Psychiatrists in Lenoir, NC
![Photo of Jacqueline Wait, PMHNP, FNP-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0588a2d4-a6fd-442f-9acf-873377f6f104/1/320x400.png)
Jacqueline Wait
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP-BC
Verified Verified
Lenoir, NC 28633 (Online Only)
Hi! I'm a certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with a background in both inpatient and outpatient care. I've worked with patients dealing with substance abuse/addiction, depression, anxiety, ADHD, and PTSD. My approach involves utilizing the latest diagnostic guidelines from the DSM and evidence-based treatments to support patients in reclaiming their well-being. I strongly believe in the significance of mental health, aiming to eliminate the stigma surrounding mental illness and encouraging others to prioritize their mental well-being. My mission is to educate and empower individuals to make their mental health a priority.
Hi! I'm a certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with a background in both inpatient and outpatient care. I've worked with patients dealing with substance abuse/addiction, depression, anxiety, ADHD, and PTSD. My approach involves utilizing the latest diagnostic guidelines from the DSM and evidence-based treatments to support patients in reclaiming their well-being. I strongly believe in the significance of mental health, aiming to eliminate the stigma surrounding mental illness and encouraging others to prioritize their mental well-being. My mission is to educate and empower individuals to make their mental health a priority.
![Photo of Amanda Ward, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5b09c0e5-ee52-473f-9591-35de39e16af6/1/320x400.jpeg)
Amanda, a native of Morganton, began her career in healthcare as a registered nurse at Broughton Hospital. Working in an inpatient psychiatric setting for nearly a decade, and dealing with her own depression and anxiety, opened Amanda’s eyes to the unique challenges faced by those with mental illness. Desiring to have a greater influence within the mental health community, Amanda pursued her master’s degree and graduated from Walden University in 2021.
Amanda, a native of Morganton, began her career in healthcare as a registered nurse at Broughton Hospital. Working in an inpatient psychiatric setting for nearly a decade, and dealing with her own depression and anxiety, opened Amanda’s eyes to the unique challenges faced by those with mental illness. Desiring to have a greater influence within the mental health community, Amanda pursued her master’s degree and graduated from Walden University in 2021.
More Psychiatrists Nearby
![Photo of Your Best Life- Medication And Counseling Valerie Starr, PMHNP, MSN, RN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5db7fca5-936e-4452-9395-4a9f181e4e29/1/320x400.jpeg)
Your Best Life- Medication And Counseling Valerie Starr
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN, RN
Verified Verified
Granite Falls, NC 28630 (Online Only)
I enjoy working with clients from all walks of life. I am have a non-judgemental and patient lead approach to treatments. I have worked with many patients with many different experiences. I am familiar with working with children to older adults. I work with patients that have anxiety, PTSD, bipolar, depression, autism, psychosis, schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorders, dissociative disorders, somatic disorders, dementias. I offer online video appointments and can see anyone living in NC from their phone.
I enjoy working with clients from all walks of life. I am have a non-judgemental and patient lead approach to treatments. I have worked with many patients with many different experiences. I am familiar with working with children to older adults. I work with patients that have anxiety, PTSD, bipolar, depression, autism, psychosis, schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorders, dissociative disorders, somatic disorders, dementias. I offer online video appointments and can see anyone living in NC from their phone.
Online Psychiatrists
![Photo of Rhonda Cartee, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b5d9cd11-9128-4000-8cee-fb7d2a62c435/1/320x400.jpeg)
Hello! I am a Nurse Practitioner with board certifications in family and psychiatric medicine. I am licensed in NC & SC.
Hello! I am a Nurse Practitioner with board certifications in family and psychiatric medicine. I am licensed in NC & SC.
![Photo of Ellen Minier - Food For Thought Mental Health and Wellness PLLC, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/974c6a63-cc24-4e63-a51f-091f4730efd7/2/320x400.jpeg)
Food For Thought Mental Health and Wellness PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28806
Welcome to Food For Thought Mental Health and Wellness Services PLLC! We focus on a more balanced approach to emotional health which includes not only medication management, but incorporation of nutritional and other therapeutic wellness practices for much better overall results.
Welcome to Food For Thought Mental Health and Wellness Services PLLC! We focus on a more balanced approach to emotional health which includes not only medication management, but incorporation of nutritional and other therapeutic wellness practices for much better overall results.
