Psychiatrists in Montgomery, NY

Photo of Barbara Marie Marszalek, FPMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Barbara Marie Marszalek
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FPMHNP
Verified Verified
Montgomery, NY 12549
Are you suffering from anxiety, depression, PTSD? Are you looking to connect with someone to help you find a way to heal? To pull the triggers away from you? I offer personalized integrative psychiatric care for those struggling mentally, emotionally or with addictions in Orange County NY. I specialize in ART ( Accelerated Resolution Therapy). It is a unique approach to psychotherapy to replace negative images in the unconscious mind that triggers and symptoms of PTSD with positive ones that my clients chose, hence removing the triggers causing the intrusive thoughts to completely STOP. You are important. You are worth it.
Are you suffering from anxiety, depression, PTSD? Are you looking to connect with someone to help you find a way to heal? To pull the triggers away from you? I offer personalized integrative psychiatric care for those struggling mentally, emotionally or with addictions in Orange County NY. I specialize in ART ( Accelerated Resolution Therapy). It is a unique approach to psychotherapy to replace negative images in the unconscious mind that triggers and symptoms of PTSD with positive ones that my clients chose, hence removing the triggers causing the intrusive thoughts to completely STOP. You are important. You are worth it.
(845) 539-1056 View (845) 539-1056

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Dr. Stephanie Monaco - Dr. Stephanie Monaco, MD, PLLC, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Stephanie Monaco, MD, PLLC
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Goshen, NY 10924
Hello, I'm Dr. Monaco. I have a true interest in helping others and an incredible understanding of people. I am a Mount Sinai Beth Israel trained psychiatrist with years of experience in medication treatment and psychotherapy. I also have additional specialization in mood disorders like bipolar disorder and depression. I use an integrative approach to therapy including supportive, cognitive and psychodynamic techniques. I provide medication management, psychotherapy or a combination of the two. I have practices in Manhattan & Goshen (New York) and Denver (Colorado).
Hello, I'm Dr. Monaco. I have a true interest in helping others and an incredible understanding of people. I am a Mount Sinai Beth Israel trained psychiatrist with years of experience in medication treatment and psychotherapy. I also have additional specialization in mood disorders like bipolar disorder and depression. I use an integrative approach to therapy including supportive, cognitive and psychodynamic techniques. I provide medication management, psychotherapy or a combination of the two. I have practices in Manhattan & Goshen (New York) and Denver (Colorado).
(646) 681-5657 View (646) 681-5657
Photo of Jingduan Yang, MD, FAPA, Psychiatrist
Jingduan Yang
Psychiatrist, MD, FAPA
Verified Verified
Middletown, NY 10940
Mental health issues are complex problems with the body, mind, and spirit. They demand a comprehensive evaluation to detect abnormal brain chemistry and physiology to employ an individualized and integrative approach to treat the root causes and relieve the symptoms. I have helped numerous people who are tired of the side effects and lack of efficacy of psychotropic medications and desire to achieve a healthier and happier life.
Mental health issues are complex problems with the body, mind, and spirit. They demand a comprehensive evaluation to detect abnormal brain chemistry and physiology to employ an individualized and integrative approach to treat the root causes and relieve the symptoms. I have helped numerous people who are tired of the side effects and lack of efficacy of psychotropic medications and desire to achieve a healthier and happier life.
(484) 870-3177 View (484) 870-3177
Photo of Debra Mayers, DNP, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Debra Mayers
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Middletown, NY 10940  (Online Only)
I understand you may be experiencing excessive worry, anxiousness, pounding chest and shortness of breath and cannot understand why. Or you may be feeling down, not able enjoy the things you once enjoyed, feel like you don’t want to get out of bed; I don’t want you continue to suffer anymore; I will work with you to provide a combination of medication and therapy that will give you the relief you are seeking and give you your life back.
I understand you may be experiencing excessive worry, anxiousness, pounding chest and shortness of breath and cannot understand why. Or you may be feeling down, not able enjoy the things you once enjoyed, feel like you don’t want to get out of bed; I don’t want you continue to suffer anymore; I will work with you to provide a combination of medication and therapy that will give you the relief you are seeking and give you your life back.
(845) 237-3932 View (845) 237-3932
Photo of Uros Koprivica, APN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Uros Koprivica
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Middletown, NY 10940
An ideal client would be someone who is open, honest, and willing to ask for help. This person wants to get better and is open to suggestions and treatment options. They are willing to put in the effort to help themselves and work as a team with their provider in order to move toward mental wellness.
An ideal client would be someone who is open, honest, and willing to ask for help. This person wants to get better and is open to suggestions and treatment options. They are willing to put in the effort to help themselves and work as a team with their provider in order to move toward mental wellness.
(845) 413-2344 View (845) 413-2344
Photo of Jacqueline B Dongmo - Orange County NP in Psychiatry, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Orange County NP in Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Goshen, NY 10924
