Psychiatrists in Conroe, TX
![Photo of For More Information - Equanimity Behavioral Health & Consultation Serv, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6679eea6-9f92-4c17-aa5d-804db4eb573b/2/320x400.jpeg)
Equanimity Behavioral Health & Consultation Serv
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Conroe, TX 77304 (Online Only)
Our Providers understand life brings challenges that at some point can be very overwhelming to handle alone, leading to the inability to maintain mental calmness and happiness to live to our fullest potential. Our Mission is to provide a warm, calm, and compassionate environment for us to walk on the journey together to see you reach your goals. You are not just a number, to us, you are a very special person, so we are here to listen to you and together we will develop a partnership that will help us to evaluate, diagnose, and develop an individualized treatment plan best suited for you to achieve optimal outcomes
Our Providers understand life brings challenges that at some point can be very overwhelming to handle alone, leading to the inability to maintain mental calmness and happiness to live to our fullest potential. Our Mission is to provide a warm, calm, and compassionate environment for us to walk on the journey together to see you reach your goals. You are not just a number, to us, you are a very special person, so we are here to listen to you and together we will develop a partnership that will help us to evaluate, diagnose, and develop an individualized treatment plan best suited for you to achieve optimal outcomes
![Photo of Cathy Taylor, ARPN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ac282f00-ff66-4b84-a494-af7e1c29c6e3/1/320x400.jpeg)
My ideal client is someone who is seeking help to live their best life. They may be experiencing depression, anxiety, inattention or other issues. They know they are not functioning at their best level and are brave enough to find help. Medication and therapy can help so many of us get back on track living our fullest lives. I try to tell all my patients that we all hit brick walls at some point in our lives and that is ok. We just have to figure out a way to get past that brick wall. Once we have what is needed, whether medication help or new coping skills, we can thrive again.
My ideal client is someone who is seeking help to live their best life. They may be experiencing depression, anxiety, inattention or other issues. They know they are not functioning at their best level and are brave enough to find help. Medication and therapy can help so many of us get back on track living our fullest lives. I try to tell all my patients that we all hit brick walls at some point in our lives and that is ok. We just have to figure out a way to get past that brick wall. Once we have what is needed, whether medication help or new coping skills, we can thrive again.
![Photo of Oluwatobi Faith Adeleke - Leading edge behavioural health and services, APRN, PMHNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2ae726d3-3da6-4c9f-ae7a-f0d1c63db514/2/320x400.jpeg)
Leading edge behavioural health and services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Conroe, TX 77304 (Online Only)
Do you find yourself facing challenges in life that leave you feeling unfulfilled? Do you feel less understood and less alone in your daily struggles? As a child, were you the victim of abuse or neglect? Do you frequently feel down, grumpy, angry, tense, or uninspired? Do you lack self-assurance and worry that you aren't good enough? Is it hard for you to believe people? Do you struggle with mental health or relationships? I I'm a LGBTQ+ affirming Psychiatric provider who can help you create a personalized care plan to achieve your mental and emotional well-being .
Do you find yourself facing challenges in life that leave you feeling unfulfilled? Do you feel less understood and less alone in your daily struggles? As a child, were you the victim of abuse or neglect? Do you frequently feel down, grumpy, angry, tense, or uninspired? Do you lack self-assurance and worry that you aren't good enough? Is it hard for you to believe people? Do you struggle with mental health or relationships? I I'm a LGBTQ+ affirming Psychiatric provider who can help you create a personalized care plan to achieve your mental and emotional well-being .
![Photo of Emad Mikhail Bishai - the woodlands psychiatry and counseling, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/916f6c8e-022e-45eb-8659-e993e432c3a2/2/320x400.jpeg)
the woodlands psychiatry and counseling
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Conroe, TX 77384
There is a daily increase in mental illness. We always need to remember that mental illness is treatable and most of the time curable. It needs a very specific goal oriented plan.
There is a daily increase in mental illness. We always need to remember that mental illness is treatable and most of the time curable. It needs a very specific goal oriented plan.
![Photo of Shea T. Sawyer, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7c51d7c8-de77-44f0-b8cd-4591d3cff01e/2/320x400.png)
Hi! I am Shea, a Board Certified Nurse Practitioner. I am a Christian as well. I have years of experience working with people that desire to improve their wellness. I prescribe medication to help as well as necessary referrals and health education. I am able to formally diagnosis and treat all psychiatric conditions. I also work with patients that desire to be free from medications, or that want a second opinion. I use a holistic approach whenever possible and help guide you to find the most appropriate treatment plan you are comfortable with.