![Photo of Dr. Derek C Ayers, DO, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e80b3a53-ff45-49b5-be74-b77c6cef2ab7/1/320x400.jpeg)
Apogee Behavioral Medicine is outpatient behavioral health clinic that comprises psychiatrists, therapists, and wellness coaches. Across our locations, we offer a multitude of services, ranging from medication management, psychotherapy, family counseling, and transcranial magnetic stimulation. We have specialists that care for all ages, from early childhood through late adulthood. We provide evidence-based medication and therapy services. We have extensive experience treating depression, anxiety, mood disorder, trauma, ADHD, and many other conditions.
Apogee Behavioral Medicine is outpatient behavioral health clinic that comprises psychiatrists, therapists, and wellness coaches. Across our locations, we offer a multitude of services, ranging from medication management, psychotherapy, family counseling, and transcranial magnetic stimulation. We have specialists that care for all ages, from early childhood through late adulthood. We provide evidence-based medication and therapy services. We have extensive experience treating depression, anxiety, mood disorder, trauma, ADHD, and many other conditions.
![Photo of Dr. De'Edda Powell, DNP, MSN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a88fc966-5ae8-4bbb-a1b0-8570fc021936/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. De'Edda Powell
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, MSN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28212
Hello, I am so happy you are here. My name is Dr. Powell. I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner serving North Carolina. I prided myself in providing comprehensive mental health care with a patient-centered and holistic approach to adolescents, adults, and geriatrics. I am experienced in addressing unique mental health disparities of the underrepresented populations in the African American and LGBTQ+ communities and offer treatment for a variety of mental health disorders, such as ADHD, depression, anxiety, OCD, schizophrenia, bipolar, and drug, alcohol addiction and more.
Hello, I am so happy you are here. My name is Dr. Powell. I am a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner serving North Carolina. I prided myself in providing comprehensive mental health care with a patient-centered and holistic approach to adolescents, adults, and geriatrics. I am experienced in addressing unique mental health disparities of the underrepresented populations in the African American and LGBTQ+ communities and offer treatment for a variety of mental health disorders, such as ADHD, depression, anxiety, OCD, schizophrenia, bipolar, and drug, alcohol addiction and more.
![Photo of Catelyn Inman, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/86558b69-e99a-4412-b963-78cf2cdd536e/2/320x400.jpeg)
Catelyn specializes in psychotropic medication management. She has worked with a diverse client population, closely partnering with patients to create comprehensive treatment plans. She prides herself on actively listening to each concern and diligently following through to enable healthy outcomes. Catelyn's background enables her to treat an array of mental health concerns such as depression, anxiety, ADHD, Bipolar disorder, Schizophrenia, PTSD, insomnia, eating disorders, personality disorders, addictions, behavioral concerns in dementia, and more. Her induction into healthcare began with humble beginnings.
Catelyn specializes in psychotropic medication management. She has worked with a diverse client population, closely partnering with patients to create comprehensive treatment plans. She prides herself on actively listening to each concern and diligently following through to enable healthy outcomes. Catelyn's background enables her to treat an array of mental health concerns such as depression, anxiety, ADHD, Bipolar disorder, Schizophrenia, PTSD, insomnia, eating disorders, personality disorders, addictions, behavioral concerns in dementia, and more. Her induction into healthcare began with humble beginnings.
![Photo of Esther Adedokun, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4aa7fb8b-ca40-4afe-bbb5-2aaae4ccfe9a/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am a Board Certified Psychiatric and mental health Nurse practitioner. I have worked in the field of mental health for several years, starting as a patient care coordinator of a mental health clinic. Later as a Psychiatric Registered nurse and proceeded to Vanderbilt University where I earned the MSN degree with a specialization in Psychiatric and mental health nurse practitioner, some years back.
I am a Board Certified Psychiatric and mental health Nurse practitioner. I have worked in the field of mental health for several years, starting as a patient care coordinator of a mental health clinic. Later as a Psychiatric Registered nurse and proceeded to Vanderbilt University where I earned the MSN degree with a specialization in Psychiatric and mental health nurse practitioner, some years back.
![Photo of Taylor Price, PA-C, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5103a3c8-1297-40ed-9731-3564777ceaa1/1/320x400.jpeg)
Taylor pursued a career in mental health after learning the impact mental health can have on every individual’s life. She is passionate about learning about each patient and finding the root of their issues. She understands that treating symptoms can be like a puzzle, and creates collaborative treatment plans individualized to each patient.
Taylor pursued a career in mental health after learning the impact mental health can have on every individual’s life. She is passionate about learning about each patient and finding the root of their issues. She understands that treating symptoms can be like a puzzle, and creates collaborative treatment plans individualized to each patient.