My ideal client desires to achieve a sense of balance and happiness, even in times of stress. They seek ways to experience calmness, clarity of mind, and rejuvenation. They want to learn effective techniques to manage stress, prioritize self-care, and establish a deeper connection with their true selves. Ultimately, their goal is to feel more joyful, energetic, and fully engaged in their daily routine while balancing work and personal life and maintaining good health.
My ideal client desires to achieve a sense of balance and happiness, even in times of stress. They seek ways to experience calmness, clarity of mind, and rejuvenation. They want to learn effective techniques to manage stress, prioritize self-care, and establish a deeper connection with their true selves. Ultimately, their goal is to feel more joyful, energetic, and fully engaged in their daily routine while balancing work and personal life and maintaining good health.
(845) 606-6404 View (845) 606-6404
Photo of Hugh McKenzie - Hugh McKenzie, PNP, PNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Hugh McKenzie, PNP
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PNP
Verified Verified
Newburgh, NY 12550
I have been in the field of psychiatry since 1994; and have been licensed and board certified as a Family Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner since 2012. Our goal is for everyone to achieve optimal health from a holistic perspective. Therefore in addition to medication mgmt, we promote healthy- transitions4u: mind, body, spirit. We are here for you and provide an accommodating atmosphere where you will be heard and encouraged to achieve your very best you!
I have been in the field of psychiatry since 1994; and have been licensed and board certified as a Family Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner since 2012. Our goal is for everyone to achieve optimal health from a holistic perspective. Therefore in addition to medication mgmt, we promote healthy- transitions4u: mind, body, spirit. We are here for you and provide an accommodating atmosphere where you will be heard and encouraged to achieve your very best you!
(845) 704-1262 View (845) 704-1262
Photo of Allen Masry - Harmony Bay, MD, Psychiatrist
Harmony Bay
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Middletown, NY 10940
Harmony Bay is a psychiatry and therapy office that provides primary mental health treatment programs for psychiatric conditions such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, and ADHD. We offer a clean, bright environment with a calming and positive tone. We offer programs and services for both therapy and psychiatry including individual therapy, group therapy, couples therapy, and medication management.
Harmony Bay is a psychiatry and therapy office that provides primary mental health treatment programs for psychiatric conditions such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, and ADHD. We offer a clean, bright environment with a calming and positive tone. We offer programs and services for both therapy and psychiatry including individual therapy, group therapy, couples therapy, and medication management.
(845) 328-2865 View (845) 328-2865
Photo of Anthony Collica, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Anthony Collica
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Goshen, NY 10924
Not accepting new clients
I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and started practicing in 2021(PMHNP), but have been working in mental health in various roles since 2006 at 19 years of age. I graduated from Binghamton University Magna Cum Laude, with my Masters of Science. I help patients work through and over to the other side of their anxiety, trauma, depression, suicidal ideation, impulse control and psychosis. My approach to treatment is a patient centered approach while utilizing medication and CBT and motivational interviewing skills. No two patients are identical, and my treatment approach reflects that viewpoint.
I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and started practicing in 2021(PMHNP), but have been working in mental health in various roles since 2006 at 19 years of age. I graduated from Binghamton University Magna Cum Laude, with my Masters of Science. I help patients work through and over to the other side of their anxiety, trauma, depression, suicidal ideation, impulse control and psychosis. My approach to treatment is a patient centered approach while utilizing medication and CBT and motivational interviewing skills. No two patients are identical, and my treatment approach reflects that viewpoint.
(845) 286-4598 View (845) 286-4598
Photo of Hong Kim - One Psychiatry, PMHNP, NP-P, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
One Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, NP-P, BC
Verified Verified
Middletown, NY 10941  (Online Only)
I am a board-certified psychiatric NP, trained at New York University. I specialize in adults, children, adolescents, and geriatrics. My virtual and in-person practices are friendly and confidential spaces where I provide a thorough psychiatric evaluation and personalized medication management. My approach is to always see things from the client’s perspective. My mission is to support my clients while they create more meaningful progress in life. I use my expertise to help them find harmony between mind and body. I think mental health care can be a spiritual, and yet a scientific way for the client to look into their soul.
I am a board-certified psychiatric NP, trained at New York University. I specialize in adults, children, adolescents, and geriatrics. My virtual and in-person practices are friendly and confidential spaces where I provide a thorough psychiatric evaluation and personalized medication management. My approach is to always see things from the client’s perspective. My mission is to support my clients while they create more meaningful progress in life. I use my expertise to help them find harmony between mind and body. I think mental health care can be a spiritual, and yet a scientific way for the client to look into their soul.
