Psychiatrists in Boston, MA
Maryjean Budebo
Physician Assistant, PA
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02129
Meet MJ, a highly qualified and nationally certified Physician Assistant (PA) who brings a wealth of knowledge and a compassionate approach to patient care. Her academic journey reflects her commitment to excellence and her dedication to providing the best quality of care to her patients. MJ earned her Master of Physician Assistant Studies and Masters of Health Sciences from The George Washington University, showcasing her advanced training in the field. Her educational journey also includes a Bachelor of Science in Health Sciences with a major in Biology and a minor in the Spanish Language from UMASS.
Meet MJ, a highly qualified and nationally certified Physician Assistant (PA) who brings a wealth of knowledge and a compassionate approach to patient care. Her academic journey reflects her commitment to excellence and her dedication to providing the best quality of care to her patients. MJ earned her Master of Physician Assistant Studies and Masters of Health Sciences from The George Washington University, showcasing her advanced training in the field. Her educational journey also includes a Bachelor of Science in Health Sciences with a major in Biology and a minor in the Spanish Language from UMASS.
Meredith Morrison
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, MSN, RN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boston, MA 02110
I am a board certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with training and experience treating patients with mental health issues across the lifespan. My clinical career has taken me on a journey through the healthcare system, from inpatient to outpatient settings. My clinical practice focuses on assessing, diagnosing, treatment planning and care coordination for those struggling with a wide range of mental health issues. I specialize in psychopharmacology and provide diagnostic evaluations, assessments and ongoing treatment via medication management for my clients, tailored to their individual needs’.
I am a board certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with training and experience treating patients with mental health issues across the lifespan. My clinical career has taken me on a journey through the healthcare system, from inpatient to outpatient settings. My clinical practice focuses on assessing, diagnosing, treatment planning and care coordination for those struggling with a wide range of mental health issues. I specialize in psychopharmacology and provide diagnostic evaluations, assessments and ongoing treatment via medication management for my clients, tailored to their individual needs’.
Joonhee Cho
Psychiatrist
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Boston, MA 02114 (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Many patients suffer for a prolonged period of time before arriving at the point of seeking help. I commend you on your resilience and insight, and look forward to working together towards healing and recovery. It is my top priority to create a welcoming and nonjudgmental therapeutic environment for you. Empathy, compassion and kindness are the core elements I strive to integrate into both pharmacotherapy (medication treatment) and psychotherapy (talk therapy).
Many patients suffer for a prolonged period of time before arriving at the point of seeking help. I commend you on your resilience and insight, and look forward to working together towards healing and recovery. It is my top priority to create a welcoming and nonjudgmental therapeutic environment for you. Empathy, compassion and kindness are the core elements I strive to integrate into both pharmacotherapy (medication treatment) and psychotherapy (talk therapy).
Donald Schiermer MD PhD
Psychiatrist, MD, PhD, MPH
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02116
You need help, but are unsure where to turn. Wary of doctors, suspicious of drugs to which you think you could get "addicted," unbelieving that anyone could know you well enough to help. You may already be taking medicine, but aren't convinced it is the best one for you, or even helping at all. As a clinical psychologist and family physician trained in psychopharmacology, I apply an unusual and broad background to help identify and clarify what is "stuck" for you right now. Discovering ways to feel free of anxiety, depression, anger or hate is our business together.
You need help, but are unsure where to turn. Wary of doctors, suspicious of drugs to which you think you could get "addicted," unbelieving that anyone could know you well enough to help. You may already be taking medicine, but aren't convinced it is the best one for you, or even helping at all. As a clinical psychologist and family physician trained in psychopharmacology, I apply an unusual and broad background to help identify and clarify what is "stuck" for you right now. Discovering ways to feel free of anxiety, depression, anger or hate is our business together.
David Martino
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02114 (Online Only)
My ideal client feels lost and misunderstood. They know intuitively that there is an unresolved problem that they can’t quite identify. They feel like they have been going around in circles, with or without professional help. Their treatment for related issues might be ineffective, partially effective but inadequate, effective for a time but not any longer, or intolerable due to side effects. And then, there is trauma. Trauma, past or ongoing, can be a predisposing, precipitating, or perpetuating factor for any person’s presenting problem. I have seen my starred specialties overlap about as often as they occur separately.
My ideal client feels lost and misunderstood. They know intuitively that there is an unresolved problem that they can’t quite identify. They feel like they have been going around in circles, with or without professional help. Their treatment for related issues might be ineffective, partially effective but inadequate, effective for a time but not any longer, or intolerable due to side effects. And then, there is trauma. Trauma, past or ongoing, can be a predisposing, precipitating, or perpetuating factor for any person’s presenting problem. I have seen my starred specialties overlap about as often as they occur separately.
