Psychiatrists in Boston, MA
Integrative Psychiatry & TMS Dr. Ying A. Cao
Psychiatrist, MD, MEng
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boston, MA 02116
Thriving in an evermore complex world can be overwhelming; mental health is key and self-actualization is a journey best undertaken with good support. Hello! I am a Harvard-affiliated psychiatrist and MIT-trained engineer with additional background in Traditional Chinese Medicine and genetics. I believe in the motto "Mind & Hand" and the transformative power of integrative care that aims to incorporate the full biopsychosocial experience of each patient and actualize lasting growth through facilitating insight, addressing root-causes, shifting paradigms, upgrading coping skills, and implementing measurable improvements.
Thriving in an evermore complex world can be overwhelming; mental health is key and self-actualization is a journey best undertaken with good support. Hello! I am a Harvard-affiliated psychiatrist and MIT-trained engineer with additional background in Traditional Chinese Medicine and genetics. I believe in the motto "Mind & Hand" and the transformative power of integrative care that aims to incorporate the full biopsychosocial experience of each patient and actualize lasting growth through facilitating insight, addressing root-causes, shifting paradigms, upgrading coping skills, and implementing measurable improvements.
Drew Pittman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boston, MA 02116 (Online Only)
I am currently accepting new patients for same week telehealth appointments in Ohio, Florida, Colorado and Massachusetts. I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I treat adults suffering as a result of trauma, depression, anxiety, and obsessive compulsive disorder. I specialize in offering individualized, measurement based care to quickly assess and treat your illness. I prescribe psychiatric medications and recommend therapy modalities and natural remedies that are tailored to your symptoms. I take pride in improving your well-being quickly, while minimizing side effects from medications.
I am currently accepting new patients for same week telehealth appointments in Ohio, Florida, Colorado and Massachusetts. I am a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I treat adults suffering as a result of trauma, depression, anxiety, and obsessive compulsive disorder. I specialize in offering individualized, measurement based care to quickly assess and treat your illness. I prescribe psychiatric medications and recommend therapy modalities and natural remedies that are tailored to your symptoms. I take pride in improving your well-being quickly, while minimizing side effects from medications.
Dr. H. Ho
Psychiatrist, MD, MPH, DABPN, DABOM, DABPM
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02115
I am a Johns-Hopkins trained, award-winning Harvard psychiatrist, affiliated with McLean and Mass General Brigham, quadruple board certified in Addiction Medicine, Obesity Medicine, Adult Psychiatry, and Child Psychiatry. Do you feel no one understands your unspeakable sorrow, helplessness, insecurity, or regret? You don't have to endure alone. I have helped a diverse group: abuse survivors, addiction recoverees, children with anxiety, elders with dementia, missionaries, LGBTQ individuals, physicians, attorneys, administrators, etc. I advocate for using the least amount of medications and non-medication approach whenever possible.
I am a Johns-Hopkins trained, award-winning Harvard psychiatrist, affiliated with McLean and Mass General Brigham, quadruple board certified in Addiction Medicine, Obesity Medicine, Adult Psychiatry, and Child Psychiatry. Do you feel no one understands your unspeakable sorrow, helplessness, insecurity, or regret? You don't have to endure alone. I have helped a diverse group: abuse survivors, addiction recoverees, children with anxiety, elders with dementia, missionaries, LGBTQ individuals, physicians, attorneys, administrators, etc. I advocate for using the least amount of medications and non-medication approach whenever possible.
Brad Shattuck
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02116
Waitlist for new clients
Psychotherapy is a safe place where we can explore how the past continues to affect the present. It is an encounter with another person which can be painful at times but also lively and genial. As a psychiatrist and psychoanalyst trained at Tufts Medical Center and the Boston Psychoanalytic Society and Institute I employ an approach that integrates psychoanalytic, cognitive, and mindfulness-based techniques with psychopharmacologic management. The human experience is complex and I engage my patients in a flexible manner that respects the gravity of our work.
Psychotherapy is a safe place where we can explore how the past continues to affect the present. It is an encounter with another person which can be painful at times but also lively and genial. As a psychiatrist and psychoanalyst trained at Tufts Medical Center and the Boston Psychoanalytic Society and Institute I employ an approach that integrates psychoanalytic, cognitive, and mindfulness-based techniques with psychopharmacologic management. The human experience is complex and I engage my patients in a flexible manner that respects the gravity of our work.
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.
