Psychiatrists in Cincinnati, OH
![Photo of Brynn Pembroke, PMHNP, LPCC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/607ebed2-84fb-4d04-8e36-79434015fc96/1/320x400.jpeg)
Glad you’re here! I’m Brynn Pembroke, a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) and a licensed Mental Health Counselor (LPCC). I was a therapist for years before coming to nursing, so I understand how unique and complex mental health is and am dedicated to helping you find solutions. I have worked with a wide array of people in a variety of different treatment settings, most recently in hospice with people with end-stage dementia.
Glad you’re here! I’m Brynn Pembroke, a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) and a licensed Mental Health Counselor (LPCC). I was a therapist for years before coming to nursing, so I understand how unique and complex mental health is and am dedicated to helping you find solutions. I have worked with a wide array of people in a variety of different treatment settings, most recently in hospice with people with end-stage dementia.
![Photo of Latrice Waddell, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/79642827-e0a8-4d30-aec6-7dd70c5bd2a8/2/320x400.jpeg)
Latrice Waddell
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cincinnati, OH 45202 (Online Only)
Have you found yourself pondering the following questions recently on your journey to healing? How can I achieve well-being despite my psychiatric condition? How can I transform my outlook on life? How can I take control of my life? How can I let go of fear and eliminate barriers to achieving mental stability? What is the meaning of my life?How can I stand in my power and true authenticity? What can I do to support my mental health?
Have you found yourself pondering the following questions recently on your journey to healing? How can I achieve well-being despite my psychiatric condition? How can I transform my outlook on life? How can I take control of my life? How can I let go of fear and eliminate barriers to achieving mental stability? What is the meaning of my life?How can I stand in my power and true authenticity? What can I do to support my mental health?
![Photo of Joel Ellison, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/44b1e0fe-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
My primary goal as a physician is to work with patients to establish and implement the treatment plan that best suits them. Working in a collaborative fashion with the use of therapy, medications, or a combination of both, I seek to help people improve relationships and pursue lives they find meaningful.
My primary goal as a physician is to work with patients to establish and implement the treatment plan that best suits them. Working in a collaborative fashion with the use of therapy, medications, or a combination of both, I seek to help people improve relationships and pursue lives they find meaningful.
![Photo of Bridget Eichenberg, BSN, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e8632ffa-2a03-44b4-bc5d-a9e471b5eb70/2/320x400.jpeg)
Bridget Eichenberg
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, BSN, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Cincinnati, OH 45208
Welcome! I am a dedicated and compassionate Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner committed to reducing the stigma surrounding mental health and fostering a safe and non-judgmental space for individuals seeking help. I hold a Master of Science in Nursing degree from Walden University and I am a licensed Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. My educational background and my experience working at Cincinnati Children’s Medical Center, allow me to treat patients of all ages for mental health disorders including but not limited to depression, anxiety, attention-deficit, mood regulation, and more.
Welcome! I am a dedicated and compassionate Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner committed to reducing the stigma surrounding mental health and fostering a safe and non-judgmental space for individuals seeking help. I hold a Master of Science in Nursing degree from Walden University and I am a licensed Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. My educational background and my experience working at Cincinnati Children’s Medical Center, allow me to treat patients of all ages for mental health disorders including but not limited to depression, anxiety, attention-deficit, mood regulation, and more.
![Photo of Denise Re, MSN, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/700b2dad-df20-4179-b9da-d2debf75aca9/1/320x400.jpeg)
Denise Re is a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner certified through the American Nurses Credentialing Center. She received her master's degree in advanced practice nursing from Indiana Wesleyan University as a member of The Sigma Theta Tau International Honor Society of Nursing, and her bachelor's degree in nursing from Wright State University. She has practiced nursing since 2005 in inpatient and outpatient settings including medical, psychiatric, and addiction treatment. She believes in working together with patients to help them obtain their optimal level of mental well-being.
Denise Re is a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner certified through the American Nurses Credentialing Center. She received her master's degree in advanced practice nursing from Indiana Wesleyan University as a member of The Sigma Theta Tau International Honor Society of Nursing, and her bachelor's degree in nursing from Wright State University. She has practiced nursing since 2005 in inpatient and outpatient settings including medical, psychiatric, and addiction treatment. She believes in working together with patients to help them obtain their optimal level of mental well-being.
