Psychiatrists in Nashville, TN
Kristian Dambrino
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37203
Treating patients, ages 14+, I utilize a highly individualized treatment approach in prescribing medications for a variety of diagnostic symptoms. There is no template for a human being. Therefore, I believe every person deserves to be heard, so that no nuance is missed. Patients who are struggling with depression, psychosis, mood swings, difficulty with concentration, sleep, motivation, bipolar illness, trauma, anxiety, addiction, eating disorders, and more, must be able to share freely what their specific treatment needs are. My goal is to hold space for everyone needing affordable, accessible, quality mental health care.
Treating patients, ages 14+, I utilize a highly individualized treatment approach in prescribing medications for a variety of diagnostic symptoms. There is no template for a human being. Therefore, I believe every person deserves to be heard, so that no nuance is missed. Patients who are struggling with depression, psychosis, mood swings, difficulty with concentration, sleep, motivation, bipolar illness, trauma, anxiety, addiction, eating disorders, and more, must be able to share freely what their specific treatment needs are. My goal is to hold space for everyone needing affordable, accessible, quality mental health care.
Lalita Ramnaraine
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Nashville, TN 37238
Dr. Lalita Ramnaraine is Board Certified in both General Adult Psychiatry and in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and has been practicing for over 12 years. Dr. Ramnaraine’s practice focuses on medication management, which is offered in conjunction with therapy offered in 30-minute follow-up visits. Dr. Ramnaraine is pro-therapy and believes the best outcome in treatment is when therapy and medication modalities are combined.
Dr. Lalita Ramnaraine is Board Certified in both General Adult Psychiatry and in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and has been practicing for over 12 years. Dr. Ramnaraine’s practice focuses on medication management, which is offered in conjunction with therapy offered in 30-minute follow-up visits. Dr. Ramnaraine is pro-therapy and believes the best outcome in treatment is when therapy and medication modalities are combined.
Lauren Foreman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, CNM, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37211 (Online Only)
I'm here to help women navigate life transitions. Since I've practiced as a midwife for over 7 years, I'm particularly experienced assisting during the profound phases of pregnancy and postpartum. I am passionate about providing unwavering support and guidance during these transformative moments, fostering a holistic approach that prioritizes mental and emotional well-being. Together, we navigate the unique challenges and joys that come with these significant life transitions, ensuring a compassionate and empowering experience. Committed to a well-rounded approach, I integrate conventional and alternative modalities.
I'm here to help women navigate life transitions. Since I've practiced as a midwife for over 7 years, I'm particularly experienced assisting during the profound phases of pregnancy and postpartum. I am passionate about providing unwavering support and guidance during these transformative moments, fostering a holistic approach that prioritizes mental and emotional well-being. Together, we navigate the unique challenges and joys that come with these significant life transitions, ensuring a compassionate and empowering experience. Committed to a well-rounded approach, I integrate conventional and alternative modalities.
Kayla Hayes
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37203 (Online Only)
Hi! I specialize in treating women (18+) with depression, anxiety, mood disorders, OCD, and trauma disorders. I offer an integrative approach to mental health that includes evidence-based psychiatric medications, complementary supplements, brief therapy interventions, and lifestyle suggestions. I believe that it is important to treat the root cause of the illness, rather than just treating the symptoms. I also specialized in treating patients through pregnancy and postpartum, as well as women in substance use and/or eating disorder recovery.
Hi! I specialize in treating women (18+) with depression, anxiety, mood disorders, OCD, and trauma disorders. I offer an integrative approach to mental health that includes evidence-based psychiatric medications, complementary supplements, brief therapy interventions, and lifestyle suggestions. I believe that it is important to treat the root cause of the illness, rather than just treating the symptoms. I also specialized in treating patients through pregnancy and postpartum, as well as women in substance use and/or eating disorder recovery.
Cynthia S Terry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN , PMHNP
Verified Verified
Nashville, TN 37209
Not accepting new clients
Cindy Strother Terry, APRN, PMHNP, BC, graduated with her Bachelor's of Science in Nursing from Austin Peay State University in 1985. She graduated from Vanderbilt University School of Nursing in 2004 with her Masters of Science in Nursing with a specialty tract in Family Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She obtained a Certificate in Rational Emotive Behavioral Therapy from The Albert Ellis Institute in New York. She has maintained a private therapy practice in Nashville since 2011. She specializes in addictions with Dual Diagnosis, Trauma, PTSD and Complicated Grief from adolescents to adults, LGBTQ friendly.