(201) 969-5923 View (201) 969-5923
Photo of Iva Lesniak - Iva Lesniak, DO, Psychiatry PLLC, DO, BC, Psychiatrist
Iva Lesniak, DO, Psychiatry PLLC
Psychiatrist, DO, BC
Verified Verified
Middletown, NY 10940
Hi, contact me if you're looking for an experienced, empathic Board Certified psychiatrist and psychotherapist who will work collaboratively with you to help you improve your quality of life and resilience. In treatment with me, you will find a safe, supportive environment where mutual respect, trust and personal growth become possible. I will work closely with you to select a treatment that best fits your individual needs and preferences, whether it's lifestyle changes, psychotherapy, medications, or a combination. Your input is very important to me and I am happy to answer any questions about the process and treatment.
Hi, contact me if you're looking for an experienced, empathic Board Certified psychiatrist and psychotherapist who will work collaboratively with you to help you improve your quality of life and resilience. In treatment with me, you will find a safe, supportive environment where mutual respect, trust and personal growth become possible. I will work closely with you to select a treatment that best fits your individual needs and preferences, whether it's lifestyle changes, psychotherapy, medications, or a combination. Your input is very important to me and I am happy to answer any questions about the process and treatment.
(845) 237-3981 View (845) 237-3981
Photo of Mary FitzGerald Switala, DNP, APN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Mary FitzGerald Switala
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APN
Verified Verified
Goshen, NY 10924
Waitlist for new clients
I focus on using a holistic and integrative approach to diagnosing and treating mental health conditions and work with clients to identify, understand, and solve issues. I believe treatment must be highly individualized, compassionate and that it is a collaboration between the client and me. Together we can determine what is the right treatment for you.
I focus on using a holistic and integrative approach to diagnosing and treating mental health conditions and work with clients to identify, understand, and solve issues. I believe treatment must be highly individualized, compassionate and that it is a collaboration between the client and me. Together we can determine what is the right treatment for you.
(845) 671-5003 View (845) 671-5003
Photo of Munyaradzi Rwakonda, PhD, PMHNP, MS, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Munyaradzi Rwakonda
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD, PMHNP, MS
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Middletown, NY 10940
Hello, I look forward to meeting you! My name is Munya and I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in the state of New York. I specialize in Anxiety, ADHD, Mood disorders, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), ODD, ASD, and other mental health conditions. At Zambezi, I provide a range of several mental health services from the comfort of home through telehealth or in-person. I provide medication management & therapy in a single visit to save you time and money. Exercise, nutrition and gut health are essential for brain health. I believe in consistence, persistence and resilience towards a better version of you.
Hello, I look forward to meeting you! My name is Munya and I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in the state of New York. I specialize in Anxiety, ADHD, Mood disorders, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), ODD, ASD, and other mental health conditions. At Zambezi, I provide a range of several mental health services from the comfort of home through telehealth or in-person. I provide medication management & therapy in a single visit to save you time and money. Exercise, nutrition and gut health are essential for brain health. I believe in consistence, persistence and resilience towards a better version of you.
(845) 660-6794 View (845) 660-6794
Photo of Claudine Sapini, DPN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Claudine Sapini
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DPN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Middletown, NY 10940
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) and DNP with graduate degrees from Molloy University. I have experience working with adolescents and adults facing various complex mental health issues, including depression, anxiety, stress, panic disorders, grief, and relationship concerns, in multiple settings.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) and DNP with graduate degrees from Molloy University. I have experience working with adolescents and adults facing various complex mental health issues, including depression, anxiety, stress, panic disorders, grief, and relationship concerns, in multiple settings.
(845) 328-2806 View (845) 328-2806
Photo of Dr. Kimberly Robinson, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Kimberly Robinson
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Middletown, NY 10941
I specialize in the evaluation and treatment of both children, adolescents and adults for a variety of psychiatric disorders, including Anxiety, Depression, OCD, ADHD, PTSD, Bipolar disorder, Schizophrenia, Personality disorders, and Autism Spectrum Disorders. I provide trauma informed care, and make an effort to compassionately treat the whole person while valuing the autonomy of my patients. Recommendations may include recommendations for medication, therapy, supplements, lifestyle and behavioral changes. I have a special interest in women’s health, trauma informed care, attachment, and integrative psychiatry.
