Psychiatrists in 75007
Jilji Payikkattu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Carrollton, TX 75007 (Online Only)
Jilji Payikkattu is a board-certified Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner (BC-FNP, PMHNP) who has over 17 years of experience. She enjoys providing holistic, compassionate mental, and medical care to clients of all ages. Jilji treats a variety of mental health disorders including depression, anxiety, OCD, bipolar disorder I and II, PTSD, and ADHD. Jilji believes in the importance of building an individualized approach to treatment. She graduated from the University of Texas-Arlington with a Master's degree in Nursing. Jiliji focuses on providing the utmost, up-to-date care to her patients.
Jilji Payikkattu is a board-certified Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner (BC-FNP, PMHNP) who has over 17 years of experience. She enjoys providing holistic, compassionate mental, and medical care to clients of all ages. Jilji treats a variety of mental health disorders including depression, anxiety, OCD, bipolar disorder I and II, PTSD, and ADHD. Jilji believes in the importance of building an individualized approach to treatment. She graduated from the University of Texas-Arlington with a Master's degree in Nursing. Jiliji focuses on providing the utmost, up-to-date care to her patients.
![Photo of Stella Apari - Star Legacy Behavioral Health PLLC, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-C, FNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b95f9422-029f-45a4-b388-7e72a29fde11/4/320x400.jpeg)
Star Legacy Behavioral Health PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-C, FNP-C
Verified Verified
Carrollton, TX 75007
A peaceful mind is a blessing in disguise. We are here to help all those looking to achieve a sound, happy, and productive state of mind. We truly believe all issues are treatable and we take pride in being by your side during the journey. At Star Legacy we diagnose, educate, and treat psychiatric disorders with consultation and medication management. Our goal is to provide evidence based care in efforts to give patients the necessary tools to achieve optimal mental health function.
A peaceful mind is a blessing in disguise. We are here to help all those looking to achieve a sound, happy, and productive state of mind. We truly believe all issues are treatable and we take pride in being by your side during the journey. At Star Legacy we diagnose, educate, and treat psychiatric disorders with consultation and medication management. Our goal is to provide evidence based care in efforts to give patients the necessary tools to achieve optimal mental health function.
![Photo of Dr. Joy Ichie - A-1 Behavioral Health Services, PMHNP, BC, DNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b73ff3fa-a820-48b1-bfac-c229813c1821/3/320x400.jpeg)
A-1 Behavioral Health Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC, DNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Carrollton, TX 75007
I am a family psychiatric/ mental health nurse practitioner with extensive experience with children, adults, and the elderly who are struggling with a variety of mental health challenges in different care settings. I obtained a Bachelor of Science, a Masters degree in nursing from the University of Texas at Arlington, and a Doctorate from Briar Cliff University, Sioux City, Iowa. As a doctoral-prepared practitioner, I will complete a thorough evaluation and partner with you to develop an individualized and holistic treatment plan based on the right diagnosis.
I am a family psychiatric/ mental health nurse practitioner with extensive experience with children, adults, and the elderly who are struggling with a variety of mental health challenges in different care settings. I obtained a Bachelor of Science, a Masters degree in nursing from the University of Texas at Arlington, and a Doctorate from Briar Cliff University, Sioux City, Iowa. As a doctoral-prepared practitioner, I will complete a thorough evaluation and partner with you to develop an individualized and holistic treatment plan based on the right diagnosis.
![Photo of Dr. Joy Ichie Pmhnp-Bc Dnp, PMHNP, BC, DNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8fc6ae33-b48f-40f2-9820-b5d96f048e58/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Joy Ichie Pmhnp-Bc Dnp
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC, DNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Carrollton, TX 75007 (Online Only)
Now accepting new patients with virtual flexible evening, and weekend availabilities across the state of Texas. I am a licensed and board-certified family psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. I have over 10 years of experience in psychiatry with all age groups in both outpatient and inpatient settings. If you have been feeling sad, angry, not sleeping well, unable to focus, anxious, or have experienced a traumatic event or any other concerns then give me a call. Let us work together and identify the proper treatment options for optimal functioning.
Now accepting new patients with virtual flexible evening, and weekend availabilities across the state of Texas. I am a licensed and board-certified family psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner. I have over 10 years of experience in psychiatry with all age groups in both outpatient and inpatient settings. If you have been feeling sad, angry, not sleeping well, unable to focus, anxious, or have experienced a traumatic event or any other concerns then give me a call. Let us work together and identify the proper treatment options for optimal functioning.
