Hawaii's Kaiser therapists overwhelmed as staff shortages delay mental health care

Mental health therapists at Kaiser Permanente in Hawaii continue to face heavy workloads and long patient wait times. A recent survey reveals widespread dissatisfaction among staff, with many considering leaving their jobs. Contract negotiations between Kaiser and the union have been ongoing since November 2025. A union survey found that 62% of therapists had thought about resigning in the past six months due to poor working conditions. 84% said staffing levels were too low to provide timely care, and 96% worked overtime at least once a week to manage their caseloads. The union argues that current staffing is inadequate, with one clinician for every 5,500 Kaiser members in Hawaii.

Kathleen Rubio, a therapist on Oahu, reported that patients often wait over a month for both first and follow-up appointments. The survey also showed that 85% of therapists had next available return slots at least 21 business days away. These issues echo the union’s 172-day strike in 2022, which centred on understaffing and clinical standards.

Kaiser Permanente has acknowledged rising demand for mental health services since the pandemic. However, the union insists that current staffing fails to meet patient needs. Talks for a new contract remain unresolved. Therapists continue to struggle with excessive workloads and delayed care. The gap between demand and resources persists, affecting both staff and patients.