Psychiatrists in Wilton, CT
Susan Daly
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Wilton, CT 06897
…. Diagnostic evaluation and psychopharmacology (medication evaluation and management) for adolescents, adults and seniors. As a board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner, Susan incorporates the most up to date evidence-based research into treatment plans. Continuing education is of paramount importance in selecting the best options for clients. Advanced continuing education includes attending conferences held with the most preeminent experts in the field of neuroscience and medication treatments.
…. Diagnostic evaluation and psychopharmacology (medication evaluation and management) for adolescents, adults and seniors. As a board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner, Susan incorporates the most up to date evidence-based research into treatment plans. Continuing education is of paramount importance in selecting the best options for clients. Advanced continuing education includes attending conferences held with the most preeminent experts in the field of neuroscience and medication treatments.
Francis J Hamilton
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Wilton, CT 06897
Not accepting new clients
I have been in solo private practice since 1998 after retiring from Norwalk Hospital, where I had a range of experiences, specializing in the Consultation Service to medical patients, including the Whittingham Cancer Center. My focus now is on anxiety, panic disorder, depression, and psychosomatic issues. I also see senior patients. I enjoy the challenge of identifying the various factors which combine to create emotional crisis and disorder.
I have been in solo private practice since 1998 after retiring from Norwalk Hospital, where I had a range of experiences, specializing in the Consultation Service to medical patients, including the Whittingham Cancer Center. My focus now is on anxiety, panic disorder, depression, and psychosomatic issues. I also see senior patients. I enjoy the challenge of identifying the various factors which combine to create emotional crisis and disorder.
Dr. Gabriela Hayes
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Wilton, CT 06897
Dr. Gabriela Hayes is a board-certified psychiatrist specializing in holistic psychopharmacology. She has expertise in all major mental health illnesses, with an emphasis on female and maternal wellness. During the consultation, she will conduct psychiatric and medical evaluations, and explore your unique developmental and environmental histories, to create an individualized treatment plan. Dr. Gabriela Hayes uses a multidimensional and comprehensive therapeutic model that includes medication management, psychotherapy, as well as behavioral and holistic modalities. She is licensed to practice medicine in CT, NY, PA , FL and CA.
Dr. Gabriela Hayes is a board-certified psychiatrist specializing in holistic psychopharmacology. She has expertise in all major mental health illnesses, with an emphasis on female and maternal wellness. During the consultation, she will conduct psychiatric and medical evaluations, and explore your unique developmental and environmental histories, to create an individualized treatment plan. Dr. Gabriela Hayes uses a multidimensional and comprehensive therapeutic model that includes medication management, psychotherapy, as well as behavioral and holistic modalities. She is licensed to practice medicine in CT, NY, PA , FL and CA.
One Mind Psychiatry NP PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, NP-P, BC
Verified Verified
Wilton, CT 06897 (Online Only)
I am a board-certified psychiatric NP, trained at New York University. I specialize in adults, children, adolescents, and geriatrics. My virtual and in-person practices are friendly and confidential spaces where I provide a thorough psychiatric evaluation and personalized medication management. My approach is to always see things from the client’s perspective. My mission is to support my clients while they create more meaningful progress in life. I use my expertise to help them find harmony between mind and body. I think mental health care can be a spiritual, and yet a scientific way for the client to look into their soul.
I am a board-certified psychiatric NP, trained at New York University. I specialize in adults, children, adolescents, and geriatrics. My virtual and in-person practices are friendly and confidential spaces where I provide a thorough psychiatric evaluation and personalized medication management. My approach is to always see things from the client’s perspective. My mission is to support my clients while they create more meaningful progress in life. I use my expertise to help them find harmony between mind and body. I think mental health care can be a spiritual, and yet a scientific way for the client to look into their soul.
