Key Takeaways
- The U.S. is in the midst of a severe mental health provider shortage. Many people in communities across the country don’t have access to a psychiatrist.
- Accessing psychiatric care can be especially difficult for people living in urban and underserved areas, children, seniors, and veterans.
- If you’re having trouble finding a local psychiatrist, consider using telepsychiatry. These platforms can connect you with licensed providers from outside your immediate area.
If you’ve struggled to find a psychiatrist, you’re not alone. Across the U.S., many people are unable to access the care they need due to the psychiatrist shortage.
According to a recent report from the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA), the problem is only getting worse. By the year 2037, the HRSA predicts a 54% increase in demand for adult psychiatric care. However, the number of providers able to provide that care is projected to shrink by 17% during that same time frame.
If you haven’t been able to find a psychiatrist in your area, the following guide can help you get the support you deserve.
Who is impacted most by the provider shortage
The psychiatrist shortage is a nationwide issue. But some populations and communities have been hit harder than others.
- Rural areas: About 80% of all rural counties in the U.S. don’t have a single psychiatrist. This means that most people who live in rural areas must travel long distances to reach the nearest psychiatric care provider.
- Underserved areas: People living in areas where household incomes are below average are more likely to face barriers to psychiatric care. This is also true for people living in tribal communities.
- Young people: According to the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry (AACAP), there’s a severe shortage of providers who provide psychiatric care to young people. Currently, there are only 14 child and adolescent psychiatrists for every 100,000 children in the U.S.
- Seniors: Geriatric psychiatrists specialize in treating mental health concerns in older adults. But currently, there aren’t enough people entering the field to replace those who are retiring. By 2030, it’s estimated that there will be just one geriatric psychiatrist for every 5,682 older adults with a psychiatric disorder.
- Veterans: Although the Veterans Administration (VA) hired over 300 psychiatrists in 2023, they’re still struggling to keep pace with the demand for psychiatric services. As of 2025, many veterans continue to face long wait times and limited access to quality mental healthcare.
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Five strategies to access psychiatric care
Most people seeking psychiatric care are already dealing with a serious mental health concern. Reaching out to multiple providers only to be told that they’re not accepting new clients, that there’s a months’-long waitlist, or that they don’t accept insurance can add to the stress people are already experiencing.
We want to acknowledge how frustrating and disheartening this process can be. But we also want to provide some hope and share some practical strategies for accessing care.
1. Request a network gap exception
Depending on your insurance provider, you may be able to request a network gap exception. This would allow you to pay in-network rates for out-of-network care if there are no psychiatrists in your area. Keep in mind that this is subject to approval from your insurance company.
2. Consider a generalist
Psychiatrists, like other medical professionals, can specialize in treating specific conditions or populations. For example, there are psychiatrists who specialize in treating young people, substance use disorders (SUDs), developmental disorders, or other specific conditions.
Of course, it would be ideal to work with a provider who specializes in whatever concerns you’re facing. But if that’s not possible, consider working with a psychiatrist who provides a broad range of services.
3. Check community clinics
If you’re uninsured or concerned about the cost of care, community clinics can be an affordable source of psychiatric support. You may have access to a mental health clinic through your local health department’s mental health division. These divisions receive state funding, which means they’re required to prioritize providing support to people in need.
4. Find a university training program
When someone is training to become a psychiatrist, they’re required to provide psychiatric services under the guidance of an experienced provider. Many colleges and universities have training clinics where students can practice before they’re eligible for licensure. If you’re comfortable working with a student, these clinics can be a great option for local, low-cost care.
5. Consider telemedicine
Most major insurers cover some form of digital mental healthcare. So if you’re having trouble finding a psychiatrist in your community, you can expand your search with telepsychiatry. Telepsychiatry platforms allow people to connect with their providers remotely at a time and place that works for them. Research shows that it can be just as effective as in-person care.
No matter your age, diagnosis, or geographic area, if you’ve been affected by the psychiatric care shortage, you can find help with Rula. Our nationwide platform leverages technology to connect people with the right mental healthcare for their needs. Whether you need therapy, psychiatric care, or both, with Rula, the support you deserve is always just a few clicks away.
There are so many advantages to telehealth, I really appreciate accessibility for patients. In-person care can be preferable in some cases, but most psychiatric care can be provided via telehealth safely and effectively.
Find care with Rula
The psychiatrist shortage makes it difficult for many people across the country to access care. But the shortage can be especially challenging for people who live in rural or underserved areas, young people, seniors, and veterans. If you’re open to seeing your provider remotely, telepsychiatry can allow you to see a provider from the comfort of home.
At Rula, we’re committed to delivering a comprehensive behavioral health experience that helps people feel seen and understood so they can get back to feeling their best.
Rula makes it easier to find a licensed therapist or psychiatric provider who accepts your insurance so you don’t have to choose between affordable care and excellent care. With a diverse network of more than 15,000 providers, 24/7 crisis support, and appointments available as soon as tomorrow, we’re here to help you make progress — wherever you are on your mental health journey.
About the author
Liz Talago
Liz Talago, M.ed. is a mental health professional turned content writer and strategist based in the Detroit metro area. As an independent consultant for mental health organizations, Liz creates meaningful connections between brands and their audiences through strategic storytelling. Liz is known for championing diverse perspectives within the mental health industry and translating bold ideas into inspiring, affirming digital experiences.
In her free time, you can find her hiking with her two German Shepherds, puttering around her dahlia garden, or spending time with her family.
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Rula's editorial team is on a mission to make science-backed mental health insights accessible and practical for every person seeking to better understand or improve mental wellness.
Members of Rula’s clinical leadership team and other expert providers contribute to all published content, offering guidance on themes and insights based on their firsthand experience in the field. Every piece of content is thoroughly reviewed by a clinician before publishing.