I specialize in the evaluation and treatment of both children, adolescents and adults for a variety of psychiatric disorders, including Anxiety, Depression, OCD, ADHD, PTSD, Bipolar disorder, Schizophrenia, Personality disorders, and Autism Spectrum Disorders. I provide trauma informed care, and make an effort to compassionately treat the whole person while valuing the autonomy of my patients. Recommendations may include recommendations for medication, therapy, supplements, lifestyle and behavioral changes. I have a special interest in women’s health, trauma informed care, attachment, and integrative psychiatry.
(845) 261-0944 View (845) 261-0944
Photo of Shannon Bucciarelli, MSN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Shannon Bucciarelli
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Middletown, NY 10940
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.
(845) 576-1589 View (845) 576-1589
Photo of Dr. John Wang, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. John Wang
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Middletown, NY 10940
I am double board certified Geriatric and Adult psychiatrist with over 20 years of experience. I specialize in Major depressive disorder, Generalize Anxiety disorder, Panic disorder, and Attention Deficit Hyperactive Disorder for young adults to seniors in their 60s and older.
I am double board certified Geriatric and Adult psychiatrist with over 20 years of experience. I specialize in Major depressive disorder, Generalize Anxiety disorder, Panic disorder, and Attention Deficit Hyperactive Disorder for young adults to seniors in their 60s and older.
(914) 229-9881 View (914) 229-9881
Dr. Andrea Rosa
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Pine Bush, NY 12566  (Online Only)
As a Doctor of Nursing Practice from Georgetown University, I am a dedicated Nurse Practitioner with a focus on treating individuals with mental health disorders and autism spectrum disorders. With over 9 years of experience, I offer patient-centered care that combines medication management and psychotherapy to help patients build the necessary skills for managing their mental health.
As a Doctor of Nursing Practice from Georgetown University, I am a dedicated Nurse Practitioner with a focus on treating individuals with mental health disorders and autism spectrum disorders. With over 9 years of experience, I offer patient-centered care that combines medication management and psychotherapy to help patients build the necessary skills for managing their mental health.
(929) 254-3705 View (929) 254-3705
Photo of Prof. Nancy Gartin Checchi, PMHNP, FNP-BC, CTN-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Prof. Nancy Gartin Checchi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP-BC, CTN-B
Verified Verified
Newburgh, NY 12550
I love working with my clients and building a strong therapeutic relationship with them is a priority to me. I provide treatment to children and adults. I maintain a private practice in Newburgh, NY and offer telemedicine appointments. I am the Graduate Coordinator and a Professor for the Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner program at Mount Saint Mary College. I have a therapy dog in the office who is a golden retriever named Mac. Please let me know if you are allergic or prefer him not to be in the office for our appointments.
I love working with my clients and building a strong therapeutic relationship with them is a priority to me. I provide treatment to children and adults. I maintain a private practice in Newburgh, NY and offer telemedicine appointments. I am the Graduate Coordinator and a Professor for the Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner program at Mount Saint Mary College. I have a therapy dog in the office who is a golden retriever named Mac. Please let me know if you are allergic or prefer him not to be in the office for our appointments.
(845) 403-1361 View (845) 403-1361
Photo of Bernice Jackson, MSN, PMHNP, AGNP-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Bernice Jackson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, AGNP-BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Middletown, NY 10941
Clients are not just a diagnosis and medication list. It is important for me to get to know the person individually and cater to their specific needs. I love interacting with people, learning about their life experiences, helping them through tough times, and celebrating their successes. I am fascinated by the mind-body relationship and intrigued by continual advances in diagnosing and treating mental illness. The rewarding aspect of being a psychiatric Nurse Practitioner comes from taking each patient's unique situation and working with them to provide relief of their physical and mental suffering.
Clients are not just a diagnosis and medication list. It is important for me to get to know the person individually and cater to their specific needs. I love interacting with people, learning about their life experiences, helping them through tough times, and celebrating their successes. I am fascinated by the mind-body relationship and intrigued by continual advances in diagnosing and treating mental illness. The rewarding aspect of being a psychiatric Nurse Practitioner comes from taking each patient's unique situation and working with them to provide relief of their physical and mental suffering.
(845) 409-0448 View (845) 409-0448

See more therapy options for Montgomery

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Montgomery, NY

< 10

Psychiatrists in Montgomery, NY who prioritize treating:

100% Depression
100% Anxiety
100% Addiction
100% Child
100% ADHD
100% Eating Disorders
100% Geriatric and Seniors

Average years in practice

6 Years

Gender breakdown

100% Female

How Psychiatrists in Montgomery, NY see their clients

100% In Person and Online
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Montgomery?

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.