Questions, answered plainly
Straight answers about insurance, medication, privacy, and getting started. Don’t see yours? Call 203-680-0030.
The three questions we hear most
Do you take my insurance?
Yes to HUSKY. We accept HUSKY Health (CT Medicaid), Medicare, Aetna, Cigna, Anthem, UnitedHealthcare, and ComPsych.
Not sure about your plan? Call us at 203-680-0030. We check your coverage before your first visit, so you know your cost up front.
Will I just be handed pills?
No. Your first visit is a full conversation about you, not a quick prescription. Medication is one option — never the only one.
You and your provider decide together, and “no” is a real answer. If you do start a medicine, we start with a low dose and adjust slowly.
Will you hospitalize me if I’m honest?
Almost never. Telling us how bad it really is — even thoughts of suicide — does not mean a hospital stay. Hospital care you did not choose (involuntary care) is rare. It is only for immediate danger.
Our first response is always a plan made with you. What you share stays private, with a few narrow legal exceptions, like immediate danger to you or someone else.
Getting started
How do I become a patient?
Call us, or ask your doctor to send a referral. Health rules require your paperwork, insurance, and consents to be complete before your first visit. Our team helps you finish every step.
How soon can I be seen?
Often quickly. Call us and we’ll tell you honestly what’s open right now.
Do I need a referral?
No. You can refer yourself — just call. A doctor’s note is not required.
Do you see children?
We see teens, yes. For younger children, please call us and we’ll talk it through.
Visits
What happens at the first visit?
You talk, we listen. Your provider asks about your history, your health, and your goals. See the step-by-step guide: your first visit.
How do video visits work?
Your provider sends a link. It opens in your phone or computer browser — no app to install. Learn more: how telehealth visits work.
Can I be seen in person?
Almost all of our care happens by secure video, which patients find easier and just as personal. If visiting the office matters to you, we can arrange it at our New Haven location — just ask when you call.
Are there evening or weekend times?
Yes, on request. Appointments are available day, evening, and weekends. Call us for openings.
Medication
Are psychiatric medicines addictive?
Most are not. Antidepressants and mood stabilizers are not habit-forming.
A few can be — like some anxiety and ADHD medicines (controlled substances). We prescribe those carefully, under a written safety policy: prescription policy (PDF).
What about side effects?
We start low and go slow. Your provider explains likely side effects before you start anything. We ask about them at every visit and adjust if needed.
Can I stop my medication later?
Yes. Stopping is planned with you, never alone. Some medicines need a slow step-down in dose (tapering) so you don’t feel sick. We explain this before your first prescription.
How do refills work?
Call your pharmacy first. Most refills don’t need a call to our office. Full details: how refills work.
Money
What does a visit cost without insurance?
Your first evaluation is $200; follow-up visits are $100.
You also have the right to a written cost estimate (Good Faith Estimate) before care. Learn more: No Surprises Act (PDF).
When do I pay copays?
At the visit. We accept credit and debit cards. Full details: payment policy (PDF).
What if my insurance changes?
Tell us right away. Even small changes — a new card, a new employer plan — can cause claim denials. A quick call protects you from surprise bills.
Privacy & records
Is what I say private?
Yes. Your visits and records are kept private by law (confidential). There are a few narrow exceptions, like immediate danger or a court order. Full notice: HIPAA privacy practices (PDF).
How do I get my records?
Fill out one form. Download the medical records release (PDF) and send it to our office.
What do parents of teens get told?
We explain exactly how privacy works for minors at the first visit — to both teen and parent. Consent form: minor consent (PDF).
If you cancel or run late
What should I do?
Call us at 203-680-0030 as soon as you can. We’ll reschedule with you. Policy details coming soon
Still have a question?
Phones are answered Monday–Friday, 8:30 am – 4:30 pm. Current patients can also message us any time in the patient portal.
