Psychiatrists in Montgomery County, OH
![Photo of Biaunka Lee, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8f3cd082-5787-414e-85a7-422c96f5d27a/1/320x400.jpeg)
Biaunka Phillips is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Ohio who has been practicing since 2022. Biaunka helps her clients by being patient centered, empathetic, attentive, and dedicated to their needs. She involves her clients, so they feel they are a part of their care. Biaunka has gained experience in critical care, medical-surgical, and long-term care throughout her nursing career. Over the last 7 years, Biaunka has worked in mental health and provided education and assisted in meeting patients' needs.
Biaunka Phillips is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Ohio who has been practicing since 2022. Biaunka helps her clients by being patient centered, empathetic, attentive, and dedicated to their needs. She involves her clients, so they feel they are a part of their care. Biaunka has gained experience in critical care, medical-surgical, and long-term care throughout her nursing career. Over the last 7 years, Biaunka has worked in mental health and provided education and assisted in meeting patients' needs.
![Photo of Alendre McGhee - Ingenious Health & Wellness, DNP, APRNCNP, PMHNP, FNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/35e20754-412f-49bb-9d91-7c243886996b/2/320x400.png)
Ingenious Health & Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRNCNP, PMHNP, FNP-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Englewood, OH 45322
Accepting New Patients! Mental wellness is a lifelong journey and is a very important aspect of your overall health. Often times, one does not recognize signs of a mental illness or there is a lack of understanding about the many treatment options available. We offer service in two states: In-office or Telehealth (OHIO clients) and Telehealth only (ARIZONA clients). We also offer evening and weekend appointments!
Accepting New Patients! Mental wellness is a lifelong journey and is a very important aspect of your overall health. Often times, one does not recognize signs of a mental illness or there is a lack of understanding about the many treatment options available. We offer service in two states: In-office or Telehealth (OHIO clients) and Telehealth only (ARIZONA clients). We also offer evening and weekend appointments!
![Photo of Molly J Hall, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/44f6f5b5-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I have a private practice in adult psychiatry offering consultation, medication management, and individual psychotherapy. I enjoy working in collaboration with other psychotherapists to address their clients' medical needs. Over thirty years clinical experience treating diverse mental health problems- including mood, anxiety and trauma related disorders.
I have a private practice in adult psychiatry offering consultation, medication management, and individual psychotherapy. I enjoy working in collaboration with other psychotherapists to address their clients' medical needs. Over thirty years clinical experience treating diverse mental health problems- including mood, anxiety and trauma related disorders.
![Photo of Emily Garrett, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/dc693959-3a2f-4616-851c-bc9feb76cabc/1/320x400.jpeg)
Emily Garrett
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Beavercreek, OH 45432
Hi, my name is Emily. I am a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, and I am accepting new patients of all ages who are seeking help with their mood, stress, emotions, or other challenges with their mental health. I am committed to providing a safe space for you to feel supported, listened to, and involved in your treatment plan as we work together to achieve your mental health goals and improve your quality of life. Through medication management and supportive talk therapy, we will work together to establish realistic goals to help you overcome the obstacles in your life that you feel are holding you back.
Hi, my name is Emily. I am a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, and I am accepting new patients of all ages who are seeking help with their mood, stress, emotions, or other challenges with their mental health. I am committed to providing a safe space for you to feel supported, listened to, and involved in your treatment plan as we work together to achieve your mental health goals and improve your quality of life. Through medication management and supportive talk therapy, we will work together to establish realistic goals to help you overcome the obstacles in your life that you feel are holding you back.
![Photo of Darshan Singh, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3cf291e8-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Singh has multiple years of practice experience and specializes in child psychiatry, adolescent psychiatry, and forensic psychiatry. Dr. Singh is board certified and treats a wide range of mental health disorders. Based on years of experience he helps decrease and/or alleviate symptoms of ADHD, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, PTSD, compulsive disorders, etc.
Dr. Singh has multiple years of practice experience and specializes in child psychiatry, adolescent psychiatry, and forensic psychiatry. Dr. Singh is board certified and treats a wide range of mental health disorders. Based on years of experience he helps decrease and/or alleviate symptoms of ADHD, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, PTSD, compulsive disorders, etc.
