Psychiatrists in Wentzville, MO
![Photo of Brittania Phillips, DNP, APRN, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c156be6c-3487-402d-a20d-c66ec053d9b7/1/320x400.jpeg)
Brittania Phillips
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
Wentzville, MO 63385
More Psychiatrists Nearby
![Photo of James Peter Cho, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/30450bc5-42d5-480c-aaf1-54a65357a5ca/3/320x400.jpeg)
Are you struggling with Substance Use (SUD) or Alcohol Use Disorders (AUD)? Sana Lake Behavioral Wellness Center Outpatient Care is the place for you. Offering a full system of care without the long wait to see Licensed Providers who specialize in Therapeutic Interventions and Medical Services which include Medication Assisted Treatments.
Are you struggling with Substance Use (SUD) or Alcohol Use Disorders (AUD)? Sana Lake Behavioral Wellness Center Outpatient Care is the place for you. Offering a full system of care without the long wait to see Licensed Providers who specialize in Therapeutic Interventions and Medical Services which include Medication Assisted Treatments.
![Photo of James Adams, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/980a1a95-2631-4847-833f-6c056bbee0ec/1/320x400.png)
Andrew Adams is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. Andrew earned his undergraduate degree from the University of Missouri-Columbia in 2013 and a graduate degree from Saint Louis University in 2018. He is a member of the nursing honor society, Sigma Theta Tau as well as the graduate honor society, Alpha Lambda Epsilon. Andrew practices a holistic approach to mental wellness including brief therapy and medication management. Andrew listens to his patients and gets their input regarding treatment options to make a collaborative approach to his patients' care.
Andrew Adams is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. Andrew earned his undergraduate degree from the University of Missouri-Columbia in 2013 and a graduate degree from Saint Louis University in 2018. He is a member of the nursing honor society, Sigma Theta Tau as well as the graduate honor society, Alpha Lambda Epsilon. Andrew practices a holistic approach to mental wellness including brief therapy and medication management. Andrew listens to his patients and gets their input regarding treatment options to make a collaborative approach to his patients' care.
![Photo of Kelsey Kingsborough, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/61b405af-91f4-43e7-a4b6-9385b84bba79/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am a Nurse Practitioner specializing in adult mental health. I want to help the patient and their family get an individualized care plan from the patient centered model including psychiatric history, medical history, diagnosis, medication management with prescribing, therapy recommendations, and other goal seeking treatment. My main focus is to get patients to their optimal wellness.
I am a Nurse Practitioner specializing in adult mental health. I want to help the patient and their family get an individualized care plan from the patient centered model including psychiatric history, medical history, diagnosis, medication management with prescribing, therapy recommendations, and other goal seeking treatment. My main focus is to get patients to their optimal wellness.
![Photo of Jordan Calabrese, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/84b55b79-78e4-44c4-babb-f4de398f16dc/1/320x400.png)
Are you struggling with Substance Use (SUD) or Alcohol Use Disorders (AUD)? Sana Lake Recovery Center is the place for you. We offer a full system of care without the long wait to see licensed providers. Addiction treatment is not a one-size-fits-all solution, which is why we offer tailored treatment plans to meet your unique needs.
Are you struggling with Substance Use (SUD) or Alcohol Use Disorders (AUD)? Sana Lake Recovery Center is the place for you. We offer a full system of care without the long wait to see licensed providers. Addiction treatment is not a one-size-fits-all solution, which is why we offer tailored treatment plans to meet your unique needs.
![Photo of Srinivas Chilakamarri, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e7173d1c-1a79-421c-8f0b-a7bc9dca1323/2/320x400.png)
Dr. Srinivas Chlakamarri received his medical degree from Guntur Medical College, Andhra/ Nagarjuna University, India. He then went on to complete his residency in psychiatry at St. Louis University, St. Louis, MO. He is board certified in Psychiatry. He started career as a Psychiatrist in the Admitting Unit of St. Louis State Hospital and as Clinical instructor of Dept of Psychiatry at St. Louis University. Then he led the role of physician and President of C group Psychiatric Services Inc.
Dr. Srinivas Chlakamarri received his medical degree from Guntur Medical College, Andhra/ Nagarjuna University, India. He then went on to complete his residency in psychiatry at St. Louis University, St. Louis, MO. He is board certified in Psychiatry. He started career as a Psychiatrist in the Admitting Unit of St. Louis State Hospital and as Clinical instructor of Dept of Psychiatry at St. Louis University. Then he led the role of physician and President of C group Psychiatric Services Inc.
