Question 1

What is a PMHNP-BC?

Accepted Answer

Some people prefer one caregiver model over the other; it’s a choice that matters to some. You can decide for yourself.
A Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner – Board Certified (PMHNP-BC) is an advanced practice nursing specialty in psychiatry. This is not a medical doctor specialty; it is a nursing specialty, including prescribing medication and ordering diagnostic tests. PMHNP-BC certified practitioners use a nationally accepted nursing care model that differs from the medical care model in a few ways. Some describe this difference as medicine is disease-focused, and nursing is the whole person-focused.
In some states, PMHNPs are required to be board-certified, and some states require medical doctor supervision for either a period of time or forever. In DC and MD, a PMHNP-BC does not require physician oversight. In Virginia, a PMHNP-BC requires a physician collaborator for two years. In some states, the scope of practice (what we can do) between a PMHNP and a Psychiatrist (Medical Doctor with a focus on psychiatric care) doesn’t differ.

Question 2

Do you take insurance?

Accepted Answer

Yes, we do take many commercial insurance plans and have an affordable cash pay option as well.

Question 3

What does a visit cost?

Accepted Answer

We have a simple and affordable fixed price structure for self pay patients. If you're insured we follow the approved contract pricing model of your plan.

Question 4

When is payment due?

Accepted Answer

Payment is due prior to the appointment starting, unless you are paying through a commerical insurance with a negotiated rate. We do offer payment plans and a sliding scale to those who can justify need. Learn more here(javascript:void(0))

Question 5

Do you prescribe Alprazolam (Xanax)?

Accepted Answer

No. The data is clear that Alprazolam (Xanax) is not a safe medication. If you are currently on Alprazolam (Xanax) and wish to be on a taper (reduction), we can help you.

Question 6

Do I see you in person or by video visits?

Accepted Answer

Most all of our appointments are by video. This will change again once the DEA announces their new prescribing rules for controlled substances in Fall or Winter of 2024. This allows us to provide care for you as long as you are located in a state where your provider is licensed. We ask is that you have a good connection to the internet and have the privacy to talk, and that you invest in a home blood pressure machine (typically $15-$35). Virtual care isn't for every patient but if your needs can be safely provided by video, this is the perfect solution.

Question 7

Do I need therapy too?

Accepted Answer

“Need” is a rigid word. We do strongly recommend it. Unlike other practices, we don’t require you to have it, but mountains of science tell us therapy with medication is the best clinical solution to most of the mental health issues we face. We encourage all of our patients to find a therapist if they don’t already have one.

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