![Photo of Sharon Arabi, MSN, PMHNP-, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/810cea71-db28-43f7-aac9-afbe4f124722/1/320x400.jpeg)
Sharon Arabi is dedicated to providing comprehensive mental health care to individuals and families. With a focus on relational and attachment work, she specializes in treating a range of mental health concerns across different age groups. Sharon’s expertise lies in working with children, teens, and young adults, offering support for ADHD, anxiety, depression, PTSD/trauma, school avoidance, grief, and childhood behavior issues. She is also passionate about addressing women’s mental health issues, including postpartum depression/anxiety and general women’s issues.
Sharon Arabi is dedicated to providing comprehensive mental health care to individuals and families. With a focus on relational and attachment work, she specializes in treating a range of mental health concerns across different age groups. Sharon’s expertise lies in working with children, teens, and young adults, offering support for ADHD, anxiety, depression, PTSD/trauma, school avoidance, grief, and childhood behavior issues. She is also passionate about addressing women’s mental health issues, including postpartum depression/anxiety and general women’s issues.
![Photo of Linda Griffin Nsombi, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1f9f6f7b-b1fd-4a6b-b5e8-6ed17bf4e723/1/320x400.jpeg)
Linda Griffin Nsombi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
Cincinnati, OH 45202 (Online Only)
My name is Linda Griffin Nsombi, I’ve worked in mental health for many years. Caring for clients of all ages and backgrounds as well as drug/alcohol addiction treatment. Treating depression, bipolar, anxiety, schizophrenia, OCD, ADHD and more. I look forward to assisting you with your life challenges. I will provide medication education as well as supportive therapy during medication management visit.
My name is Linda Griffin Nsombi, I’ve worked in mental health for many years. Caring for clients of all ages and backgrounds as well as drug/alcohol addiction treatment. Treating depression, bipolar, anxiety, schizophrenia, OCD, ADHD and more. I look forward to assisting you with your life challenges. I will provide medication education as well as supportive therapy during medication management visit.
![Photo of Janecia King - New Concepts II, LLC, DNP, PHMNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0a01ed0b-a40c-4a1b-9a6f-39bdc747ba88/2/320x400.png)
New Concepts II, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PHMNP
Verified Verified
Cincinnati, OH 45251
At New Concepts II, LLC, your privacy and mental well-being are our top priority. We are a psychiatric and addiction clinic in Cincinnati, Ohio, and provide services throughout Ohio and Kentucky. New Concepts II, LLC is a women, minority, and veteran-owned business. " Every Story Has a Purpose"
At New Concepts II, LLC, your privacy and mental well-being are our top priority. We are a psychiatric and addiction clinic in Cincinnati, Ohio, and provide services throughout Ohio and Kentucky. New Concepts II, LLC is a women, minority, and veteran-owned business. " Every Story Has a Purpose"
![Photo of David Sahadevan, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c1537dab-e664-4e47-a368-f7a27962bcbf/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Sahadevan took an adventurous path to Talkiatry. After perhaps thinking a little too hard about Intro to Philosophy in college - “the unexamined life is not worth living” - he first used his chemistry degree to work in pharmaceutical research. Changing course, he then worked in computer network engineering, before deciding to find a more meaningful path. He worked as an EMT, then earned a Master’s in Physiology before finally landing in medical school at Ohio State. Finding a surprising interest in psychiatry, he stayed at Ohio State for residency, and then a fellowship in forensic psychiatry.
Dr. Sahadevan took an adventurous path to Talkiatry. After perhaps thinking a little too hard about Intro to Philosophy in college - “the unexamined life is not worth living” - he first used his chemistry degree to work in pharmaceutical research. Changing course, he then worked in computer network engineering, before deciding to find a more meaningful path. He worked as an EMT, then earned a Master’s in Physiology before finally landing in medical school at Ohio State. Finding a surprising interest in psychiatry, he stayed at Ohio State for residency, and then a fellowship in forensic psychiatry.
![Photo of Rashid Shaibu, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f4d16486-6928-46f6-b093-8f326559847d/1/320x400.jpeg)
Rashid Shaibu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Cincinnati, OH 45202 (Online Only)
Hello, I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) and Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) . I obtained my Family Nurse Practitioner certification from The Ohio State University (OSU) and my Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner certification from Northern Kentucky University (NKU).
Hello, I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) and Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) . I obtained my Family Nurse Practitioner certification from The Ohio State University (OSU) and my Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner certification from Northern Kentucky University (NKU).
