Psychiatrists in Mineola, NY
![Photo of Sean Dellasperanzo - Equilibrio Nurse Practitioner in Psychiatry PLLC, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bffb06b4-fdeb-44bc-a73c-df4f8cae2599/1/320x400.jpeg)
Equilibrio Nurse Practitioner in Psychiatry PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Mineola, NY 11501
We are a group of Nurse Practitioners specializing in Psychiatry. Areas of expertise include managing psychotropic medications targeting anxiety disorders including PTSD, GAD, and OCD, depressive disorders, and bipolar spectrum disorders.
We are a group of Nurse Practitioners specializing in Psychiatry. Areas of expertise include managing psychotropic medications targeting anxiety disorders including PTSD, GAD, and OCD, depressive disorders, and bipolar spectrum disorders.
![Photo of Alicia Portuondo-Smith, MSN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d1147dc6-2df2-4278-81f6-14b494a19bce/2/320x400.png)
Alicia Portuondo-Smith
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Mineola, NY 11501
A Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who treats children, adolescents and adults with a wide range of behavioral and emotional difficulties. Specializing in anxiety, depression, and women's issues especially related to post-partum mental health and motherhood stressors. It is my belief that it is essential to initiate treatment with a thorough psychiatric evaluation and a collaborative plan that engages the patient and family (when applicable) to participate in the overall treatment plan that may include therapy and or medication management.
A Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who treats children, adolescents and adults with a wide range of behavioral and emotional difficulties. Specializing in anxiety, depression, and women's issues especially related to post-partum mental health and motherhood stressors. It is my belief that it is essential to initiate treatment with a thorough psychiatric evaluation and a collaborative plan that engages the patient and family (when applicable) to participate in the overall treatment plan that may include therapy and or medication management.
More Psychiatrists Nearby
![Photo of Daina Kakana, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/763f57de-4337-490c-bbd0-cd26924ec819/1/320x400.png)
Daina Kakana
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Verified Verified
Roslyn Heights, NY 11577 (Online Only)
Hello! My name is Daina Kakana and I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I understand how difficult life’s challenges can be and believe that everyone can use support as they navigate through life. Throughout our sessions, I will always endeavor to provide a space where clients feel comfortable and at ease as they receive the help they need and deserve to live a more balanced and happy life. Often, we may feel bogged down by anxiety, depression, stress, relationship issues, and other struggles that make life feel overwhelming. We may also feel as though we are not on the right path, or that we are too broken to be successful.
Hello! My name is Daina Kakana and I am a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I understand how difficult life’s challenges can be and believe that everyone can use support as they navigate through life. Throughout our sessions, I will always endeavor to provide a space where clients feel comfortable and at ease as they receive the help they need and deserve to live a more balanced and happy life. Often, we may feel bogged down by anxiety, depression, stress, relationship issues, and other struggles that make life feel overwhelming. We may also feel as though we are not on the right path, or that we are too broken to be successful.
![Photo of Shannon Bucciarelli, MSN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c7662fbe-d075-4f72-b1c6-d073001dd151/2/320x400.png)
Shannon Bucciarelli
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Garden City Park, NY 11040
My ideal client would understand that the journey to wellness and recovery requires time, effort, and patience. They would be receptive to treatment suggestions which may include psychotherapy, behavioral interventions, and medication options. My patients would take an active role in their care, and engage in open and honest communication with their provider.
My ideal client would understand that the journey to wellness and recovery requires time, effort, and patience. They would be receptive to treatment suggestions which may include psychotherapy, behavioral interventions, and medication options. My patients would take an active role in their care, and engage in open and honest communication with their provider.
![Photo of Courtney Chellew - Water Gap Wellness Center, DO, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d8d753f9-33c0-4cab-88ea-ec428177e53d/1/320x400.jpeg)
Please note that individual appointments are not available at this location. Please do not contact us unless you are interested in joining our comprehensive treatment program. Water Gap Wellness offers the most intensive Mental Health and Substance Use Treatment Program in the Northeast. Our premier program requires a continuous commitment of 6 hours per day 6 days per week. Housing is available upon request. Included are weekly sessions with me or one of our other psychiatrists, two sessions with your primary therapist per week, and ongoing daily group sessions. Call us today - we are here for you.
Please note that individual appointments are not available at this location. Please do not contact us unless you are interested in joining our comprehensive treatment program. Water Gap Wellness offers the most intensive Mental Health and Substance Use Treatment Program in the Northeast. Our premier program requires a continuous commitment of 6 hours per day 6 days per week. Housing is available upon request. Included are weekly sessions with me or one of our other psychiatrists, two sessions with your primary therapist per week, and ongoing daily group sessions. Call us today - we are here for you.