Hi! I am Shea, a Board Certified Nurse Practitioner. I am a Christian as well. I have years of experience working with people that desire to improve their wellness. I prescribe medication to help as well as necessary referrals and health education. I am able to formally diagnosis and treat all psychiatric conditions. I also work with patients that desire to be free from medications, or that want a second opinion. I use a holistic approach whenever possible and help guide you to find the most appropriate treatment plan you are comfortable with.
![Photo of Omowunmi Ojo - Kindercare behavioral health services LLC, APRN, PMHNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1ca39973-48ba-4336-a32b-df88323e870b/1/320x400.jpeg)
Kindercare behavioral health services LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Conroe, TX 77304 (Online Only)
Are you grappling with life's challenges, feeling isolated and unfulfilled? Are you dealing with stress from past trauma? Are you struggling with persistent emotional turmoil? Are you suffering from depression, anxiety, and mental health issues? If so, you're not alone; call for help and the path toward healing and resilience. KinderCare behavioral health services provide a wide range of psychiatric mental health needs to a variety of clients. We offer specialized expertise in addressing a wide range of psychological concerns. We provide personalized, evidence-based care to manage mental illness and meet the needs of our patients.
Are you grappling with life's challenges, feeling isolated and unfulfilled? Are you dealing with stress from past trauma? Are you struggling with persistent emotional turmoil? Are you suffering from depression, anxiety, and mental health issues? If so, you're not alone; call for help and the path toward healing and resilience. KinderCare behavioral health services provide a wide range of psychiatric mental health needs to a variety of clients. We offer specialized expertise in addressing a wide range of psychological concerns. We provide personalized, evidence-based care to manage mental illness and meet the needs of our patients.
![Photo of Anthony Martinez, PMHNP, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d7e0fcd3-4b40-4347-b854-ed76f55a4907/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am pleased to be offering in person visits and telehealth visits. I am accepting new patients ages 6 years old and up at Magnolia Psychiatry. I am available most weekdays and after hours.
I am pleased to be offering in person visits and telehealth visits. I am accepting new patients ages 6 years old and up at Magnolia Psychiatry. I am available most weekdays and after hours.
![Photo of Chris Kos, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b4e33a81-80c7-43ae-88bf-ad703c910a66/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am excited to be offering in person visits at our new clinic in Conroe, at 1904 Longmire, Ste 401, in addition to telehealth visits. I am accepting new patients ages 6 years old and up at Magnolia Psychiatry.
I am excited to be offering in person visits at our new clinic in Conroe, at 1904 Longmire, Ste 401, in addition to telehealth visits. I am accepting new patients ages 6 years old and up at Magnolia Psychiatry.
Personal Service from a respected medical doctor in a relaxing, quiet setting. Seeing New Patients each week! Board Certified: Adults, Adolescents, and Children. We are proud of our individual approach to patient care. We have one simple goal and that goal has never changed: We want to take care of people.
Personal Service from a respected medical doctor in a relaxing, quiet setting. Seeing New Patients each week! Board Certified: Adults, Adolescents, and Children. We are proud of our individual approach to patient care. We have one simple goal and that goal has never changed: We want to take care of people.
![Photo of Michael Adelowo, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/61bd35a1-7dac-4a3b-8065-1a01f720854b/1/320x400.png)
I am an experienced psychiatric NP who is committed to developing patient-centered care involving psychotherapy, medication management, education, and empowerment. I treat patients and families with respect and compassion. My goal is to find solutions to your challenges, restore hope, and create a healthy and happier you. I work one-on-one with my clients, tailoring their treatment to their unique experience and their disease process. Every treatment starts with us building a therapeutic relationship of trust. I believe the client is a product of their social environment and culture. So I focus on the holistic approach to care.
I am an experienced psychiatric NP who is committed to developing patient-centered care involving psychotherapy, medication management, education, and empowerment. I treat patients and families with respect and compassion. My goal is to find solutions to your challenges, restore hope, and create a healthy and happier you. I work one-on-one with my clients, tailoring their treatment to their unique experience and their disease process. Every treatment starts with us building a therapeutic relationship of trust. I believe the client is a product of their social environment and culture. So I focus on the holistic approach to care.
![Photo of Brandi M Gebhardt, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1d04e3e9-839e-4a67-822a-39e14f336e0a/3/320x400.jpeg)
Brandi Gebhardt is committed to holistic mental healthcare and is dedicated to the well-being of adolescents and adults. Her professional approach is deeply rooted in the interconnection between mental wellness and lifestyle choices. As a compassionate practitioner, Brandi prioritizes a collaborative relationship with her patients. She balances psychotherapy's benefits with medication management, ensuring every individual receives tailored care that aligns with their unique needs. If you're seeking a provider who truly understands the nuanced layers of mental health, Brandi Gebhardt is now welcoming new patients.