![Photo of Laurel Hurst, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0f6ed5c4-17b2-43e5-945d-6469c1e6c5f4/2/320x400.jpeg)
Laurel Hurst
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Cincinnati, OH 45202 (Online Only)
Helping my patients feel safe, seen, and heard on the path to recovery is my primary goal as a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner.
Helping my patients feel safe, seen, and heard on the path to recovery is my primary goal as a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner.
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![Photo of Sondra A Butler, MSN, FNP-C, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9a94eaf9-40b0-4c74-9476-5a553b9d8afa/2/320x400.jpeg)
Sondra A Butler
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, FNP-C, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Cincinnati, OH 45209
Your treatment plan will be unique to you. We strive to make each patient feel themselves, medication should not alter who you are, it should help you manage daily challenges. We promise to listen to your concerns and make the necessary changes needed to offer you your best outcome.
Your treatment plan will be unique to you. We strive to make each patient feel themselves, medication should not alter who you are, it should help you manage daily challenges. We promise to listen to your concerns and make the necessary changes needed to offer you your best outcome.
![Photo of Angela Marie Strotman, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/609d4bf8-e3d8-458f-82f0-bdc01914932b/3/320x400.jpeg)
Angela Marie Strotman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Cincinnati, OH 45239
Waitlist for new clients
Everyone’s path to wellness can look much different. I view each person as an individual and create a plan that is unique to you and your struggles. I believe that anyone who takes the path to wellness deserves to have a voice and to be treated with respect and empowerment. I treat patients of all ages from 5+. I enjoy working with both children and adults. I am currently pursuing specialty certification in Perinatal Mental Health to treat women both during and after their pregnancy. I have also been certified in pediatrics and critical care as an RN. I strive to help patient's with their overall health.
Everyone’s path to wellness can look much different. I view each person as an individual and create a plan that is unique to you and your struggles. I believe that anyone who takes the path to wellness deserves to have a voice and to be treated with respect and empowerment. I treat patients of all ages from 5+. I enjoy working with both children and adults. I am currently pursuing specialty certification in Perinatal Mental Health to treat women both during and after their pregnancy. I have also been certified in pediatrics and critical care as an RN. I strive to help patient's with their overall health.
![Photo of Crystal Ravenel Farrell - A Crystal Mind, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0d5a2697-173b-4da0-af0d-d39428049d03/3/320x400.jpeg)
Start YOUR Journey to Inner Peace!! A Crystal Mind's goal is to expand access to mental healthcare while assisting patients on their journeys to become the best versions of themselves. We use a variety of evidenced-based practices to provide a holistic, client-centered, culturally-sensitive approach. We will listen to your unique story and come up with a comprehensive plan that best fits your personal needs. The experienced provider is a dual board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and a Family Nurse Practitioner. She has over 20yrs of nursing experience and has worked in various clinical settings.
Start YOUR Journey to Inner Peace!! A Crystal Mind's goal is to expand access to mental healthcare while assisting patients on their journeys to become the best versions of themselves. We use a variety of evidenced-based practices to provide a holistic, client-centered, culturally-sensitive approach. We will listen to your unique story and come up with a comprehensive plan that best fits your personal needs. The experienced provider is a dual board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and a Family Nurse Practitioner. She has over 20yrs of nursing experience and has worked in various clinical settings.
![Photo of Davi Ann Hardy - Dr. Davi Ann Hardy with Hardy Rx Solutions LLC, DNP, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/09894cbd-64ea-48dc-9e73-482e3cd13ecd/2/320x400.png)
Dr. Davi Ann Hardy with Hardy Rx Solutions LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cincinnati, OH 45255 (Online Only)
Serving clients in Ohio. I provide a nonjudgmental and active listening environment. This time is yours and we will work together as a team to construct a plan that will help you with your mental health goals. We can determine an accurate diagnosis, get you the right medications, continue medications already prescribed or I can simply listen and offer professional therapeutic guidance. You have made it this far on your mental health journey, take that one more step and reach out. You are not alone.
Serving clients in Ohio. I provide a nonjudgmental and active listening environment. This time is yours and we will work together as a team to construct a plan that will help you with your mental health goals. We can determine an accurate diagnosis, get you the right medications, continue medications already prescribed or I can simply listen and offer professional therapeutic guidance. You have made it this far on your mental health journey, take that one more step and reach out. You are not alone.
