FAQ

What kinds of behavioral health issues do you treat?

I offer a wide range of treatment options to help individuals manage their symptoms and improve their overall well-being. Whether it’s anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, OCD, PTSD, or any mental health condition, I am committed to providing compassionate care and support every step of the way. My ultimate goal is to help my clients live happier, healthier lives, and I consider it a privilege to be a part of their journey towards healing.

Does BFABH provide in-person appointments?

This is a telemedicine practice that provides virtual appointments. I do not offer in-person visits. My priority is to ensure the safety and convenience of my clients by offering secure and confidential telehealth services that can be accessed from the comfort of their own homes. If you have any questions about my telemedicine services or would like to schedule a virtual appointment, please don’t hesitate to contact me.

How much do appointments cost?

• Initial visit: $225
• Follow-up visits: $90

At Beauty For Ashes Behavioral Health, I strive to make mental health care accessible and affordable for my patients. Initial psychiatric evaluations in Virginia usually cost between $250 and $500 for 60 to 90 minutes, while follow-up visits can range from $100 to $300 for just 15 to 30 minutes.

I offer a cash-based, fee-for-service model to keep costs down: $225 for the initial evaluation (up to 105 minutes) and $90 for follow-up sessions (up to 45 minutes). This allows me more time for personalized care without high expenses.

How long do appointments last?

• Initial visit: Up to 105 minutes
• Follow-up appointments: Up to 45 minutes

Do you accept insurance?

I do not work with insurance companies because your care should be a true partnership between us. This means we will work together based on evidence-based practices, your personal insights, and my training and experience. I want to focus on what is best for you, not the needs of an insurance bureaucracy. Together, we will create a personalized approach to support your healing journey and ensure your well-being. However, I accept payments through various methods, including credit and debit cards, Health Savings Account (HSA) cards, bank accounts, and Venmo to make the payment process seamless.

How do I make an initial appointment?

After your free consultation, we will schedule your initial appointment. You will receive an email with the appointment date, time, and Zoom link. A link to the patient portal will also be sent to you.

What information do you need before starting me on a medication?

After reviewing your psychiatric and medical histories from your intake paperwork and getting to know you better during our initial visit, I’ll develop a personalized treatment plan tailored to your unique situation. I may need to obtain medical records or order labs before prescribing medication. Let’s work together to find the best treatment plan for your needs.

How long do medications take to work, generally?

Antidepressants and anxiety medications can take 2–4 weeks before you start to notice a positive change in your mood. The time it takes for other medications to take effect can vary, and we’ll go over that in detail during your appointment.

Although side effects can occur from the first day, they usually improve within the first few days to a week.

What if I don’t notice any difference after taking the medication for four weeks?

Finding the proper medication and dosage may require some patience. Our initial step will be to adjust the dosage, ensuring that an adequate trial of the medication is conducted. If the desired response is not achieved within 8 to 12 weeks or if the side effects become intolerable, alternative medications will be considered. A combination of medications may also be necessary to achieve the desired outcome. I am committed to ensuring your satisfaction, and we will work collaboratively to find the optimal solution.

How will my prescriptions be filled?

Your prescription(s) will be securely transmitted to your pharmacy through the electronic medical record.

How do I request a refill for my medication?

Your pharmacist may request a refill, or you may request one through the electronic health record. Depending on how long it has been since your last visit and how stable you have been on your medication, you may need a follow-up appointment before receiving medication refills. A small amount of medication may be supplied to ensure sufficient quantity until your appointment.

Do you prescribe benzodiazepines, buprenorphine, stimulant ADHD medication like Adderall, and other types of controlled substances?

I do not prescribe controlled substances. I am happy to assist you with other mental health issues not related to controlled substance treatment.

Do I need to see a therapist while working with my provider?

I believe in the biopsychosocial and spiritual approach to behavioral health. As a physician, I strive to address as many of these contributors to your behavioral health issues as possible, including working with your PCP with your consent. Counselors, social workers, friends, small groups, and spiritual advisors provide additional resources toward this whole-person approach to wellness and wholeness.