![Photo of Teresa T. Lee, MD, FAPA, CGP, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6f8b2a56-0bbb-4f73-bf87-d763eb06e20b/2/320x400.jpeg)
Teresa T. Lee
Psychiatrist, MD, FAPA, CGP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Roslyn, NY 11576 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Feeling "stuck" or even "paralyzed" in your career, daily life, or relationships (in areas even beyond romantic) are often why people seek me. My culturally open approach means we will understand how your past and present relationships, ideas, and feelings shape who you are today. I primarily use psychodynamic and relational modalities with a sprinkle in CBT and DBT. Talk therapy can lead to deep and lasting changes, and medications, when thoughtfully prescribed, can lessen the intensity of pain and suffering. With my medical and therapy resources, we will create an approach that helps with personal growth.
Feeling "stuck" or even "paralyzed" in your career, daily life, or relationships (in areas even beyond romantic) are often why people seek me. My culturally open approach means we will understand how your past and present relationships, ideas, and feelings shape who you are today. I primarily use psychodynamic and relational modalities with a sprinkle in CBT and DBT. Talk therapy can lead to deep and lasting changes, and medications, when thoughtfully prescribed, can lessen the intensity of pain and suffering. With my medical and therapy resources, we will create an approach that helps with personal growth.
![Photo of Dr. Allen Masry, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e99eacf2-5512-4275-a498-4422c65028ff/1/320x400.png)
I am Board Certified in Adult Psychiatry and have been practicing since 2005. I completed my residency from Tufts University in Boston, Massachusetts and my Fellowship in Addictions from the Robert Johnson Wood Foundation. In 2014, I was featured in SJ Magazine as one of New Jersey’s top psychiatrists. I have experience working with adults as well as adolescents suffering from both psychiatric diagnosis and substance use disorders and have extensive experience working in both out-patient and in-patient settings.
I am Board Certified in Adult Psychiatry and have been practicing since 2005. I completed my residency from Tufts University in Boston, Massachusetts and my Fellowship in Addictions from the Robert Johnson Wood Foundation. In 2014, I was featured in SJ Magazine as one of New Jersey’s top psychiatrists. I have experience working with adults as well as adolescents suffering from both psychiatric diagnosis and substance use disorders and have extensive experience working in both out-patient and in-patient settings.
Ideal client is one who is willing to work to achieve the Goals of his treatment. Not just looking for any controlled substance .
Ideal client is one who is willing to work to achieve the Goals of his treatment. Not just looking for any controlled substance .
![Photo of Arusha Farahani MD, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4b1f05cc-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Arusha Farahani MD
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Garden City, NY 11530 (Online Only)
Everyone deserves the chance to have a mind that is calm, clear and content. As a Board Certified Adult Psychiatrist I treat an array of conditions including anxiety, depression, PTSD, OCD, bipolar disorder and more. While I specialize in medication management I consider the individual as a whole and provide comprehensive treatment plans that include non-medication strategies to help you live your best life. I encourage a collaborative approach and want patients to be active in treatment planning and decision-making. [I do not accept insurance but I am happy to provide invoices for you to submit for out-of-network benefits.]
Everyone deserves the chance to have a mind that is calm, clear and content. As a Board Certified Adult Psychiatrist I treat an array of conditions including anxiety, depression, PTSD, OCD, bipolar disorder and more. While I specialize in medication management I consider the individual as a whole and provide comprehensive treatment plans that include non-medication strategies to help you live your best life. I encourage a collaborative approach and want patients to be active in treatment planning and decision-making. [I do not accept insurance but I am happy to provide invoices for you to submit for out-of-network benefits.]
![Photo of Kaushiki (Kelly) Kapoor, PMHNP-, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1e5a2b62-a064-46c3-b513-c3a444c4e290/2/320x400.jpeg)
Kaushiki (Kelly) Kapoor
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-, BC
Verified Verified
New Hyde Park, NY 11040
I am a psychiatric provider licensed by NY board to prescribe psychiatric medications and treat mental health disorders. I offer med management as well as psychotherapy. My personal philosophy of treatment is that just by meds all problems do not disappear. Medications and psychotherapy in combination need to happen for the body and mind wellness as well as growth. You can best achieve sustainable growth and a greater sense of well-being with an integrative approach to wellness.
I am a psychiatric provider licensed by NY board to prescribe psychiatric medications and treat mental health disorders. I offer med management as well as psychotherapy. My personal philosophy of treatment is that just by meds all problems do not disappear. Medications and psychotherapy in combination need to happen for the body and mind wellness as well as growth. You can best achieve sustainable growth and a greater sense of well-being with an integrative approach to wellness.