Michael Skolnick
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02128 (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Hello I'm Michael. I am a dedicated and compassionate Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner committed to helping people lead fulfilling lives. My approach is rooted in empathy, respect, and collaboration, as I believe that every person has the innate capacity to heal and grow. I have had the privilege of working with adults of all backgrounds, addressing a wide range of mental health concerns. I am especially well suited to helping patients with depression and anxiety. I also have a keen interest in treating young adults with ADHD. My passion lies in helping individuals find hope, healing, and resilience.
Hello I'm Michael. I am a dedicated and compassionate Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner committed to helping people lead fulfilling lives. My approach is rooted in empathy, respect, and collaboration, as I believe that every person has the innate capacity to heal and grow. I have had the privilege of working with adults of all backgrounds, addressing a wide range of mental health concerns. I am especially well suited to helping patients with depression and anxiety. I also have a keen interest in treating young adults with ADHD. My passion lies in helping individuals find hope, healing, and resilience.
Nader Mental Health Services
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02108 (Online Only)
Harvard trained Board Certified Psychiatrist who completed a Harvard residency in psychiatry followed by a Consultation Liaison Psychiatry (Psychosomatic Medicine) fellowship from Boston University. Diverse experience is in various mental illnesses and addiction. We provide services to patients with a wide range of psychopathology that is intertwined with socioeconomic problems. Visit nadermhs.com to schedule a virtual appointment.
Harvard trained Board Certified Psychiatrist who completed a Harvard residency in psychiatry followed by a Consultation Liaison Psychiatry (Psychosomatic Medicine) fellowship from Boston University. Diverse experience is in various mental illnesses and addiction. We provide services to patients with a wide range of psychopathology that is intertwined with socioeconomic problems. Visit nadermhs.com to schedule a virtual appointment.
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.
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.
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’.
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.
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Annie Hollyer
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, ANCC-BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boston, MA 02109 (Online Only)
South Boston Psychiatry was created with the understanding that mental health can not be “one-size-fits-all”. The telehealth model allows you to seek care when/how it is convenient for you. Board Certified Psychiatric Mental-Health Nurse Practitioner Annie Hollyer, PMHNP-BC, RN, MSN offers psychiatric evaluations, medication management, psychotherapy treatment, documentation and will be happy to work with you on referrals to the cutting edge medicine that’s changing mental health including Pharmacogenetic testing, Spravato, Suboxone, and Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS).
South Boston Psychiatry was created with the understanding that mental health can not be “one-size-fits-all”. The telehealth model allows you to seek care when/how it is convenient for you. Board Certified Psychiatric Mental-Health Nurse Practitioner Annie Hollyer, PMHNP-BC, RN, MSN offers psychiatric evaluations, medication management, psychotherapy treatment, documentation and will be happy to work with you on referrals to the cutting edge medicine that’s changing mental health including Pharmacogenetic testing, Spravato, Suboxone, and Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS).
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.
Saria El Haddad
Psychiatrist
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02110 (Online Only)
Dr. Saria El Haddad is double boarded in general psychiatry and addiction psychiatry. She previously held a leadership role of medical director for the dual diagnosis partial hospitalization program at the Brigham and Women's Faulkner hospital where she helped create and establish this program, and also worked as an outpatient addiction psychiatrist. She has been involved in teaching and currently maintains academic affiliation with the Harvard Medical School. In addition, she has appeared in numerous professional publications and authored several research papers.
Dr. Saria El Haddad is double boarded in general psychiatry and addiction psychiatry. She previously held a leadership role of medical director for the dual diagnosis partial hospitalization program at the Brigham and Women's Faulkner hospital where she helped create and establish this program, and also worked as an outpatient addiction psychiatrist. She has been involved in teaching and currently maintains academic affiliation with the Harvard Medical School. In addition, she has appeared in numerous professional publications and authored several research papers.
Molly Sonner
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02199 (Online Only)
Hello, my name is Molly, and I am a passionate and dedicated Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, Board Certified by the ANCC (American Nurses Credentialing Center), with a specialization in child and adolescent mental health. I have extensive experience working with individuals across all age ranges and from diverse backgrounds, and I am committed to providing comprehensive and compassionate care to my patients.
Hello, my name is Molly, and I am a passionate and dedicated Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, Board Certified by the ANCC (American Nurses Credentialing Center), with a specialization in child and adolescent mental health. I have extensive experience working with individuals across all age ranges and from diverse backgrounds, and I am committed to providing comprehensive and compassionate care to my patients.