Carnegie Psychiatry, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Boston, MA 02136
Currently accepting new patients for medication management. Melanie Daley's professional background as a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) in Massachusetts reflects a comprehensive and dedicated career in mental health care. With over twelve years of experience as a Registered Nurse in addiction medicine and dual diagnosis settings, Melanie possesses a robust skill set to address various mental health issues.
Currently accepting new patients for medication management. Melanie Daley's professional background as a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) in Massachusetts reflects a comprehensive and dedicated career in mental health care. With over twelve years of experience as a Registered Nurse in addiction medicine and dual diagnosis settings, Melanie possesses a robust skill set to address various mental health issues.
Julie Martin
Physician Assistant, PA
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02129
Meet Julie, a highly accomplished and multi-talented Physician Assistant (PA) with a unique educational background. Julie's academic journey reflects her diverse interests, as she obtained two Bachelor degrees in Molecular Biology and Fine Arts. Her commitment to excellence was evident throughout her education, earning her multiple scholarships for her outstanding academic achievements. Julie's pursuit of healthcare excellence continued at MCPHS Boston, where she earned a Master of Science in Physician Assistant Studies. This advanced degree equipped her with the knowledge and skills needed to excel in her career as a PA.
Meet Julie, a highly accomplished and multi-talented Physician Assistant (PA) with a unique educational background. Julie's academic journey reflects her diverse interests, as she obtained two Bachelor degrees in Molecular Biology and Fine Arts. Her commitment to excellence was evident throughout her education, earning her multiple scholarships for her outstanding academic achievements. Julie's pursuit of healthcare excellence continued at MCPHS Boston, where she earned a Master of Science in Physician Assistant Studies. This advanced degree equipped her with the knowledge and skills needed to excel in her career as a PA.
Erin Valenti
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Boston, MA 02116 (Online Only)
You want to take care of your mental health, but a one-size-fits-all system isn't working for you. You'd like a more flexible and creative approach and a highly personalized treatment plan. You're looking for a provider that is approachable, available, and attentive. The relationship between a provider and a client is everything in mental health treatment. I founded Newbury Street Psychiatry and Psychotherapy to provide patients with treatment relationships that are open, collaborative, and all about you.
You want to take care of your mental health, but a one-size-fits-all system isn't working for you. You'd like a more flexible and creative approach and a highly personalized treatment plan. You're looking for a provider that is approachable, available, and attentive. The relationship between a provider and a client is everything in mental health treatment. I founded Newbury Street Psychiatry and Psychotherapy to provide patients with treatment relationships that are open, collaborative, and all about you.
Jackie Ollis
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02110 (Online Only)
Hello, I look forward to meeting you! My name is Jackie and I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner In the state of Massachusetts. I specialize in Anxiety, ADHD, College & Graduate Student Mental Health, Depression, Insomnia & Sleep Issues, LGBTQIA/gender/sexuality topics, Life Coaching, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Race & Cultural Identity and Relationship Issues. I work with an amazing group of colleagues at Lavender, an online psychiatry and therapy office, where we believe psychiatric care shouldn't be expensive nor impossible to access.
Hello, I look forward to meeting you! My name is Jackie and I'm a Board Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner In the state of Massachusetts. I specialize in Anxiety, ADHD, College & Graduate Student Mental Health, Depression, Insomnia & Sleep Issues, LGBTQIA/gender/sexuality topics, Life Coaching, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Race & Cultural Identity and Relationship Issues. I work with an amazing group of colleagues at Lavender, an online psychiatry and therapy office, where we believe psychiatric care shouldn't be expensive nor impossible to access.
Dianne Vitkus
Physician Assistant, PA
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02129
Meet Dianne, a compassionate and experienced Physician Assistant (PA) with a strong focus on mental health. Dianne's journey in healthcare, marked by academic excellence and a passion for instilling hope and emotional intelligence in her patients, makes her a remarkable practitioner. Her unique background and dedication to mental well-being set her apart as a PA who specializes in holistic mental health care. Dianne's educational achievements include graduating from Brown University in 2016 and earning her master's degree in Physician Assistant Studies from Lemoyne College.
Meet Dianne, a compassionate and experienced Physician Assistant (PA) with a strong focus on mental health. Dianne's journey in healthcare, marked by academic excellence and a passion for instilling hope and emotional intelligence in her patients, makes her a remarkable practitioner. Her unique background and dedication to mental well-being set her apart as a PA who specializes in holistic mental health care. Dianne's educational achievements include graduating from Brown University in 2016 and earning her master's degree in Physician Assistant Studies from Lemoyne College.
