FAQs
Getting started
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You can book directly — no forms, no waiting for a callback. Choose a time that works for you and you'll be able to complete your registration in a few minutes.
If you have a question first, or you're requesting documentation rather than an appointment, use our contact form and a person will get back to you.
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It's an hour, and most of it is you talking. We'll go through what's been going on, what you've tried before, what worked and what didn't, and what you're hoping treatment can do for you. By the end we'll have a plan you agree with — including the option to wait, or to start with something other than medication.
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That's more common than you might think — a lot of people arrive having felt rushed, dismissed, or handed a prescription without much explanation.
Two things matter here. You see the same provider every time, so you're not re-explaining your history to someone new. And Michael will tell you the reasoning behind every recommendation — what he's considering, why, and what the alternatives are. You're deciding together, not being handed a plan.
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That's normal, and it's a good reason to come in rather than a reason to stay away.
Meeting with us doesn't commit you to anything. We'll talk through the risks and benefits of different options — including doing nothing for now — and build a plan you're actually comfortable with. Some people decide to wait. Some decide medication isn't their path. Both are legitimate outcomes of a first visit. And if you start something and later want to stop, we'll help you come off it safely.
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Yes. All visits are by video. You'll need a private space and a device with a camera. We see adults across Orange, Los Angeles, Riverside, San Diego, and Ventura counties.
About your care
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New patient evaluations are comprehensive and typically run 60 minutes. Follow-up appointments are typically 30 minutes. Please be ready to start on time so you get the full benefit of your visit.
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It varies with what you need. When you're starting treatment or making a significant medication change, follow-ups every 2 weeks are typical. Once things are steady, follow-ups are usually every four to eight weeks to check how you're tolerating a medication and review your symptoms.
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Supportive therapy happens within your visits — practical work on problem-solving, communication, and understanding your own diagnosis. It's a real part of your care, not an afterthought.
We don't offer standalone therapy sessions. If that's what you're looking for, we're glad to point you toward someone who does.
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We see adults 18 and older.
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We do offer controlled substance prescriptions when clinically appropriate and at the discretion of your practitioner. Please be aware that regulatory agencies may require in-person evaluations for some prescriptions.
Insurance & payment
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Yes — we're in network with most major plans. You can see the full list on our rates page, and check your specific coverage and get a cost estimate before you book. We're not able to accept Medicare or Medi-Cal plans at this time.
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Yes. Out-of-network patients can request a superbill from us to submit to your insurance for reimbursement. Most plans offer partial reimbursement for out-of-network costs — check with your individual plan for details.
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Yes. Our fees are listed on the rates page.
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Payments and any fees are handled securely through Headway, the platform you'll use to book and manage your appointments. If you're using insurance, you'll be charged your plan's copay or rate; if you're paying privately, our fees are on the rates page. You'll be able to see your expected cost before you book.
Scheduling policies
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Cancelling or rescheduling requires 48 hours' advance notice. Without it, a $50 fee applies, charged through Headway.
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Missed appointments are billed a $50 fee through Headway.
Arriving more than 15 minutes late to an initial appointment, or more than 10 minutes late to a follow-up, is considered a missed appointment.
Between visits & emergencies
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Yes, for non-urgent questions. Once you're a patient, the Headway portal is where you manage appointments and message us about anything clinical — it's secure and part of your record. We aim to respond within one to two business days.
Complex questions about symptom management or your medications often need a proper follow-up visit rather than a message, and we'll let you know if that's the case.
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If you're having a medical or psychiatric emergency — including thoughts of harming yourself or others — call 911 immediately or go to your nearest emergency room.
If you're in crisis or having thoughts of suicide, call or text 988 to reach the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, available 24/7.
Once you're safe, please let us know you've received emergency care so we can help coordinate your follow-up.