Psychiatrists in Hilliard, OH
![Photo of Michelle Kotte, APRN (C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/abf5ed4a-6307-409a-bfcb-87cc99486e82/1/320x400.jpeg)
Michelle Kotte is a board certified mental health and psychiatric nurse practitioner. She is certified from the American Nursing Credential Center. Michelle has 4 years of experience in outpatient psychiatry. Before working as a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. Michelle worked for several years on an inpatient psychiatry unit. Michelle earned her doctorate in nursing from Duke University. She has two master's degrees in nursing from Capital University and The Ohio State University. She received two bachelor's degrees, one in education from Ohio University and one in nursing from Capital University.
Michelle Kotte is a board certified mental health and psychiatric nurse practitioner. She is certified from the American Nursing Credential Center. Michelle has 4 years of experience in outpatient psychiatry. Before working as a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. Michelle worked for several years on an inpatient psychiatry unit. Michelle earned her doctorate in nursing from Duke University. She has two master's degrees in nursing from Capital University and The Ohio State University. She received two bachelor's degrees, one in education from Ohio University and one in nursing from Capital University.
![Photo of Mark Tuvelle, APN, NP, RXN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8043a144-10fa-4501-adb5-8889ea319d62/1/320x400.png)
Mark Tuvelle
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APN, NP, RXN
Verified Verified
Hilliard, OH 43026 (Online Only)
Welcome to a space where your mental health matters. Mark specializes in medication management for mood disorders, bipolar disorder, depression, anxiety, PTSD, and ADHD. He creates a safe, inclusive environment where your voice is heard and your concerns are valued.
Welcome to a space where your mental health matters. Mark specializes in medication management for mood disorders, bipolar disorder, depression, anxiety, PTSD, and ADHD. He creates a safe, inclusive environment where your voice is heard and your concerns are valued.
![Photo of Anna Cherri, APRN (C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9dcd7280-b2cb-4277-bc8a-08f7b17b0e74/2/320x400.jpeg)
Anna Cherri is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Ohio who has been practicing since 2022. She earned her Bachelor's and Master's degrees from Ohio University. Anna comes from a very diverse background of caring for patients during periods of stability as well as crisis. She wants clients to know that their diagnosis is not as important as the whole person and their road to recovery and better living, however that may look. Anna never wants clients to feel as though there is a standard treatment protocol that she follows.
Anna Cherri is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Ohio who has been practicing since 2022. She earned her Bachelor's and Master's degrees from Ohio University. Anna comes from a very diverse background of caring for patients during periods of stability as well as crisis. She wants clients to know that their diagnosis is not as important as the whole person and their road to recovery and better living, however that may look. Anna never wants clients to feel as though there is a standard treatment protocol that she follows.
![Photo of Kyle Resnick, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c8f22a69-4e22-4f55-94e1-dfd469ad90ec/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Kyle Resnick completed his psychiatry residency at Cleveland Clinic Akron General / SummaHealth, where he served as chief resident and earned the Intern of the Year award. During residency, Dr. Resnick gained experience working with adults in outpatient, inpatient, and partial hospital settings. He earned his medical degree from Northeast Ohio Medical University and undergraduate degrees from Miami University of Ohio in zoology, neuroscience, and classical antiquities. He is a member of the American Psychiatric Association.
Dr. Kyle Resnick completed his psychiatry residency at Cleveland Clinic Akron General / SummaHealth, where he served as chief resident and earned the Intern of the Year award. During residency, Dr. Resnick gained experience working with adults in outpatient, inpatient, and partial hospital settings. He earned his medical degree from Northeast Ohio Medical University and undergraduate degrees from Miami University of Ohio in zoology, neuroscience, and classical antiquities. He is a member of the American Psychiatric Association.
![Photo of Brian Howard, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a475b548-eb3e-40c5-b1a9-d9cd6d74e8b7/2/320x400.jpeg)
Brian Howard is a board certified advanced practice psychiatric nurse practitioner whose primary focus is mental health care of clients to promote optimal living within their environment. He received his post-masters as a psychiatric nurse practitioner from Washburn University, his master's in nursing and family nurse practitioner from Eastern Kentucky University, and bachelor's in nursing from McKendree College. He has worked in private practice, emergency medicine, and public health.