Cindy Strother Terry, APRN, PMHNP, BC, graduated with her Bachelor's of Science in Nursing from Austin Peay State University in 1985. She graduated from Vanderbilt University School of Nursing in 2004 with her Masters of Science in Nursing with a specialty tract in Family Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She obtained a Certificate in Rational Emotive Behavioral Therapy from The Albert Ellis Institute in New York. She has maintained a private therapy practice in Nashville since 2011. She specializes in addictions with Dual Diagnosis, Trauma, PTSD and Complicated Grief from adolescents to adults, LGBTQ friendly.
Dr. Seth Thompson
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37203 (Online Only)
Dr. Seth Thompson is a board-certified psychiatrist with an expertise in Mood Disorders, Bipolar Disorders, Anxiety Disorders, PTSD, ADHD, and Addictive Medicine. He completed his medical residency training at East Tennessee State University Quillen College of Medicine where he had the opportunity to train with a diverse population of both providers and patients. He continues to reside in the eastern portion of Tennessee providing care for patients from a large swath and catchment area of southwest Virginia, southeast Kentucky, West Virginia, eastern and middle Tennessee, and northwest North Carolina.
Dr. Seth Thompson is a board-certified psychiatrist with an expertise in Mood Disorders, Bipolar Disorders, Anxiety Disorders, PTSD, ADHD, and Addictive Medicine. He completed his medical residency training at East Tennessee State University Quillen College of Medicine where he had the opportunity to train with a diverse population of both providers and patients. He continues to reside in the eastern portion of Tennessee providing care for patients from a large swath and catchment area of southwest Virginia, southeast Kentucky, West Virginia, eastern and middle Tennessee, and northwest North Carolina.
Dana D. Verner
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Nashville, TN 37215 (Online Only)
*** TO SCHEDULE, PLEASE VISIT MY WEBSITE AND CLICK ON THE “REQUEST AN APPOINTMENT” LINK.*** Dr. Dana D. Verner is a board-certified child, adolescent and adult psychiatrist with 15+ years of experience working with children and adults of all ages with a variety of mental health needs. Dr. Verner grew up in Nashville and graduated from Harpeth Hall School. She received her B.A. from Princeton University and her M.D. from Vanderbilt School of Medicine. She completed five years of residency and fellowship training in general and child psychiatry at Vanderbilt Medical Center. She served as chief resident in her final year of training.
*** TO SCHEDULE, PLEASE VISIT MY WEBSITE AND CLICK ON THE “REQUEST AN APPOINTMENT” LINK.*** Dr. Dana D. Verner is a board-certified child, adolescent and adult psychiatrist with 15+ years of experience working with children and adults of all ages with a variety of mental health needs. Dr. Verner grew up in Nashville and graduated from Harpeth Hall School. She received her B.A. from Princeton University and her M.D. from Vanderbilt School of Medicine. She completed five years of residency and fellowship training in general and child psychiatry at Vanderbilt Medical Center. She served as chief resident in her final year of training.
Gundu Reddy
Psychiatrist, MD, MBBS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37203 (Online Only)
I am a Board Certified Psychiatrist Tennessee. I have trained in Psychodynamic psychotherapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Family and Marital therapy, as well as Psychiatric Medication Management. I have always believed that brain health is the key to every form of well being and every individual regardless of their diagnosis or symptoms has the potential to be healthier. Whether your reasons for seeking treatment include treatment-resistant hallucinations, persistent irritability, dysphoria, insomnia, wanting to perform better at work- the core principles of treatment are often similar.
I am a Board Certified Psychiatrist Tennessee. I have trained in Psychodynamic psychotherapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Family and Marital therapy, as well as Psychiatric Medication Management. I have always believed that brain health is the key to every form of well being and every individual regardless of their diagnosis or symptoms has the potential to be healthier. Whether your reasons for seeking treatment include treatment-resistant hallucinations, persistent irritability, dysphoria, insomnia, wanting to perform better at work- the core principles of treatment are often similar.
Michael Lukowski
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Nashville, TN 37238
Dr. Michael Lukowski is an adult psychiatrist who holds board certification with the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. He has been practicing medicine for over 8 years. Dr. Lukowski focuses on medication management combined with supportive therapy in 30-minute follow-up visits. He practices whole-person medicine, caring for the wellness of your mind, body, and spirit and helping you enjoy your relationships with those around you.
