Psychiatrists in Worthington, OH
![Photo of Sophia Kassem, DO, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/526c82f4-a988-49bf-a546-536d4f435808/1/320x400.jpeg)
Sophia Kassem, D.O. is now accepting new patients for in-person and telehealth appointments! Dr. Kassem provides psychiatric evaluations and treatment to children, adolescents, and young adults, mainly focusing on patients ages 6 to 21. She specializes in depression, anxiety, OCD, bipolar disorders, and ADHD. Dr. Kassem is committed to de-stigmatizing mental health issues.
Sophia Kassem, D.O. is now accepting new patients for in-person and telehealth appointments! Dr. Kassem provides psychiatric evaluations and treatment to children, adolescents, and young adults, mainly focusing on patients ages 6 to 21. She specializes in depression, anxiety, OCD, bipolar disorders, and ADHD. Dr. Kassem is committed to de-stigmatizing mental health issues.
![Photo of Edena Walden, MSN, PMHNP-B, APN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d8763dfd-073c-48d7-93d0-f96acd7efdc0/1/320x400.png)
Edena Walden
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP-B, APN
Verified Verified
Worthington, OH 43085
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 Sarah Rossetter - Sarah Rossetter, MD, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c9f3a3ab-596b-4880-bc29-f5aaad2b6db4/2/320x400.jpeg)
Unsure if medication is the right choice for you? Are you looking for a doctor who will truly listen and understand your needs? Dr. Rossetter combines a warm, compassionate interaction style with medical expertise to offer truly personalized care.
Unsure if medication is the right choice for you? Are you looking for a doctor who will truly listen and understand your needs? Dr. Rossetter combines a warm, compassionate interaction style with medical expertise to offer truly personalized care.
![Photo of Dr. Allen Masry, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bfe6fb4c-c002-4513-a99d-501929b94b47/1/320x400.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.
Depression, anxiety, hopelessness, and indecision often bring people to treatment. I am a practicing psychiatrist applying psychodynamic psychotherapy, contemporary psychoanalysis, and medication management to help patients. People often think that their problems are unclear, confusing, and that there are no real answers. People often wish that their lives could be better or that they could have a greater sense of wellbeing. It could be work or school performance, or relationship difficulties. These problems can be helped, in a way that brings lasting benefit.
Depression, anxiety, hopelessness, and indecision often bring people to treatment. I am a practicing psychiatrist applying psychodynamic psychotherapy, contemporary psychoanalysis, and medication management to help patients. People often think that their problems are unclear, confusing, and that there are no real answers. People often wish that their lives could be better or that they could have a greater sense of wellbeing. It could be work or school performance, or relationship difficulties. These problems can be helped, in a way that brings lasting benefit.
![Photo of Kinsey Reeves, MSN, APRN , PMHNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f44cd740-59f7-4709-b36c-c261d296d9c4/1/320x400.jpeg)
Kinsey Reeves
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN , PMHNP-C
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Worthington, OH 43085
I am a dual board certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner licensed to provide psychiatric evaluation, care, and treatment from both a medication management and psychotherapeutic approach. I offer a holistic and collaborative approach to treatment and will work closely with you to develop a treatment plan based on your personal goals and treatment preferences. Our collaborative plan of care may include medications, lifestyle modifications, psychotherapeutic approaches, and supplements amongst other modalities. I am passionate in working with those with mood, anxiety, & attention concerns.
I am a dual board certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner licensed to provide psychiatric evaluation, care, and treatment from both a medication management and psychotherapeutic approach. I offer a holistic and collaborative approach to treatment and will work closely with you to develop a treatment plan based on your personal goals and treatment preferences. Our collaborative plan of care may include medications, lifestyle modifications, psychotherapeutic approaches, and supplements amongst other modalities. I am passionate in working with those with mood, anxiety, & attention concerns.