Brian Howard is a board certified advanced practice psychiatric nurse practitioner whose primary focus is mental health care of clients to promote optimal living within their environment. He received his post-masters as a psychiatric nurse practitioner from Washburn University, his master's in nursing and family nurse practitioner from Eastern Kentucky University, and bachelor's in nursing from McKendree College. He has worked in private practice, emergency medicine, and public health.
![Photo of Mike Tichy, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5f73a406-a2d8-4513-852a-d3cdce75e6c0/1/320x400.jpeg)
Michael Tichy is a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, who has been practicing since 2007. He graduated from The Ohio State University, completing his master's degree after an undergraduate study in psychology and a subsequent career in social psychology research. Michael believes in personal autonomy above nearly all else and his focus on treatment is to collaborate with each patient to come up with a plan that suits them best. His areas of interest are primarily the management of anxiety and mood disorders and ADHD, as well as the impact of acute and complex trauma in the manifestation of psychiatric challenges.
Michael Tichy is a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, who has been practicing since 2007. He graduated from The Ohio State University, completing his master's degree after an undergraduate study in psychology and a subsequent career in social psychology research. Michael believes in personal autonomy above nearly all else and his focus on treatment is to collaborate with each patient to come up with a plan that suits them best. His areas of interest are primarily the management of anxiety and mood disorders and ADHD, as well as the impact of acute and complex trauma in the manifestation of psychiatric challenges.
![Photo of Michele Cash, CNS, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b92189e1-2f75-42ea-a3fc-6532444ba198/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Michele Cash is a Doctorally-Prepared Psychiatric Clinical Nurse Specialist And Nurse Practitioner in Ohio who has been practicing since 2002. She earned a DNP at the University of Pittsburgh. Dr. Cash has more than two decades treating children, adolescents, and adults across the lifespan in inpatient, outpatient, and private practice settings. She has extensive experience treating the full spectrum of mental health conditions including depression, anxiety, mood disorders, post-traumatic stress disorder, and psychotic conditions.
Dr. Michele Cash is a Doctorally-Prepared Psychiatric Clinical Nurse Specialist And Nurse Practitioner in Ohio who has been practicing since 2002. She earned a DNP at the University of Pittsburgh. Dr. Cash has more than two decades treating children, adolescents, and adults across the lifespan in inpatient, outpatient, and private practice settings. She has extensive experience treating the full spectrum of mental health conditions including depression, anxiety, mood disorders, post-traumatic stress disorder, and psychotic conditions.
I am a Board Certified Psychiatrist specializing in Child/Adolescent Psychiatry and adult psychiatry. My services include the diagnosis and treatment of all mental illnesses in children/adolescents/adult including, but not limited to, ADHD, Depression, OCD, Anxiety, Autism Spectrum, Bipolar disorder, Personality disorders and PTSD. I am also interested in treating women who are pregnant/postpartum, and nursing. I am comfortable in the setting of treating co-morbid medical and psychiatric concerns. I only utilize medication when necessary.
I am a Board Certified Psychiatrist specializing in Child/Adolescent Psychiatry and adult psychiatry. My services include the diagnosis and treatment of all mental illnesses in children/adolescents/adult including, but not limited to, ADHD, Depression, OCD, Anxiety, Autism Spectrum, Bipolar disorder, Personality disorders and PTSD. I am also interested in treating women who are pregnant/postpartum, and nursing. I am comfortable in the setting of treating co-morbid medical and psychiatric concerns. I only utilize medication when necessary.
![Photo of Ijeoma Njoku, PMHNP, APN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c8e7b84f-2861-4ab4-9eba-8a208ec97a1c/2/320x400.jpeg)
People with mental health disorders are affected in many ways due to the nature of the problem. These individuals need stability and want to be well. My goal of treatment is to reduce their symptoms so that it will not impact their daily functioning and so they can live a fruitful and healthy life.
