Psychiatrists in Houston, TX
Mindful Health Solutions | Brian Zachariah, MD
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77004
My ideal patient is someone who is looking not just for symptom relief but a deeper understanding of their condition. Their goals extend beyond mere "coping" to attaining a sustained quality of life. I also encourage patients to keep an open mind when it comes to treatment options. When medication isn't working, transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) could be an option that helps them finally find relief.
My ideal patient is someone who is looking not just for symptom relief but a deeper understanding of their condition. Their goals extend beyond mere "coping" to attaining a sustained quality of life. I also encourage patients to keep an open mind when it comes to treatment options. When medication isn't working, transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) could be an option that helps them finally find relief.
Chioma Nwokoro
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77002 (Online Only)
Chioma is a very remarkable and experienced Psychiatric Mental Health Practitioner committed to providing exceptional quality care and support to individuals facing mental health challenges.
Chioma is a very remarkable and experienced Psychiatric Mental Health Practitioner committed to providing exceptional quality care and support to individuals facing mental health challenges.
Mya Lawrence
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, MSN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77056 (Online Only)
Have you not been feeling like yourself lately? Are you overwhelmed and feel like the world is sitting on top you? Do you want to become a better version of yourself? Have you been wanting to speak to a professional but have had second thoughts? You are not alone! At Path of Serenity, PLLC, I offer a safe place to discuss your concerns and walk with you along your individualized path. After all, we only have one life, and it shouldn't be filled with mood dysregulation, regrets, and hopelessness! Additionally, there is EVENING and WEEKEND availability for services.
Have you not been feeling like yourself lately? Are you overwhelmed and feel like the world is sitting on top you? Do you want to become a better version of yourself? Have you been wanting to speak to a professional but have had second thoughts? You are not alone! At Path of Serenity, PLLC, I offer a safe place to discuss your concerns and walk with you along your individualized path. After all, we only have one life, and it shouldn't be filled with mood dysregulation, regrets, and hopelessness! Additionally, there is EVENING and WEEKEND availability for services.
Eshcol Clinic LLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP-, BC, FNP-C
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77036
We are accepting new patients. I am a Doctor of Nursing Practice with certification in FNP and Family Psychiatry. I have been practicing for over 8 years as a Certified NP and over 30 years as a BSN RN. Recognizing that health is wealth, it is imperative that your mentally ill health is taken seriously because the disease of the mind is the disease of the body. As a mentally ill, you do not have to be stigmatized. You have equal opportunity and the right to access the mental health care that you need. The world we live in is full of challenges that contribute to mental illness, and we consider those when providing your care.
We are accepting new patients. I am a Doctor of Nursing Practice with certification in FNP and Family Psychiatry. I have been practicing for over 8 years as a Certified NP and over 30 years as a BSN RN. Recognizing that health is wealth, it is imperative that your mentally ill health is taken seriously because the disease of the mind is the disease of the body. As a mentally ill, you do not have to be stigmatized. You have equal opportunity and the right to access the mental health care that you need. The world we live in is full of challenges that contribute to mental illness, and we consider those when providing your care.
Adeeb Masood
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77019 (Online Only)
I'm excited to invite you into a space dedicated to your well-being and fulfillment. I approach every client with a personal approach that goes at your pace. Through open communication and collaboration, we will attempt to understand the roots of your challenges and work towards lasting change. Together, we will develop a comprehensive understanding of your unique experiences allowing us to formulate a roadmap for your mental health journey.
I'm excited to invite you into a space dedicated to your well-being and fulfillment. I approach every client with a personal approach that goes at your pace. Through open communication and collaboration, we will attempt to understand the roots of your challenges and work towards lasting change. Together, we will develop a comprehensive understanding of your unique experiences allowing us to formulate a roadmap for your mental health journey.
James Harold, MD | Mindful Health Solutions
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77004
My ideal client seeks to master their mood or psychotic conditions with a desire for deep, lasting mental health improvements. Ideally, they also have a readiness to explore in-depth treatment options like medication management, TMS, or esketamine. They are looking for a collaborative, empathetic partnership to navigate their mental health journey. Their goals are to understand their condition deeply, regain stability, and foster resilience, with an eagerness to participate in a personalized care plan for a more balanced and fulfilling life.
My ideal client seeks to master their mood or psychotic conditions with a desire for deep, lasting mental health improvements. Ideally, they also have a readiness to explore in-depth treatment options like medication management, TMS, or esketamine. They are looking for a collaborative, empathetic partnership to navigate their mental health journey. Their goals are to understand their condition deeply, regain stability, and foster resilience, with an eagerness to participate in a personalized care plan for a more balanced and fulfilling life.
