Psychiatrists in Blount County, TN

Photo of Samantha McLean, FNP-C, PMHNP, -BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Samantha McLean
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP-C, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Maryville, TN 37801
My goal as a dual board certified nurse practitioner is to look at each patient from a holistic whole body point of view. I have found in my professional experience, and personal, women's health is multifactorial and is influenced heavily by outside factors that I can help you manage including, but not limited to, hormones, mental health concerns, and weight management.
My goal as a dual board certified nurse practitioner is to look at each patient from a holistic whole body point of view. I have found in my professional experience, and personal, women's health is multifactorial and is influenced heavily by outside factors that I can help you manage including, but not limited to, hormones, mental health concerns, and weight management.
(865) 459-3581 View (865) 459-3581
Photo of Sadonya Meadows Allen, MSN, PhD, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Sadonya Meadows Allen
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PhD, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Maryville, TN 37801
I have worked in the field of behavioral health since 2001. My current focus is psychiatric medication management. I treat ages across the lifespan and specialize in treating ADHD, depression, anxiety, and mood disorder.
I have worked in the field of behavioral health since 2001. My current focus is psychiatric medication management. I treat ages across the lifespan and specialize in treating ADHD, depression, anxiety, and mood disorder.
(865) 276-8216 View (865) 276-8216
Photo of Linda Cabage, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Linda Cabage
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Maryville, TN 37801  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I am currently unable to accept new patients. Child and adolescent patients are being referred to Dr. Cynthia Easter at Bright Star Child & Adolescent Psychiatry.
I am currently unable to accept new patients. Child and adolescent patients are being referred to Dr. Cynthia Easter at Bright Star Child & Adolescent Psychiatry.
(865) 761-4279 View (865) 761-4279
Photo of Dr. Justin Lapollo - Maryville Psychiatry , DO, Psychiatrist
Maryville Psychiatry
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
Maryville, TN 37804
My team and I want to help you become your optimal self. We have a vast array of experience in many areas including severe mood disorders, anxiety disorders, bipolar disorders, trauma related disorders, and psychotic disorders. We see children, adolescents and adults. We are trained in complicated psychotropic medication management, multiple therapy modalities, and interventional techniques like Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS), Ketamine Therapy and Tirzepatide. Our goal is to offer the most world class psychiatric care in hopes of reducing suffering and helping individuals become the most optimal versions of their self.
My team and I want to help you become your optimal self. We have a vast array of experience in many areas including severe mood disorders, anxiety disorders, bipolar disorders, trauma related disorders, and psychotic disorders. We see children, adolescents and adults. We are trained in complicated psychotropic medication management, multiple therapy modalities, and interventional techniques like Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS), Ketamine Therapy and Tirzepatide. Our goal is to offer the most world class psychiatric care in hopes of reducing suffering and helping individuals become the most optimal versions of their self.
(865) 500-3993 View (865) 500-3993
Photo of Cynthia J Easter, MD, Psychiatrist
Cynthia J Easter
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Maryville, TN 37801
I am a board-certified pediatrician with extensive experience providing psychiatric care to children and adolescents. At Bright Star Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, we offer statewide psychiatric assessments and treatment to children and teens in Tennessee. I am able to evaluate and treat anxiety, depression, ADHD, disruptive mood dysregulation, and behavioral expressions of autism spectrum disorders as well as other mental health conditions. I offer Autism Evaluations, too! Our commitment to the children of Tennessee is to help them be the brightest star they can be!
I am a board-certified pediatrician with extensive experience providing psychiatric care to children and adolescents. At Bright Star Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, we offer statewide psychiatric assessments and treatment to children and teens in Tennessee. I am able to evaluate and treat anxiety, depression, ADHD, disruptive mood dysregulation, and behavioral expressions of autism spectrum disorders as well as other mental health conditions. I offer Autism Evaluations, too! Our commitment to the children of Tennessee is to help them be the brightest star they can be!
(865) 724-1590 View (865) 724-1590
Photo of Bright Star Child And Adolescent Psychiatry - Bright Star Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, MD, Psychiatrist
Bright Star Child and Adolescent Psychiatry
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Maryville, TN 37801
Bright Star Child and Adolescent Psychiatry provides in-person appointments as well as virtual visits to provide mental health assessments and treatment to children and teens. Dr. Cynthia J. Easter, MD, is a board-certified pediatrician with extensive experience providing mental health care to children and adolescents. Dr. Easter evaluates and treats anxiety, depression, attention deficit and hyperactivity, disruptive mood dysregulation, oppositional defiance, and behavioral expressions of autism spectrum disorders as well as other mental health conditions. Give us a call to discuss how we can help your child shine.
Bright Star Child and Adolescent Psychiatry provides in-person appointments as well as virtual visits to provide mental health assessments and treatment to children and teens. Dr. Cynthia J. Easter, MD, is a board-certified pediatrician with extensive experience providing mental health care to children and adolescents. Dr. Easter evaluates and treats anxiety, depression, attention deficit and hyperactivity, disruptive mood dysregulation, oppositional defiance, and behavioral expressions of autism spectrum disorders as well as other mental health conditions. Give us a call to discuss how we can help your child shine.
(865) 205-8975 View (865) 205-8975
Photo of Dawit Zemichael - Healthy Living Medical Services LLC, MD, MS, Psychiatrist
Healthy Living Medical Services LLC
Psychiatrist, MD, MS
Verified Verified
Maryville, TN 37801