People with mental health disorders are affected in many ways due to the nature of the problem. These individuals need stability and want to be well. My goal of treatment is to reduce their symptoms so that it will not impact their daily functioning and so they can live a fruitful and healthy life.
![Photo of Shannon Bucciarelli, MSN, PMHNP, B-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9a692770-c3a9-414a-984d-b7bb1127bd2e/2/320x400.png)
Shannon Bucciarelli
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, B-C
Verified Verified
Hilliard, OH 43026
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. Andrea Papa-Molter, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f3d80930-7209-4dc8-bca3-8c9abf4a16c5/2/320x400.png)
I am double board-certified in Psychiatry and Addiction Medicine. I believe in using both medication when indicated as well as therapy. I was trained in CBT and was given the Excellence in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy during my residency program. I use supportive therapy with each client I see. During my residency I served as Chief Resident and was awarded the Overall Excellence in Psychiatry Award as well as the Clinical Excellence Award.
I am double board-certified in Psychiatry and Addiction Medicine. I believe in using both medication when indicated as well as therapy. I was trained in CBT and was given the Excellence in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy during my residency program. I use supportive therapy with each client I see. During my residency I served as Chief Resident and was awarded the Overall Excellence in Psychiatry Award as well as the Clinical Excellence Award.
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![Photo of Gerald Makobong, APRN, PMHNP, CNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4a2dc904-c775-4715-a964-8bf82db429d9/2/320x400.png)
Gerald Makobong
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, CNP
Verified Verified
Hilliard, OH 43026
I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner fully licensed in Ohio. I have experience working with adult, adolescent, and geriatric populations in high-acuity inpatient and outpatient settings. In addition, I have experience assessing, diagnosing, educating, and treating mental health patients ages 5-99.
I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner fully licensed in Ohio. I have experience working with adult, adolescent, and geriatric populations in high-acuity inpatient and outpatient settings. In addition, I have experience assessing, diagnosing, educating, and treating mental health patients ages 5-99.
![Photo of Edena Walden, MSN, PMHNP-B, APN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e46c9b56-f93a-49be-a84e-126cb27d249c/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 Dr. Allen Masry, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d4a78b7b-3e0d-4a5a-b411-b2a149735483/2/320x400.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 Emily Coyle, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/339828a3-4206-43a1-8074-111570ceec86/2/320x400.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 Adam Brandemihl - Buckeye Psychiatry, LLC, MD, DABPN, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3bf6815a-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/4/320x400.jpeg)
Sometimes therapy is not enough. As a Board Certified Psychiatrist I am trained in medication management and psychotherapy. There is no need to see another physician for your medication. Many overwhelmed clients are forced to see both a therapist and a primary care doctor. Busy primary care doctors are often more comfortable and accustomed to treating diabetes and hypertension, than depression and anxiety. Their overloaded schedules make it difficult to collaborate with your therapist. I can simplify the process and provide the comprehensive mental health expertise you are looking for. Together, we can address both your chemical and psychological needs.
Sometimes therapy is not enough. As a Board Certified Psychiatrist I am trained in medication management and psychotherapy. There is no need to see another physician for your medication. Many overwhelmed clients are forced to see both a therapist and a primary care doctor. Busy primary care doctors are often more comfortable and accustomed to treating diabetes and hypertension, than depression and anxiety. Their overloaded schedules make it difficult to collaborate with your therapist. I can simplify the process and provide the comprehensive mental health expertise you are looking for. Together, we can address both your chemical and psychological needs.
![Photo of Dr. Megan Verlage, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/64b0b0c5-5fca-4ba7-a335-c196b927d2d2/1/320x400.png)
Hello! My name is Dr. Megan Verlage and I am Board Certified in General Adult Psychiatry. While I treat a wide range of mental health issues across the lifespan in both women and men, my area of interest is in Women’s Mental Health. I have specialized training in helping with psychiatric needs related to pregnancy, the postpartum period, infertility, pregnancy loss, pre-menstrual syndromes, and peri-menopause. I created my practice so that I could give the type of individualized and specialized care I feel these delicate situations deserve. I look forward to meeting you and being a part of your journey.