Dr. Sandy Engel - -Open June 2024
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Wilton, CT 06897
I believe in nurturing mental wellness and empowering individuals to lead fulfilling lives. As a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner passionate about holistic care, I bring over 25 years of experience providing empathetic and evidence-based services. I am dedicated to creating a safe and supportive environment where clients can explore their challenges, discover their strengths, and embark on a journey towards healing and growth. With a deep understanding of the complex interplay between biological, psychological, and social factors, we will take a comprehensive and individualized approach to your treatment.
I believe in nurturing mental wellness and empowering individuals to lead fulfilling lives. As a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner passionate about holistic care, I bring over 25 years of experience providing empathetic and evidence-based services. I am dedicated to creating a safe and supportive environment where clients can explore their challenges, discover their strengths, and embark on a journey towards healing and growth. With a deep understanding of the complex interplay between biological, psychological, and social factors, we will take a comprehensive and individualized approach to your treatment.
Frank S. K. Appah Jr.
Psychiatrist, MD, PhD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Wilton, CT 06897
Hello and thank you for your interest. I am a Columbia University trained MD PhD and a Yale trained board certified adult psychiatrist. I specialize in the treatment of depression, anxiety, substance use disorders, unusual perceptions and distressful voice hearing. In addition to my private practice, I am the unit chief of a psychiatric inpatient unit at a medical center. I am also a clinical instructor with the Yale School of Medicine and the Frank H. Netter School of Medicine.
Hello and thank you for your interest. I am a Columbia University trained MD PhD and a Yale trained board certified adult psychiatrist. I specialize in the treatment of depression, anxiety, substance use disorders, unusual perceptions and distressful voice hearing. In addition to my private practice, I am the unit chief of a psychiatric inpatient unit at a medical center. I am also a clinical instructor with the Yale School of Medicine and the Frank H. Netter School of Medicine.
Karen Corcoran
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Wilton, CT 06897
Not accepting new clients
I help people with anxiety, depression, transitions in life, trauma, illness and grief. I customize the treatment plan to each patient's needs using psychotherapy, medication, EMDR, CBT, group therapy, self-compassion and mindfulness. Clients feel empowered to reach their highest potential in personal relationships, life and work. I work with adults across the lifespan and young adults launching into independence and finding meaningful work and relationships.
I help people with anxiety, depression, transitions in life, trauma, illness and grief. I customize the treatment plan to each patient's needs using psychotherapy, medication, EMDR, CBT, group therapy, self-compassion and mindfulness. Clients feel empowered to reach their highest potential in personal relationships, life and work. I work with adults across the lifespan and young adults launching into independence and finding meaningful work and relationships.
Randi Cohen
Psychiatrist, MD, PhD
Verified Verified
Wilton, CT 06897 (Online Only)
Do you struggle with anxiety, negativity, or a sense of worthlessness? Do you find yourself cut off from feelings or going in circles in your current relationship? Do you have trouble focusing and staying organized? Is it hard for you to get past things that bother you? I am extensively trained in cognitive, behavioral, mindfulness-based, and somatic awareness techniques to help you feel comfortable in your skin. I also offer an option for medications. I work with individuals or with couples. I specialize in addressing OCD, PTSD, Asperger's, ADHD, depression, anxiety, life issues, and relationship stressors.
Do you struggle with anxiety, negativity, or a sense of worthlessness? Do you find yourself cut off from feelings or going in circles in your current relationship? Do you have trouble focusing and staying organized? Is it hard for you to get past things that bother you? I am extensively trained in cognitive, behavioral, mindfulness-based, and somatic awareness techniques to help you feel comfortable in your skin. I also offer an option for medications. I work with individuals or with couples. I specialize in addressing OCD, PTSD, Asperger's, ADHD, depression, anxiety, life issues, and relationship stressors.