Sonya S Wakil Md
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77027
When working with children, teens, adults and families I address the difficulties in behaviors, feelings and thinking presented. An initial evaluation explores present and past concerns involving school, work, family, crises, peers, emotions, thought patterns, development, physical health, and environment. A treatment plan is coordinated with the patient that unifies the biological, psychological and social issues. An integrated approach includes referrals to other professionals as needed. By practicing evidence based medication management, I review each patient's concerns during the initial assessment and at follow up appointments.
When working with children, teens, adults and families I address the difficulties in behaviors, feelings and thinking presented. An initial evaluation explores present and past concerns involving school, work, family, crises, peers, emotions, thought patterns, development, physical health, and environment. A treatment plan is coordinated with the patient that unifies the biological, psychological and social issues. An integrated approach includes referrals to other professionals as needed. By practicing evidence based medication management, I review each patient's concerns during the initial assessment and at follow up appointments.
Agnes Benjamin
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNPBC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Houston, TX 77019 (Online Only)
Agnes is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC). Her educational specialty and clinical training in psychiatric mental health gives her the ability to diagnose, prescribes treat, manage, and evaluate patients across the life span suffering from mental illness such as depression, anxiety, schizophrenia, bipolar disorders, OCD, PTSD, autism, ADHD, gender dysphoria, neurocognitive, and neurodevelopmental disorders with empathy and passion. She has over 20 years of registered nursing experience in a variety of settings including an Acute Psychiatric Hospital, having patients with psychiatric issues.
Agnes is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC). Her educational specialty and clinical training in psychiatric mental health gives her the ability to diagnose, prescribes treat, manage, and evaluate patients across the life span suffering from mental illness such as depression, anxiety, schizophrenia, bipolar disorders, OCD, PTSD, autism, ADHD, gender dysphoria, neurocognitive, and neurodevelopmental disorders with empathy and passion. She has over 20 years of registered nursing experience in a variety of settings including an Acute Psychiatric Hospital, having patients with psychiatric issues.
Jason Glenn Garvin
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77098
VIRTUAL APPOINTMENTS ARE AVAILABLE! As a double board-certified psychiatrist who enjoys doing intensive therapy I offer BOTH medication management (if necessary) and psychotherapy for adults, adolescents, and children. I focus on each person as an individual and not as a diagnosis. Confidentiality is of the utmost importance, is highly regarded and I personally return all calls. I utilize psychodynamic psychotherapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, and supportive psychotherapy.
VIRTUAL APPOINTMENTS ARE AVAILABLE! As a double board-certified psychiatrist who enjoys doing intensive therapy I offer BOTH medication management (if necessary) and psychotherapy for adults, adolescents, and children. I focus on each person as an individual and not as a diagnosis. Confidentiality is of the utmost importance, is highly regarded and I personally return all calls. I utilize psychodynamic psychotherapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, and supportive psychotherapy.
Houston Direct Healthcare
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77018 (Online Only)
Now accepting new patients from all across Texas! Are you ever uncertain if what you're experiencing is typical? Do questions arise about your forgetfulness, difficulty focusing, or persistent distractions? Perhaps getting out of bed has become a struggle, enthusiasm for life has waned, or unexplained tears appear? Sleep troubles and lingering exhaustion also familiar? If trauma has left you anxious, I'm here to support you. You don't have to navigate these hurdles alone – I'm here to help.
Now accepting new patients from all across Texas! Are you ever uncertain if what you're experiencing is typical? Do questions arise about your forgetfulness, difficulty focusing, or persistent distractions? Perhaps getting out of bed has become a struggle, enthusiasm for life has waned, or unexplained tears appear? Sleep troubles and lingering exhaustion also familiar? If trauma has left you anxious, I'm here to support you. You don't have to navigate these hurdles alone – I'm here to help.
Ijeoma Gladys Obijuru
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Houston, TX 77084
Ijeoma Obijuru has over seven years of clinical experience providing quality, and compassionate care as a mental health provider. She believes in providing exceptional, individualized, and holistic care to her clients - aiming to effectively diagnose and treat them with the least amount of medication possible.
Ijeoma Obijuru has over seven years of clinical experience providing quality, and compassionate care as a mental health provider. She believes in providing exceptional, individualized, and holistic care to her clients - aiming to effectively diagnose and treat them with the least amount of medication possible.
