Psychiatrists in Garrison, NY
![Photo of Nadav Klein, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/dd435a63-6587-4f57-82c8-00dcdcdff6e4/2/320x400.jpeg)
In life, we navigate personal relationships, our social and professional lives, and sometimes, medical illness. We want to feel fulfilled and meaningful. If you are looking to change and grow, I endeavor to meet you where you are to find the next step in your journey.
In life, we navigate personal relationships, our social and professional lives, and sometimes, medical illness. We want to feel fulfilled and meaningful. If you are looking to change and grow, I endeavor to meet you where you are to find the next step in your journey.
More Psychiatrists Nearby
![Photo of Marianna Garibaldi, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/50e6dea2-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/1/320x400.jpeg)
Marianna Garibaldi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Mahopac Falls, NY 10542 (Online Only)
Please visit my webpage for more information at www.serenitytelementalhealth.com
Please visit my webpage for more information at www.serenitytelementalhealth.com
![Photo of Jewel Barboza - Strength of the Mind Psychiatry , APRN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4a064e71-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Strength of the Mind Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Yorktown Heights, NY 10598
As a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I am trained to provide care with a dual emphasis on treatment of the whole patient through psychopharmacology and brief psychotherapy, across the lifespan. From my extensive experience over the past 10 years working in both inpatient and outpatient environments, I have gained expertise in all facets of assessment, diagnosing, medication management and psychotherapy. My goal is to provide the highest level of quality care my clients in a comfortable and private setting. I strive to include not only the client, but their families in the treatment process.
As a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I am trained to provide care with a dual emphasis on treatment of the whole patient through psychopharmacology and brief psychotherapy, across the lifespan. From my extensive experience over the past 10 years working in both inpatient and outpatient environments, I have gained expertise in all facets of assessment, diagnosing, medication management and psychotherapy. My goal is to provide the highest level of quality care my clients in a comfortable and private setting. I strive to include not only the client, but their families in the treatment process.
![Photo of Kristina Manich, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e206f406-0200-4dbe-b882-8a3a0e62d141/1/320x400.jpeg)
Kristina Manich
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Yorktown Heights, NY 10598
As a dedicated and compassionate board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner specializing in medication management , I bring a wealth of experience in helping individuals of all ages navigate through a spectrum of mental health challenges.
As a dedicated and compassionate board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner specializing in medication management , I bring a wealth of experience in helping individuals of all ages navigate through a spectrum of mental health challenges.
![Photo of Katherine Harding, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a2d64de5-4acb-4f27-a215-f413657eadb7/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Harding is a New York State licensed psychiatrist, certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. She graduated from the Virginia Commonwealth University School of Medicine and completed her psychiatry residency at Montefiore Hospital. She been a staff psychiatrist at Montefiore and Northern Westchester Hospital.
Dr. Harding is a New York State licensed psychiatrist, certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. She graduated from the Virginia Commonwealth University School of Medicine and completed her psychiatry residency at Montefiore Hospital. She been a staff psychiatrist at Montefiore and Northern Westchester Hospital.
![Photo of Dr. Mark Chofla - Dr Mark Chofla | Empathy Therapy, DO, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6eb51f38-ddd1-49f2-a6f8-d097151b6ea3/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr Mark Chofla | Empathy Therapy
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
Putnam Valley, NY 10579 (Online Only)
Dr. Mark Chofla is a board-certified psychiatrist and physician who completed his specialty residency training at the Los Angeles County + University of Southern California Medical Center. After receiving his Bachelor of Science degree in Neurobiology, Physiology, and Behavior from the University of California at Davis, Dr. Chofla earned his medical degree from Midwestern University: Arizona College of Osteopathic Medicine.
Dr. Mark Chofla is a board-certified psychiatrist and physician who completed his specialty residency training at the Los Angeles County + University of Southern California Medical Center. After receiving his Bachelor of Science degree in Neurobiology, Physiology, and Behavior from the University of California at Davis, Dr. Chofla earned his medical degree from Midwestern University: Arizona College of Osteopathic Medicine.
![Photo of Dr. Karina Santibanez, DNP, PMHNP, BSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1e69de4f-02d4-4f1e-b696-1c7422b8022d/3/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Karina Santibanez
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, BSN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mahopac, NY 10541
Hi! I am a doctorally prepared psychiatric nurse practitioner from New York University, specializing in children and adolescent. I received the majority of my clinical training from inpatient settings, where I learned to work with a wide range of patients and families struggling from depression, anxiety, substance use, and trauma. I also have extensive experience working with adults, and can offer clozapine management. In my 14 years of practice I have fallen in love with the healing process and watching how empathetic, holistic, and client-centered care can change entire family structures.