Northeast Wellness, LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, FNP-C, CARN-AP
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02109
Vanessa Loukas, MSN, FNP-C, CARN-AP is the Vice President of Addiction Services at Northeast Wellness. Vanessa is a board-certified Family Nurse Practitioner receiving her Masters of Science in Nursing at Simmons College and board certified in Advance Practice Addictions nursing through the Addictions Nursing Certification Board (CARN-AP). Her clinical expertise is in treating patients with substance use disorder and mental health issues. She started her career in addiction working as a registered nurse in acute treatment and medication stabilization services.
Vanessa Loukas, MSN, FNP-C, CARN-AP is the Vice President of Addiction Services at Northeast Wellness. Vanessa is a board-certified Family Nurse Practitioner receiving her Masters of Science in Nursing at Simmons College and board certified in Advance Practice Addictions nursing through the Addictions Nursing Certification Board (CARN-AP). Her clinical expertise is in treating patients with substance use disorder and mental health issues. She started her career in addiction working as a registered nurse in acute treatment and medication stabilization services.
15 Second Videos
Jackie Ollis
Paolo Cassano
Claire Twark
Jessica Francois
Carol Count Robinson
Lisa Curtain
Theresa Webster
Chenelle Christian
Linda Kim
Beth Makar
Charissa Turner
Drew Pittman
Silas Willoughby
Ian Matthews
Derick Ngoran
William Chad Garrett
Joe Gallego
Christopher Robertson
Juliette Osborne Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner Pmhnp-Bc
Omar Sultan Haque M D Ph D
Vista Family Psychiatry, LLC
William Chad Garrett
Marco Belluardo-Crosby
Kimberly Monestime
Sherley Boisvert Msn Pmhnp-Bc
Dignity Brain Health
William Chad Garrett
Catline Jacques
Simbiat Adighije
Saleema John
Adhd Aid Psychiatry
Margaret Oloyede
Andrea Conway
Stephanie Weingard
Steven Alan Adelman
Enel Joseph
Revive Holistic Psychiatry
Mosaic Psychiatric Care
Sonia Ike
Sophia Kogan
Balance Psychiatric Services
Empath Psychiatry
Adam Henderson
Queendroline Nkeh
Paolo Cassano
Psychiatrist, MD, PhD
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02114
With nearly three decades of experience in psychiatry, focusing on neuropsychiatric conditions that affect mood and cognition, my goal is to deliver new, effective therapies to those struggling with depression, anxiety, post-COVID syndromes, cognitive impairments, and more. With my extensive background in neuropsychopharmacology (and affiliations with Massachusetts General Hospital (MGH) and Harvard Medical School as Director of Photobiomodulation and Associate Professor respectively), I always start with the most scientifically proven treatments. I ensure that my approach aligns with the latest, evidence-based standards.
With nearly three decades of experience in psychiatry, focusing on neuropsychiatric conditions that affect mood and cognition, my goal is to deliver new, effective therapies to those struggling with depression, anxiety, post-COVID syndromes, cognitive impairments, and more. With my extensive background in neuropsychopharmacology (and affiliations with Massachusetts General Hospital (MGH) and Harvard Medical School as Director of Photobiomodulation and Associate Professor respectively), I always start with the most scientifically proven treatments. I ensure that my approach aligns with the latest, evidence-based standards.
Northeast Wellness, PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02109
Lauren Linsmeier is a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner specializing in patient care across the lifespan. With a background in acute settings, including psychiatric hospitals and the emergency department, Lauren has devoted numerous years as a nurse and nurse practitioner to supporting individuals during their most challenging moments. She now enjoys working with patients alongside life’s ups and downs to provide assistance and support.
Lauren Linsmeier is a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner specializing in patient care across the lifespan. With a background in acute settings, including psychiatric hospitals and the emergency department, Lauren has devoted numerous years as a nurse and nurse practitioner to supporting individuals during their most challenging moments. She now enjoys working with patients alongside life’s ups and downs to provide assistance and support.
Tilo Mukherjee
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boston, MA 02110 (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
My sincere apologies. I am temporarily unable to accept new clients, I am an experienced board-certified psychiatrist and a graduate of the Brown University Psychiatry Residency Program. I work with patients, adults ages 18 and above. I provide help to clients living all over Massachusetts. My private practice helps undergraduate college students, graduate students, and busy working professionals who are looking to achieve success, good health, and happiness. My clients are welcomed to a warm and safe environment, where their problems are discussed with an open mind, kindness, flexibility, and no judgement.
My sincere apologies. I am temporarily unable to accept new clients, I am an experienced board-certified psychiatrist and a graduate of the Brown University Psychiatry Residency Program. I work with patients, adults ages 18 and above. I provide help to clients living all over Massachusetts. My private practice helps undergraduate college students, graduate students, and busy working professionals who are looking to achieve success, good health, and happiness. My clients are welcomed to a warm and safe environment, where their problems are discussed with an open mind, kindness, flexibility, and no judgement.