15 Second Videos
Mya Lawrence
Michael Adelowo
Chandler Self
Laurel Darlington
PsychEase Psychiatry
Texas Psychiatry Group
Ronil Shah
Manizeh Mirza-Gruber
Jocelyn Jingwa
Amanda Meltzer
Your Wellness Practice, PLLC
Krystal Kalt
Napoleon B Higgins Jr
Christie's Family Health LLC
Insightful Psychiatry
GrowthFairness Psychiatry, PLLC
Emmanuella Edekobi
Rasheedat Koleosho at Mental Soothe PLLC Texas
Keilah Baker Ford Dnp Pmhnp
Elizabeth Emebo
Uncharted Territory Mental Health Services
Anuron Mandal
Peters Etchu
Alexander Welge
RoseRich Mental and Behavioral
Nelly Okere
VICCpsychiatry, pllc
Dawn K. Brown
Francisca Ogu
Kubara Psychiatry & Behavioral Health LLC
Brightstone Psychiatry
Priscillia Omoleme
Kaeside Unachukwu
Mindful Health Solutions - Valerie Tutson
Iman Hypolite
Kimberly Epperson
VPP Clinic | Dr. Arif Mirza MD
Gabriel Obu
Shayna Labarge
Resilient Mind Psychiatric Services PLLC
Vitality by Kym
Belle Meade Addiction Medicine & Psychiatry, PLLC
Optimal Life Care, PLLC
Shea T. Sawyer
JLyle Medical Clinic, PLLC
Solid Foundation Psychiatry
Caroline Mose
Mosunmola Rufai
Adewale Busari
Natalie J Tellez
Merit Nwosu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-B
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77080 (Online Only)
Our clinical practice is focused on treating individual holistically, we provide Medication management to adolescents, young adult and older adult with special attention to treating anxiety, depression, stress related disorders, attention deficit hyperactive disorder and substance use disorder. we also incorporate psychotherapy with focus on using CBT, compassion focus, acceptance and commitment which has been effective in managing and treating these issues.
Our clinical practice is focused on treating individual holistically, we provide Medication management to adolescents, young adult and older adult with special attention to treating anxiety, depression, stress related disorders, attention deficit hyperactive disorder and substance use disorder. we also incorporate psychotherapy with focus on using CBT, compassion focus, acceptance and commitment which has been effective in managing and treating these issues.
Martha Akinbile
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC, FNP, C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Houston, TX 77036
Appointments are available within 24-48 hours. Are you feeling overwhelmed, anxious, depressed, or simply not yourself? Do you need someone to talk to, who can understand and guide you through these challenging times? Look no further. Our team believes in a holistic approach to address your struggles with insomnia, anxiety, addiction, inattention, low mood/energy, and stress. We are committed to helping you regain control of your life and achieve your mental health goals.
Appointments are available within 24-48 hours. Are you feeling overwhelmed, anxious, depressed, or simply not yourself? Do you need someone to talk to, who can understand and guide you through these challenging times? Look no further. Our team believes in a holistic approach to address your struggles with insomnia, anxiety, addiction, inattention, low mood/energy, and stress. We are committed to helping you regain control of your life and achieve your mental health goals.
Angela Elizabeth Partida
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77098
Waitlist for new clients
My goal is to work collaboratively with patients. After an initial consultation I will make a recommendation for treatment. Your treatment plan may include medications and/or psychotherapy. Based on your history I may also recommend pharmacogenomic testing to help guide the process of selecting the most appropriate medication for you. Please note that I am not contracted with any health insurance plan. Any services provided by me will be considered out of network. I have also opted out of Medicare and Medicare will not reimburse you if you choose to see a provider that has opted out.
My goal is to work collaboratively with patients. After an initial consultation I will make a recommendation for treatment. Your treatment plan may include medications and/or psychotherapy. Based on your history I may also recommend pharmacogenomic testing to help guide the process of selecting the most appropriate medication for you. Please note that I am not contracted with any health insurance plan. Any services provided by me will be considered out of network. I have also opted out of Medicare and Medicare will not reimburse you if you choose to see a provider that has opted out.
Memorial TMS
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77024
Boris Rubashkin was born and educated in St. Petersburg, Russia. He graduated 1969 and took his psychiatric residency in 1973. He immigrated to the United States in 1974 and spent five years working in a mental health field in Minnesota. With his desire to escape from the cold weather, he moved to a warmer climate of Houston, Texas. From 1979 - 1983, he worked at University of Texas Health Science Psychiatric Residency. In 1983, he went into private practice. In 1997, he also became a consulting psychiatrist to Long Term Care Facilities. Additionally, he cofounded Behavioral Health Consultants, a multi-specialty outpatient psychiatric office.
Boris Rubashkin was born and educated in St. Petersburg, Russia. He graduated 1969 and took his psychiatric residency in 1973. He immigrated to the United States in 1974 and spent five years working in a mental health field in Minnesota. With his desire to escape from the cold weather, he moved to a warmer climate of Houston, Texas. From 1979 - 1983, he worked at University of Texas Health Science Psychiatric Residency. In 1983, he went into private practice. In 1997, he also became a consulting psychiatrist to Long Term Care Facilities. Additionally, he cofounded Behavioral Health Consultants, a multi-specialty outpatient psychiatric office.
