse practitioner, I am culturally diverse and competent in providing mental health services across the illness-wellness continuum and lifespan: children, adolescents, adults, and the geriatric population.
As an independent psychiatric nurse practitioner, I am culturally diverse and competent in providing mental health services across the illness-wellness continuum and lifespan: children, adolescents, adults, and the geriatric population.
(301) 945-8865 View (301) 945-8865
Photo of Rhoda Ndamukong - All Dimensions Behavioral Health, LLC, DNP, PMHNPBC, AGNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
All Dimensions Behavioral Health, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNPBC, AGNP-C
Verified Verified
White Plains, MD 20695
Rhoda Ndamukong is a Certified Registered Nurse Practitioner with specializes in Adult-Geriatric and family psychiatric care. Rhoda graduated from Princes George’s community college as a registered nurse with high honors. She furthered her education achieving a bachelor’s degree and graduating with president honors from Chamberlain University. Rhoda also graduated with honors from Walden University with a Master’s in Nursing and Maryville University with a Post Master's in psychiatry. She is dual certified AANP and ANCC Nurse Practitioner. Rhoda's areas of focus are treating the whole spectrum of psychiatric disorders.
Rhoda Ndamukong is a Certified Registered Nurse Practitioner with specializes in Adult-Geriatric and family psychiatric care. Rhoda graduated from Princes George’s community college as a registered nurse with high honors. She furthered her education achieving a bachelor’s degree and graduating with president honors from Chamberlain University. Rhoda also graduated with honors from Walden University with a Master’s in Nursing and Maryville University with a Post Master's in psychiatry. She is dual certified AANP and ANCC Nurse Practitioner. Rhoda's areas of focus are treating the whole spectrum of psychiatric disorders.
(240) 213-7859 View (240) 213-7859
Photo of Awawu Ojikutu - AIM Behavioral Health Services, DNP, AGPCNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
AIM Behavioral Health Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, AGPCNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
White Plains, MD 20695  (Online Only)
Have you been looking for a new provider who listens to you, understands you, AND takes action? Then, look no further. At AIM Behavioral Health Services, our primary goal is to accept you as you are, help you initiate the care you need, and maintain the goals you create. AIM Behavioral Health Services is a comprehensive mental health service facility that provides affordable, high-value, patient-centered, compassionate, and unbiased care throughout the DMV area.
Have you been looking for a new provider who listens to you, understands you, AND takes action? Then, look no further. At AIM Behavioral Health Services, our primary goal is to accept you as you are, help you initiate the care you need, and maintain the goals you create. AIM Behavioral Health Services is a comprehensive mental health service facility that provides affordable, high-value, patient-centered, compassionate, and unbiased care throughout the DMV area.
(301) 945-8637 View (301) 945-8637
Photo of Dr. Nicola Clarke Wallen - Atlas Behavioral Health Services, DNP, PMHNPBC, CCM, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Atlas Behavioral Health Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNPBC, CCM
Verified Verified
White Plains, MD 20695  (Online Only)
Welcome to Atlas Behavioral Health Services, where clients are treated with respect, utilizing evidence-based practices and individualized plans of care. My name is Dr. Nicola Clarke Wallen DNP and I am a Board-Certified Family Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner licensed in Maryland to treat patients with mental health needs across the lifespan. As a graduate of the Wilmington University, I have over 12 years of experience in nursing and have worked with pediatric through geriatrics in various specialties, including mental health settings, community health, in-patient hospital, and out-patient clinic settings.
Welcome to Atlas Behavioral Health Services, where clients are treated with respect, utilizing evidence-based practices and individualized plans of care. My name is Dr. Nicola Clarke Wallen DNP and I am a Board-Certified Family Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner licensed in Maryland to treat patients with mental health needs across the lifespan. As a graduate of the Wilmington University, I have over 12 years of experience in nursing and have worked with pediatric through geriatrics in various specialties, including mental health settings, community health, in-patient hospital, and out-patient clinic settings.
(240) 534-1926 View (240) 534-1926
Photo of Funmilayo Olugbemi, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Funmilayo Olugbemi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
White Plains, MD 20695  (Online Only)
As a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I am culturally diverse and competent in providing mental health services across the illness-wellness continuum and lifespan: children, adolescents, adults, and the geriatric population.
As a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I am culturally diverse and competent in providing mental health services across the illness-wellness continuum and lifespan: children, adolescents, adults, and the geriatric population.
(240) 932-5337 View (240) 932-5337