Brandi Gebhardt is committed to holistic mental healthcare and is dedicated to the well-being of adolescents and adults. Her professional approach is deeply rooted in the interconnection between mental wellness and lifestyle choices. As a compassionate practitioner, Brandi prioritizes a collaborative relationship with her patients. She balances psychotherapy's benefits with medication management, ensuring every individual receives tailored care that aligns with their unique needs. If you're seeking a provider who truly understands the nuanced layers of mental health, Brandi Gebhardt is now welcoming new patients.
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![Photo of Angela Tefft, DNP, ARNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7d745b76-6c9d-41de-852b-02c00e552086/2/320x400.jpeg)
Angela Tefft
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, ARNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Conroe, TX 77301 (Online Only)
I am a board certified Family Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner who treats clients of all ages. I have nearly 30 years of experience in nursing which allows me to consider mind-body factors which contribute to mental health and physical disorders. I treat most disorders, including depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety, trauma-related disorders, and psychosis. I work with the client to develop an integrative treatment plan, using medications, naturopathic supplements as well as CBT, mindfulness and DBT methods to help clients achieve the highest level of wellness.
I am a board certified Family Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner who treats clients of all ages. I have nearly 30 years of experience in nursing which allows me to consider mind-body factors which contribute to mental health and physical disorders. I treat most disorders, including depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety, trauma-related disorders, and psychosis. I work with the client to develop an integrative treatment plan, using medications, naturopathic supplements as well as CBT, mindfulness and DBT methods to help clients achieve the highest level of wellness.
![Photo of Dr. Ronil Shah, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8533c395-5409-4a72-8b2b-ab9c7a37c84e/1/320x400.jpeg)
Why choose Dr. Ronil Shah? Because his top-notch expertise combines with compassionate, personalized care. Treatment with Dr. Shah is a two-way collaboration. Working together, you will design a mental wellness strategy that’s tailored just for you. His philosophy? Your path to wellness should be as unique as you are, shaped by empathy and expertise, and empowered by evidence-based insights and tools.
Why choose Dr. Ronil Shah? Because his top-notch expertise combines with compassionate, personalized care. Treatment with Dr. Shah is a two-way collaboration. Working together, you will design a mental wellness strategy that’s tailored just for you. His philosophy? Your path to wellness should be as unique as you are, shaped by empathy and expertise, and empowered by evidence-based insights and tools.
![Photo of Favor Osakwe - Holistic Behavioral Health, DNP, PMHNP, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8ce5fe34-c244-46e8-a7b5-21de880aef4a/2/320x400.jpeg)
Holistic Behavioral Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, APRN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Conroe, TX 77384
At Holistic Behavioral Health, I embrace an integrated healing approach, respecting and addressing your unique challenges with empathy. As a Doctorate-prepared provider with dual Board Certification as a Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I bring over 15 years of experience in delivering high-quality care. My focus is on providing holistic, personalized care, dedicated to easing stressors and fostering lasting improvement. With a diverse background in both in-patient and out-patient settings, I tailor treatment plans to meet your specific needs.
At Holistic Behavioral Health, I embrace an integrated healing approach, respecting and addressing your unique challenges with empathy. As a Doctorate-prepared provider with dual Board Certification as a Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, I bring over 15 years of experience in delivering high-quality care. My focus is on providing holistic, personalized care, dedicated to easing stressors and fostering lasting improvement. With a diverse background in both in-patient and out-patient settings, I tailor treatment plans to meet your specific needs.
![Photo of Hilary Butella, DNP, PMHNP, FNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f254ecea-b4cc-4793-b89e-700b7ce1b510/1/320x400.jpeg)
Hilary Butella
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Conroe, TX 77304
I provide individualized psychiatric medication management while incorporating aspects of physical wellbeing, lifestyle choices, emotional health and spirituality. My goal is to promote health and wellness in a compassionate, empathetic setting. Evaluating factors from genetics, personality, relationships, and lifestyle enables a comprehensive treatment plan tailored to meet your specific needs. I am a doctorally prepared nurse practitioner with dual certifications in psychiatry and family practice/primary care. I believe these certifications combined give me the ability to assess and treat my patients more comprehensively.
I provide individualized psychiatric medication management while incorporating aspects of physical wellbeing, lifestyle choices, emotional health and spirituality. My goal is to promote health and wellness in a compassionate, empathetic setting. Evaluating factors from genetics, personality, relationships, and lifestyle enables a comprehensive treatment plan tailored to meet your specific needs. I am a doctorally prepared nurse practitioner with dual certifications in psychiatry and family practice/primary care. I believe these certifications combined give me the ability to assess and treat my patients more comprehensively.
