Psychiatrists in Thompsons Station, TN
![Photo of Rex Sparks, PMHNP, FNP-BC, MA, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/640f4428-6a7e-483d-a45b-88d25896bcfa/2/320x400.jpeg)
Rex Sparks
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP-BC, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Thompsons Station, TN 37179 (Online Only)
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with more than twenty years of involvement in the mental health field. I am interested in treating patients with a wide range of issues including Depression, Anxiety, ADHD, PTSD, Bipolar Disorder, Sleep Disturbances, and Thought Disorders. I welcome all members of the LGBTQ community. I strive for a nonjudgmental, “real” partnership, encouraging individuals to take an active role in their care. My goal is to be a partner with you to help you fully realize your strengths and empower you to change your thoughts and behaviors to achieve a healthier, happier life.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with more than twenty years of involvement in the mental health field. I am interested in treating patients with a wide range of issues including Depression, Anxiety, ADHD, PTSD, Bipolar Disorder, Sleep Disturbances, and Thought Disorders. I welcome all members of the LGBTQ community. I strive for a nonjudgmental, “real” partnership, encouraging individuals to take an active role in their care. My goal is to be a partner with you to help you fully realize your strengths and empower you to change your thoughts and behaviors to achieve a healthier, happier life.
More Psychiatrists Nearby
![Photo of Lauren Caldwell, PMHNP, BC, MSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/daf43dda-e04b-4ca2-bd12-d29949bab875/4/320x400.jpeg)
While I am certified to provide care across the lifespan, my heart is for child and adolescent psychiatry. My goal is always to listen to kids, advocate for them, and be a support in their mental health journey. It is a role that I cherish and do not take lightly.
While I am certified to provide care across the lifespan, my heart is for child and adolescent psychiatry. My goal is always to listen to kids, advocate for them, and be a support in their mental health journey. It is a role that I cherish and do not take lightly.
![Photo of Theresa Wilson - Stepping Stones Psychiatric Services, PLLC, APRN, PMHNP, -BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/48b73e7e-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Stepping Stones Psychiatric Services, PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
Spring Hill, TN 37174
Theresa Wilson is a Tennessee licensed board certified Family Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with prescriptive authority, specializing in a wide range of psychiatric services to patients across the life span. Her areas of focus include mood disorders, anxiety disorders, eating disorders, behavioral issues, thought disorders, ADHD, autism spectrum, addictions, abuse, and trauma. No person should be defined by their diagnosis. Theresa embraces everyone's uniqueness. She delivers a personalized treatment plan tailored to fit each individual needs.
Theresa Wilson is a Tennessee licensed board certified Family Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with prescriptive authority, specializing in a wide range of psychiatric services to patients across the life span. Her areas of focus include mood disorders, anxiety disorders, eating disorders, behavioral issues, thought disorders, ADHD, autism spectrum, addictions, abuse, and trauma. No person should be defined by their diagnosis. Theresa embraces everyone's uniqueness. She delivers a personalized treatment plan tailored to fit each individual needs.
![Photo of Allison Richardson, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b98b488a-d1cf-4b61-a38f-fbc9ca554c63/2/320x400.jpeg)
Allison Richardson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Franklin, TN 37064
Mercy Community Healthcare offers comprehensive primary and mental healthcare to adults and children. Mercy’s psychiatric services enhance the quality of excellence in assessment, diagnosis, medication administration, evaluation and professional education. Mercy employs board-certified psychiatrists and psychiatric nurse practitioners.
Mercy Community Healthcare offers comprehensive primary and mental healthcare to adults and children. Mercy’s psychiatric services enhance the quality of excellence in assessment, diagnosis, medication administration, evaluation and professional education. Mercy employs board-certified psychiatrists and psychiatric nurse practitioners.
![Photo of Allie Denton, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/59abd59a-b7bb-4a85-a46c-03efefa5bbea/1/320x400.jpeg)
Allie Denton
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Franklin, TN 37064
After training and practicing at an academic medical center for the past six years, I wanted more for myself and my clients: more time, more connection, and a more holistic, mind-body approach. My practice philosophy is based on evidence, your values, and shared decision making to tailor a treatment plan to your specific needs and goals.
After training and practicing at an academic medical center for the past six years, I wanted more for myself and my clients: more time, more connection, and a more holistic, mind-body approach. My practice philosophy is based on evidence, your values, and shared decision making to tailor a treatment plan to your specific needs and goals.