![Photo of Paige Malone, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/33ed10df-01a1-4fee-be18-a5767d9f0015/1/320x400.jpeg)
Paige Malone
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Worthington, OH 43085
I received my Master's from The Ohio State University and am a board-certified PMHNP. I can provide diagnostic testing and medication management for a variety of mental health conditions and am accepting new clients! I am dedicated to providing comprehensive care to children (age 6+), adolescents, and adults facing a wide range of mental health struggles. My approach is rooted in empathy and a belief in empowering individuals to make educated decisions about their treatment options. I believe in patient-centered care and working with my patients to develop individualized plans that align with their unique goals/preferences.
I received my Master's from The Ohio State University and am a board-certified PMHNP. I can provide diagnostic testing and medication management for a variety of mental health conditions and am accepting new clients! I am dedicated to providing comprehensive care to children (age 6+), adolescents, and adults facing a wide range of mental health struggles. My approach is rooted in empathy and a belief in empowering individuals to make educated decisions about their treatment options. I believe in patient-centered care and working with my patients to develop individualized plans that align with their unique goals/preferences.
![Photo of Sheila V Canini, FNP-BC, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0fc8e620-6b0b-4164-9725-2825e1d363d2/1/320x400.jpeg)
Sheila V Canini
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP-BC, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
Worthington, OH 43085 (Online Only)
My ideal clients range from teenagers to adults of all genders, primarily residing in areas where our services are accessible. These individuals face challenges such as depression, anxiety, and insomnia, and are motivated to improve their mental health, achieve better sleep, and embrace change. They require personalized therapy, a supportive community, educational resources, and professional guidance. These clients seek relief from their conditions, value a high quality of life, long for stability, and are committed to self-improvement. Addressing these needs helps them on their journey to better mental health and an enhanced life
My ideal clients range from teenagers to adults of all genders, primarily residing in areas where our services are accessible. These individuals face challenges such as depression, anxiety, and insomnia, and are motivated to improve their mental health, achieve better sleep, and embrace change. They require personalized therapy, a supportive community, educational resources, and professional guidance. These clients seek relief from their conditions, value a high quality of life, long for stability, and are committed to self-improvement. Addressing these needs helps them on their journey to better mental health and an enhanced life
![Photo of Evan Silverland, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8c64f176-5321-4b53-8808-3147d7b2fcbe/2/320x400.jpeg)
Evan Silverland
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Worthington, OH 43085
Are you struggling with your mental health? Have you attempted therapy and utilized coping skills without much relief? Unsure if medication is appropriate for you or is what you're currently taking not working? As a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner, I can help guide you in this decision making process. I see patients of all ages experiencing a wide range of illness, including depression, anxiety, ADHD, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia.
Are you struggling with your mental health? Have you attempted therapy and utilized coping skills without much relief? Unsure if medication is appropriate for you or is what you're currently taking not working? As a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner, I can help guide you in this decision making process. I see patients of all ages experiencing a wide range of illness, including depression, anxiety, ADHD, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia.
![Photo of Ramona Bhatt, DO, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/af3c788f-a6fe-4129-8189-5e880d45117d/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Bhatt graduated with a Bachelors of Science in psychology and neuroscience from The Ohio State University. She completed medical school at Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine, going on to finish her adult psychiatry residency in Cleveland at University Hospitals and Case Western Reserve University. After this, she returned to Columbus to complete her child and adolescent psychiatry fellowship at Nationwide Children's Hospital and The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, where she served as a chief resident in her final year.
Dr. Bhatt graduated with a Bachelors of Science in psychology and neuroscience from The Ohio State University. She completed medical school at Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine, going on to finish her adult psychiatry residency in Cleveland at University Hospitals and Case Western Reserve University. After this, she returned to Columbus to complete her child and adolescent psychiatry fellowship at Nationwide Children's Hospital and The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, where she served as a chief resident in her final year.
![Photo of Jenna Jacobs, PA-C, Physician Assistant](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8d7e06d7-7ba4-4984-9bf5-d3c8c0199dd2/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am a Board Certified Physician Assistant offering psychiatric services to children ages 5-18 in the Central Ohio region and surrounding areas. As a psychiatric PA-C, my role my role is to diagnose conditions and medically treat, if indicated. I care for clients who struggle with a variety of conditions including ADHD, defiance, depression, anxiety, autism, and so much more.
