This page contains frequently asked questions. If you do not find the answer here, give us a call or submit your question on our Contact page.
Does Spectrum Psychiatry provide letters for emotional support animals or FMLA? We do not provide short-term disability, long-term disability, or court-related documentation. Forms such as FMLA requests, ESA letters, school letters, and other miscellaneous forms will only be considered for established patients who have been with us for at least 3 months. There is a fee for these services, which insurance typically does not cover these charges.
Does Spectrum Psychiatry offer emergency services? We are a solo practice, meaning there is only one provider, and we do not have an on-call provider and therefore, we do not offer emergency services. If you are experiencing an urgent mental health concern that cannot wait until the next business day, please contact emergency or crisis services.
How do I schedule an appointment? All appointments are scheduled online from our website. You may call with any questions or assistance with our online scheduling, but you will still have to complete the online scheduling process and complete our intake forms, which you will receive electronically once your appointment request has been accepted. Please note: Your appointment request will be cancelled if the required intake forms are not submitted within 24 hours of your appointment request. If your appointment is cancelled, you are welcome to request another appointment when you know you have the time to complete the intake forms.
What is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP)? A PMHNP is a master’s prepared, advanced practice nursing specialty which uses the nursing model of care, a holistic focus on both the physical and emotional needs of a patient. This differs from the historical medical model which is the primary model of healthcare used by physicians and physician assistants. Some people prefer one caregiver model over the other. The scope of practice for PMHNPs may differ from state to state. In many states, a PMHNP can practice independently meaning no physician involvement. However, there are still some states in which a PMHNP must work with a collaborating physician. A PMHNP can evaluate and diagnose a wide range of mental health conditions, prescribe medications, order diagnostics tests, and provide psychotherapy.
Does Spectrum Psychiatry accept insurance? Yes, Spectrum Psychiatry is currently contracted with most major insurance plans. We are not an in-network provider with Medicaid. If you do not have insurance or do not wish to use insurance, we accept most major credit cards, debit and HSA cards. ​We are also contracted with Medicare of Arizona however, we only see patients aged 13-64. Visit our Locations page to see which insurance plans we accept in your state.
How much are services if I don't have insurance? If I am contracted with your insurance carrier, the fee is determined by the contracted rate schedule set by your insurance plan. Private pay rates vary by time and complexity. For patients who do not have insurance or prefer not to use it (self-pay), we offer private pay rates. The private pay fees do not include cost of medications or labs, but we partner with Cost Plus Drug Company which offers an affordable option to accessing medications. *New patient 75-minute initial diagnostic assessment ~$300 *Established patient 45-minute annual assessment to review complete psychosocial, medical, psychiatric history, discuss how you are feeling and manage medications as needed (Required every 12 months) ~ $200 *A 20 minute check to review/adjust your meds if needed ~$150 *A 40 minute supportive therapy session and review/manage your medications as needed ~$175 *A 60-minute supportive therapy session and review/manage your medications as needed ~$200 *The rates above are our private pay rates priced to offer both medication management and therapy to save you time and money.
Does Spectrum Psychiatry treat all mental health conditions? No, although we treat numerous mental health conditions, there are several we do not treat. We do not treat SMI or opioid use disorder. We do not provide court ordered treatment or evaluations. We do not do short term or long-term disability. We do not perform evaluations for autism or learning disabilities.
Does Spectrum Psychiatry see children? We see patients from age 13 to 64. Children and the elderly are special populations which we believe require more specialized care.
Does Spectrum Psychiatry offer therapy? As a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner, I take a holistic approach to evaluating, diagnosing, and managing mental health conditions. I integrate therapy during follow-up visits and address any psychological or interpersonal factors based on your unique needs. We strongly recommend therapy for all our patients, as it often enhances treatment outcomes. Therapy helps you acquire tools and techniques for managing stress, anxiety, and other mental health challenges, contributing to your overall well-being.
Does Spectrum Psychiatry offer in person appointments? All appointments in California, Maryland and Virginia are 100% online video appointments. We offer both online and limited in person appointments for residents of Arizona. In person appointments for Arizona residents are available at our Tempe office.