![Photo of Debra Santos, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/acb08609-41da-4ccf-b9bb-719892a0ad77/1/320x400.jpeg)
Debra Santos is an advanced practice nurse board certified by the American Academy Nurse Credentialing Center in Mental Health and licensed by the states of Connecticut and Ohio. She received her bachelor's degree from Southern Connecticut University and her master's degree in nursing from Yale University. She has provided psychiatric nursing services for more than 25 years in inpatient, outpatient, and private practice settings. She has 15 years of experience in emergency and mobile crisis intervention and has worked with community outreach workers and police to help manage patients in crisis.
Debra Santos is an advanced practice nurse board certified by the American Academy Nurse Credentialing Center in Mental Health and licensed by the states of Connecticut and Ohio. She received her bachelor's degree from Southern Connecticut University and her master's degree in nursing from Yale University. She has provided psychiatric nursing services for more than 25 years in inpatient, outpatient, and private practice settings. She has 15 years of experience in emergency and mobile crisis intervention and has worked with community outreach workers and police to help manage patients in crisis.
![Photo of Brittany Hooten, PMHNP, -BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d6117172-6615-42a8-b918-47b1693dc3c6/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am a nurse practitioner certified in psychiatric mental health. I pride my work on providing compassionate client-centered care. With a background in mental health, I know that there is not a "one size fits all" approach when it comes to an effective individualized client treatment plan. My goal is to create a safe and trusting relationship where we can work together as a team to guide you to live the life you desire.
I am a nurse practitioner certified in psychiatric mental health. I pride my work on providing compassionate client-centered care. With a background in mental health, I know that there is not a "one size fits all" approach when it comes to an effective individualized client treatment plan. My goal is to create a safe and trusting relationship where we can work together as a team to guide you to live the life you desire.
![Photo of Sheryl List, CNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5b65bab7-911c-48a2-9d9d-288cc3aa45a8/3/320x400.jpeg)
Sheryl List
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cincinnati, OH 45241 (Online Only)
I am a certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who has worked in the nursing field 12 years. I have worked within a variety of areas including mental health, critical care, and emergency medicine. I can assist and coordinate with therapists to achieve optimal recovery from your psychiatric symptoms.
I am a certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who has worked in the nursing field 12 years. I have worked within a variety of areas including mental health, critical care, and emergency medicine. I can assist and coordinate with therapists to achieve optimal recovery from your psychiatric symptoms.
![Photo of Katie Kowalak, PMHNPBC, LPCC-S, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d1e47e8b-9550-41d9-90a6-e54faf884041/1/320x400.jpeg)
Katie Kowalak
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC, LPCC-S
Verified Verified
Cincinnati, OH 45208
I am a board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC) as well as a licensed professional clinical counselor (LPCC-S). I have extensive training in providing trauma informed care. I am able to provide medication management services with therapy and feel this combination can be very effective.
I am a board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC) as well as a licensed professional clinical counselor (LPCC-S). I have extensive training in providing trauma informed care. I am able to provide medication management services with therapy and feel this combination can be very effective.
![Photo of Lacey M Rudick, APRN, CNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c4802f7e-8f8e-46a6-9996-a554fd109587/1/320x400.jpeg)
Lacey M Rudick
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, CNP
Verified Verified
Cincinnati, OH 45208 (Online Only)
I enjoy working with individuals to identify what keeps them from fulfilling things they wish to do and things they have to do. Individual/client needs might include meeting them where they are, setting realistic & achievable goals, approaching them with gentleness, recognition of their strengths and who they are as a person. Ideally, the individual is ready to break down whatever barriers are holding them back, however sometimes a nudge or a challenge to perspective is needed, and that is ok too.
I enjoy working with individuals to identify what keeps them from fulfilling things they wish to do and things they have to do. Individual/client needs might include meeting them where they are, setting realistic & achievable goals, approaching them with gentleness, recognition of their strengths and who they are as a person. Ideally, the individual is ready to break down whatever barriers are holding them back, however sometimes a nudge or a challenge to perspective is needed, and that is ok too.
See more therapy options for Cincinnati
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Cincinnati, OH
100+
Average cost per session
$150
Psychiatrists in Cincinnati, OH who prioritize treating:
94% | Anxiety |
92% | Depression |
77% | Bipolar Disorder |
70% | Trauma and PTSD |
65% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
64% | ADHD |
62% | Medication Management |
Average years in practice
9 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
94% | Aetna |
91% | Cigna and Evernorth |
88% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Psychiatrists in Cincinnati, OH see their clients
55% | In Person and Online | |
45% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
81% | Female | |
19% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Cincinnati?
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.