Question 1

What will happen during my first appointment?

Accepted Answer

A review of your psychiatric history, presenting symptoms, and lifestyle will be discussed during the initial psychiatric evaluation. The provider will gather the required documentation to adequately assess, diagnose, and treat the patient. The patient will be given treatment recommendations and diagnosis, side effects, efficacy, and duration of treatment will be discussed. The provider may also evaluate holistic/alternative treatments, if requested. The provider will develop a treatment plan to best suit the patient’s needs.

Question 2

Will my treatment be covered by my insurance plan?

Accepted Answer

I do not accept insurance or bill insurance for you. If needed, I can provide you with a receipt that you may submit to your insurance for payment if you choose.

Question 3

What is Medication Management?

Accepted Answer

Medication management means the prescribing of medication. When a mental illness markedly impacts your ability to work, maintain interpersonal relationships, or properly care for your basic needs, medication may offer much-needed relief. Undergoing specialized medication management for
psychiatric drugs is important to:
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Ensure your medications don’t interact with one another
Make sure your medications are a good fit for you
Get updates and refills as needed
 
We will discuss your health history and the behavioral or mental health symptoms you’re experiencing. It is important to let the provider know about:
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All the medications you currently take--prescription and over-the-counter
Your personal history with taking psychiatric drugs
Any allergies you have
Alcohol or substance use
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Not everyone is a good candidate for medication therapy. Such therapy requires strict adherence to dosage, and frequency, close follow-up, and occasionally regular lab tests. Your ability to adhere to medication treatment will be taken into consideration in making the decision to start such therapy. I am a strong proponent of the bio-psycho-social model of medical treatment. Treatment that considers your biological status, genetics, your psychological development, and social issues together will yield the best chance for success in achieving your goals.

Question 4

Will my treatment be kept confidential?

Accepted Answer

Patient information is kept confidential following HIPAA guidelines. A signed Release of Information is required from the patient in order for information to be shared. The law protects the relationship between a patient and mental health and information cannot be disclosed without written permission except in the following situations:
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SUSPECTED ABUSE OF A CHILD, DEPENDENT ADULT, OR ELDER:
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A mental health provider is required by law to report suspected abuse of a child, dependent/disabled adult, or elder to the appropriate authorities immediately.
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THREAT OF SERIOUS BODILY HARM TO ANOTHER PERSON(S):
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If a client is threatening serious bodily harm to another person(s), the mental health provider must notify the police and inform the intended victim.
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THREAT OF SELF-HARM:
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If a client intends to harm him- or herself, the mental health provider will make every effort to enlist their cooperation in ensuring their safety. If the patient does not cooperate, further measures may be taken without their permission that are provided to mental health professionals by law in order to ensure the client's safety.
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Question 5

How often do I have to follow up?

Accepted Answer

Most follow ups occur between every week to once a month. Monthly appointments are scheduled for established patients that have been stable on medication for a prolonged period of time. The frequency of appointments varies depending on the complexity case of the individual patient. Prescriptions are filled up until next scheduled appointment. Patient to contact the office if a sooner refill is needed.

Danielle Ross PMHDNP, NP in Psychiatry PLLC
Rise Above Behavioral Medicine

FAQ

Frequently asked questions

What will happen during my first appointment?

Will my treatment be covered by my insurance plan?

What is Medication Management?

Will my treatment be kept confidential?

How often do I have to follow up?