Psychiatrists in New Canaan, CT
Sarah L. Handler
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-, BC
Verified Verified
New Canaan, CT 06840
As a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, I specialize in delivering comprehensive care to individuals at every life stage. My expertise lies in medication management, specifically addressing mood and anxiety disorders, ADHD, substance use disorders, and eating disorders. Embracing a holistic philosophy, I personalize treatment approaches to align with each patient's unique requirements and desires. In addition to medication management, I am dedicated to supporting clients in recognizing and resolving other contributing factors influencing their mental well-being.
As a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, I specialize in delivering comprehensive care to individuals at every life stage. My expertise lies in medication management, specifically addressing mood and anxiety disorders, ADHD, substance use disorders, and eating disorders. Embracing a holistic philosophy, I personalize treatment approaches to align with each patient's unique requirements and desires. In addition to medication management, I am dedicated to supporting clients in recognizing and resolving other contributing factors influencing their mental well-being.
Noelle O'Shea
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Verified Verified
New Canaan, CT 06840
Noelle provides both psychopharmacologic and psychotherapeutic interventions for children, adolescents, and adults. She is trained in SPACE (Supportive Parenting for Anxious Childhood Emotions), EX/RP (Exposure Response Prevention) and NVR (Non-Violent Resistance) which is a therapeutic system for supporting caregivers of children with behavioral problems, reducing parental helplessness/erasure, and helping families that suffer from intense conflict between parent and child.
Noelle provides both psychopharmacologic and psychotherapeutic interventions for children, adolescents, and adults. She is trained in SPACE (Supportive Parenting for Anxious Childhood Emotions), EX/RP (Exposure Response Prevention) and NVR (Non-Violent Resistance) which is a therapeutic system for supporting caregivers of children with behavioral problems, reducing parental helplessness/erasure, and helping families that suffer from intense conflict between parent and child.
Sara Khalid
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Verified Verified
New Canaan, CT 06840
I am a Yale University-educated, board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner who specializes in medication management. One of my favorite concepts is the art of "kintsugi" - when a piece of pottery breaks, it is not hidden or discarded. Instead, it is repaired with gold. The result is a piece that is not just repaired but is even more unique and valuable than before. The cracks are not signs of weakness but marks of resilience, a testament to overcoming adversity. My approach to mental health is similar. The aim is to equip you with tools that highlight your resilience and strength.
I am a Yale University-educated, board certified psychiatric nurse practitioner who specializes in medication management. One of my favorite concepts is the art of "kintsugi" - when a piece of pottery breaks, it is not hidden or discarded. Instead, it is repaired with gold. The result is a piece that is not just repaired but is even more unique and valuable than before. The cracks are not signs of weakness but marks of resilience, a testament to overcoming adversity. My approach to mental health is similar. The aim is to equip you with tools that highlight your resilience and strength.
Kimberly G Morgan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN-BC
Verified Verified
New Canaan, CT 06840
Kimberly has over a decade of experience working as a Board Certified APRN in Adult Psychiatry (ages 18-65). She offers medication management and in some cases, psychotherapy, to help patients alleviate symptoms of depression, anxiety, OCD, ADHD, post-partum syndromes, bipolar disorder and psychosis. The first appointment will be used to identify the symptoms that are causing the most distress, as well as to discuss any other factors that may be influencing the patient's condition. Kimberly takes a holistic approach to treatment and individualizes the treatment plan by patient, not by diagnosis.
Kimberly has over a decade of experience working as a Board Certified APRN in Adult Psychiatry (ages 18-65). She offers medication management and in some cases, psychotherapy, to help patients alleviate symptoms of depression, anxiety, OCD, ADHD, post-partum syndromes, bipolar disorder and psychosis. The first appointment will be used to identify the symptoms that are causing the most distress, as well as to discuss any other factors that may be influencing the patient's condition. Kimberly takes a holistic approach to treatment and individualizes the treatment plan by patient, not by diagnosis.
Mark D'agostino
Psychiatrist, MD, MS, MSc
Verified Verified
New Canaan, CT 06840
Dr. D'Agostino is Board Certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology (ABPN), and has a subspeciality Board Certification in Addiction Medicine; he is a Suboxone provider, and treats a variety of substance use disorders with medication assisted treatment (MAT) and therapy (as needed). He specializes in the treatment of adults and late-adolescents, with expertise in medication management and therapy for conditions including but not limited to anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, ADHD, opioid and alcohol use disorder.