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Gagandeep Khurana - Holisticare Behavioral Health Services, MD, Psychiatrist
Holisticare Behavioral Health Services
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Waldorf, MD 20603
I am a board certified adult psychiatrist with more than 10 yrs of experience, licensed in VA and MD. I accept all major insurances including Kaiser and offer both virtual and in person appointments. I have extensive experience and special interest in treating mood disorders including treatment resistant depression, bipolar disorder, psychosis, ADHD, anxiety, insomnia and addiction including Suboxone for opioid dependence.
I am a board certified adult psychiatrist with more than 10 yrs of experience, licensed in VA and MD. I accept all major insurances including Kaiser and offer both virtual and in person appointments. I have extensive experience and special interest in treating mood disorders including treatment resistant depression, bipolar disorder, psychosis, ADHD, anxiety, insomnia and addiction including Suboxone for opioid dependence.
(703) 468-4801 View (703) 468-4801
Photo of Annie Tabi - Utopia Health Center, NP Psyc, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Utopia Health Center
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP Psyc
Verified Verified
Waldorf, MD 20603
Utopia was created to help build a society where people not only identified their dreams, they achieved them. Motivated to transform and redefine the idea of wellness for all through the use of innovative modalities, Utopia Health Center strives toward ending the stigma associated with mental and substance use disorders. Being client centered is the foundation Utopia is built on; showing commitment to provide access to services and ensuring those services provide building blocks for a holistic culture of well-being. Cultivating a better tomorrow for our clients and the surrounding communities with our hands and hearts - that's Utopia.
Utopia was created to help build a society where people not only identified their dreams, they achieved them. Motivated to transform and redefine the idea of wellness for all through the use of innovative modalities, Utopia Health Center strives toward ending the stigma associated with mental and substance use disorders. Being client centered is the foundation Utopia is built on; showing commitment to provide access to services and ensuring those services provide building blocks for a holistic culture of well-being. Cultivating a better tomorrow for our clients and the surrounding communities with our hands and hearts - that's Utopia.
(301) 220-2842 View (301) 220-2842
Photo of Samuel Koroma - AIH Behavioral Health, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
AIH Behavioral Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Verified Verified
Waldorf, MD 20602  (Online Only)
If you are struggling with a mental health condition that is causing distress or pain in your life, you are not alone. Millions of Americans deal with the same issues; which are made worse by the pandemic. Some find it more difficult to seek appropriate care.
If you are struggling with a mental health condition that is causing distress or pain in your life, you are not alone. Millions of Americans deal with the same issues; which are made worse by the pandemic. Some find it more difficult to seek appropriate care.
(240) 209-9639 View (240) 209-9639
Photo of Ogechukwu Igbo - Kairos Healthcare Services LLC, P-MSN, PMHNP, CRNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Kairos Healthcare Services LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, P-MSN, PMHNP, CRNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Charles, MD 20602
Emotional problems and psychiatric conditions are like any other medical illness. We know that dealing with mental illness can be weakening and asking for help when dealing with these problems can be challenging. Kairos Healthcare services is here to help alleviate these challenges by creating a therapeutic relationship with you to manage the conditions in a most caring, compassionate, and understanding manner while ensuring your privacy. Psychiatric illness can complicate underlying medical conditions if left untreated; they are real and prevalent in every society and in all age groups, regardless of a person's economic status.
Emotional problems and psychiatric conditions are like any other medical illness. We know that dealing with mental illness can be weakening and asking for help when dealing with these problems can be challenging. Kairos Healthcare services is here to help alleviate these challenges by creating a therapeutic relationship with you to manage the conditions in a most caring, compassionate, and understanding manner while ensuring your privacy. Psychiatric illness can complicate underlying medical conditions if left untreated; they are real and prevalent in every society and in all age groups, regardless of a person's economic status.
(301) 900-3790 View (301) 900-3790
Photo of Maura Constance, MPH, PMHNP, FNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Maura Constance
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MPH, PMHNP, FNP, BC
Verified Verified
Waldorf, MD 20602
I am a warm, compassionate psychiatric nurse practitioner devoted to helping people overcome difficulties and thrive. I employ a humanistic approach that looks at the whole person to understand how elements in the past and factors in the present environment can contribute to your current challenges. I listen deeply and work with you to find the right mix of evidence-based therapies and medications to address your particular needs. I have a special interest in depression, anxiety, personality disorders, addiction issues, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia.
I am a warm, compassionate psychiatric nurse practitioner devoted to helping people overcome difficulties and thrive. I employ a humanistic approach that looks at the whole person to understand how elements in the past and factors in the present environment can contribute to your current challenges. I listen deeply and work with you to find the right mix of evidence-based therapies and medications to address your particular needs. I have a special interest in depression, anxiety, personality disorders, addiction issues, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia.
(301) 392-7120 View (301) 392-7120
Photo of Aina Oluwo, CRNP, -PMH, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Aina Oluwo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP, -PMH
Verified Verified