![Photo of Chido Zvirawa, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/87111a86-1903-4678-be73-f2e0a12a34c8/1/320x400.jpeg)
Chido, is a dual nurse practitioner in Family and psychiatric mental health specializing in providing comprehensive mental health care to individuals, with a passion for promoting mental well-being. I am committed to helping you navigate life's challenges and achieve optimal mental health. Chido has been a nurse for 14 years and 6 years as a nurse practitioner for 6 years.
Chido, is a dual nurse practitioner in Family and psychiatric mental health specializing in providing comprehensive mental health care to individuals, with a passion for promoting mental well-being. I am committed to helping you navigate life's challenges and achieve optimal mental health. Chido has been a nurse for 14 years and 6 years as a nurse practitioner for 6 years.
![Photo of Enos Moss, MSN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2d4027b2-024b-4225-808a-63083886f978/1/320x400.png)
EJ is a board-certified Adult Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. He has been with Lifestance Health since January 2020. He received his Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Maryville University "“ St. Louis in 2001, and obtained his Master of Science in Nursing from Maryville University "“ St. Louis in 2011. In 2016, he received his post-master's certificate in Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner from the University of Cincinnati. He is currently a Doctor of Nursing Practice candidate at Capella University and plans to complete his studies in 2023.
EJ is a board-certified Adult Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. He has been with Lifestance Health since January 2020. He received his Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Maryville University "“ St. Louis in 2001, and obtained his Master of Science in Nursing from Maryville University "“ St. Louis in 2011. In 2016, he received his post-master's certificate in Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner from the University of Cincinnati. He is currently a Doctor of Nursing Practice candidate at Capella University and plans to complete his studies in 2023.
![Photo of Stacy Johnson, CNP/PMH, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/89d99ae2-244f-4bec-9f9d-e5ffd20346be/1/320x400.jpeg)
Stacy Johnson is a Nurse Practitioner in Missouri who has been practicing since 2020. Stacy finds it extremely gratifying to help improve the quality of life of her clients. She listens to her patients and allows them to have input into their treatment recommendations. Stacy currently offers in-person and telehealth appointments, making psychiatric medication services accessible and convenient for you. In her free time, Stacy enjoys being outside and loves to camp and swim.
Stacy Johnson is a Nurse Practitioner in Missouri who has been practicing since 2020. Stacy finds it extremely gratifying to help improve the quality of life of her clients. She listens to her patients and allows them to have input into their treatment recommendations. Stacy currently offers in-person and telehealth appointments, making psychiatric medication services accessible and convenient for you. In her free time, Stacy enjoys being outside and loves to camp and swim.
![Photo of Thripura Thirtala, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/16820410-2887-4f19-a2bd-9770ce415225/1/320x400.png)
Dr. Thripura Thirtala received her medical degree from Alluri Sita Rama Raju Academy of Medical Sciences in India. She completed her residency in Psychiatry at the Southern Illinois University School of Medicine. Her practice is focused on patients 12 years and older, treating ADHD, depression, mood disorders, bi-polar disorder, generalized anxiety disorders, obsessive compulsive disorders and panic disorders. In addition to practicing in general Psychiatry, Dr. Thirtala has specific interests in treating adolescent and substance abuse populations.
Dr. Thripura Thirtala received her medical degree from Alluri Sita Rama Raju Academy of Medical Sciences in India. She completed her residency in Psychiatry at the Southern Illinois University School of Medicine. Her practice is focused on patients 12 years and older, treating ADHD, depression, mood disorders, bi-polar disorder, generalized anxiety disorders, obsessive compulsive disorders and panic disorders. In addition to practicing in general Psychiatry, Dr. Thirtala has specific interests in treating adolescent and substance abuse populations.
![Photo of Rachel Kranz, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8e56bbdd-e769-4863-8a39-9ec4c7f195a6/2/320x400.png)
Rachel Kranz is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She received her Master's Degree in Nursing from Saint Louis University in 2018 and completed her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Bradley University in 2013. Rachel offers medication management to children, adolescents and adults with depression, anxiety, OCD, bipolar disorder, and a variety of other mental health conditions. As a nurse practitioner, Rachel works primarily in the outpatient setting but has done inpatient work in the behavioral health hospital as well.
Rachel Kranz is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She received her Master's Degree in Nursing from Saint Louis University in 2018 and completed her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Bradley University in 2013. Rachel offers medication management to children, adolescents and adults with depression, anxiety, OCD, bipolar disorder, and a variety of other mental health conditions. As a nurse practitioner, Rachel works primarily in the outpatient setting but has done inpatient work in the behavioral health hospital as well.
