Common Questions

What can a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner do for me?
A Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner specializes in the diagnosis, treatment, and management (including prescribing medication) of mental illness and psychological problems.  A Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner has completed advanced education and training and is nationally certified by the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) to practice in the field of psychiatry. Psychiatric Nurse Practitioners are not "physician assistants". They are independent clinicians not supervised or governed by physicians in any way.  

What will happen during my first appointment?
We will meet with you for an extensive interview and psychiatric evaluation in which we will gather information such as your history, symptoms, and family dynamics.  Within this first session together, we will then determine the best plan of action to move forward.

Will my treatment be kept confidential?
See Privacy and Confidentiality page  

Will the cost of my treatment be covered by my insurance plan?
Our providers do not participate in any insurance panels.  We take payments at the time of service via cash or credit card (please see 'Why no insurance?' for further discussion).

How long will my treatment last?
There are no precise determinations that we can make regarding the length of your treatment.  Generally speaking, the longer you have had your mental illness not medically acknowledged, the longer the treatment will take. Some mental health issues are time limited, while others require life long management with medications, and/or other interventions.

What if I have an emergency or an urgent situation come up?
If you find yourself in the midst of an emergency, please immediately call 9-1-1.  If you have an urgent situation, call our office, and we will see you as soon as we can.