Rona Klein
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02108 (Online Only)
Nice to meet you! I am Harvard-trained, board-certified psychiatrist and psychiatrist at Options MD, an online mental health clinic that specializes in working with patients with depression. If you are someone that is struggling with depression (on its own or with other issues like anxiety, trauma, or OCD ) and have not yet found a treatment that works, I can help you.
Nice to meet you! I am Harvard-trained, board-certified psychiatrist and psychiatrist at Options MD, an online mental health clinic that specializes in working with patients with depression. If you are someone that is struggling with depression (on its own or with other issues like anxiety, trauma, or OCD ) and have not yet found a treatment that works, I can help you.
Ishnane Guillet
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02131 (Online Only)
I am looking to help the professional struggling with burnout, the Christian who has always been unsure about psychiatric medication in context with their faith, the individual struggling with trauma, anxiety and depression, all the way to the, "I'm curious about mental health but I'm not sure if it's for me."
I am looking to help the professional struggling with burnout, the Christian who has always been unsure about psychiatric medication in context with their faith, the individual struggling with trauma, anxiety and depression, all the way to the, "I'm curious about mental health but I'm not sure if it's for me."
Mulberry Tree Integrative Mental Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP-B, FNP-BC, DC
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02199
A board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner is an advanced practice nurse with the primary role of assessing, diagnosing and treating the mental health needs of patients. PMHNPs prescribe medications and provide support for patients with mental health disorders. Our integrated approach addresses the underlying cause of disease using a patient-centered approach encompassing the whole person, rather than the traditional disease-centered approach of an isolated set of symptoms.
A board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner is an advanced practice nurse with the primary role of assessing, diagnosing and treating the mental health needs of patients. PMHNPs prescribe medications and provide support for patients with mental health disorders. Our integrated approach addresses the underlying cause of disease using a patient-centered approach encompassing the whole person, rather than the traditional disease-centered approach of an isolated set of symptoms.
Adriana Blakely-Chavez
Physician Assistant, PA
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02108
With a strong commitment to mental health, I have acquired extensive experience as a dedicated and compassionate mental health professional. I played a vital role in educating patients on essential aspects of mental health, and I've also done a lot of work in helping individuals dealing with diabetic and weight management issues deal and work through these concerns.
With a strong commitment to mental health, I have acquired extensive experience as a dedicated and compassionate mental health professional. I played a vital role in educating patients on essential aspects of mental health, and I've also done a lot of work in helping individuals dealing with diabetic and weight management issues deal and work through these concerns.
Comfort Sowale
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02135
Meet Comfort, a compassionate and dedicated Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a specialization in treating Substance Use Disorders. Holding dual certifications as a PMHNP and AGPCNP, Comfort is licensed with the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) and is passionate about providing integrated care for individuals with dual diagnoses.
Meet Comfort, a compassionate and dedicated Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a specialization in treating Substance Use Disorders. Holding dual certifications as a PMHNP and AGPCNP, Comfort is licensed with the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) and is passionate about providing integrated care for individuals with dual diagnoses.
Claire Twark
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boston, MA 02116
I am a Harvard-trained, Harvard-affiliated, and board-certified psychiatrist and addiction psychiatrist. I offer convenient Saturday morning hours in my Back Bay private practice as well as virtual evening hours on some other days. I offer therapy, medication management, or a combination of the two if needed. I enjoy collaborating with patients to achieve their goals and move forward on their journeys. I have expertise in sports psychiatry, including treating athletes/former athletes and incorporating exercise into treatment. I see patients ages 18+.
I am a Harvard-trained, Harvard-affiliated, and board-certified psychiatrist and addiction psychiatrist. I offer convenient Saturday morning hours in my Back Bay private practice as well as virtual evening hours on some other days. I offer therapy, medication management, or a combination of the two if needed. I enjoy collaborating with patients to achieve their goals and move forward on their journeys. I have expertise in sports psychiatry, including treating athletes/former athletes and incorporating exercise into treatment. I see patients ages 18+.
See more therapy options for Boston
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Boston, MA
400+
Average cost per session
$250
Psychiatrists in Boston, MA who prioritize treating:
95% | Anxiety |
92% | Depression |
74% | Bipolar Disorder |
72% | Medication Management |
70% | ADHD |
70% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
66% | Trauma and PTSD |
Average years in practice
10 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
88% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
82% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
81% | Optum |
How Psychiatrists in Boston, MA see their clients
55% | In Person and Online | |
45% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
67% | Female | |
32% | Male | |
1% | Non-Binary |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Boston?
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.