We take a positive approach to your addiction or mental health needs. Our goal is to help you find success without judgement, offering positive support. We have witnessed many success stories and provide a structured atmosphere through your treatment with Suboxone (or other medications). We also provide Psychiatry & Weight Management services. Dr Dawit Zemichael uses the most advanced approaches in the treatment of mental health, addictions & behavioral problems. He utilizes a holistic approach in his treatment modality. Qualifications: Years of practice-18 years. *Education: East Tennessee State University, Quillan School of Medicine, London University Medical College & Old Church Hospital London, England & Training in Dublin Ireland.
We take a positive approach to your addiction or mental health needs. Our goal is to help you find success without judgement, offering positive support. We have witnessed many success stories and provide a structured atmosphere through your treatment with Suboxone (or other medications). We also provide Psychiatry & Weight Management services. Dr Dawit Zemichael uses the most advanced approaches in the treatment of mental health, addictions & behavioral problems. He utilizes a holistic approach in his treatment modality. Qualifications: Years of practice-18 years. *Education: East Tennessee State University, Quillan School of Medicine, London University Medical College & Old Church Hospital London, England & Training in Dublin Ireland.
(865) 276-7022 View (865) 276-7022
Photo of April Snell, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
April Snell
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Maryville, TN 37802
My passion for behavioral health extends beyond the confines of my practice. I am an active member of local organizations, volunteering my time and expertise to raise awareness and advocate for accessible, quality behavioral health services. I am also passionate about educating the public about behavioral health, dispelling myths and misconceptions, and fostering a culture of acceptance and support.
My passion for behavioral health extends beyond the confines of my practice. I am an active member of local organizations, volunteering my time and expertise to raise awareness and advocate for accessible, quality behavioral health services. I am also passionate about educating the public about behavioral health, dispelling myths and misconceptions, and fostering a culture of acceptance and support.
(865) 355-0807 View (865) 355-0807
Photo of Dr. Chenhang Zou, MD, Psychiatrist
Dr. Chenhang Zou
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Maryville, TN 37803
Embark on your healing journey with Dr. Zou, a Board-certified psychiatrist who blends the precision of medicine with the art of psychotherapy. Trained at Emory and UAlabama, Dr. Zou is expert at integrating medication management and psychotherapy, including CBT. But her approach is not just about effective treatment; it's about empowering you with self-knowledge and tools for sustainable mental well-being. With Dr. Zou, you can explore a personalized, empathetic approach that resonates uniquely with you.
Embark on your healing journey with Dr. Zou, a Board-certified psychiatrist who blends the precision of medicine with the art of psychotherapy. Trained at Emory and UAlabama, Dr. Zou is expert at integrating medication management and psychotherapy, including CBT. But her approach is not just about effective treatment; it's about empowering you with self-knowledge and tools for sustainable mental well-being. With Dr. Zou, you can explore a personalized, empathetic approach that resonates uniquely with you.
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Photo of Kelsey Wallace, MPH, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Kelsey Wallace
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MPH, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Maryville, TN 37802
I am a Nurse Practitioner board certified in Adult/Gero Primary Care and Psychiatric Mental Health. I provide psychiatric evaluation, medication management and supportive psychotherapy for patients 13 years old and above, focusing on trauma-related disorders, depression, anxiety, ADHD and bipolar disorder. I have a special interest in survivors of sexual violence & first responders.
I am a Nurse Practitioner board certified in Adult/Gero Primary Care and Psychiatric Mental Health. I provide psychiatric evaluation, medication management and supportive psychotherapy for patients 13 years old and above, focusing on trauma-related disorders, depression, anxiety, ADHD and bipolar disorder. I have a special interest in survivors of sexual violence & first responders.
(865) 205-7374 View (865) 205-7374
Photo of Katy Nottingham, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Katy Nottingham
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Maryville, TN 37801
I have more than a decade of experience in evaluating and treating patients across the lifespan, but I have special expertise in the pediatric and young-adult populations (ages 4-30). My practice focus includes anxiety, depression, impulse control disorders, autism spectrum disorders, ADHD, mood disorders, and obsessive-compulsive disorder.
I have more than a decade of experience in evaluating and treating patients across the lifespan, but I have special expertise in the pediatric and young-adult populations (ages 4-30). My practice focus includes anxiety, depression, impulse control disorders, autism spectrum disorders, ADHD, mood disorders, and obsessive-compulsive disorder.
(865) 568-8007 View (865) 568-8007
Photo of Hannah Hutchins, BS-Edu, BSN-RN, MSN-APN, PMHNP, -BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Hannah Hutchins
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, BS-Edu, BSN-RN, MSN-APN, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Maryville, TN 37802
My clients are from all backgrounds and cultures. I have experience working with an array of diagnoses including: Adjustment Disorders, ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorders, Bipolar Disorders, Disruptive Mood Dysregulation Disorder, Eating Disorders, Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Insomnia, Intermittent Explosive Disorder, Learning Disabilities, Major Depressive Disorder, Mood Disorders, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, Oppositional Defiant Disorder, Panic Disorder, Personality Disorders, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, Post-Partum Depression, Psychosis, Schizophrenia Spectrum Disorders, Self-Harming and Suicidal Ideation.
My clients are from all backgrounds and cultures. I have experience working with an array of diagnoses including: Adjustment Disorders, ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorders, Bipolar Disorders, Disruptive Mood Dysregulation Disorder, Eating Disorders, Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Insomnia, Intermittent Explosive Disorder, Learning Disabilities, Major Depressive Disorder, Mood Disorders, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, Oppositional Defiant Disorder, Panic Disorder, Personality Disorders, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, Post-Partum Depression, Psychosis, Schizophrenia Spectrum Disorders, Self-Harming and Suicidal Ideation.
(865) 509-9483 View (865) 509-9483
Photo of Melissa L Spears, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Melissa L Spears
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
Maryville, TN 37801
(865) 800-3583 View (865) 800-3583