![Photo of Joy Ichie - A-1 Behavioral Health Services PLLC, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, -BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8bbd9d07-8b4a-4136-8caf-212d6b592d09/3/320x400.jpeg)
A-1 Behavioral Health Services PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, APRN, PMHNP, -BC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Carrollton, TX 75007
We are accepting new clients for in-person and virtual appointments. At A-1 Behavioral Health Services, we provide evidence-based mental and behavioral health treatment options in a safe and healing environment where you can develop a path toward personal wellness and stability. We offer clients the individualized, holistic, and compassionate care they deserve to regain control of their mental health. As a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, I will complete a thorough psychiatric evaluation and partner with you to formulate the best individualized treatment plan.
We are accepting new clients for in-person and virtual appointments. At A-1 Behavioral Health Services, we provide evidence-based mental and behavioral health treatment options in a safe and healing environment where you can develop a path toward personal wellness and stability. We offer clients the individualized, holistic, and compassionate care they deserve to regain control of their mental health. As a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, I will complete a thorough psychiatric evaluation and partner with you to formulate the best individualized treatment plan.
![Photo of Chioma Anwukah, MSN, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/76f4abb0-9b6c-4b5b-bdad-fe90f79c7d1c/1/320x400.jpeg)
Chioma Anwukah
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Carrollton, TX 75007 (Online Only)
Now Accepting NEW Clients! Are you looking for a safe and non-judgemental environment where your mental health needs will be met through a holistic approach? Meet Chioma Anwukah, a board certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner licensed in Washington State, Texas, Florida, Virginia, Connecticut and Nevada. She has over 9 years of experience in psychiatry. Mrs. Anwukah has worked with adolescents, adults, and geriatrics in a variety of settings, including private practice, hospitals, and outpatient mental health clinics.
Now Accepting NEW Clients! Are you looking for a safe and non-judgemental environment where your mental health needs will be met through a holistic approach? Meet Chioma Anwukah, a board certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner licensed in Washington State, Texas, Florida, Virginia, Connecticut and Nevada. She has over 9 years of experience in psychiatry. Mrs. Anwukah has worked with adolescents, adults, and geriatrics in a variety of settings, including private practice, hospitals, and outpatient mental health clinics.
![Photo of Rahman Farishta, MSN, APRN , PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/44106ff5-6768-4d51-802e-3b217add344e/1/320x400.jpeg)
Rahman Farishta
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN , PMHNP
Verified Verified
Carrollton, TX 75007
Are you suffering from ADHD, Depression, Anxiety, or any other mental health issue? Are you tired of waiting to see a mental health provider? Do you need medication management for an already diagnosed issue? Are you seeking a second opinion or an advice? Are you tired of trying/taking several medicines? Pinnacle Psychiatry can help provide immediate treatment. Call 940-629-7201 for more information. Schedule an appointment online with just a few clicks at www.pinnacle-psychiatry.com. We provide virtual/telemedicine visits to adults but can also accommodate an in-person visit.
Are you suffering from ADHD, Depression, Anxiety, or any other mental health issue? Are you tired of waiting to see a mental health provider? Do you need medication management for an already diagnosed issue? Are you seeking a second opinion or an advice? Are you tired of trying/taking several medicines? Pinnacle Psychiatry can help provide immediate treatment. Call 940-629-7201 for more information. Schedule an appointment online with just a few clicks at www.pinnacle-psychiatry.com. We provide virtual/telemedicine visits to adults but can also accommodate an in-person visit.
![Photo of Charlotte Coates, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/80a1fbaf-81dd-4d30-a295-9195e16d2c06/1/320x400.jpeg)
Charlotte Coates
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Carrollton, TX 75007 (Online Only)
Facing the challenges of anxiety, depression, or major life changes can be overwhelming. My ideal client is someone who seeks effective solutions and compassionate support for their mental health journey. They aspire to regain control, discover hope, and achieve a balanced, fulfilling life. They appreciate a personalized approach that honors their unique experiences and goals. At Legion Health, we offer a nurturing environment where you can feel truly understood and empowered.
Facing the challenges of anxiety, depression, or major life changes can be overwhelming. My ideal client is someone who seeks effective solutions and compassionate support for their mental health journey. They aspire to regain control, discover hope, and achieve a balanced, fulfilling life. They appreciate a personalized approach that honors their unique experiences and goals. At Legion Health, we offer a nurturing environment where you can feel truly understood and empowered.
