Frequently asked questions

Answers, before your first visit.

Practical questions about becoming a patient, scheduling, insurance, treatment, and what to do in a crisis. If you don't see your question, please reach out - we're happy to help.

Getting started

How do I become a new patient?

Send us the information using whichever method is most convenient for you:

What should I bring to my first appointment?

Please bring a photo ID, your insurance card (if applicable), a list of current medications and doses, and any prior records or evaluations you think would be helpful. If you have a referral, bring that as well. Please fill out all intake forms that have been sent to you after scheduling the appointment.

What happens at the first visit?

Your first appointment is a comprehensive evaluation. We'll review your history, current concerns, medical and family background, and what you hope to get out of treatment. By the end of the visit, we'll talk through initial impressions and a plan for next steps.

How long until I can be seen?

Wait time varies based on demand and the type of care you're looking for. After we receive your intake form, we typically reach out within two business days with scheduling options. If your concern is more urgent, please call us and let us know.

Appointments & logistics

Do you offer telehealth?

Yes. HIPAA-compliant telehealth options are available.

Which states are you licensed in?

Missouri.

How long is a typical session?

An initial psychiatric evaluation is approximately 60 minutes. Medication management follow-ups are approximately 15 to 30 minutes.

What is your cancellation policy?

We ask for at least 24 hours' notice for cancellations. Same-day cancellations or missed visits may be subject to a fee. We understand that things come up - please call us if you need to reschedule and we'll do our best to work with you.

How do I reach you after hours?

We are not able to provide after-hours clinical coverage. For urgent concerns that can't wait, please call 988 (Suicide & Crisis Lifeline) or your primary care provider. For emergencies, dial 911 or go to your nearest emergency room.

Do you offer same-day appointments?

Occasionally. We hold a small number of same-day slots for urgent concerns, but they fill quickly. Call us at (573) 303-3544 in the morning to check availability. If you are in crisis, please call, text, or chat 988 instead.

Insurance & cost

What insurance do you accept?

We are in-network with most major plans including Aetna, Cigna & Evernorth, Humana, Missouri Medicaid, Medicare, Optum / United Behavioral Health, Tricare, UHC, and UMR. The full list - and instructions for verifying your benefits - is on our insurance page.

Do you offer self-pay?

Yes. Self-pay is available. Contact our office for current information. We accept HSA/FSA cards and major credit cards.

What if my plan is out-of-network?

You can still contact us about care. A superbill may be available for possible out-of-network reimbursement, and self-pay is available.

Do you accept Medicaid or Medicare?

Yes - both Missouri Medicaid and Medicare are among our accepted plans. Coverage details (copay, prior authorization requirements) depend on your specific plan. We can help you check before your first visit.

Can I use my HSA or FSA card?

Yes. We accept HSA/FSA cards as well as major credit cards.

What is a Good Faith Estimate?

Under the federal No Surprises Act, patients who are uninsured or paying out of pocket generally have the right to a written Good Faith Estimate of expected charges. The estimate is not a bill, and emergency care is not part of the process. You can read the details on our insurance page.

Treatment

Do you prescribe controlled substances?

Yes, when clinically appropriate. This includes stimulant medications for ADHD and certain other controlled medications. We follow careful prescribing protocols, which include regular check-ins, monitoring as needed, and - for some medications - occasional urine drug screens. We may not prescribe controlled substances on a first visit.

How do prescription refills work?

To ensure your care is safe and effective, medication refills are managed during scheduled follow-up appointments—either in person or virtually. Regular check-ins are an essential standard of care, so we encourage you to book your next visit well in advance to prevent any gaps in your medication.

Do you see children and adolescents?

We see adolescents age 12 and older and adults. For younger children, we are happy to help with a referral to a colleague who specializes in that age range.

What kinds of therapy do you offer?

Our approach is supportive and integrative. We draw on evidence-based methods including CBT, DBT-informed skills work, mindfulness-based approaches, and trauma-informed care (including EMDR-informed approaches). The exact approach depends on what you are working on and what fits your life.

Privacy & safety

Is my information confidential?

Yes. We follow HIPAA requirements for protecting your health information. We will not share your information with anyone outside of treatment without your written consent, except in the specific situations required or allowed by law (such as imminent safety concerns). Our full Notice of Privacy Practices explains your rights and our responsibilities in detail.

What do I do in a crisis?

If you are in crisis, call, text, or chat 988 for the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. It is free, confidential, and available 24/7. For emergencies, dial 911 or go to your nearest emergency room. We are not able to provide emergency or after-hours crisis care.

How do I get a copy of my records?

You can request a copy of your records at any time. Please contact our office and we'll send you the appropriate release form. We process records requests in a timely manner, generally within 30 days.

Do you coordinate with my other providers?

Yes, with your written consent. Coordination of care with your primary care provider, therapist, or other specialists is often an important part of good treatment. We can also reach out to a previous prescriber when helpful.

Still have a question?

Reach out with non-urgent questions, or call our office to request an appointment.

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