![Photo of Seda Angelina Port - Zen Integrative Care, PMHNP, AGPCNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9ea1e713-7789-4821-9308-5f9ec9abd87b/2/320x400.jpeg)
Zen Integrative Care
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, AGPCNP
Verified Verified
Carle Place, NY 11514 (Online Only)
As a double board-certified practitioner in medicine and psychiatry, I am acutely aware of the impact of mental health on overall wellbeing. I leverage my background in critical care, preventative care, surgery and psychiatry to provide an evidence-based and results-oriented holistic approach catered to each individual. I combine medication management sessions with individual psychotherapy to achieve optimal results in a culturally sensitive and emotionally safe space for the client. My treatment plans are developed in conjunction with the client to provide focused care aimed at encouraging personal growth and development.
As a double board-certified practitioner in medicine and psychiatry, I am acutely aware of the impact of mental health on overall wellbeing. I leverage my background in critical care, preventative care, surgery and psychiatry to provide an evidence-based and results-oriented holistic approach catered to each individual. I combine medication management sessions with individual psychotherapy to achieve optimal results in a culturally sensitive and emotionally safe space for the client. My treatment plans are developed in conjunction with the client to provide focused care aimed at encouraging personal growth and development.
![Photo of Shihab Touhid, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/309f681a-05e7-4136-959d-8da0d8c4b324/1/320x400.png)
Shihab Touhid is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in New York who has been practicing since 2011. He provides patient-centered and trauma-informed care with experience in treatment planning, cognitive behavioral therapy, medication management, and psychotropic medication education. He believes in treating patients with the fewest number of medications. He strongly educates clients about the potential for addiction when taking controlled substances. In his spare time, he enjoys fishing, driving, watching wild animals and funny videos.
Shihab Touhid is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in New York who has been practicing since 2011. He provides patient-centered and trauma-informed care with experience in treatment planning, cognitive behavioral therapy, medication management, and psychotropic medication education. He believes in treating patients with the fewest number of medications. He strongly educates clients about the potential for addiction when taking controlled substances. In his spare time, he enjoys fishing, driving, watching wild animals and funny videos.
![Photo of Lesley Rothschild, MS, PMHNP , BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/327c27ff-f2c7-4c36-a8b5-4f21b93418f5/2/320x400.jpeg)
Lesley Rothschild
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MS, PMHNP , BC
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Roslyn Heights, NY 11577
Waitlist for new clients
I am a psychiatric nurse practitioner who is Board Certified to treat children, adolescents and adults. I specialize in psychopharmacology and my treatment philosophy centers on caring for the whole person as well as integrating holistic intervention’s when possible. I see patients between the ages of 5 and 65 years of age. Please note that I do not sub-specialize in geriatrics. Pharmacogenetic DNA testing via Genomind and GeneSight is available for appropriate patients.
I am a psychiatric nurse practitioner who is Board Certified to treat children, adolescents and adults. I specialize in psychopharmacology and my treatment philosophy centers on caring for the whole person as well as integrating holistic intervention’s when possible. I see patients between the ages of 5 and 65 years of age. Please note that I do not sub-specialize in geriatrics. Pharmacogenetic DNA testing via Genomind and GeneSight is available for appropriate patients.
Marie Rose Bhuiyan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MS, PMHNP-, BC
Verified Verified
New Hyde Park, NY 11040
Not accepting new clients
I am a board certified Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, who has been in private practice since 2011. This practice was initiated in response to the growing need for outpatient mental health services specifically to Muslim (but not limited to) patients that are inclusive, and integrate religiously, spiritually and culturally sensitive treatments. My services are open to anyone who is experiencing psychological issues, or anyone who has been diagnosed with psychiatric and mental illness.
I am a board certified Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, who has been in private practice since 2011. This practice was initiated in response to the growing need for outpatient mental health services specifically to Muslim (but not limited to) patients that are inclusive, and integrate religiously, spiritually and culturally sensitive treatments. My services are open to anyone who is experiencing psychological issues, or anyone who has been diagnosed with psychiatric and mental illness.
![Photo of Natalie Gayle - Natalie Gayle Psychiatric, NP, PLLC, MSN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/565d07bc-a1f6-46a6-b7f7-8b65e4892b01/1/320x400.jpeg)
Natalie Gayle Psychiatric, NP, PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Garden City, NY 11531
Have life stressors got you feeling sad, angry, anxious causing you difficulty to function. Are you feeling "stuck", having excessive worrying, and difficulty focusing? Don't worry, I am here to assist you. These are some mental health conditions that I can formulate a treatment plan together to get you back on track to a better you. Your mental wellness is important, so I can partner with you to achieve your goals.