Online Psychiatrists

Photo of Natalie Linkous, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Natalie Linkous
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kingsport, TN 37663
I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with experience in managing patients with complex psychiatric diagnoses in multiple settings. I work with all age groups and all psychiatric disorders.
I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with experience in managing patients with complex psychiatric diagnoses in multiple settings. I work with all age groups and all psychiatric disorders.
(423) 436-8360 View (423) 436-8360
Photo of Tammy Ellington, PMHNP,  NP,  DNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Tammy Ellington
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, NP, DNP
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37922
Tammy Ellington is an ANCC board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. She has worked in both private practice and community mental health settings, and has experience treating anxiety and panic disorders, depression, bipolar disorders, psychosis, schizophrenia, schizoaffective, trauma, personality disorders, eating disorders, OCD, prolonged grief, postpartum depression, anger and impulse control issues, conduct disorders, ODD, autism spectrum disorders, ADHD, executive function deficits, sensory integration issues, suicidal ideation, self-harm, and co-occurring substance use.
Tammy Ellington is an ANCC board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. She has worked in both private practice and community mental health settings, and has experience treating anxiety and panic disorders, depression, bipolar disorders, psychosis, schizophrenia, schizoaffective, trauma, personality disorders, eating disorders, OCD, prolonged grief, postpartum depression, anger and impulse control issues, conduct disorders, ODD, autism spectrum disorders, ADHD, executive function deficits, sensory integration issues, suicidal ideation, self-harm, and co-occurring substance use.
(865) 432-0319 View (865) 432-0319
Photo of Justin Lapollo, DO, Psychiatrist
Justin Lapollo
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Knoxville, TN 37932
Dr. Justin Lapollo was raised in east Tennessee and graduated from high school at Farragut High School. He obtained his undergraduate degree from East Tennessee State University in Psychology and later graduated from the Virgina College of Osteopathic Medicine at Virginia Tech in 2009. He did his residency training in Hawaii at Tripler Army Medical Center. He has served in numerous clinical and administrative leadership roles during his 15 years working as a clinical psychiatrist, both in the active-duty military as well as the private sector.
Dr. Justin Lapollo was raised in east Tennessee and graduated from high school at Farragut High School. He obtained his undergraduate degree from East Tennessee State University in Psychology and later graduated from the Virgina College of Osteopathic Medicine at Virginia Tech in 2009. He did his residency training in Hawaii at Tripler Army Medical Center. He has served in numerous clinical and administrative leadership roles during his 15 years working as a clinical psychiatrist, both in the active-duty military as well as the private sector.
(865) 459-5054 View (865) 459-5054
Photo of Noelle K. Pease, ARNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Noelle K. Pease
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARNP
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37934
Noelle received her BSN from Tennessee Wesleyan University and MSN from Lincoln Memorial University. She is board certified by the American Nurses Credentialing Center as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She began her nursing career working with the pediatric population gaining experience with a variety of neurodevelopmental disorders and family centered approach to patient care. After 7 years in the nursing field she decided to further pursue her education in the mental health field.
Noelle received her BSN from Tennessee Wesleyan University and MSN from Lincoln Memorial University. She is board certified by the American Nurses Credentialing Center as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She began her nursing career working with the pediatric population gaining experience with a variety of neurodevelopmental disorders and family centered approach to patient care. After 7 years in the nursing field she decided to further pursue her education in the mental health field.
(865) 412-8736 View (865) 412-8736
Photo of Mary Salerno, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Mary Salerno