Eric B Nicholson
Psychiatrist, MD, PhD
Verified Verified
Wilton, CT 06897
Board-Certified in Child, Adolescent, Adult, and Addiction Psychiatry, for over 20 years Dr. Eric Nicholson has specialized in treating neurotypical and neurodivergent individuals with trauma-related disorders (PTSD) and Obsessive Compulsive Disorder/OCD-Spectrum Disorders including Body-Focused Repetitive Behaviors (trichotillomania, skin picking) with Accelerated Resolution Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy/Exposure/Response Prevention therapy with Inhibitory Learning, Habit Reversal Training and medicine as needed. He also expertly treats all Addictions and Depressive & Anxiety Disorders (Social Anxiety, Panic disorders).
Board-Certified in Child, Adolescent, Adult, and Addiction Psychiatry, for over 20 years Dr. Eric Nicholson has specialized in treating neurotypical and neurodivergent individuals with trauma-related disorders (PTSD) and Obsessive Compulsive Disorder/OCD-Spectrum Disorders including Body-Focused Repetitive Behaviors (trichotillomania, skin picking) with Accelerated Resolution Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy/Exposure/Response Prevention therapy with Inhibitory Learning, Habit Reversal Training and medicine as needed. He also expertly treats all Addictions and Depressive & Anxiety Disorders (Social Anxiety, Panic disorders).
Dr. Ariana Rick
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN-BC, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Wilton, CT 06897
I am a doctorate prepared, board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who is trained to treat patients of all ages with diverse needs. I am especially passionate about treating children, teens, and young adults. They so often need a provider who gives them a voice, treats them with kindness and respect, and is as enthusiastic and energetic as they are! I received my Doctorate in Nursing Practice, as well as my Bachelor of Science of Nursing and Bachelors in Psychology from Fairfield University. My doctorate project focused on educating care teams in clinical settings about trauma informed training practices.
I am a doctorate prepared, board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who is trained to treat patients of all ages with diverse needs. I am especially passionate about treating children, teens, and young adults. They so often need a provider who gives them a voice, treats them with kindness and respect, and is as enthusiastic and energetic as they are! I received my Doctorate in Nursing Practice, as well as my Bachelor of Science of Nursing and Bachelors in Psychology from Fairfield University. My doctorate project focused on educating care teams in clinical settings about trauma informed training practices.
WCT Behavioral Health & Medication Management
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, LCSW
Verified Verified
Wilton, CT 06897
My passion for empowering and aiding individuals in their wellness journey began 20 years ago. While working with under-served communities in New Haven and Hartford Counties, I was fortunate enough to interact and develop meaningful relationships with individuals of various cultural backgrounds. I continue to apply this philosophical thinking and practice while serving my patients in order to provide an individualized, holistic treatment.
My passion for empowering and aiding individuals in their wellness journey began 20 years ago. While working with under-served communities in New Haven and Hartford Counties, I was fortunate enough to interact and develop meaningful relationships with individuals of various cultural backgrounds. I continue to apply this philosophical thinking and practice while serving my patients in order to provide an individualized, holistic treatment.
More Psychiatrists Nearby
Mind Matters Therapeutics
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, AGNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Norwalk, CT 06851
Common complaints: "my doctor doesn't listen to me"; "nobody told me or explained it to me"; "I can never get a hold of my provider". I listen. I spend the extra time to explain and teach how your diagnosis works with the chemicals in your mind and how your medications work to balance you. We make decisions together. I follow up when I say I will. I am very thorough; I use evidence-based measurements to identify diagnoses, and no stone is left unturned. You deserve answers, patience, respect, and discretion.
Common complaints: "my doctor doesn't listen to me"; "nobody told me or explained it to me"; "I can never get a hold of my provider". I listen. I spend the extra time to explain and teach how your diagnosis works with the chemicals in your mind and how your medications work to balance you. We make decisions together. I follow up when I say I will. I am very thorough; I use evidence-based measurements to identify diagnoses, and no stone is left unturned. You deserve answers, patience, respect, and discretion.