![Photo of Taylor Berry, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ba6c8375-8dd5-445f-95f8-009d52eef15b/1/320x400.jpeg)
Taylor Berry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Spring Hill, TN 37174 (Online Only)
All appointments will be 100% virtual with the possibility for in-person appointments as early as January 2024 on Friday's in Franklin, TN. Accepting cash pay, Aetna, Cigna, Optum/United Healthcare, BCBS, and Tricare. VACCN coming soon!
All appointments will be 100% virtual with the possibility for in-person appointments as early as January 2024 on Friday's in Franklin, TN. Accepting cash pay, Aetna, Cigna, Optum/United Healthcare, BCBS, and Tricare. VACCN coming soon!
![Photo of Kendra O. Delaney, PhD, PMHNP, AGPCNP, RN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/838a4ce6-03a1-461c-ac0f-42e33644f4c1/1/320x400.jpeg)
Kendra O. Delaney
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD, PMHNP, AGPCNP, RN
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Franklin, TN 37064
Welcome to Empowered Heart Integrative Mental Health Care, PLLC! We are an outpatient integrative mental health clinic that utilizes psychiatric medications, supplements, lab testing, and the healing arts to work with children 5+, teens and adults to meet their mental, emotional, physical and spiritual needs. We treat a variety of mental health conditions including, but not limited to: trauma, anxiety, & PTSD; depression & bipolar disorder; disordered eating; inattention & ADHD; and pre- and post-natal mood disorders, infertility, and loss.
Welcome to Empowered Heart Integrative Mental Health Care, PLLC! We are an outpatient integrative mental health clinic that utilizes psychiatric medications, supplements, lab testing, and the healing arts to work with children 5+, teens and adults to meet their mental, emotional, physical and spiritual needs. We treat a variety of mental health conditions including, but not limited to: trauma, anxiety, & PTSD; depression & bipolar disorder; disordered eating; inattention & ADHD; and pre- and post-natal mood disorders, infertility, and loss.
![Photo of Dr. Chenhang Zou, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/503eded3-651c-40a1-a024-1bc312ad981b/1/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Dr. Christopher Lombardi - Dr. Chris Lombardi | IntelePsych, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/76a34036-c053-4c2b-a485-913b6a717dd6/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Chris Lombardi | IntelePsych
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Franklin, TN 37064 (Online Only)
Life can feel overwhelming at times - and so can seeking mental health care. At IntelePsych, we want you to feel comfortable from the very first time you call our office. Dr. Lombardi, our board-certified M.D., takes a holistic approach, tailoring your individualized care to include medication, therapy, or both. So whether you have anxiety, depression, bipolar, motivation issues, ADHD, PTSD, or other struggles, we're here to help you live your best life.
Life can feel overwhelming at times - and so can seeking mental health care. At IntelePsych, we want you to feel comfortable from the very first time you call our office. Dr. Lombardi, our board-certified M.D., takes a holistic approach, tailoring your individualized care to include medication, therapy, or both. So whether you have anxiety, depression, bipolar, motivation issues, ADHD, PTSD, or other struggles, we're here to help you live your best life.
![Photo of Femi Olarubofin, DNP, APRN, PMHNP-, BC, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/88f7992e-170a-49d7-b51b-b334f2f3d85e/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Femi is a compassionate board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (DNP) with 10+ years in mental health field. My primary goal is to use my professional skills and knowledge to alleviate the sufferings and struggles of clients with mental health illness with a holistic approach, non-judgmental, and professional manner. Versatile and experienced in treating patients with various psychiatric disorders across the lifespan, with specialization in Medication Management of most mental health presentations. Dr. Femi has an extensive experience in treating both veterans (military) and civilian populations.
Dr. Femi is a compassionate board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (DNP) with 10+ years in mental health field. My primary goal is to use my professional skills and knowledge to alleviate the sufferings and struggles of clients with mental health illness with a holistic approach, non-judgmental, and professional manner. Versatile and experienced in treating patients with various psychiatric disorders across the lifespan, with specialization in Medication Management of most mental health presentations. Dr. Femi has an extensive experience in treating both veterans (military) and civilian populations.
![Photo of Dwight King - Tennessee Psychiatry, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9fad887a-5b76-4d7e-ba1a-3030f1e2dea2/1/320x400.png)
Whether it is medication management, or in-depth talk therapy, the team at Tennessee Psychiatry is ready to help. Our team of psychiatrists, psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners, and licensed clinical social workers are here to help you get back on track.