Dr. D'Agostino is Board Certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology (ABPN), and has a subspeciality Board Certification in Addiction Medicine; he is a Suboxone provider, and treats a variety of substance use disorders with medication assisted treatment (MAT) and therapy (as needed). He specializes in the treatment of adults and late-adolescents, with expertise in medication management and therapy for conditions including but not limited to anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, ADHD, opioid and alcohol use disorder.
Jordana Hollen
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New Canaan, CT 06840
Dr. Jordana Hollen is Board Certified by The American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology; and she specializes in providing outpatient Psychiatric care for adults. Dr. Hollen has experience treating a variety of mental health concerns with a special focus on Mood and Anxiety disorders, as well as a particular interest in Women’s Health. She treats a range of conditions including Major Depressive Disorder, Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Panic Disorder, Post-Partum Depression, Bipolar Disorder and ADHD.
Dr. Jordana Hollen is Board Certified by The American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology; and she specializes in providing outpatient Psychiatric care for adults. Dr. Hollen has experience treating a variety of mental health concerns with a special focus on Mood and Anxiety disorders, as well as a particular interest in Women’s Health. She treats a range of conditions including Major Depressive Disorder, Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Panic Disorder, Post-Partum Depression, Bipolar Disorder and ADHD.
Eric B Nicholson
Psychiatrist, MD, PhD
Verified Verified
New Canaan, CT 06840
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).
Holistic Services & Alternative Care
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, APRN-BC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
New Canaan, CT 06840
To create the kind of practice I want for my patients, I operate a full-service, "concierge" psychiatry practice, as opposed to an insurance-driven model. This allows me to focus on quality over quantity, and on personalized service and accessibility over volume. Most importantly, I have fewer patients than an insurance-driven practice, which means I have more time for you. We will have ample time during your visit to discuss your concerns. I am also much more accessible between visits for your phone calls and emails.
To create the kind of practice I want for my patients, I operate a full-service, "concierge" psychiatry practice, as opposed to an insurance-driven model. This allows me to focus on quality over quantity, and on personalized service and accessibility over volume. Most importantly, I have fewer patients than an insurance-driven practice, which means I have more time for you. We will have ample time during your visit to discuss your concerns. I am also much more accessible between visits for your phone calls and emails.
Dr. David L. Lopez / Cornell Affiliated
Psychiatrist, MD, FAPA, DFAACAP, Cornell, Faculty
Verified Verified
New Canaan, CT 06840
Cornell and Columbia trained, Dr. Lopez does not believe in one-size-fits-all treatments. He is a Distinguished Fellow of the national Child and Adolescent Psychiatry society (AACAP) and believes in down-to-earth approaches that really make sense. Dr. Lopez is also an adult psychotherapist with years of training in the most in-depth psychotherapies. He provides interventions that have clear results. A Fellow of the American Psychiatric Association (APA), he has taught at Cornell and Columbia specialized programs for more than 15 years. He now brings to Philadelphia the latest knowledge to help kids, parents, and adult patients.
Cornell and Columbia trained, Dr. Lopez does not believe in one-size-fits-all treatments. He is a Distinguished Fellow of the national Child and Adolescent Psychiatry society (AACAP) and believes in down-to-earth approaches that really make sense. Dr. Lopez is also an adult psychotherapist with years of training in the most in-depth psychotherapies. He provides interventions that have clear results. A Fellow of the American Psychiatric Association (APA), he has taught at Cornell and Columbia specialized programs for more than 15 years. He now brings to Philadelphia the latest knowledge to help kids, parents, and adult patients.
Susan Lachs
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
New Canaan, CT 06840
Your story and your struggles are unique to you. Media and family often put expectations on us that do not align with what is best for our authentic self. Family conflict, anxiety, depression, substance use, and unhealthy relationships - with ourselves and others - can be the result of these pressures. There is no one size fits all for therapy and together we will work to understand you through different perspectives and modalities, including prescribing medication if indicated, always with the goal of helping you make changes that will stick and you feel good about.
Your story and your struggles are unique to you. Media and family often put expectations on us that do not align with what is best for our authentic self. Family conflict, anxiety, depression, substance use, and unhealthy relationships - with ourselves and others - can be the result of these pressures. There is no one size fits all for therapy and together we will work to understand you through different perspectives and modalities, including prescribing medication if indicated, always with the goal of helping you make changes that will stick and you feel good about.