Dr. Michael Lukowski is an adult psychiatrist who holds board certification with the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. He has been practicing medicine for over 8 years. Dr. Lukowski focuses on medication management combined with supportive therapy in 30-minute follow-up visits. He practices whole-person medicine, caring for the wellness of your mind, body, and spirit and helping you enjoy your relationships with those around you.
Kathryn Eckstein Jalovec
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Nashville, TN 37205
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.
Women's Mental Health Specialists
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, CNM
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37211 (Online Only)
I help women from all walks of life who are struggling with lifecycle events and ongoing mental health illnesses. I understand that you need support, help determining what is normal, and someone to help you get unstuck. All of my clients deserve to be happy and live a fulfilling life. I work hard to help you achieve your goals.
I help women from all walks of life who are struggling with lifecycle events and ongoing mental health illnesses. I understand that you need support, help determining what is normal, and someone to help you get unstuck. All of my clients deserve to be happy and live a fulfilling life. I work hard to help you achieve your goals.
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Paula Wilt
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Nashville, TN 37238 (Online Only)
Dr. Wilt is board certified in adult psychiatry. She earned her medical degree from Louisiana State University in New Orleans where she also completed her four-year residency in psychiatry. Dr. Wilt takes a biopsychosocial approach to mental health and has over 13 years of experience with an array of mental health diagnoses including Depression, anxiety, ADHD, PTSD, bipolar disorder, and sleep disorders. Dr. Wilt enjoys spending time getting to know her patients and working hand in hand with them to accurately diagnose and treat the symptoms they are experiencing.
Dr. Wilt is board certified in adult psychiatry. She earned her medical degree from Louisiana State University in New Orleans where she also completed her four-year residency in psychiatry. Dr. Wilt takes a biopsychosocial approach to mental health and has over 13 years of experience with an array of mental health diagnoses including Depression, anxiety, ADHD, PTSD, bipolar disorder, and sleep disorders. Dr. Wilt enjoys spending time getting to know her patients and working hand in hand with them to accurately diagnose and treat the symptoms they are experiencing.
Ben Leven
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37203
We can work together to treat anxiety, depression, mood disorders, ADHD, setting boundaries, and PTSD by offering personalized treatment that gets to the root of the problem. You may have been struggling recently with mood symptoms or your focus, and want to get back on track. We can work together to get with individualized treatment options, such as medication, supplements, behavior change, labs, and talk therapy.
We can work together to treat anxiety, depression, mood disorders, ADHD, setting boundaries, and PTSD by offering personalized treatment that gets to the root of the problem. You may have been struggling recently with mood symptoms or your focus, and want to get back on track. We can work together to get with individualized treatment options, such as medication, supplements, behavior change, labs, and talk therapy.
Lashandra Saulsberry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
10 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37209 (Online Only)
Shandra is dedicated to providing warm, compassionate care to each individual throughout their healing journey. She treats complex mood and anxiety disorders, panic disorder, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, Women’s Health, Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder, Insomnia, Grief and Loss, Life transitions, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder LGBTQ+ issues, panic disorder and more.
Shandra is dedicated to providing warm, compassionate care to each individual throughout their healing journey. She treats complex mood and anxiety disorders, panic disorder, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, Women’s Health, Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder, Insomnia, Grief and Loss, Life transitions, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder LGBTQ+ issues, panic disorder and more.
Dr. Chandra Krishnasastry
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37218
Dr. Chandra Krishnasastry has over 40 years of experience in psychotic disorders, substance abuse, addiction, mood disorders, and trauma. He is a nationally recognized psychiatrist with an extensive resume, and is currently the medical director at Saint Thomas Behavioral Health. He continues a private practice to help even more people achieve wellness and live to their full potential.
Dr. Chandra Krishnasastry has over 40 years of experience in psychotic disorders, substance abuse, addiction, mood disorders, and trauma. He is a nationally recognized psychiatrist with an extensive resume, and is currently the medical director at Saint Thomas Behavioral Health. He continues a private practice to help even more people achieve wellness and live to their full potential.
Corina Picchiottino
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37203
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.