![Photo of Dr. Charlene Whitaker-Brown, DNP, MSN, FNP-C, PMHNP, CHFN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7f08c67f-e24a-4b18-8cbe-c68da190b548/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Charlene Whitaker-Brown
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, MSN, FNP-C, PMHNP, CHFN
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28202
The MindHeart Institute and Wellness Center, PLLC is a Charlotte, North Carolina based company providing psychiatric and mental health services to the entire state of North Carolina. MindHeart Institute and Wellness Center is located at 10400 Mallard Creek Road, Charlotte, North Carolina, 28262. The Center sits at the intersection of West Mallard Creek Church Road/ Prosperity Church Road and Mallard Creek Road. Patients can be seen in person and virtual.
The MindHeart Institute and Wellness Center, PLLC is a Charlotte, North Carolina based company providing psychiatric and mental health services to the entire state of North Carolina. MindHeart Institute and Wellness Center is located at 10400 Mallard Creek Road, Charlotte, North Carolina, 28262. The Center sits at the intersection of West Mallard Creek Church Road/ Prosperity Church Road and Mallard Creek Road. Patients can be seen in person and virtual.
![Photo of William F Wright, MD, FAPA, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d081f010-0c68-43c6-a5e5-7eea54a6a98a/3/320x400.jpeg)
I am the founder and psychiatrist at EirPax Psychiatry. I offer exceptional full spectrum psychiatric care in the comfort of your own home with telehealth services to help your busy lifestyle. With a foundation of psychotherapy ("talk therapy") and the ability to utilize medications if needed, I offer active ways to find help. I offer patient-centered and evidence-based treatments to assist in a wide spectrum of mental health and relationship issues - whether these issues have just arisen or have been present lifelong. Medication management appointments are also available to those stable with their current medication regimen.
I am the founder and psychiatrist at EirPax Psychiatry. I offer exceptional full spectrum psychiatric care in the comfort of your own home with telehealth services to help your busy lifestyle. With a foundation of psychotherapy ("talk therapy") and the ability to utilize medications if needed, I offer active ways to find help. I offer patient-centered and evidence-based treatments to assist in a wide spectrum of mental health and relationship issues - whether these issues have just arisen or have been present lifelong. Medication management appointments are also available to those stable with their current medication regimen.
![Photo of Laurie Arena, PMHNP, LCSWA, RYT-200, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/826582ac-ffff-45fd-9d4d-82e7ee86574d/1/320x400.jpeg)
Laurie Arena
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, LCSWA, RYT-200
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Winston Salem, NC 27101 (Online Only)
Mental, physical, and spiritual health are all intertwined. This is why a holistic approach to mental health care is so imperative. I prescribe psychiatric medications and can help you walk through the decision of whether or not medication might be helpful for you, how to optimize your current medication plan, or even the process of coming off of or taking less medication. I can make recommendations about lifestyle, nutrition, stress management, and behavior modification. I also offer individual therapy with or without medication management.
Mental, physical, and spiritual health are all intertwined. This is why a holistic approach to mental health care is so imperative. I prescribe psychiatric medications and can help you walk through the decision of whether or not medication might be helpful for you, how to optimize your current medication plan, or even the process of coming off of or taking less medication. I can make recommendations about lifestyle, nutrition, stress management, and behavior modification. I also offer individual therapy with or without medication management.
![Photo of Kristen Gialo, DO, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a54f0d0e-dd9c-4f54-93cc-0f77740fdeac/2/320x400.jpeg)
I trained at the University of Maryland Medical Center and Sheppard Pratt Hospital. I am currently accepting new patients for psychotherapy and/or medication management throughout North Carolina. I offer telehealth services that make appointments convenient & easy to attend.
I trained at the University of Maryland Medical Center and Sheppard Pratt Hospital. I am currently accepting new patients for psychotherapy and/or medication management throughout North Carolina. I offer telehealth services that make appointments convenient & easy to attend.
![Photo of Sheila Marano, MSN, FNP-C, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/20a8e1fa-f799-47d5-b030-f6d7c5b873d8/1/320x400.png)
Sheila Marano
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, FNP-C, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Summerfield, NC 27358 (Online Only)
The journey towards mental health and wellness is a marathon and not a race. As a dually certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner, the foundation of my training is seeing and treating the person holistically. My goal is to partner with each individual client to foster the highest quality of life which is sustainable over time. Most clients benefit from a combination of medication management and brief psychotherapy.
The journey towards mental health and wellness is a marathon and not a race. As a dually certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner, the foundation of my training is seeing and treating the person holistically. My goal is to partner with each individual client to foster the highest quality of life which is sustainable over time. Most clients benefit from a combination of medication management and brief psychotherapy.