Mental Health and Psychiatry Services MHPS
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Norwalk, CT 06850 (Online Only)
Appointments go to www.mhpspsych.com, call or email. Bridgitte F. Ackeifi APRN, PMHNP-BC Mental Health and Psychiatry Services MHPS holistically work with patients and their families with mental health and substance use illnesses to create an individualized treatment plan using evidence-based research, and a patient-centered approach with the use of medication management, medication-assisted treatment (MAT) and encourages psychotherapy as needed to promote function, increase potential, decrease symptoms/hospitalizations, empowering, and instilling more hope, positivity, support, and love, healing one patient, one day at a time.
Appointments go to www.mhpspsych.com, call or email. Bridgitte F. Ackeifi APRN, PMHNP-BC Mental Health and Psychiatry Services MHPS holistically work with patients and their families with mental health and substance use illnesses to create an individualized treatment plan using evidence-based research, and a patient-centered approach with the use of medication management, medication-assisted treatment (MAT) and encourages psychotherapy as needed to promote function, increase potential, decrease symptoms/hospitalizations, empowering, and instilling more hope, positivity, support, and love, healing one patient, one day at a time.
Jacqueline Rugg
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, MSN, PMHCNS-, BC
Verified Verified
Westport, CT 06880
I have over 35 years experience in the field of psychiatry. Anxiety and depression limit one's ability to pursue and have satisfying relationships and feel comfortable with themselves. I provide adult clients comprehensive psychotherapy and medication evaluation and treatment for the full range disorders. As an Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN) I am licensed to prescribe medication. I use the DNA Typing System for diagnosis and prevention of adverse drug reactions. I have a special interest working with clients experiencing long term medical conditions and their emotional, behavioral and cognitive responses.
I have over 35 years experience in the field of psychiatry. Anxiety and depression limit one's ability to pursue and have satisfying relationships and feel comfortable with themselves. I provide adult clients comprehensive psychotherapy and medication evaluation and treatment for the full range disorders. As an Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN) I am licensed to prescribe medication. I use the DNA Typing System for diagnosis and prevention of adverse drug reactions. I have a special interest working with clients experiencing long term medical conditions and their emotional, behavioral and cognitive responses.
Resolve Psychiatric Services, PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, FNP-C, PMHNP-C
Verified Verified
Norwalk, CT 06853 (Online Only)
We specialize in ADHD, Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, PTSD, and DMDD for children, adolescent/teens, and adults. We treat a small group of clients and focus on personalization of services. Allow us to provide quality care to you or your child.
We specialize in ADHD, Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, PTSD, and DMDD for children, adolescent/teens, and adults. We treat a small group of clients and focus on personalization of services. Allow us to provide quality care to you or your child.
Nicole Feagin
Physician Assistant, MPAS, PA-C, CAQ, Psych
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Westport, CT 06880
Reflective Minds Mental Health is a private mental health practice currently accepting NEW patients. Our mission is to reduce the stigma of mental illness and provide patients and their families tools (education, psychotherapy, and medication management) to improve their quality of life and maximize their joy. Co-founder, Nicole Feagin, PA-C, is a board-certified psychiatric physician assistant who brings empathy, compassion and an individualized approach in conjunction with evidence-based psychiatric medication management services to help her patients obtain wellness in their lives.
Reflective Minds Mental Health is a private mental health practice currently accepting NEW patients. Our mission is to reduce the stigma of mental illness and provide patients and their families tools (education, psychotherapy, and medication management) to improve their quality of life and maximize their joy. Co-founder, Nicole Feagin, PA-C, is a board-certified psychiatric physician assistant who brings empathy, compassion and an individualized approach in conjunction with evidence-based psychiatric medication management services to help her patients obtain wellness in their lives.