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Sevierville, TN 37876  (Online Only)
Telepsychiatry is proven to be a very effective means of treating mental health issues. All patients are treated with respect and dignity via of HIPAA-compliant televideo appointments. Most follow-up appointments last 20 to 30 minutes and offer you the convenience of a visit from the privacy of your own home or wherever you have a WiFi or cellular connection. No waiting in crowded lobbies or driving to appointments. Medications are sent electronically to your pharmacy and are ready within a short period of time. I offer convenient appointment times. I do not provide therapy or counseling sessions; I do medication management only.
Telepsychiatry is proven to be a very effective means of treating mental health issues. All patients are treated with respect and dignity via of HIPAA-compliant televideo appointments. Most follow-up appointments last 20 to 30 minutes and offer you the convenience of a visit from the privacy of your own home or wherever you have a WiFi or cellular connection. No waiting in crowded lobbies or driving to appointments. Medications are sent electronically to your pharmacy and are ready within a short period of time. I offer convenient appointment times. I do not provide therapy or counseling sessions; I do medication management only.
(509) 476-8245 View (509) 476-8245
Photo of Scott Baymiller, MD, Psychiatrist
Scott Baymiller
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37909
Scott Baymiller, M. D, is a board-certified psychiatrist with over 20 years of experience in the field of medication management for the treatment of depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia. "š He graduated medical school at the University of Tennessee and completed his residency at Brown University in Providence, Rhode Island. He has been on faculty at multiple universities and has worked in inpatient, outpatient, partial hospitalization, and community mental health settings. He has also served as medical director of multiple psychiatric hospitals.
Scott Baymiller, M. D, is a board-certified psychiatrist with over 20 years of experience in the field of medication management for the treatment of depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia. "š He graduated medical school at the University of Tennessee and completed his residency at Brown University in Providence, Rhode Island. He has been on faculty at multiple universities and has worked in inpatient, outpatient, partial hospitalization, and community mental health settings. He has also served as medical director of multiple psychiatric hospitals.
(865) 290-2334 View (865) 290-2334
Photo of Laura Pohl - Women's Mental Health Specialist, CNM, PHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Laura Pohl - Women's Mental Health Specialist
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CNM, PHNP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Knoxville, TN 37923  (Online Only)
I am passionate about women's mental health. In today's world, there are many pressures of life that can cause mental health illnesses. I work primarily with anxiety, depression, and ADHD. I am also a Certified Nurse Midwife. I love working with women who are struggling with mental health needs as well. Breastfeeding is NOT a limiter for medications! Let me help you manage your mental health today!
I am passionate about women's mental health. In today's world, there are many pressures of life that can cause mental health illnesses. I work primarily with anxiety, depression, and ADHD. I am also a Certified Nurse Midwife. I love working with women who are struggling with mental health needs as well. Breastfeeding is NOT a limiter for medications! Let me help you manage your mental health today!
(865) 302-3722 View (865) 302-3722

See more therapy options for Blount County

How does your Psychiatrist compare?

Number of Psychiatrists in Blount County, TN

10+

Average cost per session

$275

Psychiatrists in Blount County, TN who prioritize treating:

92% Depression
92% Anxiety
85% Medication Management
77% ADHD
77% Bipolar Disorder
69% Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
54% Trauma and PTSD

Average years in practice

6 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

100% Aetna
90% UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH
80% BlueCross and BlueShield

How Psychiatrists in Blount County, TN see their clients

93% In Person and Online
7% Online Only

Gender breakdown

82% Female
18% Male
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses

How can I find a psychiatrist in Blount 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.