Hi! I am a doctorally prepared psychiatric nurse practitioner from New York University, specializing in children and adolescent. I received the majority of my clinical training from inpatient settings, where I learned to work with a wide range of patients and families struggling from depression, anxiety, substance use, and trauma. I also have extensive experience working with adults, and can offer clozapine management. In my 14 years of practice I have fallen in love with the healing process and watching how empathetic, holistic, and client-centered care can change entire family structures.
![Photo of Naomi Fisher, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2daf593b-299a-48de-b3ee-1305b54c5603/1/320x400.jpeg)
Ms. Fisher is a New York State licensed Psychiatric Mental Health Practitioner with a doctoral degree from Rush University. She received her BSN from the University of Connecticut. Ms. Fisher works with adolescents, adults, and older adults carrying a broad range of psychiatric and substance use related diagnoses. She provides psychiatric assessment and medication management.
Ms. Fisher is a New York State licensed Psychiatric Mental Health Practitioner with a doctoral degree from Rush University. She received her BSN from the University of Connecticut. Ms. Fisher works with adolescents, adults, and older adults carrying a broad range of psychiatric and substance use related diagnoses. She provides psychiatric assessment and medication management.
![Photo of Sarah Krim, PMHCNS-, Psychiatric Nurse](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0b4369dd-bb44-4021-afef-72e437095524/1/320x400.jpeg)
Please note Sarah works with patients to taper their benzodiazepines and hypnotics, she does not prescribe them long term. Sarah is a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who earned both her Doctorate in Nursing and Master's in Nursing from Columbia University. Sarah implements a team approach, coupled with evidence-based practice when working with patients. She always includes her patients in the decision making process regarding medication management and treatment options. The core of successful treatment is a plan that both patient and provider agree on. Sarah has experience working in the community outpatient setting.
Please note Sarah works with patients to taper their benzodiazepines and hypnotics, she does not prescribe them long term. Sarah is a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who earned both her Doctorate in Nursing and Master's in Nursing from Columbia University. Sarah implements a team approach, coupled with evidence-based practice when working with patients. She always includes her patients in the decision making process regarding medication management and treatment options. The core of successful treatment is a plan that both patient and provider agree on. Sarah has experience working in the community outpatient setting.
![Photo of Renata Krymkevich, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0fd6f929-ccc7-4c9d-a675-8f0e1f9b6c39/2/320x400.jpeg)
I've been practicing psychiatry for over 25 years with a special area of expertise in affective disorders such as Depression, Anxiety, Panic Disorder, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, as well as treating young adults with Attention Deficit Disorder. I am an independent practitioner and my office is very private. I pride myself to run on schedule. I make myself available for emergency appointments if needed, and respond to phone calls within 24 business hours.
I've been practicing psychiatry for over 25 years with a special area of expertise in affective disorders such as Depression, Anxiety, Panic Disorder, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, as well as treating young adults with Attention Deficit Disorder. I am an independent practitioner and my office is very private. I pride myself to run on schedule. I make myself available for emergency appointments if needed, and respond to phone calls within 24 business hours.
![Photo of Olanrewaju Somorin, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6684ca4c-9444-4b71-80c2-cfdd9f8ca6c2/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr Somorin is triple board certified in Psychiatry, Addiction Psychiatry and Addiction Medicine. He has been listed as a top psychiatrist in the Hudson Valley Magazine yearly from 2006 to 2019. He graduated from Montefiore Medical Center, Bronx NY in August 1999He then completed a one year fellowship in Addiction Psychiatry from Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx NY. He treats clients struggling with anxiety, depression or substance abuse.
Dr Somorin is triple board certified in Psychiatry, Addiction Psychiatry and Addiction Medicine. He has been listed as a top psychiatrist in the Hudson Valley Magazine yearly from 2006 to 2019. He graduated from Montefiore Medical Center, Bronx NY in August 1999He then completed a one year fellowship in Addiction Psychiatry from Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx NY. He treats clients struggling with anxiety, depression or substance abuse.
![Photo of Jennifer C McKenna, MS, PNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4685abad-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Jennifer C McKenna
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MS, PNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Croton On Hudson, NY 10520
We are living in an extraordinary moment in human history. Change is coming...we can all feel it. Are you struggling to find your place in this time? You're meant to be part of it, yet you struggle with addiction, depression, anxiety, self-deprecation, or other deep-seated discomfort.
