Psychiatrists in Lenawee County, MI
![Photo of Arielle Stone, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/46ff1d83-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
I am a board-certified adult psychiatrist and board eligible child and adolescent psychiatrist. I provide full psychiatric services, including evaluation, consultation, and treatment using evidence-based approaches. Conditions treated include: Mood disorders, depression, bipolar disorder, psychosis, schizophrenia, anxiety, ADHD, Autism, abuse and attachment issues and trauma.
I am a board-certified adult psychiatrist and board eligible child and adolescent psychiatrist. I provide full psychiatric services, including evaluation, consultation, and treatment using evidence-based approaches. Conditions treated include: Mood disorders, depression, bipolar disorder, psychosis, schizophrenia, anxiety, ADHD, Autism, abuse and attachment issues and trauma.
![Photo of Paramjeet Chadha, MSN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/581dd91e-8d79-4d21-8f2e-41a724008e10/1/320x400.jpeg)
Paramjeet Chadha
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tecumseh, MI 49286
Living with mental illness can be challenging, and you don't have to face it alone. Finding the right approach can be overwhelming, but I'm here to help. With my education and expertise, I'll work with you as a team to bring out the best in you. My evidence-based practice and holistic approach ensure you receive personalized care that suits your unique situation.
Living with mental illness can be challenging, and you don't have to face it alone. Finding the right approach can be overwhelming, but I'm here to help. With my education and expertise, I'll work with you as a team to bring out the best in you. My evidence-based practice and holistic approach ensure you receive personalized care that suits your unique situation.
Online Psychiatrists
![Photo of Severia Adolphus - New Life Alternatives LLC, Dr. Severia Adolphus, ND, MSN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6c10c503-4951-4d99-93c4-428e0ee67f19/1/320x400.jpeg)
New Life Alternatives LLC, Dr. Severia Adolphus
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ND, MSN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Berkley, MI 48072
As a Naturopathic Doctor and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, New Life Alternative (NLA) was integrated with the idea that every individual is different. We listen to your story to achieve your mental health balance. We use alternatives methods that bring the eastern and western knowledge of health care together to accomplish your goals. NLA is comprised of a specialized team of mental health providers with expertise of alternative methods that are holistic and traditional providing optimal care. Our holistic model encompass other methods to heal mental health from the inside out.
As a Naturopathic Doctor and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, New Life Alternative (NLA) was integrated with the idea that every individual is different. We listen to your story to achieve your mental health balance. We use alternatives methods that bring the eastern and western knowledge of health care together to accomplish your goals. NLA is comprised of a specialized team of mental health providers with expertise of alternative methods that are holistic and traditional providing optimal care. Our holistic model encompass other methods to heal mental health from the inside out.
![Photo of Patti Tieman, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0c05fa07-c6cf-404f-bdf9-6f933aa73626/1/320x400.jpeg)
Maybe you’ve had psychiatric services before, but they didn’t help. You felt rushed and weren’t able to explain your situation and how it was affecting your ability to function and have a life you could enjoy. Maybe the meds weren’t working, but your prescriber didn’t want to make changes. Many of my patients come to me when they haven’t been able to find any lasting improvement. Some turn to substances to self-medicate and that gets out of hand and becomes another problem to deal with. If this sounds familiar, you need to know that this can be a typical starting point prior to treatment that works!
Maybe you’ve had psychiatric services before, but they didn’t help. You felt rushed and weren’t able to explain your situation and how it was affecting your ability to function and have a life you could enjoy. Maybe the meds weren’t working, but your prescriber didn’t want to make changes. Many of my patients come to me when they haven’t been able to find any lasting improvement. Some turn to substances to self-medicate and that gets out of hand and becomes another problem to deal with. If this sounds familiar, you need to know that this can be a typical starting point prior to treatment that works!
![Photo of Andrew Spitzer, PHMNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/11674874-9282-418e-99e3-e67fea444985/1/320x400.jpeg)
Andrew Spitzer
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PHMNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Southfield, MI 48075
Andrew Spitzer is an empathetic and compassionate board-certified mental health nurse practitioner. For over 10 years, Andrew has been caring for individuals who struggle with a wide variety of mental health concerns in different settings. Andrew’s practice and philosophy are guided by three tenets: people are not always the cause of their problems, people want to change and feel better, and people are capable of change.
Andrew Spitzer is an empathetic and compassionate board-certified mental health nurse practitioner. For over 10 years, Andrew has been caring for individuals who struggle with a wide variety of mental health concerns in different settings. Andrew’s practice and philosophy are guided by three tenets: people are not always the cause of their problems, people want to change and feel better, and people are capable of change.