Suparna Basu
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
New Canaan, CT 06840
Suparna Basu is an experienced and compassionate board-certified psychiatrist with expertise in caring for those with a variety of mental health problems and emotional difficulties . Dr. Basu is a psychopharmacologist who focuses primarily on medication management. She prefers her patients have a separate therapist that she can collaborate with. Dr. Basu's approach can best be described as interpersonal/humanistic, one in which her working relationship is every bit as important as any medication you might decide to use. You can learn more about Dr.Basu on her website; http://basupsychiatry.com/
Suparna Basu is an experienced and compassionate board-certified psychiatrist with expertise in caring for those with a variety of mental health problems and emotional difficulties . Dr. Basu is a psychopharmacologist who focuses primarily on medication management. She prefers her patients have a separate therapist that she can collaborate with. Dr. Basu's approach can best be described as interpersonal/humanistic, one in which her working relationship is every bit as important as any medication you might decide to use. You can learn more about Dr.Basu on her website; http://basupsychiatry.com/
Kym D'Agostino
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHCNS, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Westport, CT 06880
I'm Kym D’Agostino, a double board-certified Family Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and a Clinical Specialist in Child and Adolescent Psychiatric Nursing. With over 25 years of dedicated experience, I've had the privilege of providing high-quality care to individuals of all ages, particularly children, adolescents, and young adults. As an APRN, I have the advantage of being both a psycho-pharmacologist and and a psycho-therapist. I provide holistic and empathic care to my clients within a psychodynamic framework which recognizes the profound impact of one's history and relationships on their well being.
I'm Kym D’Agostino, a double board-certified Family Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and a Clinical Specialist in Child and Adolescent Psychiatric Nursing. With over 25 years of dedicated experience, I've had the privilege of providing high-quality care to individuals of all ages, particularly children, adolescents, and young adults. As an APRN, I have the advantage of being both a psycho-pharmacologist and and a psycho-therapist. I provide holistic and empathic care to my clients within a psychodynamic framework which recognizes the profound impact of one's history and relationships on their well being.
Joan Telemaque
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Darien, CT 06820 (Online Only)
I am dedicated to offering a compassionate and devoted attitude while providing a therapeutic rapport in which I can effectively and safely meet the needs of clients. With over 20 years experience in the mental health field, I have worked in a vast array of settings including outpatient and inpatient. Received a B. An in Psychology from Bennett College in North Carolina and eventually an M.A in Psychology from Southern CT State University in New Haven, CT.
I am dedicated to offering a compassionate and devoted attitude while providing a therapeutic rapport in which I can effectively and safely meet the needs of clients. With over 20 years experience in the mental health field, I have worked in a vast array of settings including outpatient and inpatient. Received a B. An in Psychology from Bennett College in North Carolina and eventually an M.A in Psychology from Southern CT State University in New Haven, CT.
Janet Rivera
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, FNP-C, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fairfield, CT 06824 (Online Only)
As Doctors of Nursing Practice (DNP), Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioners (PMHNP) licensed to prescribe psychiatric medication across the lifespan, we collaborate with patients and their therapists to use medications judiciously, and only when necessary. As practitioners, we value our shared humanity, and encourage compassion, humility, connection and empathy. Please reach out to us directly by email to begin the enrollment process and to schedule an evaluation time, thank you.
As Doctors of Nursing Practice (DNP), Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioners (PMHNP) licensed to prescribe psychiatric medication across the lifespan, we collaborate with patients and their therapists to use medications judiciously, and only when necessary. As practitioners, we value our shared humanity, and encourage compassion, humility, connection and empathy. Please reach out to us directly by email to begin the enrollment process and to schedule an evaluation time, thank you.
See more therapy options for Wilton
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Wilton, CT
10+
Average cost per session
$225
Psychiatrists in Wilton, CT who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
82% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
73% | Trauma and PTSD |
73% | Medication Management |
73% | Stress |
64% | ADHD |
Average years in practice
15 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
75% | Aetna |
75% | Cigna and Evernorth |
75% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Psychiatrists in Wilton, CT see their clients
82% | In Person and Online | |
18% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
50% | Female | |
50% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Wilton?
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.