TREATMENT/APPOINTMENTS

How can I set up an evaluation?

Before we confirm your initial evaluation, we require you to fill out an intake form. This helps us ensure we can cater to your needs in our small private practice and exclusively telemedicine setting. Once reviewed and if you are accepted into practice you will be sent a link to open a portal account.

What should I expect during my initial evaluation?

Our first session together is all about understanding your unique situation through a comprehensive evaluation. We'll start by discussing the reason for your visit and then delve into your present symptoms as well as your psychiatric, medical, and personal background. By the end, we will be able to discuss a preliminary diagnosis and consider potential treatment avenues. However, there are times where a single meeting might not be enough to finalize everything. Sometimes, we may need to hold multiple sessions for a thorough assessment and to craft an accurate, treatment strategy. Although not required, having a trusted loved one attend a session may be beneficial.

Treatment suggestions might include prescription drugs (if suitable), dietary supplements, changes in daily routines, therapy referral, and routine follow-up care

Please ensure all your forms and consents are submitted at least 72 hours before your confirmed session. If they aren't, we'll need to postpone our meeting. Once all the paperwork is in order, we can reschedule.

It's essential to note that a first assessment doesn't automatically establish a formal patient-practitioner relationship or promise a treatment course.

How frequently should I expect appointments?

How often we meet depends on two main factors: the intensity of your symptoms and the necessity to modify medication regimen.

If you're beginning a new medication, you might need consultations every 1-3 weeks, mainly to gauge the medications impact, oversee any reactions, and adjust as necessary. Sometimes, even if your medications remain consistent, frequent consultations may still be needed if your symptoms are particularly intense.

Once things stabilize, typically patients have check-ins every 1-3 months, although this can vary depending on the diagnosis, the medications, the treatment strategy, and personal circumstances.

What if I do not show up for my appointment or cancel with less than 24 hours notice?

Our commitment is to provide the best possible care for our patients. To ensure the availability of appointments for all, we require that you provide at least 24 hours notice if you need to cancel or reschedule your appointment. This allows us to accommodate other patients in need of our services. Thank you for your understanding and cooperation in helping us maintain the highest standard of care.

Do you prescribe drugs like benzodiazepines or sedative/hypnotics?

We adhere to strict guidelines when it comes to prescribing controlled substances. We do not have a strict “no benzodiazepine” policies and understand that there are occasions when benzodiazepines, such as Ativan (Lorazepam) or Klonopin (Clonazepam), might be considered. However, at this practice they are ALWAYS given in minimal quantities and are meant for brief, as-needed use. This caution arises from their limited short-term recommendation (2-4 weeks) due to potential risks like tolerance, dependency, depression, and cognitive issues. We understand that there are people who have been prescribed these medication's for many years from previous providers. If you are transferring care from another provider to MountainView Mind & Mood, please understand that these medication's will be tapered until discontinued as we only prescribe short courses of benzodiazepines

Are stimulants prescribed at your practice?

Yes, but prescribing stimulants is a matter of practitioner discretion, primarily for ADHD/Binge Eating Disorder patients. However it is important to note that ADHD and mood disorders, especially bipolar disorder, can present with overlapping symptoms like impulsivity, restlessness, and distractibility. It's possible for individuals with ADHD to be misdiagnosed with mood disorders and vice versa. Differentiating them requires careful clinical evaluation, considering the onset, course, and specific constellation of symptoms. If ADHD is diagnosed, your provider will outline potential treatment pathways, which might include medication. Stimulants are one such option, but there are alternative effective treatments that might be better suited for you. If stimulants are given, it's typically a maximum 30-day supply, with a strict no-replacement policy for misplaced or stolen medications.

How Can I get my medications refilled?

You'll typically receive your medication refills during your scheduled sessions, meant to last until your subsequent appointment.