![Photo of Shazar Khan, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cb145449-a138-4133-8e7a-902b756a618f/1/320x400.jpeg)
Shazar Khan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Carrollton, TX 75007 (Online Only)
Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, or navigating a major life change? My ideal client seeks a compassionate and understanding partner in their mental health journey. They desire to regain control, find hope, and achieve a balanced, fulfilling life. They want a personalized approach that respects their unique experiences and goals. At Legion Health, we offer a supportive environment where you can feel truly heard and valued.
Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, or navigating a major life change? My ideal client seeks a compassionate and understanding partner in their mental health journey. They desire to regain control, find hope, and achieve a balanced, fulfilling life. They want a personalized approach that respects their unique experiences and goals. At Legion Health, we offer a supportive environment where you can feel truly heard and valued.
![Photo of Sabah Choudry, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ded82592-0b66-4d65-8b6c-c5b9961431f1/1/320x400.jpeg)
Sabah Choudry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Carrollton, TX 75007 (Online Only)
Are you feeling overwhelmed by anxiety, depression, or a major life change? You might be seeking a safe space to explore your feelings and find effective solutions. My ideal client is someone who wants to regain control of their life, find hope, and achieve a sense of balance and fulfillment. They value a therapeutic partnership where their unique experiences and goals are understood and respected. At Legion Health, we provide a nurturing environment where you can feel truly heard and supported.
Are you feeling overwhelmed by anxiety, depression, or a major life change? You might be seeking a safe space to explore your feelings and find effective solutions. My ideal client is someone who wants to regain control of their life, find hope, and achieve a sense of balance and fulfillment. They value a therapeutic partnership where their unique experiences and goals are understood and respected. At Legion Health, we provide a nurturing environment where you can feel truly heard and supported.
![Photo of Smink Achila, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e357e948-1ab8-4c25-bd2d-29032bf0148a/1/320x400.png)
Smink Achila
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Carrollton, TX 75007 (Online Only)
Picture facing life’s difficulties, whether it's anxiety, depression, or major life changes. My ideal client seeks understanding and effective solutions for their mental health concerns. They strive to regain control, find hope, and achieve a balanced, fulfilling life. They seek a compassionate partner who listens, understands, and customizes treatment to their unique needs and goals. At Legion Health, we provide a therapeutic environment where you will feel respected and empowered.
Picture facing life’s difficulties, whether it's anxiety, depression, or major life changes. My ideal client seeks understanding and effective solutions for their mental health concerns. They strive to regain control, find hope, and achieve a balanced, fulfilling life. They seek a compassionate partner who listens, understands, and customizes treatment to their unique needs and goals. At Legion Health, we provide a therapeutic environment where you will feel respected and empowered.
![Photo of Munira Jiwani, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f7d6e2da-0bdc-4b35-a43e-9f0e7188322f/1/320x400.jpeg)
Hello! I'm glad you've found my profile. My name is Munira Jiwani, and I've just opened more slots at Legion Psychiatry to welcome new clients. I work with most major insurance carriers, such as Cigna, Aetna, United, and more. My schedule fills up fast, but currently, I can see new patients as early as next week on Mondays and Tuesdays (morning and afternoon).
Hello! I'm glad you've found my profile. My name is Munira Jiwani, and I've just opened more slots at Legion Psychiatry to welcome new clients. I work with most major insurance carriers, such as Cigna, Aetna, United, and more. My schedule fills up fast, but currently, I can see new patients as early as next week on Mondays and Tuesdays (morning and afternoon).
![Photo of Terry Eagan - Dr. Terry Eagan - Anew Era TMS & Psychiatry , MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/28f09e96-5eee-4197-ae93-23b4b0378ce7/2/320x400.jpeg)
*** ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS WITH A WAIT TIME OF 1 WEEK OR LESS *** Suffering from depression, anxiety, and other mental health conditions can be debilitating and hold you back from leading a happy and balanced life. We invite you to learn more about your treatment options to recover. Call for a Free Confidential assessment and schedule an appointment today.
*** ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS WITH A WAIT TIME OF 1 WEEK OR LESS *** Suffering from depression, anxiety, and other mental health conditions can be debilitating and hold you back from leading a happy and balanced life. We invite you to learn more about your treatment options to recover. Call for a Free Confidential assessment and schedule an appointment today.
![Photo of Oladunni Liyele, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2b53f650-dfd2-479c-97e7-bf7278f8f334/1/320x400.jpeg)
Hello! If you’ve landed on my profile, I'm here to support your mental wellness goals. I am Oladunni Liyele, and I've opened new slots at Legion Psychiatry for fresh clients. I'm an in-network provider for most major insurance carriers, including Cigna, Aetna, and United. My schedule tends to fill up quickly; however, I currently have openings on Thursdays (morning to afternoon).
