Psychiatrists in Oswego County, NY
![Photo of Dr. Cecile Matip - Fulton Family Tele- Psychiatry, Online services, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/eaccb360-3d2f-4ebb-aee1-75449f88c645/2/320x400.jpeg)
Fulton Family Tele- Psychiatry, Online services
Psychiatrist
Verified Verified
Fulton, NY 13069 (Online Only)
Being a mother of 6 children I know the importance of mental health and how difficult it is to find the right doctor, so I created a online private practice. One aspect of my practice involves helping patients of all ages to reassess their current medication regimen or explore the possibility of tapering off their medication. I understand that medication can be a useful tool in managing mental health symptoms, it is important to regularly reassess the effectiveness and side effects of any medication a patient is taking and evaluate the benefits and risks of their current medication to determine if any changes need to be made.
Being a mother of 6 children I know the importance of mental health and how difficult it is to find the right doctor, so I created a online private practice. One aspect of my practice involves helping patients of all ages to reassess their current medication regimen or explore the possibility of tapering off their medication. I understand that medication can be a useful tool in managing mental health symptoms, it is important to regularly reassess the effectiveness and side effects of any medication a patient is taking and evaluate the benefits and risks of their current medication to determine if any changes need to be made.
![Photo of Michelle McCarthy, APN, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cfd9eba1-b7c9-4c9d-ad8a-126445475111/1/320x400.png)
Michelle McCarthy
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Oswego, NY 13126
Michelle is passionate about delivering care to individuals suffering from anxiety, substance use, and depression. Client motivation and dedication are key to utilizing the tools provided during our sessions including medication management, implementing lifestyle interventions, and therapy to help develop and implement a successful treatment plan. Relief of the client's suffering in dealing with their mental health issues and striving for an improvement in their quality of life is key to treatment.
Michelle is passionate about delivering care to individuals suffering from anxiety, substance use, and depression. Client motivation and dedication are key to utilizing the tools provided during our sessions including medication management, implementing lifestyle interventions, and therapy to help develop and implement a successful treatment plan. Relief of the client's suffering in dealing with their mental health issues and striving for an improvement in their quality of life is key to treatment.
![Photo of Shannon Bucciarelli, MSN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/caed455d-ff77-4561-a023-7819944d26bd/1/320x400.png)
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 Dr. Allen Masry, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/42f421a4-ab7a-48ef-af5c-00f1c00f4ab4/1/320x400.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.
![Photo of Claudine Sapini, DNP , PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f6fb9d9c-cc87-4ea3-b500-4ce1592394bd/1/320x400.png)
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.
![Photo of Edena Walden, APN, MSN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a954f50b-48f2-42f2-8d60-2d0743ec707e/1/320x400.png)
Ideally my patient is as invested in their care as I am. They could have a variety of diagnoses but the thing they have in common is they are willing to give the process time, are open to new ideas, and know there is no magic pill to fix all their problems. My patients want to get to the best version of themselves and are willing to try therapy as well as medications to help them reach that goal. My patient wants an empathetic, listening provider who can guide their care based on the evidence, but tailored to their individual needs.
Ideally my patient is as invested in their care as I am. They could have a variety of diagnoses but the thing they have in common is they are willing to give the process time, are open to new ideas, and know there is no magic pill to fix all their problems. My patients want to get to the best version of themselves and are willing to try therapy as well as medications to help them reach that goal. My patient wants an empathetic, listening provider who can guide their care based on the evidence, but tailored to their individual needs.
![Photo of Uros Koprivica, APN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e8235497-6e2a-4de9-abb4-70b1f6de51a1/1/320x400.png)
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.
Online Psychiatrists
![Photo of Carrie Elizabeth Trubia, MSN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/eeb29c56-2557-46c0-868c-0766a83abb76/1/320x400.jpeg)
Carrie Elizabeth Trubia
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Livonia, NY 14487
I'm happy to see clients virtually or in my office in Livonia, NY. I try to be as flexible as possible with my schedule to meet my client's needs. Emailing me or booking through my Headway link is the fastest and easiest way to reach me. I'm unable to answer my phone during appointments and have limited time to return calls during the day. Please do not call and leave voicemails to set up appointments as I likely won't have the time to return your call. Thank you!
I'm happy to see clients virtually or in my office in Livonia, NY. I try to be as flexible as possible with my schedule to meet my client's needs. Emailing me or booking through my Headway link is the fastest and easiest way to reach me. I'm unable to answer my phone during appointments and have limited time to return calls during the day. Please do not call and leave voicemails to set up appointments as I likely won't have the time to return your call. Thank you!