Whether it is medication management, or in-depth talk therapy, the team at Tennessee Psychiatry is ready to help. Our team of psychiatrists, psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners, and licensed clinical social workers are here to help you get back on track.
![Photo of Michael Ferri - InSight Recovery & Wellness, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/964827ea-9e8e-4e3a-8530-4ff9f9f339b5/1/320x400.jpeg)
The InSight team welcomes patients suffering from mental illness and addictions of all kinds. Here at InSight, we work to engage the whole person by integrating psychiatric treatment, behavioral health counseling, peer support, case management, and specialized primary care, all to promote sustained recovery from addiction and mental illness and improve overall well-being. We are located in Franklin, TN. We serve the greater Nashville area and beyond.
The InSight team welcomes patients suffering from mental illness and addictions of all kinds. Here at InSight, we work to engage the whole person by integrating psychiatric treatment, behavioral health counseling, peer support, case management, and specialized primary care, all to promote sustained recovery from addiction and mental illness and improve overall well-being. We are located in Franklin, TN. We serve the greater Nashville area and beyond.
![Photo of Kathryn Eckstein Jalovec, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3c643072-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am a board certified psychiatrist in private practice in Nashville, Tennessee. I am a graduate of University of Tennessee Medical School, Harvard Longwood Psychiatry Residency, and Massachusetts General Hospital/McLean Hospital Child and Adolescent Psychiatry Residency Program.
I am a board certified psychiatrist in private practice in Nashville, Tennessee. I am a graduate of University of Tennessee Medical School, Harvard Longwood Psychiatry Residency, and Massachusetts General Hospital/McLean Hospital Child and Adolescent Psychiatry Residency Program.
![Photo of Sam Burress, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8d0d5250-d1fb-43fa-a8cb-f20daef68b5f/2/320x400.jpeg)
Sam Burress received his Bachelor’s degree from Martin Methodist College in 2015. Sam has a background in Intensive Care and Emergency nursing, but quickly realized that his true passion was in psychiatric nursing. He worked in Centennial’s inpatient psychiatric hospital in various bedside and administrative roles for 6 years prior to attending Middle Tennessee State University to obtain a Master’s degree and PMHNP certification. He strives to provide excellent and compassionate care to all of his clients.
Sam Burress received his Bachelor’s degree from Martin Methodist College in 2015. Sam has a background in Intensive Care and Emergency nursing, but quickly realized that his true passion was in psychiatric nursing. He worked in Centennial’s inpatient psychiatric hospital in various bedside and administrative roles for 6 years prior to attending Middle Tennessee State University to obtain a Master’s degree and PMHNP certification. He strives to provide excellent and compassionate care to all of his clients.
![Photo of Leslie Binford, DNP, RN, PHMNPBC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/29abf088-2b4d-42fa-b819-b51f607efa2e/1/320x400.jpeg)
Leslie Binford
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, RN, PHMNPBC
Verified Verified
Franklin, TN 37064
Many patients are hesitant when first introduced to the idea of taking medication. At Tennessee Reproductive Therapy, we understand that this is a deeply personal decision. We understand that every woman is unique and we will create a medication management plan tailored to your unique needs. Our thorough and compassionate approach to medication management involves carefully evaluating your needs and creating a treatment plan that is specific to you and your situation. Different from other medication providers, Leslie will spend a full 60 minutes with each client, getting to know you, your needs and your desires for treatment.
Many patients are hesitant when first introduced to the idea of taking medication. At Tennessee Reproductive Therapy, we understand that this is a deeply personal decision. We understand that every woman is unique and we will create a medication management plan tailored to your unique needs. Our thorough and compassionate approach to medication management involves carefully evaluating your needs and creating a treatment plan that is specific to you and your situation. Different from other medication providers, Leslie will spend a full 60 minutes with each client, getting to know you, your needs and your desires for treatment.
![Photo of Kari Edick, RN, MSN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/72701ef9-852d-4134-aabb-ef0ed26700ee/2/320x400.jpeg)
Kari is a board certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who provides medication management for all ages. She has experience treating a variety of mental health conditions including but not limited to: bipolar disorder, major depressive disorder, generalized anxiety disorder, OCD and personality disorders.
Kari is a board certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who provides medication management for all ages. She has experience treating a variety of mental health conditions including but not limited to: bipolar disorder, major depressive disorder, generalized anxiety disorder, OCD and personality disorders.