![Photo of Layth Hakim, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0a6a0a25-3bb4-4066-9b82-514590a96122/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Layth Hakim is a Psychiatrist in Texas who has been practicing since 2006. Dr. Hakim has more than 15 years of clinical experience and have taught psychopharmacology to psychiatric residents. Outside of work, Dr. Hakim enjoys fishing, meditation, and narcissistic abuse recovery.
Dr. Layth Hakim is a Psychiatrist in Texas who has been practicing since 2006. Dr. Hakim has more than 15 years of clinical experience and have taught psychopharmacology to psychiatric residents. Outside of work, Dr. Hakim enjoys fishing, meditation, and narcissistic abuse recovery.
![Photo of Florence Alao - Wellmind counseling Center PLLC, APRN, PMHNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d60725cd-0a45-4772-a31d-46427397c588/1/320x400.jpeg)
Wellmind counseling Center PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP-C
Verified Verified
Conroe, TX 77301 (Online Only)
Everyone has a story and only you know your story. My goal is to listen to your truth, understand your needs and work with you to achieve your goal, and live a healthy and fulfilling life.
Everyone has a story and only you know your story. My goal is to listen to your truth, understand your needs and work with you to achieve your goal, and live a healthy and fulfilling life.
![Photo of Stacey Russell, MD, MPH, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/70455343-ef88-4bdb-9ee7-d135c179f5da/1/320x400.jpeg)
I use a whole body approach to treating mental illness. I combine treatment modalities from medication management, supplements, psychotherapy, nutrition, exercise, extensive lab work & spiritual growth. I focus on true healing so you are not on a “subscription drug program.” I treat busy professionals who want to target multiple areas of their health and use time efficiently. I have expertise in depression, anxiety, adhd, substance use, bipolar disorder & PTSD. I offer both medication management as well as talk therapy so you don’t have to make multiple appointments with different providers. I am licensed in Texas and Oklahoma.
I use a whole body approach to treating mental illness. I combine treatment modalities from medication management, supplements, psychotherapy, nutrition, exercise, extensive lab work & spiritual growth. I focus on true healing so you are not on a “subscription drug program.” I treat busy professionals who want to target multiple areas of their health and use time efficiently. I have expertise in depression, anxiety, adhd, substance use, bipolar disorder & PTSD. I offer both medication management as well as talk therapy so you don’t have to make multiple appointments with different providers. I am licensed in Texas and Oklahoma.
![Photo of Gloria Keraga, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/20be3381-eb80-4207-a5da-15479d6c54cb/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Keraga did her Medical School training at New York Medical College, psychiatric residency at St. Vincent's hospital and finished her last year of psychiatric residency at Baylor Medical School in Houston. Since, graduations she worked in both inpatient and outpatient settings, private practice and nursing homes. She held positions as the unit head of a treatment units in hospital and was the Head of a company, Pathfinders of America, who put psychiatric units into general hospitals in Texas, California and Las Vegas.
Dr. Keraga did her Medical School training at New York Medical College, psychiatric residency at St. Vincent's hospital and finished her last year of psychiatric residency at Baylor Medical School in Houston. Since, graduations she worked in both inpatient and outpatient settings, private practice and nursing homes. She held positions as the unit head of a treatment units in hospital and was the Head of a company, Pathfinders of America, who put psychiatric units into general hospitals in Texas, California and Las Vegas.
![Photo of Robert Griffith, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/642bd9a1-c0c2-4031-9a24-827a1af1794b/2/320x400.jpeg)
Robert Griffith
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Conroe, TX 77384 (Online Only)
I am a licensed Psychiatric Mental Health Provider with over 25 years of medical experience. I am passionate about mental health and driven to help my clients achieve their desired mental state.
I am a licensed Psychiatric Mental Health Provider with over 25 years of medical experience. I am passionate about mental health and driven to help my clients achieve their desired mental state.
See more therapy options for Conroe
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Conroe, TX
20+
Average cost per session
$165
Psychiatrists in Conroe, TX who prioritize treating:
96% | Anxiety |
92% | Depression |
92% | Bipolar Disorder |
72% | Trauma and PTSD |
72% | Medication Management |
64% | ADHD |
64% | Sleep or Insomnia |
Average years in practice
10 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
95% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
95% | Cigna and Evernorth |
90% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Psychiatrists in Conroe, TX see their clients
60% | In Person and Online | |
40% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
73% | Female | |
27% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Conroe?
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.