Frequently Asked Questions
about Integrative Psychiatry

1. What is integrative psychiatry?

Integrative psychiatry means focusing on the whole person when selecting treatments or approaches to care. This includes medication, nutrition, exercise, therapy, and other alternative or complementary treatments. I like to think of integrative psychiatry as a smorgasbord - it provides a bit everything. It is important to note that a genuine integrative psychiatry practice always uses evidence-based methods.

 

Learn more about integrative psychiatry

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2. What is functional psychiatry?

Another term? This one is straightforward - functional means treating the "root cause" of a condition through testing, mapping, and exploration.

 

If we can determine a specific cause to a condition, sometimes treating the root cause yields excellent results. Functional psychiatry is often a part of an integrative approach to care.

 

Key distinction: functional psychiatry means treating the cause, not the symptom. Traditional medicine typically treats symptoms, often ignoring the causes.

 

3. Why don't you accept insurance?

I get this one a lot. I understand why!
 

The model that works for most psychiatry practices is not something in which I believe. I think it is unfair to see a patient for just a few minutes, scribble a few notes, and send off a prescription. The traditional model is void of connection and often void of quality care. I believe every patient deserves someone who builds a relationship and is a partner in their care - not a mysterious white coat they see a time or two every year.

 

The fees enable me to give you the most personal care available.

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Bonus: I offer a service called Reimbursify.  This enables me to submit out of network claims directly to your insurance on your behalf.  

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4. What format are the appointments?

Most appointments are virtual, as this is what most people prefer. If in-person is something you'd like, we can likely make that happen. Some medications may require us to meet in person on occasion. I typically see patients in person one or two days per month.

 

5. Are there any conditions you don't treat?

Short answer: no! My primary goal is to work as a team with you. I care less about what a previous provider may have labeled you and more about how we'll work together.

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One of my biggest issues with the mental health field is the desire to diagnose, label, and otherwise categorize every symptom or condition. When we work together, my goal isn't to diagnose you or give you a label. My goal is to help you achieve, excel, and grow. We'll work to reduce your symptoms, increase your output, or whatever your goals may be. Once we've established a sound working relationship, I'm happy to share with you some of the overarching diagnostic concepts.

 

However, you must commit and come ready to do the work!

 

How does that sound?

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6. I am nervous, what can I expect?

Totally normal! Our first meeting will be over the phone. It'll be 15 minutes. Here you can ask questions, share your goals, and learn more about my practice. This is casual.

 

After this, you'll fill out all the pre-appointment paperwork and schedule your first appointment! (Note: pre-appointment paperwork must be completed at least 24 hours prior to the first appointment to give me plenty of time to review).

 

After you've completed the paperwork, we will have our initial intake appointment. Our initial visit will be 75 minutes. We will dig deep and cover a wide range of topics from your history, relationships, work, family, medical conditions, and more. This is also casual - think of a deep conversation over coffee with someone you trust.

 

7. Do you see emergency cases?

Unfortunately, no.

 

If you believe your situation is an emergency please call 911 or head to the nearest emergency room. Your life matters!

 

The practice model under which I work is a primary care model. Facilitating emergency care requires a different approach. If your situation is not emergent, but urgent, we may be able to work together to get things back on track.

 

8. Are you a psychiatrist or MD?

I am a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC)!  My professional role is similar to that of a psychiatrist.  As a psychiatric nurse practitioner, I am qualified to prescribe medication, including controlled substances, provide therapy and coaching, conduct evaluations, and more.

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9. How do you differ from a psychiatrist or MD?

Although there are similarities, there are also some distinctions between my role and that of a psychiatrist.  As a psychiatric nurse practitioner, I have a background in nursing and have undergone additional education and training.  The nursing approach to care tends to be more holistic, drawing on our nursing experience and emphasizing the importance of connecting with patients on a personal level.

 

10. Are you certified in the field of psychiatry?

Absolutely! Just like psychiatrists, I am board-certified in psychiatry.  My certification is granted by the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC).  This certification qualifies me to treat individuals with psychiatric needs throughout their lifespan.