![Photo of Lisa Perna - Revival Recovery Center, MSN, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ea1ec922-7163-4e77-aac1-2164c0f0fe19/4/320x400.jpeg)
Revival Recovery Center
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, FNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brighton, MI 48116
Revival Recovery Center is an outpatient treatment center offering comprehensive medical services to treat substance abuse, depression, anxiety, insomnia, and PTSD either in-person or virtually. We treat individuals of all ages using evidence-based medical treatments. We accept many commercial insurances along with Medicare and Medicaid.
Revival Recovery Center is an outpatient treatment center offering comprehensive medical services to treat substance abuse, depression, anxiety, insomnia, and PTSD either in-person or virtually. We treat individuals of all ages using evidence-based medical treatments. We accept many commercial insurances along with Medicare and Medicaid.
![Photo of Melanie Barbat, MSN, FNP-BC, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/47d988d6-d749-478c-89e8-e61538c85f1a/2/320x400.png)
Melanie Barbat
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, FNP-BC, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Royal Oak, MI 48067
My ideal client faces challenges with work-life balance, high stress, and personal fulfillment. They need tailored psychiatric care, medication management, and holistic support to improve their mental health and overall well-being. Their goals include achieving emotional stability, enhancing their quality of life, reducing stress, and finding satisfaction in both personal and professional aspects of life. They seek clarity, resilience, and comprehensive care to thrive in all areas of their lives.
My ideal client faces challenges with work-life balance, high stress, and personal fulfillment. They need tailored psychiatric care, medication management, and holistic support to improve their mental health and overall well-being. Their goals include achieving emotional stability, enhancing their quality of life, reducing stress, and finding satisfaction in both personal and professional aspects of life. They seek clarity, resilience, and comprehensive care to thrive in all areas of their lives.
![Photo of Vantis Telemedicine - Vantis Telemedicine, PMHNP, PhD, LCSW, LMSW, NP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f7b24de9-1f40-4cc5-90d1-2ae4aa37cd95/1/320x400.jpeg)
Vantis Telemedicine
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, PhD, LCSW, LMSW, NP-C
Verified Verified
Troy, MI 48083
Stressed? Anxious? Depressed? We get it. Mental health struggles are no joke, but you don't have to face them alone. At Vantis Telemedicine, our team of compassionate psychiatric experts is here to help you find the light. With evidence-based treatment plans tailored to your unique needs, we'll walk with you on your journey to wellness.
Stressed? Anxious? Depressed? We get it. Mental health struggles are no joke, but you don't have to face them alone. At Vantis Telemedicine, our team of compassionate psychiatric experts is here to help you find the light. With evidence-based treatment plans tailored to your unique needs, we'll walk with you on your journey to wellness.
![Photo of Robert John Lagrou, DO, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4f171fce-b91b-438a-8742-e0c3f8601c67/3/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Lagrou and his psychiatric team have immediate openings for psychiatric evaluations and medication management. Don't wait for months at other clinics when we can get you in today. We offer both in person and telehealth option via secure video sessions. We specialize in the management of treatment resistant depression. In addition to traditional modalities, Dr. Lagrou offers TMS and Spravato treatment options.
Dr. Lagrou and his psychiatric team have immediate openings for psychiatric evaluations and medication management. Don't wait for months at other clinics when we can get you in today. We offer both in person and telehealth option via secure video sessions. We specialize in the management of treatment resistant depression. In addition to traditional modalities, Dr. Lagrou offers TMS and Spravato treatment options.
![Photo of Ryan Volk, PA-C, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1bb04e95-ec99-4052-9f3b-2c84e686366c/2/320x400.png)
Ryan is a Certified Physician Assistant on the Mindful Care team practicing out of New York and Michigan.
Ryan is a Certified Physician Assistant on the Mindful Care team practicing out of New York and Michigan.
![Photo of Chris Cummings, PA-C, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/108b0d51-2698-455c-a80d-9625dd6a30e9/1/320x400.jpeg)
Hi, I am a PA-C that specializes in psychiatry. I am passionate about empowering individuals to achieve optimal well-being and am currently accepting new clients for remote appointments, offering convenient access to mental healthcare from the comfort of your own home. My area of expertise focuses on treating conditions such as anxiety, depression, OCD, and ADHD. I believe in a holistic approach, incorporating various modalities to create a personalized treatment plan for each client. This may include medication management, therapy techniques, and lifestyle recommendations.