We are living in an extraordinary moment in human history. Change is coming...we can all feel it. Are you struggling to find your place in this time? You're meant to be part of it, yet you struggle with addiction, depression, anxiety, self-deprecation, or other deep-seated discomfort.
![Photo of Nick Banker, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/80a5cf80-2ddf-4738-be69-5e1894888fc7/2/320x400.jpeg)
Nick Banker
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Yorktown Heights, NY 10598
I am a Board Certified, Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who believes in treating the patient as a whole. I believe in constantly expanding the various ways of treating patients; we start with building a therapeutic rapport, then assess the need for classical psychiatric medications while incorporating behavioral changes and herbal supplements as needed. Our office offers Spravato (nasal ketamine) and cutting edge TMS (transcranial magnetic stimulation) therapy, as well as MERT, so we are able to treat psychiatric symptoms and diagnoses from many different angles.
I am a Board Certified, Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who believes in treating the patient as a whole. I believe in constantly expanding the various ways of treating patients; we start with building a therapeutic rapport, then assess the need for classical psychiatric medications while incorporating behavioral changes and herbal supplements as needed. Our office offers Spravato (nasal ketamine) and cutting edge TMS (transcranial magnetic stimulation) therapy, as well as MERT, so we are able to treat psychiatric symptoms and diagnoses from many different angles.
![Photo of Kathleen Fanning Woods, RN, MSN, NPP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/422dbb0b-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Kathleen Fanning Woods
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, RN, MSN, NPP
Verified Verified
Yorktown Heights, NY 10598
Not accepting new clients
From our first meeting, we begin a relationship built upon kindness, empathy, trust and wellbeing. We will work collaboratively to address the important issues that are bringing you here. Through my years as a Nurse Practitioner, I have realized that mental health encompasses more than just words, it includes physical, psychological, emotional and social well being. Our mental health affects how we think, feel and deal with stressful situations, how we make choices, interact with others and find solutions. I would like the opportunity to work with you in discovering and treating the issues that are affecting you.
From our first meeting, we begin a relationship built upon kindness, empathy, trust and wellbeing. We will work collaboratively to address the important issues that are bringing you here. Through my years as a Nurse Practitioner, I have realized that mental health encompasses more than just words, it includes physical, psychological, emotional and social well being. Our mental health affects how we think, feel and deal with stressful situations, how we make choices, interact with others and find solutions. I would like the opportunity to work with you in discovering and treating the issues that are affecting you.
![Photo of Maryellen D'Ambrosio, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/268e388e-c36f-4c62-a82d-182381de479d/1/320x400.jpeg)
Maryellen D'Ambrosio is a New York State licensed Psychiatric & Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, and is Board Certified by the American Nurses Credentialling Center. She has been practicing Child & Adolescent Psychiatry, since 2004, and has provided treatment in both inpatient and outpatient settings. She graduated, Summa Cum Laude, from Pace University - Leinhard School of Nursing with a Master of Science Degree. Her advanced education included specialized training (ages 3-17), with more explicit preparation and clinical instruction, in the area of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry.
Maryellen D'Ambrosio is a New York State licensed Psychiatric & Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, and is Board Certified by the American Nurses Credentialling Center. She has been practicing Child & Adolescent Psychiatry, since 2004, and has provided treatment in both inpatient and outpatient settings. She graduated, Summa Cum Laude, from Pace University - Leinhard School of Nursing with a Master of Science Degree. Her advanced education included specialized training (ages 3-17), with more explicit preparation and clinical instruction, in the area of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry.
![Photo of Dr. Mark Nakhla, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/57594ade-f18c-44be-ac54-097974a1f52e/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am a board-certified adult and geriatric psychiatrist. I utilize a compassionate, collaborative, and recovery-oriented approach to support each of my patients in living meaningful and sustainably healthy lives. I offer psychotherapy and medication management approaches where appropriate. I work with adults of all ages and treat a wide variety of concerns including anxiety disorders, mood disorders including depression and bipolar disorder, ADHD, OCD, and interpersonal challenges.
I am a board-certified adult and geriatric psychiatrist. I utilize a compassionate, collaborative, and recovery-oriented approach to support each of my patients in living meaningful and sustainably healthy lives. I offer psychotherapy and medication management approaches where appropriate. I work with adults of all ages and treat a wide variety of concerns including anxiety disorders, mood disorders including depression and bipolar disorder, ADHD, OCD, and interpersonal challenges.
![Photo of Carol L Kessler, MD, MDiv, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5023d050-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
I serve children, adolescents and adults who are in need of appropriate diagnosis and treatment of mental health issues. I am able to prescribe medication when indicated, yet make this decision in the context of an evaluation of psychological, social, spiritual and familial circumstances. I strive to provide a compassionate, safe space for those seeking my care.