![Photo of Emily Toal - BE Mental Health, LLC, RN, BSN, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e73235e4-7d19-4511-a603-631ab44fc03c/1/320x400.jpeg)
BE Mental Health, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, RN, BSN, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Englewood, OH 45322
I am a Primary-Mental Health Nurse practitioner. I treat all psychiatric disorders across the lifespan. My practice has a specialized focus on mothers experiencing antepartum and postpartum mood disorders or bonding issues with their infants. Additionally, I have a passion to provide resources and mental health treatment to children and families who have indivduals with developmental delays. This includes assessment, diagnoses, treatment, appropriate referrals, and case management for the family. However, I treat all psychiatric disorders and people of all ages!
I am a Primary-Mental Health Nurse practitioner. I treat all psychiatric disorders across the lifespan. My practice has a specialized focus on mothers experiencing antepartum and postpartum mood disorders or bonding issues with their infants. Additionally, I have a passion to provide resources and mental health treatment to children and families who have indivduals with developmental delays. This includes assessment, diagnoses, treatment, appropriate referrals, and case management for the family. However, I treat all psychiatric disorders and people of all ages!
![Photo of Marquetta D Colbert, MS, FNP-C, PMHNPBC, DNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d066f777-2043-42ab-8e88-4c79ead1ccce/1/320x400.jpeg)
Marquetta D Colbert
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MS, FNP-C, PMHNPBC, DNP
Verified Verified
Dayton, OH 45415
I am a licensed board certified mental health nurse practioner with a private practice in Dayton, OH. I have over 10 years experience working with behavioral health patients on both an inpatient and outpatient basis.
I am a licensed board certified mental health nurse practioner with a private practice in Dayton, OH. I have over 10 years experience working with behavioral health patients on both an inpatient and outpatient basis.
![Photo of Olivetta Uradu, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/52cac0c9-1f20-45f9-b3c4-a33e0ceae241/1/320x400.jpeg)
Start your mental health treatment with Dr. Olivetta Uradu. Board-certified psychiatrist, trained at Howard University College of Medicine and Yale University. Dr. Uradu provides culturally sensitive mental health care to adults of various backgrounds with an expertise in women's mental health and addiction. Her treatment is guided by a conscious, equitable and collaborative philosophy to mental health. With Dr. Uradu, you can anticipate a compassionate approach to your care.
Start your mental health treatment with Dr. Olivetta Uradu. Board-certified psychiatrist, trained at Howard University College of Medicine and Yale University. Dr. Uradu provides culturally sensitive mental health care to adults of various backgrounds with an expertise in women's mental health and addiction. Her treatment is guided by a conscious, equitable and collaborative philosophy to mental health. With Dr. Uradu, you can anticipate a compassionate approach to your care.
![Photo of Amanda Hardesty, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d99d8470-367d-4ead-a1fa-5f32f1fb90e2/1/320x400.jpeg)
Amanda is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Practitioner and was a previous trauma nurse of 10+ years. She has a vast array of experience in psychiatric services. Amanda's goal is to provide an empathetic, engaged and client centered service and care for medication management.
Amanda is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Practitioner and was a previous trauma nurse of 10+ years. She has a vast array of experience in psychiatric services. Amanda's goal is to provide an empathetic, engaged and client centered service and care for medication management.
![Photo of Gerald Makobong, ARPN, PMHNP, CNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bfbeb172-7961-4e6e-8552-1080b0550743/2/320x400.png)
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 Lidia Maria Berrone - Tassielli Mental Health & Wellness, MS, APR, BC-ACNP, BCPMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b3824165-9fda-49b1-a4f5-aed4475852af/3/320x400.jpeg)
Tassielli Mental Health & Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MS, APR, BC-ACNP, BCPMHNP
Verified Verified
Dayton, OH 45420
Hello, I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. I treat adults struggling with mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD to name of few. My goal is to provide comprehensive and compassionate care for individuals struggling with managing their life. My philosophy is that good mental health is key to the over all well-being of an individual.
Hello, I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. I treat adults struggling with mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD to name of few. My goal is to provide comprehensive and compassionate care for individuals struggling with managing their life. My philosophy is that good mental health is key to the over all well-being of an individual.
