FAQs
Are you accepting new patients?
Yes. I have good availability most weeks for new and established clients. Contact me so we can discuss how I can help you.
How do we start treatment together?
Please review the website to understand my background, services, and fees. If you think we could be a good fit, send me a message via this website with your contact information. If you are a patient of mine from my prior practice I will send you a link to access the client portal. If you are a new patient, I will give you a call to briefly explore your needs and expectations. If we agree on fit, I'll send you a link to access the client portal. Once you have access to the portal you will provide basic information; sign required disclosures and consents; and be able to schedule appointments.
What's the best way to communicate with you?
Once you establish care with me, the best way to communicate is via the client portal. The client portal is a secure platform where we can easily and safely discuss your health concerns. I don't have office staff to take messages so if you try calling me, the call will likely go to voicemail during office hours as I'm likely with another patient, so the best method is the client portal. I will do my best to respond to routine messages or voicemails within 48 business hours.
What do I do in an emergency? Or after-hours?
My practice is not staffed or equipped for emergencies. I'm also not available after-hours or on weekends. Please keep this in mind as you consider whether or not I am the right doctor for you. Call 988 or 911 if you are in severe behavioral health crisis, or go to the ER for medical or psychiatric emergencies.
Why don't you take insurance, Medicare, or Medicaid?
It's very common for psychiatrists to not take insurance. There are many reasons for this. In a solo private practice I don't have the business support that a larger clinic does to handle the administrative tasks and complexities of accepting insurance. Also, payment reimbursement rates for psychiatrists are often lower compared to other medical specialties or services.
If I saw you at your previous practice, can I continue seeing you? Do I need to schedule a 'New Patient Appointment'?
Patients can choose where to get their health care. If you are a previous patient of mine, I'm very happy to continue to work with you. You can schedule a regular or long follow-up depending on your preference or need. I strongly recommend providing a complete copy of your last appointment note. The 'After Visit Summary' will help, but the full note will be the most helpful. I do not have access to your medical records from my previous practice so providing your last visit note will greatly assist your transition of care. You should have access to the full note from your MyChart which you can provide ahead of time or at the visit.
What should I do if I need a provider who takes insurance?
If you were my patient at the Everett Clinic or Optum, please call their Psychiatry Department at 425-339-5453. Let them know you were my patient and now need a transfer of care to another provider. They will help you schedule with another clinician who will take over your care. They can also help you get refills on necessary medications until you see a new provider or you can contact your PCP to refill medications. Optum WA has a great Psychiatry department who I trust your care with and I wish you the best.