![Photo of Tania Marschall - Tania Marschall, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9695d56b-8c73-45ab-8fb4-dbb76f13a59f/3/320x400.jpeg)
Tania Marschall, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Syracuse, NY 13203
My name is Tania Marschall and I'm a board certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I'm happy to offer you Telepsychiatry services for the state of New York. Telepsychiatry is all about providing you the convenience you need in your life so you can get back to whats important . With Telepsychiatry, this allows increased access to care by reducing wait times, costs, commute times, eliminate child or eldercare, or taking time off work. With internet access, you will be able to schedule an appointment through your smartphone,tablet, or computer using a secure HIPPA compliant platform.
My name is Tania Marschall and I'm a board certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I'm happy to offer you Telepsychiatry services for the state of New York. Telepsychiatry is all about providing you the convenience you need in your life so you can get back to whats important . With Telepsychiatry, this allows increased access to care by reducing wait times, costs, commute times, eliminate child or eldercare, or taking time off work. With internet access, you will be able to schedule an appointment through your smartphone,tablet, or computer using a secure HIPPA compliant platform.
![Photo of Jacqueline Ponticiello - Aspect Mental Health, NPP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c68154f6-20ae-4387-8296-3200e73cffce/2/320x400.jpeg)
At Aspect Mental Health we provide medication management, evaluation, diagnosis and treatment for mental health concerns. We are a group of three board certificated Psychiatric Nurse Practitioners located in Vestal NY. We offer both in person and virtual appointments.
At Aspect Mental Health we provide medication management, evaluation, diagnosis and treatment for mental health concerns. We are a group of three board certificated Psychiatric Nurse Practitioners located in Vestal NY. We offer both in person and virtual appointments.
![Photo of Triesha Gayle-Lawson At Core Psychiatry, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/98e76085-4a30-43c5-ba30-5ebc49cdccfd/1/320x400.png)
Triesha Gayle-Lawson At Core Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Utica, NY 13502 (Online Only)
Book an appointment on our website corepsychiatry.org! Dr. Gayle-Lawson has Board Certifications from the American Association of Nurse Practitioners and the American Nurses Credentialing Center. Dr. Gayle-Lawson is a member of Sigma Theta Tau Nursing Honor Society and is affiliated with several advanced practice organizations dedicated to patient advocacy and access to quality mental health care. With over 16 years of diagnostic and treatment experience, she is well versed in the practice of psychiatry and mental health.
Book an appointment on our website corepsychiatry.org! Dr. Gayle-Lawson has Board Certifications from the American Association of Nurse Practitioners and the American Nurses Credentialing Center. Dr. Gayle-Lawson is a member of Sigma Theta Tau Nursing Honor Society and is affiliated with several advanced practice organizations dedicated to patient advocacy and access to quality mental health care. With over 16 years of diagnostic and treatment experience, she is well versed in the practice of psychiatry and mental health.
![Photo of Laura Baker, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/99cfb9e2-b8a1-4069-a35d-491855f93adf/1/320x400.jpeg)
I believe in treating people like human beings and looking at the whole picture. Often patients who use substances are self medicating another problem. I would like to help them get to the root of that problem. So many providers only look at one problem while ignoring the rest. I fiercely believe in patient centered care. You are the one who knows what you need. I'm here to be your guide but ultimately it's up to you.
I believe in treating people like human beings and looking at the whole picture. Often patients who use substances are self medicating another problem. I would like to help them get to the root of that problem. So many providers only look at one problem while ignoring the rest. I fiercely believe in patient centered care. You are the one who knows what you need. I'm here to be your guide but ultimately it's up to you.
![Photo of Hong Kim - One Psychiatry, PMHNP, NP-P, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b7265c6d-ccfc-4f3f-8859-a6552e2968c6/2/320x400.jpeg)
One Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, NP-P, BC
Verified Verified
Ithaca, NY 14850 (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.
![Photo of Claudine Sapini, DNP , PMHNBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/386ef162-dc49-4f33-acad-88fa5ddcfb1c/1/320x400.png)
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.
![Photo of Kate Tredwell, DNP, RN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/54bcff34-e181-45ea-891d-268ddea78228/2/320x400.jpeg)
Are you or a loved one struggling? As a board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner, I’m here to help. My mission is to transform the experience of receiving mental health care and to support you in reaching your goals. My approach to care is both holistic and collaborative, with you at the center of the treatment team. Using evidence based treatment, I provide an evaluation, diagnosis, and treatment or referral focused around meeting your individual needs.
Are you or a loved one struggling? As a board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner, I’m here to help. My mission is to transform the experience of receiving mental health care and to support you in reaching your goals. My approach to care is both holistic and collaborative, with you at the center of the treatment team. Using evidence based treatment, I provide an evaluation, diagnosis, and treatment or referral focused around meeting your individual needs.