Ronald Garb
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77024
Dr Garb was born and educated in Johannesburg, South Africa. He received his medical and psychiatric training in South Africa and the U.K. He is board.certified in 3 countries, including by the American Board of Psychiatry in 1990. His career has included academic honors and professorial experience, as well as clinical leadership across a broad spectrum of psychiatric services in Johannesburg and Tel Aviv, before being recruited to Houston in 1991. Throughout, Dr Garb has also maintained a well recognized and highly respected private practice wherever he has gone, including his current outpatient practice in Houston.
Dr Garb was born and educated in Johannesburg, South Africa. He received his medical and psychiatric training in South Africa and the U.K. He is board.certified in 3 countries, including by the American Board of Psychiatry in 1990. His career has included academic honors and professorial experience, as well as clinical leadership across a broad spectrum of psychiatric services in Johannesburg and Tel Aviv, before being recruited to Houston in 1991. Throughout, Dr Garb has also maintained a well recognized and highly respected private practice wherever he has gone, including his current outpatient practice in Houston.
Merit Nwosu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Houston, TX 77080 (Online Only)
Our clinical practice is focused on treating individual holistically, we provide Medication management to adolescents, young adult and older adult with special attention to treating anxiety, depression, stress related disorders, attention deficit hyperactive disorder and substance use disorder. we also incorporate psychotherapy with focus on using CBT, compassion focus, acceptance and commitment which has been effective in managing and treating these issues.
Our clinical practice is focused on treating individual holistically, we provide Medication management to adolescents, young adult and older adult with special attention to treating anxiety, depression, stress related disorders, attention deficit hyperactive disorder and substance use disorder. we also incorporate psychotherapy with focus on using CBT, compassion focus, acceptance and commitment which has been effective in managing and treating these issues.
Circle of Hope Services
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77074
At Houston Circle Of Hope Services we are committed to working with clients to improve their quality of life. We encourage, motivate and train clients to take control of their life. The services we provide are client-centered and focused on transforming hope into wellness. We serve adults and children who are in need of psychiatric intervention, medication management, daily skills training and psychotherapy.
At Houston Circle Of Hope Services we are committed to working with clients to improve their quality of life. We encourage, motivate and train clients to take control of their life. The services we provide are client-centered and focused on transforming hope into wellness. We serve adults and children who are in need of psychiatric intervention, medication management, daily skills training and psychotherapy.
Michael Adelowo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77006
I am an experienced psychiatric NP who is committed to developing patient-centered care involving psychotherapy, medication management, education, and empowerment. I treat patients and families with respect and compassion. My goal is to find solutions to your challenges, restore hope, and create a healthy and happier you. I work one-on-one with my clients, tailoring their treatment to their unique experience and their disease process. Every treatment starts with us building a therapeutic relationship of trust. I believe the client is a product of their social environment and culture. So I focus on the holistic approach to care.
I am an experienced psychiatric NP who is committed to developing patient-centered care involving psychotherapy, medication management, education, and empowerment. I treat patients and families with respect and compassion. My goal is to find solutions to your challenges, restore hope, and create a healthy and happier you. I work one-on-one with my clients, tailoring their treatment to their unique experience and their disease process. Every treatment starts with us building a therapeutic relationship of trust. I believe the client is a product of their social environment and culture. So I focus on the holistic approach to care.
Goodness Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN , PMHNP
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77065
CURRENTLY ACCEPTING PATIENTS WITH APPOINTMENTS WITHIN A WEEK, WITH FLEXIBLE SCHEDULING. Are you struggling to find your way out of a dark place ? Fighting to overcome feelings of grief , ADHD, addiction , anxiety, depression, schizophrenia, Bipolar disorder or major life transitions? Have a history of physical , emotional, or sexual trauma? Feeling like you’ve exhausted all options for treatment and given up hope on finding a solution ? I am here to provide light at the end of the tunnel for you .
CURRENTLY ACCEPTING PATIENTS WITH APPOINTMENTS WITHIN A WEEK, WITH FLEXIBLE SCHEDULING. Are you struggling to find your way out of a dark place ? Fighting to overcome feelings of grief , ADHD, addiction , anxiety, depression, schizophrenia, Bipolar disorder or major life transitions? Have a history of physical , emotional, or sexual trauma? Feeling like you’ve exhausted all options for treatment and given up hope on finding a solution ? I am here to provide light at the end of the tunnel for you .
See more therapy options for Houston
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Houston, TX
500+
Average cost per session
$200
Psychiatrists in Houston, TX who prioritize treating:
95% | Depression |
95% | Anxiety |
83% | Bipolar Disorder |
72% | Trauma and PTSD |
69% | Medication Management |
68% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
66% | ADHD |
Average years in practice
8 Years
Top 3 insurances accepted
92% | Aetna |
92% | Cigna and Evernorth |
91% | UnitedHealthcare UHC | UBH |
How Psychiatrists in Houston, TX see their clients
52% | In Person and Online | |
48% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
72% | Female | |
28% | Male |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Houston?
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.