Hi, I am a PA-C that specializes in psychiatry. I am passionate about empowering individuals to achieve optimal well-being and am currently accepting new clients for remote appointments, offering convenient access to mental healthcare from the comfort of your own home. My area of expertise focuses on treating conditions such as anxiety, depression, OCD, and ADHD. I believe in a holistic approach, incorporating various modalities to create a personalized treatment plan for each client. This may include medication management, therapy techniques, and lifestyle recommendations.
![Photo of Thomas T Park - Thomas Park MD & Associates, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/33eadcfe-a496-4722-921b-58bc344348e7/2/320x400.jpeg)
Thomas Park MD is a skilled, knowledgeable, and compassionate Board Certified Psychiatrist who has been in practice for over forty years. Dr. Park specializes in evaluation, prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of mental and emotional disorders, untreatable depression as well as Traumatic Brain Injury (closed head injury).
Thomas Park MD is a skilled, knowledgeable, and compassionate Board Certified Psychiatrist who has been in practice for over forty years. Dr. Park specializes in evaluation, prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of mental and emotional disorders, untreatable depression as well as Traumatic Brain Injury (closed head injury).
![Photo of Marianty Mavros, MSN, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ea890e4c-f62f-4c38-b369-be9e22399124/2/320x400.jpeg)
Marianty Mavros
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Troy, MI 48084 (Online Only)
I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I specialize in anxiety, depression, mood disorders and ADHD in adult and pediatric patients. I provide medication management, therapy recommendations, and my goal is to help my patients live a more balanced, peaceful life.
I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I specialize in anxiety, depression, mood disorders and ADHD in adult and pediatric patients. I provide medication management, therapy recommendations, and my goal is to help my patients live a more balanced, peaceful life.
![Photo of Amy Fox, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/932492e3-b7a9-401f-9574-a0db314de94a/1/320x400.jpeg)
I strongly believe in treating you as a whole person and taking a comprehensive approach to help you achieve your personal treatment goals. My goal is to truly understand what matters to you and assist you in reaching a state of well-being and wholeness. I place great importance on addressing all aspects of your well-being, including your mental, emotional, physical, and spiritual needs, to promote maximum healing. I am committed to empowering you to grow and thrive, using a strength-based approach. I see our relationship as a collaborative partnership, where we work together to achieve your goals.
I strongly believe in treating you as a whole person and taking a comprehensive approach to help you achieve your personal treatment goals. My goal is to truly understand what matters to you and assist you in reaching a state of well-being and wholeness. I place great importance on addressing all aspects of your well-being, including your mental, emotional, physical, and spiritual needs, to promote maximum healing. I am committed to empowering you to grow and thrive, using a strength-based approach. I see our relationship as a collaborative partnership, where we work together to achieve your goals.
![Photo of Matthew J. Radler, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f59275ce-6448-4948-830f-819d3912e383/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Matthew J. Radler is a Psychiatrist is Michigan who has been practicing since 2016. He obtained his Bachelor's of Science in Biomedical Engineering at the University of Michigan, went to Ross University School of Medicine, and completed his residency in General Adult Psychiatry at Western Michigan University Homer Stryker MD School of Medicine. He is board certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. Dr. Radler has practiced in both office and hospital-based settings. He has experience with depressive, anxiety, bipolar, schizophrenia/schizoaffective, and ADHD conditions.
Dr. Matthew J. Radler is a Psychiatrist is Michigan who has been practicing since 2016. He obtained his Bachelor's of Science in Biomedical Engineering at the University of Michigan, went to Ross University School of Medicine, and completed his residency in General Adult Psychiatry at Western Michigan University Homer Stryker MD School of Medicine. He is board certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. Dr. Radler has practiced in both office and hospital-based settings. He has experience with depressive, anxiety, bipolar, schizophrenia/schizoaffective, and ADHD conditions.
![Photo of Gloria Egeh, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1c929a5f-c1d0-40ba-a4a7-c7b485093cdd/2/320x400.jpeg)
Gloria Egeh is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Michigan. Gloria's treatment philosophy is to use integrity, enthusiasm, and empathy to provide evidence-based care to all patients while upholding the ethical principles of the nursing profession. She strives to ensure that all patients under her care will fully understand their treatment plan, medication options available for their treatment, mode of action, and side effects of all the medications prescribed to them. In her spare time, Gloria enjoys spending quality time with her family, reading, traveling, and gardening.
Gloria Egeh is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Michigan. Gloria's treatment philosophy is to use integrity, enthusiasm, and empathy to provide evidence-based care to all patients while upholding the ethical principles of the nursing profession. She strives to ensure that all patients under her care will fully understand their treatment plan, medication options available for their treatment, mode of action, and side effects of all the medications prescribed to them. In her spare time, Gloria enjoys spending quality time with her family, reading, traveling, and gardening.