Martie A Boulton
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, EdD, APRN, PMHCNS, LADC
Verified Verified
New Canaan, CT 06840
As a board-certified Clinical Nurse Specialist and a Licensed Alcohol and Drug Counselor with over 20 years’ experience, I offer a unique ability to provide comprehensive, holistic care to individuals and couples experiencing acute and chronic emotional distress. I can provide Psychiatric and Substance Misuse Evaluations and medication management if needed.
As a board-certified Clinical Nurse Specialist and a Licensed Alcohol and Drug Counselor with over 20 years’ experience, I offer a unique ability to provide comprehensive, holistic care to individuals and couples experiencing acute and chronic emotional distress. I can provide Psychiatric and Substance Misuse Evaluations and medication management if needed.
Changing Minds
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
New Canaan, CT 06840
Changing Minds specializes in cases where traditional methods fall short. Our focus is using MeRT (Magnetic e-Resonance Therapy), a safe, gentle, non-invasive and personalized treatment which is FDA-approved and insurance reimbursed (depression). It has demonstrated remarkable success in modulating neural activity and promoting neuroplasticity, particularly in treatment-resistant conditions. Notably, MeRT employs Dry-Lead EEG technology to guide treatment, allowing us to tailor interventions with unprecedented speed and precision based on each patient's unique brain activity.
Changing Minds specializes in cases where traditional methods fall short. Our focus is using MeRT (Magnetic e-Resonance Therapy), a safe, gentle, non-invasive and personalized treatment which is FDA-approved and insurance reimbursed (depression). It has demonstrated remarkable success in modulating neural activity and promoting neuroplasticity, particularly in treatment-resistant conditions. Notably, MeRT employs Dry-Lead EEG technology to guide treatment, allowing us to tailor interventions with unprecedented speed and precision based on each patient's unique brain activity.
Tom Knightly
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New Canaan, CT 06840
I am board-certified in general psychiatry as well as fellowship-trained in advanced treatments including Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS). Additionally, I am an Assistant Professor in the Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences at Stanford University, where I work as a member of the Stanford Brain Stimulation Lab. Our lab is responsible for developing and implementing cutting edge psychiatric treatments. I bring this experience to my clinic where I am able to provide these cutting edge, highly-effective and fast-acting treatments to those who suffer with mental health.
I am board-certified in general psychiatry as well as fellowship-trained in advanced treatments including Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS). Additionally, I am an Assistant Professor in the Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences at Stanford University, where I work as a member of the Stanford Brain Stimulation Lab. Our lab is responsible for developing and implementing cutting edge psychiatric treatments. I bring this experience to my clinic where I am able to provide these cutting edge, highly-effective and fast-acting treatments to those who suffer with mental health.
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/
More Psychiatrists Nearby
Beth Grunschel
Psychiatrist, MD, ScM
Verified Verified
Westport, CT 06880
Are you looking for a psychiatrist who is equally skilled and passionate in the arts of psychotherapy and psychopharmacology (prescribing medications)? My clinical style is engaging, interactive, and nonjudgmental. Medications are available when appropriate/helpful, but are just one of the tools available. I am also well-versed in talk therapy approaches when medications are not indicated/desirable. I look forward to your teaching me about the many different pieces that make you you, including looking at your medical health and social/family structures. I look forward to working together to find the right approach for you.
Are you looking for a psychiatrist who is equally skilled and passionate in the arts of psychotherapy and psychopharmacology (prescribing medications)? My clinical style is engaging, interactive, and nonjudgmental. Medications are available when appropriate/helpful, but are just one of the tools available. I am also well-versed in talk therapy approaches when medications are not indicated/desirable. I look forward to your teaching me about the many different pieces that make you you, including looking at your medical health and social/family structures. I look forward to working together to find the right approach for you.
Caitlin Aguiar
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Stamford, CT 06901 (Online Only)
Dr. Caitlin Aguiar is a board-certified adult psychiatrist. Her mental health care incorporates a holistic approach, while treating clients to facilitate healing and wellness. She incorporates non-pharmaceutical interventions to supplement medication-management including, but not limited to, mindfulness, breathwork, CBT, DBT and supportive therapy in 30min sessions.