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![Photo of Dr. Natosha Onasanya, MD, MPH, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8e0e3651-04b9-4056-ac0c-7900d0264a61/2/320x400.jpeg)
I started Smiles Psychiatry & Wellness private practice to give parents freedom and flexibility to choose specialized psychiatric care and receive support during difficult parenting seasons. Smiles Psychiatry & Wellness strives to provide comprehensive psychiatric treatment plans to address the biological, emotional, and environmental factors contributing to your mental health.
I started Smiles Psychiatry & Wellness private practice to give parents freedom and flexibility to choose specialized psychiatric care and receive support during difficult parenting seasons. Smiles Psychiatry & Wellness strives to provide comprehensive psychiatric treatment plans to address the biological, emotional, and environmental factors contributing to your mental health.
![Photo of Tiffani Michelle Gallimore, APRN, CNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5ddb9af3-a005-4e08-bc43-0ae951b4770c/1/320x400.jpeg)
Tiffani Michelle Gallimore
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, CNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Dayton, OH 45420 (Online Only)
Hello! I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner serving the state of Ohio. My goal is to help guide you on your journey toward a healthy mind and body. I specialize in the medication management of depression, anxiety, grief, PTSD, mood disorders and personality disorders. While I am NOT a therapist, I do incorporate brief psychotherapy and work in collaboration with therapists for the overall well-being of our clients. My practice is managed by Sonder Mind, so please make sure I accept your insurance. If you would like an appointment, message me with your email, birthdate and phone number and I will send you an invite.
Hello! I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner serving the state of Ohio. My goal is to help guide you on your journey toward a healthy mind and body. I specialize in the medication management of depression, anxiety, grief, PTSD, mood disorders and personality disorders. While I am NOT a therapist, I do incorporate brief psychotherapy and work in collaboration with therapists for the overall well-being of our clients. My practice is managed by Sonder Mind, so please make sure I accept your insurance. If you would like an appointment, message me with your email, birthdate and phone number and I will send you an invite.
![Photo of Dr. Allen Masry, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/78c73de2-6e98-48a0-80c4-d57845d25066/2/320x400.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 Michelle LeMaster, APRN, FNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e980bd45-5196-4dc5-b705-a981eadde1e5/2/320x400.jpeg)
Michelle LeMaster
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, FNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Beavercreek, OH 45432
I work primarily with medication management but listening is my superpower. Whether you're facing anxiety, depression, or any other mental health challenge, I am here to provide a compassionate and non-judgmental space for you to express yourself. I believe that the foundation of mental health care lies in truly hearing and understanding the unique experiences of each person I work with.
I work primarily with medication management but listening is my superpower. Whether you're facing anxiety, depression, or any other mental health challenge, I am here to provide a compassionate and non-judgmental space for you to express yourself. I believe that the foundation of mental health care lies in truly hearing and understanding the unique experiences of each person I work with.
![Photo of Donna Moeller, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c5195696-cc9b-4695-8b55-dbfbd036b228/2/320x400.jpeg)
Donna Moeller is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Ohio who has been practicing since 2021. Donna has extensive experience with mental health over three decades, besides her own personal journey through family addiction, grief of losing a 19-year-old son, depression, SAD, and ADD. She is involved in a 12-step program and celebrates recovery. In her spare time, Donna enjoys volunteer work with the homeless, sponsoring women in a 12-step program, loving on her 4 grandchildren, gardening, traveling on mission trips, and relaxing.
Donna Moeller is a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Ohio who has been practicing since 2021. Donna has extensive experience with mental health over three decades, besides her own personal journey through family addiction, grief of losing a 19-year-old son, depression, SAD, and ADD. She is involved in a 12-step program and celebrates recovery. In her spare time, Donna enjoys volunteer work with the homeless, sponsoring women in a 12-step program, loving on her 4 grandchildren, gardening, traveling on mission trips, and relaxing.