I am a Board Certified Physician Assistant offering psychiatric services to children ages 5-18 in the Central Ohio region and surrounding areas. As a psychiatric PA-C, my role my role is to diagnose conditions and medically treat, if indicated. I care for clients who struggle with a variety of conditions including ADHD, defiance, depression, anxiety, autism, and so much more.
Ardent Psychiatry LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, BS
Verified Verified
Worthington, OH 43085 (Online Only)
At Ardent Psychiatry, your recovery is our passion. We offer psychiatric evaluation, medication management and therapeutic services for most psychiatric illnesses across the life span. With a focus on treatment of trauma informed care, we strive to provide an environment conducive to healing and hospitality. Illnesses and disorders treated include but are not limited to anxiety, depression, trauma, bipolar spectrum and schizophrenia.
At Ardent Psychiatry, your recovery is our passion. We offer psychiatric evaluation, medication management and therapeutic services for most psychiatric illnesses across the life span. With a focus on treatment of trauma informed care, we strive to provide an environment conducive to healing and hospitality. Illnesses and disorders treated include but are not limited to anxiety, depression, trauma, bipolar spectrum and schizophrenia.
More Psychiatrists Nearby
![Photo of Victor Arballo, DO, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c740b6d2-2797-4b60-9b09-ca60aadabd0e/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Arballo is board-certified psychiatrist who completed medical school at Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine. He received residency training at University of Texas Health - San Antonio where in addition to clinical training was appointed resident chair of the Quality Improvement and Patient Safety Committee.
Dr. Arballo is board-certified psychiatrist who completed medical school at Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine. He received residency training at University of Texas Health - San Antonio where in addition to clinical training was appointed resident chair of the Quality Improvement and Patient Safety Committee.
![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
Columbus, OH 43235 (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.
![Photo of Karim Barrie - Barrie Behavioral Health (BBH). , RN, MSN, CNP, Psych, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4dc955ea-0614-468f-86a1-4eca87218b69/3/320x400.jpeg)
Barrie Behavioral Health (BBH).
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, RN, MSN, CNP, Psych
Verified Verified
Columbus, OH 43229
Not accepting new clients
My name is Karim Barrie. I am a psychiatric nurse practitioner. I graduated from The Ohio State University in 2017 and have been in practice since. My experiences are in psychiatry and addiction. I prefer to treat patients age 16 and above. I am well versed in treating: Anxiety Disorders (Anxiety, panic, social anxiety); Mood Disorders (Depression, Bipolar); Psychotic Disorders (schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorder); PTSD; OCD. TELEHEALTH OPTION IS AVAILABLE.
My name is Karim Barrie. I am a psychiatric nurse practitioner. I graduated from The Ohio State University in 2017 and have been in practice since. My experiences are in psychiatry and addiction. I prefer to treat patients age 16 and above. I am well versed in treating: Anxiety Disorders (Anxiety, panic, social anxiety); Mood Disorders (Depression, Bipolar); Psychotic Disorders (schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorder); PTSD; OCD. TELEHEALTH OPTION IS AVAILABLE.
![Photo of Sarah Niese, CNP, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d0e4d172-1628-4d0f-8685-84ab79392fde/1/320x400.jpeg)
Sarah Niese
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CNP, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Columbus, OH 43235
Welcome! GentlePsych is a psychiatry practice serving patients ages 7 and up. I see clients both in person and telemedicine to allow the most comfortable space for you. I am a dual board-certified family and psychiatric nurse practitioner specializing in diagnostic testing and medication management for a wide range of mental health conditions including anxiety, depression, trauma, ADHD, and mood disorders. I also offer medical weight loss services that are designed not only to address physical health concerns but also to foster mental wellness.
Welcome! GentlePsych is a psychiatry practice serving patients ages 7 and up. I see clients both in person and telemedicine to allow the most comfortable space for you. I am a dual board-certified family and psychiatric nurse practitioner specializing in diagnostic testing and medication management for a wide range of mental health conditions including anxiety, depression, trauma, ADHD, and mood disorders. I also offer medical weight loss services that are designed not only to address physical health concerns but also to foster mental wellness.