Dr. Caitlin Aguiar is a board-certified adult psychiatrist. Her mental health care incorporates a holistic approach, while treating clients to facilitate healing and wellness. She incorporates non-pharmaceutical interventions to supplement medication-management including, but not limited to, mindfulness, breathwork, CBT, DBT and supportive therapy in 30min sessions.
New Insights Behavioral Health
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Norwalk, CT 06854
Now Accepting New Patients! Are you feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or hopeless? Maybe you recently got a medical diagnosis and feel lost. Maybe your relationship lacks the connection you desire. Maybe you are wanting to learn more about ADHD and gain clarity around your patterns. Whatever it is, you want to better manage these stressors but don’t know where to start. Instead of feeling out of control and overwhelmed, you want to feel confident and calm. You want to experience more connection and joy in these hard times. We believe you can get there and our team is committed to being your compass, guiding you towards that future.
Now Accepting New Patients! Are you feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or hopeless? Maybe you recently got a medical diagnosis and feel lost. Maybe your relationship lacks the connection you desire. Maybe you are wanting to learn more about ADHD and gain clarity around your patterns. Whatever it is, you want to better manage these stressors but don’t know where to start. Instead of feeling out of control and overwhelmed, you want to feel confident and calm. You want to experience more connection and joy in these hard times. We believe you can get there and our team is committed to being your compass, guiding you towards that future.
Dr. Nayla Hariz
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Westport, CT 06880
I am accepting new patients and I take the following insurances: Aetna, United Healthcare and Husky. Anyone with no insurance or any other insurance will have to pay out of pocket. If you would like to schedule an appointment for yourself or your child please go to mindfulpsychiatry.as.me/new-appointment.
I am accepting new patients and I take the following insurances: Aetna, United Healthcare and Husky. Anyone with no insurance or any other insurance will have to pay out of pocket. If you would like to schedule an appointment for yourself or your child please go to mindfulpsychiatry.as.me/new-appointment.
Jacob Kannarkat
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Stamford, CT 06901 (Online Only)
Dr. Jacob T. Kannarkat is an adult psychiatrist. Dr. Kannarkat's practice focuses on medication management. In his visits, he uses an integrative approach, blending an empathic, problem-solving orientation with an understanding that the reasons for an individual's condition can be complex. He has experience dealing with many forms of mental illness and works collaboratively with his patients in making a plan for recovery.
Dr. Jacob T. Kannarkat is an adult psychiatrist. Dr. Kannarkat's practice focuses on medication management. In his visits, he uses an integrative approach, blending an empathic, problem-solving orientation with an understanding that the reasons for an individual's condition can be complex. He has experience dealing with many forms of mental illness and works collaboratively with his patients in making a plan for recovery.
Irene Topping
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Verified Verified
Westport, CT 06881 (Online Only)
NOW Accepting New Patients! Have you been a victim of a traumatic event that has left you with symptoms of PTSD? Do you suffer from anxiety, depression, postpartum depression, school issues, grief, or even stress that impacts your sleep that results in insomnia? Whether you tried ignoring it, talking with friends & family, or even reading self-help books, nothing seems to be working. Maybe it’s time to get some professional help today. The first step towards making a change is to acknowledge that you need help. The next step is to continue reading so you can learn more about how you can get that help now.
NOW Accepting New Patients! Have you been a victim of a traumatic event that has left you with symptoms of PTSD? Do you suffer from anxiety, depression, postpartum depression, school issues, grief, or even stress that impacts your sleep that results in insomnia? Whether you tried ignoring it, talking with friends & family, or even reading self-help books, nothing seems to be working. Maybe it’s time to get some professional help today. The first step towards making a change is to acknowledge that you need help. The next step is to continue reading so you can learn more about how you can get that help now.
See more therapy options for New Canaan
Nearby Searches for New Canaan
See More PsychiatristsHow does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in New Canaan, CT
10+
Average cost per session
$250
Psychiatrists in New Canaan, CT who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
93% | Anxiety |
71% | ADHD |
71% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
71% | Medication Management |
57% | Trauma and PTSD |
57% | Bipolar Disorder |
Average years in practice
15 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Cigna and Evernorth |
50% | Aetna |
50% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
How Psychiatrists in New Canaan, CT see their clients
100% | In Person and Online |
Gender breakdown
55% | Female | |
45% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in New Canaan?
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.