Online Psychiatrists
![Photo of Courtney Wall - Provident Behavioral Health, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/317da505-1ff9-4c1b-9fde-d83c717c3a4c/2/320x400.jpeg)
Courtney Wall - Provident Behavioral Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Saint Louis, MO 63103
The most gratifying thing about my work is being able to connect with great people who are going through challenging times and providing them with the assistance and individualized care they need to improve their overall quality of life. There is no better feeling than helping someone transition from a low point in their life to a newfound path of happiness. I’m a proud member of the Provident Behavioral Health team, an agency that offers not only psychiatric services but also counseling and crisis services. I currently offer telemental health appointments for Missouri residents, making services accessible and convenient for you.
The most gratifying thing about my work is being able to connect with great people who are going through challenging times and providing them with the assistance and individualized care they need to improve their overall quality of life. There is no better feeling than helping someone transition from a low point in their life to a newfound path of happiness. I’m a proud member of the Provident Behavioral Health team, an agency that offers not only psychiatric services but also counseling and crisis services. I currently offer telemental health appointments for Missouri residents, making services accessible and convenient for you.
![Photo of Quentin Chambers - Alpha Allied Mental Health Services (AMS), PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3ec18dbc-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/1/320x400.jpeg)
Alpha Allied Mental Health Services (AMS)
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Saint Charles, MO 63303
I am a board certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in the states of Iowa and Missouri. I have full practice authority in the state of Iowa, I am accepting new patients in Iowa and Missouri. I practice psychiatry by assessing biological, psychological and social aspects of each patient I care for, to deliver optimal mental health. I take insurance in Missouri and Iowa. I prescribe a full range of psychotropic medications for genuine mental health disorders. We now have an additional provider that is accepting new patients. Give us a call.
I am a board certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in the states of Iowa and Missouri. I have full practice authority in the state of Iowa, I am accepting new patients in Iowa and Missouri. I practice psychiatry by assessing biological, psychological and social aspects of each patient I care for, to deliver optimal mental health. I take insurance in Missouri and Iowa. I prescribe a full range of psychotropic medications for genuine mental health disorders. We now have an additional provider that is accepting new patients. Give us a call.
![Photo of Rebecca Palmer, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1ed8c221-354b-4ca9-801d-408a64d4d270/2/320x400.jpeg)
I truly believe patients should be treated based on their individual circumstances, as we all face different challenges and have unique needs. I feel that in order to achieve optimal mental health, patients should be included in determining goals for treatment and fully understand their treatment plan. I'll always take the time to talk through your symptoms and situation, discuss options, and ensure you understand the "why" and "what to expect" when any change to your treatment is made.
I truly believe patients should be treated based on their individual circumstances, as we all face different challenges and have unique needs. I feel that in order to achieve optimal mental health, patients should be included in determining goals for treatment and fully understand their treatment plan. I'll always take the time to talk through your symptoms and situation, discuss options, and ensure you understand the "why" and "what to expect" when any change to your treatment is made.
![Photo of Dr. Morgan Alexander, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c628941f-5167-44d9-859a-ad6ad3fb03cf/1/320x400.jpeg)
Meet Dr. Alexander: a psychiatrist with a distinctive blend of empathy and expertise. Trained at Wright State University with a focus on integrating psychotherapy and psychopharmacology, Dr. Alexander excels in delivering personalized treatment plans with proven effectiveness. She actively engages with the narratives that shape patients' lives, forging therapeutic alliances as unique as the individuals she serves. This patient-first approach, combined with a rich background in community engagement, positions Dr. Alexander as a psychiatrist who understands the complexities of the complete human experience - mind, body and spirit.
Meet Dr. Alexander: a psychiatrist with a distinctive blend of empathy and expertise. Trained at Wright State University with a focus on integrating psychotherapy and psychopharmacology, Dr. Alexander excels in delivering personalized treatment plans with proven effectiveness. She actively engages with the narratives that shape patients' lives, forging therapeutic alliances as unique as the individuals she serves. This patient-first approach, combined with a rich background in community engagement, positions Dr. Alexander as a psychiatrist who understands the complexities of the complete human experience - mind, body and spirit.
![Photo of Meredith Throop, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e72227ef-39b0-48a6-8cc8-e687daefa65e/3/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Throop is expanding her current private practice and will be primarily telemedicine based. Dr. Throop’s approach is patient-centered/patient-focused. Patient-centered care is a concept that gives primacy to the voice and concerns of the person using the health care service. The goal is to enable and empower patients to better appreciate, and play an active role in their mental health. Dr. Throop aims to take a holistic approach to mental health. While medications are a very powerful tool in the journey to feeling better, they are one of many tools to be used!