![Photo of Dale LaChance, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2d5632af-f9c3-4961-b81c-5a5c11951c37/1/320x400.jpeg)
I practice a collaborative approach to mental health by working with clients to develop an individualized plan to help improve mental health and overall quality of life at home, work, or school. I believe in using evidence-based practice and a holistic approach to help guide clinical decisions and provide treatment, but understand that medications are not always a solution.
I practice a collaborative approach to mental health by working with clients to develop an individualized plan to help improve mental health and overall quality of life at home, work, or school. I believe in using evidence-based practice and a holistic approach to help guide clinical decisions and provide treatment, but understand that medications are not always a solution.
![Photo of Ify Agudosi, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fcb17ae7-b590-4254-8380-c2439d570a69/2/320x400.jpeg)
Hello, and welcome! I’m delighted to introduce myself as a licensed Professional Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) based in the heart of Ohio. With a Master’s degree from the esteemed University of Minnesota and three years of hands-on experience, I am passionate about making a meaningful difference in the lives of my clients. My focus is on helping both young and older adults navigate the challenges of mental health conditions such as anxiety and depression. I believe that everyone deserves to live a life full of joy, purpose, and fulfillment.
Hello, and welcome! I’m delighted to introduce myself as a licensed Professional Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) based in the heart of Ohio. With a Master’s degree from the esteemed University of Minnesota and three years of hands-on experience, I am passionate about making a meaningful difference in the lives of my clients. My focus is on helping both young and older adults navigate the challenges of mental health conditions such as anxiety and depression. I believe that everyone deserves to live a life full of joy, purpose, and fulfillment.
![Photo of Sarah Swiger, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6c45dc52-c00d-4e92-ae74-fc57e5ad6f86/1/320x400.jpeg)
Sarah Swiger
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Columbus, OH 43235 (Online Only)
Welcome to Stronger Minds Mental Health and Wellness, LLC. My name is Sarah and I am both a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor.
Welcome to Stronger Minds Mental Health and Wellness, LLC. My name is Sarah and I am both a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor.
![Photo of Berline Frye, PMHNP, AGNP-BC, MSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d83b7a55-259c-4f55-9c9a-bf7c1f450145/1/320x400.jpeg)
Berline Frye
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, AGNP-BC, MSN
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Columbus, OH 43235 (Online Only)
Are you looking for a provider that listens to you ,gives you time and pay attention to your mental health needs? Have you tried to navigate the difficult world of finding a Mental provider that spends more than 15 minutes to ensure you have a correct diagnosis and treatment. Look no more! I provide diagnostic evaluations, medication management, and therapy services in a safe environment. After trying so long to find help for my own Loved ones, I made it my mission to do things differently, work harder to foster a safe environment for all patients, truly care for patients, and share good practices in empathy and understanding.
Are you looking for a provider that listens to you ,gives you time and pay attention to your mental health needs? Have you tried to navigate the difficult world of finding a Mental provider that spends more than 15 minutes to ensure you have a correct diagnosis and treatment. Look no more! I provide diagnostic evaluations, medication management, and therapy services in a safe environment. After trying so long to find help for my own Loved ones, I made it my mission to do things differently, work harder to foster a safe environment for all patients, truly care for patients, and share good practices in empathy and understanding.
See more therapy options for Worthington
Nearby Searches for Worthington
- Amlin
- Blacklick
- Columbus
- Delaware
- Dublin
- Grandview
- Hilliard
- Lewis Center
- New Albany
- Powell
- Upper Arlington
- Westerville
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Worthington, OH
10+
Average cost per session
$125
Psychiatrists in Worthington, OH who prioritize treating:
100% | Anxiety |
92% | Depression |
92% | Medication Management |
83% | Bipolar Disorder |
75% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
75% | Trauma and PTSD |
67% | ADHD |
Average years in practice
7 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
90% | Aetna |
80% | Cigna and Evernorth |
80% | Optum |
How Psychiatrists in Worthington, OH see their clients
84% | In Person and Online | |
16% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
56% | Female | |
44% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Worthington?
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.