Have life stressors got you feeling sad, angry, anxious causing you difficulty to function. Are you feeling "stuck", having excessive worrying, and difficulty focusing? Don't worry, I am here to assist you. These are some mental health conditions that I can formulate a treatment plan together to get you back on track to a better you. Your mental wellness is important, so I can partner with you to achieve your goals.
![Photo of Dr. Jacob Palathinkal, PsyD, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/40003174-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Jacob Palathinkal
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PsyD, NP
Verified Verified
Roslyn Heights, NY 11577
I am a child/adolescent psychopharmacologist with extensive experience treating various diagnoses .I specialize in ADHD, DMDD and depression.
I am a child/adolescent psychopharmacologist with extensive experience treating various diagnoses .I specialize in ADHD, DMDD and depression.
![Photo of Sam Shapiro, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6abbea07-5622-44d9-9f60-df2f2285986d/3/320x400.jpeg)
If you're looking to manage depression, anxiety, OCD, mood swings, trauma, or DP/DR symptoms, my services can help. I'm a psychiatrist (MD) and my experience includes five years at one the largest university counseling centers in the country, private practice, community clinics, and working with veterans. What I offer: unhurried visits, thoughtful treatment discussions, collaboration, and a focus on meeting your personal goals. I'm knowledgeable about medications, as well as other options for feeling better ranging from therapy to complementary/CAM approaches. Please note: I am 'out-of-network' with insurances at this time.
If you're looking to manage depression, anxiety, OCD, mood swings, trauma, or DP/DR symptoms, my services can help. I'm a psychiatrist (MD) and my experience includes five years at one the largest university counseling centers in the country, private practice, community clinics, and working with veterans. What I offer: unhurried visits, thoughtful treatment discussions, collaboration, and a focus on meeting your personal goals. I'm knowledgeable about medications, as well as other options for feeling better ranging from therapy to complementary/CAM approaches. Please note: I am 'out-of-network' with insurances at this time.
![Photo of Guiding Balance - Guiding Balance, DNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/490cb1a4-3d87-4959-bbb5-8310036094df/1/320x400.jpeg)
Welcome to Guiding Balance. We offer comprehensive diagnostic evaluations with genetic testing, medication management with genetic profiling, and psychotherapy. We treat pediatric, adult, and geriatric clients.
Welcome to Guiding Balance. We offer comprehensive diagnostic evaluations with genetic testing, medication management with genetic profiling, and psychotherapy. We treat pediatric, adult, and geriatric clients.
![Photo of Nisha Pradeep, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/43dfa924-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Nisha Pradeep
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Garden City, NY 11530
Waitlist for new clients
I am a board certified psychiatric/mental health nurse practitioner with over 9 yrs of experience in treating adults with various mental illness including but not limited to anxiety, panic disorder, depression, OCD, and ADHD. I have completed my masters degree from Stony Brook University and Doctorate degree from University at Buffalo. Every individual has unique needs and I use individually tailored treatment plans for my patients. Please use the website link, call or email to book an appointment.
I am a board certified psychiatric/mental health nurse practitioner with over 9 yrs of experience in treating adults with various mental illness including but not limited to anxiety, panic disorder, depression, OCD, and ADHD. I have completed my masters degree from Stony Brook University and Doctorate degree from University at Buffalo. Every individual has unique needs and I use individually tailored treatment plans for my patients. Please use the website link, call or email to book an appointment.
![Photo of Erika Balfour, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2c1c20ee-9b76-411e-9c6d-b2556ee1e900/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Erika Balfour is a psychiatrist in New York who has been practicing medicine since 2003. She attended Yale University and the Renaissance School of Medicine, where she received a BA and MD degree, respectively. Dr. Balfour treats with medication management, but also considers other possible treatments and explanations for symptoms. She believes in assessing the entire person and enjoys working with patients.
Dr. Erika Balfour is a psychiatrist in New York who has been practicing medicine since 2003. She attended Yale University and the Renaissance School of Medicine, where she received a BA and MD degree, respectively. Dr. Balfour treats with medication management, but also considers other possible treatments and explanations for symptoms. She believes in assessing the entire person and enjoys working with patients.
See more therapy options for Mineola
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Mineola, NY
< 10
Psychiatrists in Mineola, NY who prioritize treating:
50% | Relationship Issues |
50% | Depression |
50% | Anxiety |
50% | Life Coaching |
50% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
50% | Parenting |
50% | Other |
Average years in practice
11 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
100% | Cigna and Evernorth |
100% | Oxford |
How Psychiatrists in Mineola, NY see their clients
100% | In Person and Online |
Gender breakdown
50% | Female | |
50% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Mineola?
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.