FAQ
Welcome to our FAQ section. Here, we've compiled a list of commonly asked questions to provide you with quick and helpful answers.
Safety
I need help right now. What should I do? If or someone you love needs help right now, you should to your local hospital emergency room or call 911. 988 is the National Suicide Hotline and is answered 24/7. Click here for a directory of mental health crisis lines in the state of Washington: https://www.hca.wa.gov/free-or-low-cost-health-care/i-need-behavioral-health-support/mental-health-crisis-lines For substance use, problem gambling, or mental health support: Contact the Washington Recovery Help Line: 866-789-1511. https://www.warecoveryhelpline.org/
Preparing/First Visit
Do you accept my health insurance? Aetna, Ciga, Premera Blue Cross, Regence and Self-Pay currently accepted
How do I schedule an appointment? A: Click the “Book Online” button; Click on any of the “contact me” buttons to send a message with any questions. Please note most questions can be answered in Policies or FAQ.
How soon can I schedule an appointment? Generally, I can see new patients within 1-2 few weeks. If you are experiencing a mental health emergency, call 911 or go to the emergency department of your local hospital.
What is your cancellation policy? All appointments must be cancelled at least 24 business hours in advance. You are otherwise responsible for a no-show fee of $150 for intake visit and $100 for all subsequent visits.
How do I prepare for my virtual visit? You will need a quiet and private area with good lighting for your tele health visits. Please ensure your internet connection, video, and microphone are in good working order prior to your appointment. Please make sure to fill out all the screener and intake forms.
How frequently are follow-up appointments scheduled? This is individualized. Your initial evaluation will include discussing of a treatment plan at the end of the evaluation. Subsequently, we will schedule follow-up appointments every 3-4 weeks in order to check in on progress and make changes to the treatment plan accordingly. With the right treatment combination for you, people start to feel better in 1-3 months. As treatment progresses, the frequency of appointments reduce. When treatment is stable, we move out our appointments to every 3 months. I’m able to accommodate more frequent appointments if needed. We will collaborate on the plan regarding discontinuing treatment when indicated. A visit every 3 months is required to receiving ongoing treatment and prescription refills.
What if I already have a therapist? That is totally okay! I will manage the medical aspects of your treatment and you can continue meeting your therapist as well. I will co-ordinate your care closely with your therapist if agreed upon.
Do you offer a sliding fee schedule? I don’t offer a sliding scale as it might be challenging to apply exceptions consistently and fairly.
Specific Treatment
Do you provide controlled substances, treat ADHD or other conditions that require controlled substances such as benzodiazepines and stimulants? I can prescribe controlled substance prescriptions including hypnotics (prescription sleeping meds), Benzodiazepines (ie. Xanax, Ativan, Klonopin, Valium),or stimulants (ie. Adderall, Vyvanse, Ritalin) through my practice. HOWEVER, I do not focus treatments on ADHD. I utilize controlled substances on an extremely rare and case-by-case basis, typically driven by treatment guidelines such as VA, SAMHSA, CANMAT, and NICE. I typically DO NOT prescribe contraindicated medications (IE benzodiazepines for PTSD or personality disorders as studies have shown they can exacerbate symptoms).
What is medication-assisted treatment (MAT)? Medication-assisted treatment (MAT) is the use of medications, in combination with behavioral therapies, in the treatment of substance use disorders. Research shows that a combination of medication and therapy can successfully treat substance use disorders, and for some medications can help sustain recovery. Medications are also used to prevent or reduce overdose. In my practice, I use the following FDA approved medications for substance use: •Medications for Alcohol Use Disorder (MAUD): Acamprosate, Disulfiram, and Naltrexone •Medications for Opioid Use Disorder (MOUD): Buprenorphine and Naltrexone
What conditions do you treat ? As a board certified nurse practitioner I specialize in treatment of any type of mental health conditions but my passion is to treat mood disorders, personality disorders and substance use disorders.
What ages do you see ? I am certified across the lifespan, but I typically patients who are 18-64 years of age. At times I do see patients outside these ages, but this is on a rare and case-by-case basis.
About Me
What is a psychiatric mental heath nurse practitioner (PMHNP)? A Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) is a specialized healthcare professional with advanced training in mental health care. We are qualified to assess, diagnose, and treat a wide range of mental health conditions in patients of all ages. As PMHNPs, we can provide therapy, prescribe medications, and offer holistic support to help individuals achieve optimal mental wellness. We play a vital role in promoting mental health and enhancing the overall well-being of our patients.
Are you board-certified in psychiatry? Yes! Just like a psychiatrist, I am board-certified in psychiatry. My certification is through the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC). I am certified to treat psychiatric patients across the lifespan.
Are you a mental health specialist? Psychiatrists and psychiatric nurse practitioners are specialists in all things related to mental health. We can prescribe medication, perform therapy, order tests, complete assessments and evaluations, and partner with you to help you improve your mental health.