Dr. Throop is expanding her current private practice and will be primarily telemedicine based. Dr. Throop’s approach is patient-centered/patient-focused. Patient-centered care is a concept that gives primacy to the voice and concerns of the person using the health care service. The goal is to enable and empower patients to better appreciate, and play an active role in their mental health. Dr. Throop aims to take a holistic approach to mental health. While medications are a very powerful tool in the journey to feeling better, they are one of many tools to be used!
![Photo of Femi Popoola, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5b5f347b-4f5c-47d1-8dd4-ed83044f227d/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am dual board-certified in General Psychiatry and Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. I am CURRENTLY ACCEPTING NEW TELEHEALTH PATIENTS for medication management for depression, anxiety, Panic Disorder, OCD, Bipolar Disorder, PTSD, ADHD, Eating Disorder, Schizophrenia, Oppositional Defiant Disorder, Disruptive Mood Dysregulation Disorder, etc. If you are looking for a doctor who is empathic and an active listener, you have one in me.
I am dual board-certified in General Psychiatry and Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. I am CURRENTLY ACCEPTING NEW TELEHEALTH PATIENTS for medication management for depression, anxiety, Panic Disorder, OCD, Bipolar Disorder, PTSD, ADHD, Eating Disorder, Schizophrenia, Oppositional Defiant Disorder, Disruptive Mood Dysregulation Disorder, etc. If you are looking for a doctor who is empathic and an active listener, you have one in me.
![Photo of Haley Koepp, CNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bcc683b1-4b07-4ea7-9fc6-f8c335a55636/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Haley Koepp is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Missouri who has been practicing since 2018. She holds a Bachelor's degree in pPychology from Webster University and a Bachelor's degree in nursing from Barnes-Jewish Goldfarb School of Nursing. She also holds a Master's degree in Nursing from Saint Louis University and obtained her Doctor of Nursing Practice degree from Purdue University Global. Dr. Koepp treats acute and chronic mental health disorders in both inpatient and outpatient settings and all ages of the lifespan.
Dr. Haley Koepp is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Missouri who has been practicing since 2018. She holds a Bachelor's degree in pPychology from Webster University and a Bachelor's degree in nursing from Barnes-Jewish Goldfarb School of Nursing. She also holds a Master's degree in Nursing from Saint Louis University and obtained her Doctor of Nursing Practice degree from Purdue University Global. Dr. Koepp treats acute and chronic mental health disorders in both inpatient and outpatient settings and all ages of the lifespan.
Melissa Fischer
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-B, NP
Verified Verified
Saint Peters, MO 63376
Melissa Fischer is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Missouri who has been practicing since 2013. Melissa offers very intense listening skills that assist her to create an accurate diagnosis leading to accurate treatment. She approaches clients as a team member, letting them know that their opinion matters. Melissa is not a dictator, but an active partner with the client. They are a team and will work it through together. Outside of work, Melissa enjoys playing piano and collecting postage stamps. Her greatest goal for treating family and clients is that she will positively touch lives.
Melissa Fischer is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Missouri who has been practicing since 2013. Melissa offers very intense listening skills that assist her to create an accurate diagnosis leading to accurate treatment. She approaches clients as a team member, letting them know that their opinion matters. Melissa is not a dictator, but an active partner with the client. They are a team and will work it through together. Outside of work, Melissa enjoys playing piano and collecting postage stamps. Her greatest goal for treating family and clients is that she will positively touch lives.
![Photo of Mia D'Aveta, PMHNP, MSN, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f84720e8-755c-41ad-a825-69a4eca3e14e/1/320x400.png)
Mia D'Aveta
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN, APRN
Verified Verified
Saint Peters, MO 63376
Now, more than ever, mental health is receiving the attention it rightfully deserves. These past couple years, mental health and the importance of each persons mental well-being has never been more clear. Many individuals struggle each day with mental complications and require help to manage their symptoms. I provide comprehensive treatment plans for such individuals. Working together, we will be able to help you not only learn how to manage symptoms, but grow into to be the person you are striving to become.
Now, more than ever, mental health is receiving the attention it rightfully deserves. These past couple years, mental health and the importance of each persons mental well-being has never been more clear. Many individuals struggle each day with mental complications and require help to manage their symptoms. I provide comprehensive treatment plans for such individuals. Working together, we will be able to help you not only learn how to manage symptoms, but grow into to be the person you are striving to become.
See more therapy options for Wentzville
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Wentzville, MO
< 10
Psychiatrists in Wentzville, MO who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
100% | Addiction |
100% | Grief |
100% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
100% | Trauma and PTSD |
100% | Divorce |
Average years in practice
3 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
100% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
100% | Cigna and Evernorth |
How Psychiatrists in Wentzville, MO see their clients
100% | In Person and Online |
Gender breakdown
100% | Female |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Wentzville?
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.