![Photo of Rachelle Buchanan, PMHNP, MFT, MS, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a9a9823c-67c8-4744-9cc6-7c2a3617fc60/1/320x400.jpeg)
Rachelle Buchanan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MFT, MS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pittsford, NY 14534
Taking New Medication Clients For A Limited Time - All Ages - Welcome! If you are seeking comprehensive mental health care that combines psychiatric expertise, functional medicine, & specialized knowledge of children and family therapy, I'm here to accompany you on your journey toward a hopeful tomorrow. As a dually certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner & Doctoral Candidate Marriage & Family Therapist, I bring a unique skillset to my practice that enables me to treat clients holistically using a multitude of medical and therapeutic interventions that ensure excellent outcomes.
Taking New Medication Clients For A Limited Time - All Ages - Welcome! If you are seeking comprehensive mental health care that combines psychiatric expertise, functional medicine, & specialized knowledge of children and family therapy, I'm here to accompany you on your journey toward a hopeful tomorrow. As a dually certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner & Doctoral Candidate Marriage & Family Therapist, I bring a unique skillset to my practice that enables me to treat clients holistically using a multitude of medical and therapeutic interventions that ensure excellent outcomes.
![Photo of Lyndsey Gates - Lyndsey Gates NP in Psychiatry PLLC, DNP, NP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6dafabe4-55c1-4f91-ab3e-f0e98684840d/1/320x400.jpeg)
Lyndsey Gates NP in Psychiatry PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, NP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Johnstown, NY 12095 (Online Only)
Utilizing a holistic and flexible approach, this practice is here to help you with achieving mental wellness. Lyndsey Gates is a board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She holds a post-graduate PMHNP certificate from Wilkes University, a DNP from the University of Vermont, an MSN and BSN from Norwich University, and a B.S. in Biology from St. Lawrence University.
Utilizing a holistic and flexible approach, this practice is here to help you with achieving mental wellness. Lyndsey Gates is a board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She holds a post-graduate PMHNP certificate from Wilkes University, a DNP from the University of Vermont, an MSN and BSN from Norwich University, and a B.S. in Biology from St. Lawrence University.
![Photo of Uros Koprivica, APN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b7a2fc85-b151-46d6-9e81-9e4c0ff8ae8c/1/320x400.png)
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.
![Photo of Erik Frost - Brightside Health, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1e6831df-912f-4d6b-9ba2-eace3a032fab/1/320x400.jpeg)
Brightside Health offers online psychiatry and therapy from the comfort of home. Meet with a psychiatric provider in as little as 24 hours. We provide personalized, data-driven psychiatry, evidence-based therapy, and continuous support from expert providers to help our members feel better and stay that way. Our precision-prescribing analyzes over 100 unique data points and decades of clinical research to pinpoint your best match. At Brightside, we track your progress at every step so you and your provider can make informed decisions and adjust your care until it’s right for you.
Brightside Health offers online psychiatry and therapy from the comfort of home. Meet with a psychiatric provider in as little as 24 hours. We provide personalized, data-driven psychiatry, evidence-based therapy, and continuous support from expert providers to help our members feel better and stay that way. Our precision-prescribing analyzes over 100 unique data points and decades of clinical research to pinpoint your best match. At Brightside, we track your progress at every step so you and your provider can make informed decisions and adjust your care until it’s right for you.
![Photo of Kelly Dorman, FPMHNP, -BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ec482b22-1c73-43ca-ae36-1abd7e5f05a3/1/320x400.jpeg)
In order to assist her patients with the journey, she strives to meet each person right where they are in the life process. She values education and autonomy in treatment and wants her patients to know that she comes from a place free of judgement. Kelly aims to facilitate a therapeutic space where patients feel comfortable to speak at ease. Kellys treatment approach is grounded in empowering each individual with access and space to help themselves identify personal goals, address individual barriers and move forward. Her interest focuses on individual wellness & treatment optimization.
In order to assist her patients with the journey, she strives to meet each person right where they are in the life process. She values education and autonomy in treatment and wants her patients to know that she comes from a place free of judgement. Kelly aims to facilitate a therapeutic space where patients feel comfortable to speak at ease. Kellys treatment approach is grounded in empowering each individual with access and space to help themselves identify personal goals, address individual barriers and move forward. Her interest focuses on individual wellness & treatment optimization.
See more therapy options for Oswego County
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Oswego County, NY
< 10
Psychiatrists in Oswego County, NY who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
86% | Trauma and PTSD |
71% | ADHD |
71% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
71% | Bipolar Disorder |
71% | Medication Management |
Average years in practice
8 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
100% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
100% | Cigna and Evernorth |
How Psychiatrists in Oswego County, NY see their clients
86% | In Person and Online | |
14% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
60% | Female | |
40% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Oswego County?
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.