![Photo of Sylvie Sibomana - Sylvie Wellness Center LLC, PMHNP, FNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9b7bde77-e6a2-4d1c-bca8-1c7c8e01e1fe/1/320x400.jpeg)
Sylvie Wellness Center LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dayton, OH 45449
I am a compassionate provider who focuses on a holistic, individualized approach to health by devoting time to your care. I am dual-certified and offer dual diagnoses of addiction and underlying mental health issues. My goal is to build healthy communities and reduce the stigma associated with addiction, psychiatry, and weight. I offer flexible hours early in the morning, evenings, or weekends, no waiting time, telehealth, and in-person visits.
I am a compassionate provider who focuses on a holistic, individualized approach to health by devoting time to your care. I am dual-certified and offer dual diagnoses of addiction and underlying mental health issues. My goal is to build healthy communities and reduce the stigma associated with addiction, psychiatry, and weight. I offer flexible hours early in the morning, evenings, or weekends, no waiting time, telehealth, and in-person visits.
![Photo of Denise Dews, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ee8063aa-15d9-4837-a37c-5d611ccd3d3d/2/320x400.jpeg)
I’m here to help you with your mental health concerns and provide you with the best possible care.” I can provide medication treatment as well as psychotherapy. I have a vast array of experience in mental health, as I've been a psychiatric nurse since 2011. My focus is on treating children, adolescents and adults through the life span.
I’m here to help you with your mental health concerns and provide you with the best possible care.” I can provide medication treatment as well as psychotherapy. I have a vast array of experience in mental health, as I've been a psychiatric nurse since 2011. My focus is on treating children, adolescents and adults through the life span.
![Photo of Ellen Irene Belbeck, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0351ae79-bb2e-4fd1-bfc6-5fdbfbd04495/1/320x400.jpeg)
Ellen Irene Belbeck
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Miamisburg, OH 45342
Although I enjoy helping both men and women to become the best version of themselves, I especially find purpose in helping young women and the LGBQ+ population. I employ a non-judgmental and holistic approach, focusing on all areas of ones life. My medication recommendations are up to date with the newest available treatment options. I feel especially comfortable in treating ADHD, mood disorders, PTSD, depression, and anxiety. I also utilize a trauma informed approach, and will walk with you through this darkness.
Although I enjoy helping both men and women to become the best version of themselves, I especially find purpose in helping young women and the LGBQ+ population. I employ a non-judgmental and holistic approach, focusing on all areas of ones life. My medication recommendations are up to date with the newest available treatment options. I feel especially comfortable in treating ADHD, mood disorders, PTSD, depression, and anxiety. I also utilize a trauma informed approach, and will walk with you through this darkness.
![Photo of Rachel Cuenot, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/18128539-d377-460b-9cd7-5451b7948ae0/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am a board certified psychiatrist and I can provide medication treatment as well as psychotherapy. Patients that typically benefit from the treatments that I provide are those that suffer from symptoms such as depression, anxiety, shame, lack of fulfillment in their relationships and career, inner conflicts, negative thoughts, and self-doubt. They may have difficulty finding contentment and meaning, setting boundaries, living their lives authentically, or with maintaining their confidence and self-esteem. They may also struggle with bodily stress symptoms such as headaches, fibromyalgia, insomnia, IBS, and fatigue.
I am a board certified psychiatrist and I can provide medication treatment as well as psychotherapy. Patients that typically benefit from the treatments that I provide are those that suffer from symptoms such as depression, anxiety, shame, lack of fulfillment in their relationships and career, inner conflicts, negative thoughts, and self-doubt. They may have difficulty finding contentment and meaning, setting boundaries, living their lives authentically, or with maintaining their confidence and self-esteem. They may also struggle with bodily stress symptoms such as headaches, fibromyalgia, insomnia, IBS, and fatigue.
See more therapy options for Montgomery County
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Montgomery County, OH
60+
Average cost per session
$150
Psychiatrists in Montgomery County, OH who prioritize treating:
97% | Anxiety |
91% | Depression |
80% | Bipolar Disorder |
71% | Trauma and PTSD |
70% | Medication Management |
67% | ADHD |
61% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
Average years in practice
5 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
90% | Aetna |
87% | Cigna and Evernorth |
87% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Psychiatrists in Montgomery County, OH see their clients
76% | In Person and Online | |
24% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
84% | Female | |
16% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Montgomery 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.