Hello! If you’ve landed on my profile, I'm here to support your mental wellness goals. I am Oladunni Liyele, and I've opened new slots at Legion Psychiatry for fresh clients. I'm an in-network provider for most major insurance carriers, including Cigna, Aetna, and United. My schedule tends to fill up quickly; however, I currently have openings on Thursdays (morning to afternoon).
![Photo of Nkechi Nduka, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5b5fe18d-2025-4b63-ae11-95bccbd84073/1/320x400.jpeg)
Hello! Thank you for considering your mental health needs with me today. My name is Nkechi Nduka, and I'm excited to announce that I've opened new slots at Legion Psychiatry for new clients. I work with most major insurance providers (including Cigna, Aetna, United, and others). My schedule tends to fill up fast, but I currently have openings on Wednesdays, both morning and afternoon.
Hello! Thank you for considering your mental health needs with me today. My name is Nkechi Nduka, and I'm excited to announce that I've opened new slots at Legion Psychiatry for new clients. I work with most major insurance providers (including Cigna, Aetna, United, and others). My schedule tends to fill up fast, but I currently have openings on Wednesdays, both morning and afternoon.
![Photo of Michael Akwo-Adelowo, MSN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ed1db10a-0415-4c1d-a46f-121a14f2d4da/1/320x400.jpeg)
Michael Akwo-Adelowo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Carrollton, TX 75007 (Online Only)
Imagine feeling overwhelmed by the challenges life throws at you, whether it's anxiety, depression, or managing a major life transition. My ideal client seeks understanding and effective solutions to their mental health concerns. They desire to regain control, find hope, and achieve a balanced, fulfilling life. They want a compassionate partner in their journey, someone who listens, understands, and tailors treatment to their unique needs and goals. If you're looking for a therapeutic environment where you feel respected and empowered, you're in the right place.
Imagine feeling overwhelmed by the challenges life throws at you, whether it's anxiety, depression, or managing a major life transition. My ideal client seeks understanding and effective solutions to their mental health concerns. They desire to regain control, find hope, and achieve a balanced, fulfilling life. They want a compassionate partner in their journey, someone who listens, understands, and tailors treatment to their unique needs and goals. If you're looking for a therapeutic environment where you feel respected and empowered, you're in the right place.
![Photo of Ugochi Azubuike, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c05c0bfb-fcb0-4cc5-8687-2fb7660fa086/1/320x400.jpeg)
Greetings! I'm delighted you've stopped by my profile. I’m Ugochi Azubuike, and I've just expanded my schedule at Legion Psychiatry to welcome new clients. I work with most major insurance providers (including Cigna, Aetna, United, etc.). My openings tend to fill up fast, but I currently have spaces available on Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday evenings.
Greetings! I'm delighted you've stopped by my profile. I’m Ugochi Azubuike, and I've just expanded my schedule at Legion Psychiatry to welcome new clients. I work with most major insurance providers (including Cigna, Aetna, United, etc.). My openings tend to fill up fast, but I currently have spaces available on Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday evenings.
![Photo of Bridgett Gant, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a29249db-d2ef-48c9-8d2c-64e6f34885dd/1/320x400.jpeg)
Hello! If you're visiting my profile, I'm here to assist you on your path to better mental health. My name is Bridgett Gant, and I've just opened more spots at Legion Psychiatry for new clients. I accept a range of major insurance providers (including Cigna, Aetna, United, etc). My schedule tends to fill up fast, but currently, I have openings from Monday to Friday (morning and afternoon).
Hello! If you're visiting my profile, I'm here to assist you on your path to better mental health. My name is Bridgett Gant, and I've just opened more spots at Legion Psychiatry for new clients. I accept a range of major insurance providers (including Cigna, Aetna, United, etc). My schedule tends to fill up fast, but currently, I have openings from Monday to Friday (morning and afternoon).
See more therapy options for 75007
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in 75007
10+
Average cost per session
$200
Psychiatrists in 75007 who prioritize treating:
100% | Anxiety |
95% | Depression |
89% | Trauma and PTSD |
84% | ADHD |
84% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
79% | Bipolar Disorder |
68% | Stress |
Average years in practice
5 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
94% | Aetna |
94% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
94% | Cigna and Evernorth |
How Psychiatrists in 75007 see their clients
68% | Online Only | |
32% | In Person and Online |
Gender breakdown
64% | Female | |
36% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in 75007?
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.