Miriam Rose
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, RN, MSN, FNP-C
Not Verified Not Verified
1 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37203
I am goal oriented, and I help patients see their full potential. While I believe pharmaceuticals are only a piece of the puzzle, I recognize when medicine is a necessary modality to help a patient feel like themself again. I am capable of diagnosing and prescribing for all mental illnesses, as my behavioral health experience includes: working in inpatient psychiatry, working for a psychiatrist as his personal Nurse Practitioner, and as the psychiatric provider for a clinic that serves the working uninsured. we do not file your visit with insurance. Intake appts are $250 and follow up appts are $150 and we can see you within a week.
I am goal oriented, and I help patients see their full potential. While I believe pharmaceuticals are only a piece of the puzzle, I recognize when medicine is a necessary modality to help a patient feel like themself again. I am capable of diagnosing and prescribing for all mental illnesses, as my behavioral health experience includes: working in inpatient psychiatry, working for a psychiatrist as his personal Nurse Practitioner, and as the psychiatric provider for a clinic that serves the working uninsured. we do not file your visit with insurance. Intake appts are $250 and follow up appts are $150 and we can see you within a week.
Dominique Holley
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
Nashville, TN 37238 (Online Only)
Dr. Dominique Holley is a triple board-certified psychiatrist in Adult Psychiatry, Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, and Addiction Medicine. Dr. Holley completed her post-doctoral residency and fellowship training at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center. She has served as an active US Army officer and recently separated from the US Army after 11 years of service. In her most recent role, she served as the Deputy Chief of the Department of Behavioral Health at Fort Campbell, KY where she provided clinical and administrative supervision, as well as mentorship and guidance for an interdisciplinary team of over 140 personnel.
Dr. Dominique Holley is a triple board-certified psychiatrist in Adult Psychiatry, Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, and Addiction Medicine. Dr. Holley completed her post-doctoral residency and fellowship training at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center. She has served as an active US Army officer and recently separated from the US Army after 11 years of service. In her most recent role, she served as the Deputy Chief of the Department of Behavioral Health at Fort Campbell, KY where she provided clinical and administrative supervision, as well as mentorship and guidance for an interdisciplinary team of over 140 personnel.
David Kirk Barton
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Nashville, TN 37212
I provide professional, personal, and accessible psychiatric care. I have a home office, and my office phone number connects to my cellular phone. I am able to schedule patients/clients for initial evaluations within a few days of an initial call, if we decide that we might be a good fit and that we might be able to partner in accomplishing good work. My approach to mental health is both psychotherapeutic and medical —and requires the engagement of the whole person in an honest, thoughtful, and meaningful search for solutions to life's difficulties and problems.
I provide professional, personal, and accessible psychiatric care. I have a home office, and my office phone number connects to my cellular phone. I am able to schedule patients/clients for initial evaluations within a few days of an initial call, if we decide that we might be a good fit and that we might be able to partner in accomplishing good work. My approach to mental health is both psychotherapeutic and medical —and requires the engagement of the whole person in an honest, thoughtful, and meaningful search for solutions to life's difficulties and problems.
Hannah Street
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC, APRN, MSN, RN
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37204 (Online Only)
I am so eager to be a resource to you and our community about treating mental health! If you or your child are struggling with their mental health, I am here to guide you to success using medication management as a tool. You and I will work together as a team by designing a treatment plan that helps you achieve your goals in a holistic manner so you can obtain better health mentally, physically, and spiritually. You are not alone in this journey. If you would like to book an appointment with me, go to www.amethystmentalhealth.com/book-an-appointment.
I am so eager to be a resource to you and our community about treating mental health! If you or your child are struggling with their mental health, I am here to guide you to success using medication management as a tool. You and I will work together as a team by designing a treatment plan that helps you achieve your goals in a holistic manner so you can obtain better health mentally, physically, and spiritually. You are not alone in this journey. If you would like to book an appointment with me, go to www.amethystmentalhealth.com/book-an-appointment.
See more therapy options for Nashville
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Nashville, TN
100+
Average cost per session
$185
Psychiatrists in Nashville, TN who prioritize treating:
94% | Anxiety |
93% | Depression |
84% | Trauma and PTSD |
84% | Bipolar Disorder |
80% | Medication Management |
72% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
71% | ADHD |
Average years in practice
11 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
89% | Cigna and Evernorth |
88% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
84% | Aetna |
How Psychiatrists in Nashville, TN see their clients
66% | In Person and Online | |
34% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
71% | Female | |
28% | Male | |
1% | Non-Binary |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Nashville?
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.