Carlos Suarez MD PLLC
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02116 (Online Only)
Harvard-trained. Johns Hopkins-trained. Because expertise and experience matter. If you or your child is having difficulties with your relationships, your academic/professional demands, or your emotional well-being, I can help. I assist professionals, business leaders, and other high achievers in removing the psychological barriers that interfere with their progress so that they can reach their full potential. In order to focus exclusively on my patients, I do not accept any medical insurance. However, your medical insurance company may reimburse you for a significant portion of your paid fees (you must contact your insurance company for details).
Harvard-trained. Johns Hopkins-trained. Because expertise and experience matter. If you or your child is having difficulties with your relationships, your academic/professional demands, or your emotional well-being, I can help. I assist professionals, business leaders, and other high achievers in removing the psychological barriers that interfere with their progress so that they can reach their full potential. In order to focus exclusively on my patients, I do not accept any medical insurance. However, your medical insurance company may reimburse you for a significant portion of your paid fees (you must contact your insurance company for details).
Dr. Misty Stafford
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02199 (Online Only)
I am an ivy league-trained child, adolescent and adult psychiatrist seeing patients for combined psychotherapy and medication management services by telehealth. My practice is small and patient-focused with a tailored approach to meet every patient's unique needs. My approach to treatment is to provide a safe, comforting environment where patients feel able to express themselves emotionally without fear of judgment. I pride myself on being empathic, warm and caring with an ability to personally connect with each of my patients and their families. I love what I do and I believe this reflects in the results I help my patients achieve.
I am an ivy league-trained child, adolescent and adult psychiatrist seeing patients for combined psychotherapy and medication management services by telehealth. My practice is small and patient-focused with a tailored approach to meet every patient's unique needs. My approach to treatment is to provide a safe, comforting environment where patients feel able to express themselves emotionally without fear of judgment. I pride myself on being empathic, warm and caring with an ability to personally connect with each of my patients and their families. I love what I do and I believe this reflects in the results I help my patients achieve.
Lina M Zapata Samarel
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP, MBA
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02131 (Online Only)
Areas of interest include medication management and psychiatric evaluations for the diagnosis and treatment of depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, psychotic disorders, ADHD, PTSD, OCD, and panic disorders. Lina’s approach to treating patients focuses on individual treatment plans and on integrative psychiatry by applying evidence-based psychopharmacological, therapeutic interventions, and lifestyle modifications. Lina will listen to you with empathy and will partner with you on your wellness journey.
Areas of interest include medication management and psychiatric evaluations for the diagnosis and treatment of depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, psychotic disorders, ADHD, PTSD, OCD, and panic disorders. Lina’s approach to treating patients focuses on individual treatment plans and on integrative psychiatry by applying evidence-based psychopharmacological, therapeutic interventions, and lifestyle modifications. Lina will listen to you with empathy and will partner with you on your wellness journey.
Carlos Covarrubias
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02130
I'm a psychiatric nurse practitioner in Boston, offering online psychotherapy to clients throughout Massachusetts, in-person therapy and medication management in Jamaica Plain, and online classes and workshops at www.ThreeTreesMentalHealth.com
I'm a psychiatric nurse practitioner in Boston, offering online psychotherapy to clients throughout Massachusetts, in-person therapy and medication management in Jamaica Plain, and online classes and workshops at www.ThreeTreesMentalHealth.com
Jacine Yael Vilches
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNPBC, FNP-BC
Verified Verified
11 Endorsed
Boston, MA 02116 (Online Only)
Currently we have availability on a weekly basis. Dr. Jacine Vilches is a psychiatric nurse practitioner with dual certification in family practice and psychiatry (double-boarded). After working at a level I trauma center and receiving her doctoral degree from Florida State University she practiced psychiatry in Boston with the severely mentally ill population treating disorders ranging from schizophrenia to generalized anxiety disorder and personality disorders. Recently she moved back to Florida to open her private telepsychiatry practice that focuses on the holistic treatment of mental health disorders.
Currently we have availability on a weekly basis. Dr. Jacine Vilches is a psychiatric nurse practitioner with dual certification in family practice and psychiatry (double-boarded). After working at a level I trauma center and receiving her doctoral degree from Florida State University she practiced psychiatry in Boston with the severely mentally ill population treating disorders ranging from schizophrenia to generalized anxiety disorder and personality disorders. Recently she moved back to Florida to open her private telepsychiatry practice that focuses on the holistic treatment of mental health disorders.
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 |
73% | Bipolar Disorder |
72% | Medication Management |
70% | ADHD |
70% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
65% | 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.