![Photo of James Hillard, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/42c8597d-bb87-4256-8302-fc77410e5ec9/1/320x400.png)
Dr. Hillard is a Distinguished Life Fellow of the American Psychiatric Association. He has been Professor of Psychiatry at MSU, CMU, and University of Cincinnati. At UC, he was Chair of the Department of Psychiatry for 18 years. At MSU, he was Associate Provost for Human Health. He has published two books and over 100 papers on a wide range of psychiatric topics. He survived metastatic stomach cancer diagnosed in 2010 and is one of the 100 Stories of Hope for the 110th Anniversary of the American Cancer Society. He combines kindness and a sense of humor with wide ranging medical expertise.
Dr. Hillard is a Distinguished Life Fellow of the American Psychiatric Association. He has been Professor of Psychiatry at MSU, CMU, and University of Cincinnati. At UC, he was Chair of the Department of Psychiatry for 18 years. At MSU, he was Associate Provost for Human Health. He has published two books and over 100 papers on a wide range of psychiatric topics. He survived metastatic stomach cancer diagnosed in 2010 and is one of the 100 Stories of Hope for the 110th Anniversary of the American Cancer Society. He combines kindness and a sense of humor with wide ranging medical expertise.
![Photo of Gerome Hess, PMHNP, BC, RN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/87c1a7a1-2fa2-470b-b0eb-cf9bd915d74a/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am looking to provide care in a caring, Christian atmosphere for patients who sincerely desire to optimize their functioning status in life through the utilization of psychiatric medication services combined with psychotherapy services. I work with the patient and their family/friends to provide education regarding current psychiatric diagnoses and symptomology, available psychiatric medications to address current symptoms, and the various therapy options at Renewal Christian Counseling Center in order to partner with the patient in developing a comprehensive treatment plan.
I am looking to provide care in a caring, Christian atmosphere for patients who sincerely desire to optimize their functioning status in life through the utilization of psychiatric medication services combined with psychotherapy services. I work with the patient and their family/friends to provide education regarding current psychiatric diagnoses and symptomology, available psychiatric medications to address current symptoms, and the various therapy options at Renewal Christian Counseling Center in order to partner with the patient in developing a comprehensive treatment plan.
![Photo of Nazia S Adil - Alliance Behavioral Health Specialists, PLLC, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4d851985-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
We provide medication management and therapy to people who are struggling with depression, anxiety , bipolar disorder etc. If you are struggling with insomnia, stress , feeling overwhelmed, there is help. Medical issues affect mental health directly and indirectly. Our experienced clinicians are able to provide comprehensive treatment. We also started treating patients with TMS (Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation), which is proven to be the most advanced treatment for depression.
We provide medication management and therapy to people who are struggling with depression, anxiety , bipolar disorder etc. If you are struggling with insomnia, stress , feeling overwhelmed, there is help. Medical issues affect mental health directly and indirectly. Our experienced clinicians are able to provide comprehensive treatment. We also started treating patients with TMS (Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation), which is proven to be the most advanced treatment for depression.
![Photo of Moira Kessler - Moira Kessler, MD, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fc7bb00c-02e6-4ab2-9fe8-4e07b6b9dd7c/1/320x400.jpeg)
I currently am accepting new patients, including early evening hours. My strongest clinical background is in treating adults, older children, and adolescents with symptoms of anxiety and/or depression. I offer individual psychotherapy as well as medication management appointments. I also have expertise in consulting with schools to help best support students. I have worked extensively with patients and families in improving relationships and communication. I have clinical expertise in providing diagnostic assessments, consultation, and care linkage for children, adolescents, and adults as well.
I currently am accepting new patients, including early evening hours. My strongest clinical background is in treating adults, older children, and adolescents with symptoms of anxiety and/or depression. I offer individual psychotherapy as well as medication management appointments. I also have expertise in consulting with schools to help best support students. I have worked extensively with patients and families in improving relationships and communication. I have clinical expertise in providing diagnostic assessments, consultation, and care linkage for children, adolescents, and adults as well.
See more therapy options for Lenawee County
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Lenawee County, MI
< 10
Psychiatrists in Lenawee County, MI who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
100% | ADHD |
100% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
100% | Trauma and PTSD |
100% | Psychosis |
100% | Bipolar Disorder |
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
100% | Blue Care Network |
50% | Aetna |
How Psychiatrists in Lenawee County, MI see their clients
50% | In Person and Online | |
50% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
100% | Female |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Lenawee 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.