![Photo of Corina Picchiottino, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3b9f9eed-3a9a-4a87-97fd-c473da2f8275/3/320x400.jpeg)
Corina Picchiottino
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Franklin, TN 37064
As the founder and clinician at Redefining Roots, LLC, I believe your past choices should not define you. We will explore your biological, psychological, social, and spiritual influences to determine how they shape your view of yourself and the world around you. I utilize an integrative mental health care model that is whole-body focused, patient-centered, and trauma-informed to provide holistic healing with the use of various modalities including psychopharmacology, nutritional supplements, lab testing, and pharmacogenomic testing. Additionally, I provide individualized education and supportive therapy.
As the founder and clinician at Redefining Roots, LLC, I believe your past choices should not define you. We will explore your biological, psychological, social, and spiritual influences to determine how they shape your view of yourself and the world around you. I utilize an integrative mental health care model that is whole-body focused, patient-centered, and trauma-informed to provide holistic healing with the use of various modalities including psychopharmacology, nutritional supplements, lab testing, and pharmacogenomic testing. Additionally, I provide individualized education and supportive therapy.
![Photo of Arif K Mirza - Dr Arif Mirza MD | Germantown Private Psychiatry, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f4bd8360-5598-470e-a8c5-6b925261431c/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr Arif Mirza MD | Germantown Private Psychiatry
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Franklin, TN 37064 (Online Only)
Welcome! ...As an experienced Psychiatrist in private practice, inpatient and telehealth settings, I'm here to offer authentic, compassionate care. Time is precious, especially for busy students, parents, and working professionals. I look forward to collaborate to reach your goals ASAP! ... Same week Video appointments are available. Text 469-770-7750 for quick booking assist.
Welcome! ...As an experienced Psychiatrist in private practice, inpatient and telehealth settings, I'm here to offer authentic, compassionate care. Time is precious, especially for busy students, parents, and working professionals. I look forward to collaborate to reach your goals ASAP! ... Same week Video appointments are available. Text 469-770-7750 for quick booking assist.
![Photo of Christopher Van Schenck - Tennessee Psychiatry, MB, BHC, BAO, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b0c2456e-8115-4206-be34-68c27ac17a3a/1/320x400.png)
Whether it is medication management, or in-depth talk therapy, the team at Tennessee Psychiatry is ready to help. Our team of psychiatrists, psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners, and licensed clinical social workers are here to help you get back on track.
Whether it is medication management, or in-depth talk therapy, the team at Tennessee Psychiatry is ready to help. Our team of psychiatrists, psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners, and licensed clinical social workers are here to help you get back on track.
![Photo of Debra Ann York - The Art of Healing, P.C., APRN-BC, LPC-MHS, IFMCP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/731d0421-abb9-4f0c-bdb9-528ee6202a9a/1/320x400.jpeg)
The Art of Healing, P.C.
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN-BC, LPC-MHS, IFMCP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Franklin, TN 37064
Deb York is good at helping you through the art of resilience, we can get through problems together. She feels like the most important aspect of counseling is empathy and unconditional regard; her job is to help you understand yourself and support your chosen path! She has a holistic view for psychiatric problems. She does trauma therapy and has her EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) certification. She continues to take UHC and Aetna but will be dropping insurance in 2024.
Deb York is good at helping you through the art of resilience, we can get through problems together. She feels like the most important aspect of counseling is empathy and unconditional regard; her job is to help you understand yourself and support your chosen path! She has a holistic view for psychiatric problems. She does trauma therapy and has her EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) certification. She continues to take UHC and Aetna but will be dropping insurance in 2024.
See more therapy options for Thompsons Station
Nearby Searches for Thompsons Station
- Antioch
- Brentwood
- Columbia
- Dickson
- Franklin
- Hermitage
- Madison
- Murfreesboro
- Nashville
- Old Hickory
- Smyrna
- Spring Hill
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Thompsons Station, TN
< 10
Psychiatrists in Thompsons Station, TN who prioritize treating:
100% | Relationship Issues |
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
100% | ADHD |
100% | Geriatric and Seniors |
100% | Life Coaching |
100% | Grief |
Average years in practice
28 Years
Gender breakdown
100% | Male |
How Psychiatrists in Thompsons Station, TN see their clients
100% | Online Only |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Thompsons Station?
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.