Waldorf, MD 20601
Aina is a licensed Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with board certification. She holds a license to provide treatment for adults, adolescents, and children as well as to diagnose, treat, and prescribe psychiatric drugs. She possesses expertise in treating individuals with disorders such as depression, anxiety, panic attacks, and bipolar disorder. Aina is passionate about mental health, and she uses a comprehensive approach to treat symptoms and illnesses, which includes lifestyle modifications, prescription and management of psychotropic medications and consistent therapy.
Aina is a licensed Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with board certification. She holds a license to provide treatment for adults, adolescents, and children as well as to diagnose, treat, and prescribe psychiatric drugs. She possesses expertise in treating individuals with disorders such as depression, anxiety, panic attacks, and bipolar disorder. Aina is passionate about mental health, and she uses a comprehensive approach to treat symptoms and illnesses, which includes lifestyle modifications, prescription and management of psychotropic medications and consistent therapy.
(301) 479-6647 View (301) 479-6647
Photo of Chidinma Eze, DNP , CCHP, FNP, PMNHP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Chidinma Eze
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP , CCHP, FNP, PMNHP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
La Plata, MD 20646
Dr. Eze offers treatment options for anxiety disorder, Substance use disorder, depression, mood disorder, PTSD, OCD, and ADHD. Probity Healthcare will be expanding soon to the drug treatment facility. We care about your mental health service, please give us a call for appointment.
Dr. Eze offers treatment options for anxiety disorder, Substance use disorder, depression, mood disorder, PTSD, OCD, and ADHD. Probity Healthcare will be expanding soon to the drug treatment facility. We care about your mental health service, please give us a call for appointment.
(443) 960-7840 View (443) 960-7840
Photo of Nonye Mbionwu, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Nonye Mbionwu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Waldorf, MD 20602  (Online Only)
My name is Nonye Mbionwu. I am a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner and I am here to support you . I have been in this role for 3 years. I have extensive experience in inpatient and emergency department. I am very passionate about what I do and my patients are my utmost priority. I specialize in helping individuals to manage their mental health challenges and work with you to develop personalized treatment plans.
My name is Nonye Mbionwu. I am a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner and I am here to support you . I have been in this role for 3 years. I have extensive experience in inpatient and emergency department. I am very passionate about what I do and my patients are my utmost priority. I specialize in helping individuals to manage their mental health challenges and work with you to develop personalized treatment plans.
(301) 507-3136 View (301) 507-3136
Photo of Kimberly Brown-Gross, CRNP, PMH, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Kimberly Brown-Gross
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CRNP, PMH
Verified Verified
Waldorf, MD 20603  (Online Only)
I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and currently work with the Mackenzie Counseling and Consultation Services (MCCS) interdisciplinary team. I am passionate about providing collaborative, supportive mental health services to my clients. With over 20 years of experience as a nurse, I have worked in several leadership positions including nurse director at a local hospital. In addition, I received the nurse of the year award in 2009 and the nurse leader of the year in May 2022.
I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and currently work with the Mackenzie Counseling and Consultation Services (MCCS) interdisciplinary team. I am passionate about providing collaborative, supportive mental health services to my clients. With over 20 years of experience as a nurse, I have worked in several leadership positions including nurse director at a local hospital. In addition, I received the nurse of the year award in 2009 and the nurse leader of the year in May 2022.
(301) 259-3057 View (301) 259-3057
Photo of Vanessa Wansel, MSN, PMHNP-C, FNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Vanessa Wansel
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP-C, FNP-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Waldorf, MD 20603  (Online Only)
Vanessa is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who is as caring, compassionate, and professional. She began her career in the Emergency department prior to becoming a Family Nurse Practitioner and has also gained experience in the in-patient and outpatient setting. Her areas of experience include management of adults (ages 18-65), members of the LGBTQIA+ community, military service members and their families, as well as those dealing with life transitions, trauma, loss, grief, anxiety, depression, ADHD, Bipolar and history of substance use disorders.
Vanessa is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who is as caring, compassionate, and professional. She began her career in the Emergency department prior to becoming a Family Nurse Practitioner and has also gained experience in the in-patient and outpatient setting. Her areas of experience include management of adults (ages 18-65), members of the LGBTQIA+ community, military service members and their families, as well as those dealing with life transitions, trauma, loss, grief, anxiety, depression, ADHD, Bipolar and history of substance use disorders.
(301) 965-1429 View (301) 965-1429

See more therapy options for White Plains

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in White Plains, MD

10+

Average cost per session

$250

Psychiatrists in White Plains, MD who prioritize treating:

100% Anxiety
90% Depression
90% ADHD
90% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
90% Trauma and PTSD
90% Bipolar Disorder
80% Sleep or Insomnia

Average years in practice

6 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH
90% Aetna
90% BlueCross and BlueShield

How Psychiatrists in White Plains, MD see their clients

60% In Person and Online
40% Online Only

Gender breakdown

90% Female
10% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in White Plains?

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.