I serve children, adolescents and adults who are in need of appropriate diagnosis and treatment of mental health issues. I am able to prescribe medication when indicated, yet make this decision in the context of an evaluation of psychological, social, spiritual and familial circumstances. I strive to provide a compassionate, safe space for those seeking my care.
![Photo of Virginia Connolly, RNMSNP-, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e2f74d15-b91e-48ec-81a1-9cbc20ec2bb0/1/320x400.jpeg)
Virginia Connolly
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, RNMSNP-
Verified Verified
Yorktown Heights, NY 10598
Ginger Connolly graduated from Columbia University 22 years ago, obtaining her Nurse Practitioner degree. This was preceded by 20 years of inpatient treatment with both children and adults. She specializes in ADHD, General Anxiety Disorders, Major Depression, PTSD and Obsessive compulsive disorders. More attention is increasingly given to Social anxiety disorder which has increased in prevalence with the advent of the pandemic isolation. Age groups seen are from age 5 thru age 55. Child treatment is accompanied by parent training if needed, if Oppositional Defiant Disorder is noted in particular.
Ginger Connolly graduated from Columbia University 22 years ago, obtaining her Nurse Practitioner degree. This was preceded by 20 years of inpatient treatment with both children and adults. She specializes in ADHD, General Anxiety Disorders, Major Depression, PTSD and Obsessive compulsive disorders. More attention is increasingly given to Social anxiety disorder which has increased in prevalence with the advent of the pandemic isolation. Age groups seen are from age 5 thru age 55. Child treatment is accompanied by parent training if needed, if Oppositional Defiant Disorder is noted in particular.
![Photo of Jyothsna Karlapalem, MD, CCTP II, NCTTP, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cce569f4-44ef-4abf-ba90-c84ef5adcfd1/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jyothsna Karlapalem
Psychiatrist, MD, CCTP II, NCTTP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Yorktown Heights, NY 10598
I offer warm, culturally sensitive, compassionate integrative psychiatry & psychotherapy services for those suffering from depression, anxiety, trauma, or addiction. Mental health struggles can rob you of joy and make you feel alone and hopeless. Dealing with self-doubt and self-criticism is hard and painful. If you found it difficult to connect with providers, felt judged and misunderstood in the past or tried medications that just did not seem to help, don't give up! Finding the RIGHT provider that takes the time to listen, understands you, and has expertise in Integrative Psychiatry can make ALL the difference.
I offer warm, culturally sensitive, compassionate integrative psychiatry & psychotherapy services for those suffering from depression, anxiety, trauma, or addiction. Mental health struggles can rob you of joy and make you feel alone and hopeless. Dealing with self-doubt and self-criticism is hard and painful. If you found it difficult to connect with providers, felt judged and misunderstood in the past or tried medications that just did not seem to help, don't give up! Finding the RIGHT provider that takes the time to listen, understands you, and has expertise in Integrative Psychiatry can make ALL the difference.
![Photo of Kristian Georgiev, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2f58bb9d-a39e-4423-8756-9ae102abe770/1/320x400.jpeg)
As a psychotherapist, I believe that working to understand our struggles in the context of a healing relationship can help us live life with greater wisdom, flexibility, and integrity. I also believe that we are shaped by our relationships, past and present. My work is to address internal conflicts and patterns of suffering that can leave us feeling stuck in our lives and relationships. I aim to provide a safe and non-judgmental space that fosters lasting emotional growth, greater fulfillment, and deeper connection with self and others. I use psychotherapy as an opportunity to be your partner in a journey of self-discovery.
As a psychotherapist, I believe that working to understand our struggles in the context of a healing relationship can help us live life with greater wisdom, flexibility, and integrity. I also believe that we are shaped by our relationships, past and present. My work is to address internal conflicts and patterns of suffering that can leave us feeling stuck in our lives and relationships. I aim to provide a safe and non-judgmental space that fosters lasting emotional growth, greater fulfillment, and deeper connection with self and others. I use psychotherapy as an opportunity to be your partner in a journey of self-discovery.
See more therapy options for Garrison
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Garrison, NY
< 10
Psychiatrists in Garrison, NY who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
100% | Psychosis |
100% | Bipolar Disorder |
100% | Medication Management |
100% | Life Transitions |
100% | Chronic Illness |
Average years in practice
6 Years
Gender breakdown
100% | Male |
How Psychiatrists in Garrison, NY see their clients
100% | In Person and Online |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Garrison?
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.