![Photo of Sarah Erickson, DNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/93592992-be4a-43be-88de-9d49d186bc70/5/320x400.jpeg)
Sarah Erickson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Salisbury, NC 28146 (Online Only)
I help adults struggling with anxiety, depression, CPTSD/PTSD, and grief to process their traumas, find purpose and meaning in their lives, and reconnect to their loved ones. I also specialize in working with young couples and mothers who are struggling with their identities and roles in parenthood. By combining evidence-based therapies with the transformative power of integrative mental health care. I will help you reclaim your inner balance and rediscover a life filled with joy, purpose, and peace.
I help adults struggling with anxiety, depression, CPTSD/PTSD, and grief to process their traumas, find purpose and meaning in their lives, and reconnect to their loved ones. I also specialize in working with young couples and mothers who are struggling with their identities and roles in parenthood. By combining evidence-based therapies with the transformative power of integrative mental health care. I will help you reclaim your inner balance and rediscover a life filled with joy, purpose, and peace.
![Photo of Stanisha Williams, MSN, PMHNP, AGPCNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/83fe7700-a553-4f93-958b-8d1bfe144475/1/320x400.jpeg)
Stanisha Williams
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, AGPCNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Greensboro, NC 27410 (Online Only)
As a dual-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) and Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner (AGPCNP-C), I bring a comprehensive approach to the field of mental health care. With a passion for improving the well-being of individuals across the lifespan, I specialize in the assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of mental health disorders. With years of dedicated experience, I am committed to providing evidence-based, compassionate care to individuals of all ages. Visit www.embracemp.com to schedule your appointment.
As a dual-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) and Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner (AGPCNP-C), I bring a comprehensive approach to the field of mental health care. With a passion for improving the well-being of individuals across the lifespan, I specialize in the assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of mental health disorders. With years of dedicated experience, I am committed to providing evidence-based, compassionate care to individuals of all ages. Visit www.embracemp.com to schedule your appointment.
![Photo of Laura Paschall, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4c9cbae5-3ed6-4374-a80f-7b75053aeca1/1/320x400.jpeg)
Hello! I am a general psychiatrist serving adults of all ages on their journey to mental wellness. My whole-person approach to mental health integrates therapeutic interventions and medication management to provide the highest quality of care. I seek to connect with each patient on a human level, taking time to honor your lived experiences and working together to build a tailored plan to recovery.
Hello! I am a general psychiatrist serving adults of all ages on their journey to mental wellness. My whole-person approach to mental health integrates therapeutic interventions and medication management to provide the highest quality of care. I seek to connect with each patient on a human level, taking time to honor your lived experiences and working together to build a tailored plan to recovery.
![Photo of Dr. Myra Saha, DO, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cbf8c7c2-9203-4ed6-bf8a-8e8514ce11c1/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Myra Saha is board-certified and specializes in general adult psychiatry, managing psychiatric disorders and co-occurring substance-use disorders. Dr. Saha provides holistic, mind, and body care utilizing medication management and cognitive behavioral therapy-based psychotherapeutic models.
Dr. Myra Saha is board-certified and specializes in general adult psychiatry, managing psychiatric disorders and co-occurring substance-use disorders. Dr. Saha provides holistic, mind, and body care utilizing medication management and cognitive behavioral therapy-based psychotherapeutic models.
![Photo of Patricia Carter, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2c8a46f2-f224-4ba3-bade-159738dcc6eb/1/320x400.png)
Patricia Carter is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Adult Geriatric Nurse Practitioner. She is a mastered prepared advanced nurse with ten plus years of nursing experience. Knowledgeable in caring and treating patients in inpatient, outpatient, crisis, and skilled long-term settings. She is actively involved in promoting recovery for those with mental illness, addiction, and trauma through the integration of innovative and evidence based clinical practice and psychosocial needs.
Patricia Carter is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Adult Geriatric Nurse Practitioner. She is a mastered prepared advanced nurse with ten plus years of nursing experience. Knowledgeable in caring and treating patients in inpatient, outpatient, crisis, and skilled long-term settings. She is actively involved in promoting recovery for those with mental illness, addiction, and trauma through the integration of innovative and evidence based clinical practice and psychosocial needs.
See more therapy options for Lenoir
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Lenoir, NC
< 10
Psychiatrists in Lenoir, NC who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
100% | Addiction |
100% | ADHD |
100% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
100% | Trauma and PTSD |
100% | Dissociative Disorders (DID) |
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
100% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
100% | Cigna and Evernorth |
How Psychiatrists in Lenoir, NC 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 Lenoir?
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.