Hello! My name is Dr. Megan Verlage and I am Board Certified in General Adult Psychiatry. While I treat a wide range of mental health issues across the lifespan in both women and men, my area of interest is in Women’s Mental Health. I have specialized training in helping with psychiatric needs related to pregnancy, the postpartum period, infertility, pregnancy loss, pre-menstrual syndromes, and peri-menopause. I created my practice so that I could give the type of individualized and specialized care I feel these delicate situations deserve. I look forward to meeting you and being a part of your journey.
![Photo of Larissa (Lacey) Mehling, PMHCNS-, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1ecf2ea8-9fed-4552-9bc1-2c2532e9b582/1/320x400.jpeg)
Larissa (Lacey) Mehling
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHCNS-
Verified Verified
Hilliard, OH 43026
Larissa Lacey Mehling is a board certified mental health and psychiatric nurse practitioner. She is certified from the American Nursing Credential Center. Lacey has several years of experience in outpatient psychiatry. Before working as a psychiatric mental health NP, Lacey worked for many years on an inpatient child/adolescent psychiatry unit. She received her master's degree in nursing from The Ohio State University. She received two bachelor's degrees, one in Psychology from The Ohio State University and one in Nursing from Ashland University.
Larissa Lacey Mehling is a board certified mental health and psychiatric nurse practitioner. She is certified from the American Nursing Credential Center. Lacey has several years of experience in outpatient psychiatry. Before working as a psychiatric mental health NP, Lacey worked for many years on an inpatient child/adolescent psychiatry unit. She received her master's degree in nursing from The Ohio State University. She received two bachelor's degrees, one in Psychology from The Ohio State University and one in Nursing from Ashland University.
![Photo of Dr. Angela Wallenbrock, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7ae8cc61-84f0-4b17-bed7-818b676e5d9c/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Angela Wallenbrock, MD, is a highly experienced psychiatrist with a distinguished career spanning several decades. Board certified in both General Psychiatry and Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Dr. Wallenbrock combines a robust educational background with extensive clinical expertise to deliver high-quality, evidence-based psychiatric care. At Holistic Wellness Solutions, she focuses on providing compassionate and comprehensive treatment for children aged 12 and older, as well as adults.
Dr. Angela Wallenbrock, MD, is a highly experienced psychiatrist with a distinguished career spanning several decades. Board certified in both General Psychiatry and Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Dr. Wallenbrock combines a robust educational background with extensive clinical expertise to deliver high-quality, evidence-based psychiatric care. At Holistic Wellness Solutions, she focuses on providing compassionate and comprehensive treatment for children aged 12 and older, as well as adults.
More Psychiatrists Nearby
![Photo of Fatimah Thiam, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4a06490c-a838-4e5f-8b4a-518176de3516/1/320x400.jpeg)
Fatimah Thiam
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Columbus, OH 43228 (Online Only)
Hello, I am Fatimah, a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, who have been in practice over the last 8 years, with experience working in inpatient, outpatient and crisis settings. Do you suffer from ADHD, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, OCD, schizophrenia, mood swings, eating disorders, insomnia, trauma/PTSD, personality disorders or substance abuse? I'm here because of you and I care about you. To book your appointment go to https:/centralbehavioralclinic.com/.
Hello, I am Fatimah, a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, who have been in practice over the last 8 years, with experience working in inpatient, outpatient and crisis settings. Do you suffer from ADHD, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, OCD, schizophrenia, mood swings, eating disorders, insomnia, trauma/PTSD, personality disorders or substance abuse? I'm here because of you and I care about you. To book your appointment go to https:/centralbehavioralclinic.com/.
See more therapy options for Hilliard
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Hilliard, OH
10+
Average cost per session
$229
Psychiatrists in Hilliard, OH who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
79% | ADHD |
74% | Bipolar Disorder |
74% | Medication Management |
68% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
63% | Trauma and PTSD |
Average years in practice
5 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
100% | Cigna and Evernorth |
94% | Elevance |
How Psychiatrists in Hilliard, OH see their clients
90% | In Person and Online | |
10% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
64% | Female | |
36% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Hilliard?
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.