FAQs

I provide psychiatric care for adults aged 18-65 and certain adolescent patients**

Patients must be located in either Colorado or Minnesota at the time of the appointment.

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My practice is open to individuals from all backgrounds, beliefs, and values. You can expect a supportive, inclusive, and respectful environment where you can discuss your health concerns.

It’s important that you feel comfortable communicating openly, and I’m dedicated to building a trusting therapeutic relationship. If you have specific needs or preferences, I encourage you to reach out and discuss them! Please feel free to schedule a free 15-minute consultation.

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**For more information on the care of patients <18 , please click the next FAQ section: “Do you see patients under the age of 18?”

In addition to adults, I welcome adolescent patients** under the following conditions:

1. Appointments must be in-person at the Monument, Colorado location.

2. A phone consultation with a parent or legal guardian is required before scheduling.

**Parents, please be aware that depending on your child's symptoms and clinical needs, we may recommend a referral to a specialized pediatric psychiatrist, therapist, or psychologist. Certain conditions require the expertise of a specialist due to their complexity or risk level.

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Why are in-person appointments required for patients under 18?

• Building Rapport: In-person visits foster stronger therapeutic relationships, helping adolescents feel more comfortable sharing their thoughts and feelings.

• Nonverbal Cues: Observing body language and facial expressions provides valuable insights into the patient's emotional state.

• Family Involvement: These appointments enhance family involvement, offering context and support during the treatment process.

• Engagement in Therapy: Face-to-face interactions help adolescents stay focused and committed to their treatment, encouraging open discussions.

I believe in a comprehensive approach to ensure your child receives safe, empathetic, and holistic care. This involves working closely with parents, caregivers, therapists, and my collaborating psychiatrist, Dr. Jonathan Chang, to address all aspects of your child's well-being.

Colorado employees enrolled with On-Site Medical Care (OSMC) may qualify for mental health benefits at little or no cost.**

For assistance with your care options, please reach out to your OSMC team (click here)!

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**Please note that a referral from OSMC is required to start care with Northwind Holistic Psychiatry using your insurance benefits. Your primary care provider will evaluate your mental health needs and assist in creating a treatment plan.

Please click here to see services and rates!

At Northwind, I offer self-pay rates to ensure greater flexibility and a more personalized approach to your care. Operating outside the constraints of insurance reimbursement policies allows us to have longer appointment times and build a direct relationship, free from insurance-related restrictions.

I'm happy to provide an itemized receipt with appropriate billing information should you wish to file for out-of-network insurance benefits or use HSA/FSA funds.

**Important Notice: Northwind Holistic Psychiatry is pending credentialing with United Healthcare, Aetna, Tricare, Blue Cross Blue Shield, and Medicaid. The expected timeline for approval is between January 2025, but please understand that this process may take longer.

If you are interested in receiving care prior to credentialing approval or have questions about insurance options, please don’t hesitate to reach out to discuss your best options!**

**Important Notice: Northwind Holistic Psychiatry is pending credentialing with United Healthcare, Aetna, Tricare, Blue Cross Blue Shield, and Medicaid. The expected timeline for approval is January 2025, but please understand that this process may take longer.

If you are interested in receiving care prior to credentialing approval or have questions about insurance options, please don’t hesitate to reach out to discuss your best options!**

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As an out-of-network provider (also referred to as “private-pay” or “cash-pay”), I do NOT accept insurance at this time.

The full session fee will be charged to the card on file on the day of your appointment.

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There are a few reasons why some people find self-pay to be a good choice:

• Freedom in Treatment: Insurance can influence how often you meet, what types of therapy you use, and how many sessions you can have. I believe these decisions should be made between you and me, based on what’s best for your unique situation.

• Enhanced Privacy: Insurance requires session notes to become part of your permanent health records. Choosing self-pay means your mental health care remains more private.

• Cost Considerations: Many insurance plans come with high deductibles. If you have a high deductible, you might find that self-pay is more cost-effective, especially if the out-of-pocket costs are similar to or less than what you’d pay toward your deductible with an in-network provider.

As an out-of-network provider (also referred to as “private-pay” or “cash-pay”), I do NOT accept insurance at this time.

If you have medical insurance that includes out-of-network benefits, I recommend reaching out to your insurer to determine your eligibility.**

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Tips on how to request insurance benefits with an "out-of-network" provider:

1. Call your insurance company's member services line to verify the specifics of your out-of-network benefits. Ask your carrier about:

• The out-of-network deductible and how much has been met.

• The out-of-network coinsurance rate for outpatient mental health services.

• Whether a referral from an in-network provider is required.

• The process for submitting claims for out-of-network reimbursement.

2. By request, I can provide an itemized receipt with appropriate billing information (also called a "Superbill," containing service date, description of the service, and the cost). You can submit this to your insurance to request reimbursement.

3. HSA/FSA Funds:

• You may be able to use HSA/FSA funds to cover session fees.

• Upon request, I'm happy to provide a Superbill and/or a Letter of Medical Necessity (LMN).

• Northwind Holistic Psychiatry, PLLC accepts payments from a debit card linked to your HSA or FSA account.

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**Patients are strongly encouraged to verify their out-of-network insurance and HSA/FSA benefits PRIOR to scheduling, as these can vary based on your insurance carrier and plan. Reimbursement amounts will depend on your plan's out-of-network benefits and the allowable amount for the services provided.

APPOINTMENT OPTIONS:

• Colorado: Both online (virtual/telepsychiatry) AND in-person visits. In-person appointments are held at: 212 Washington Street, Suite F, Monument, CO 80132.

  (click here for directions)

• Minnesota: Online (virtual/telepsychiatry).

HOURS:

• Virtual: Monday to Thursday, 9 AM to 3 PM (Mountain Standard Time)**

• In-Person: Monday, 8 AM to 12 PM**

**additional hours may be available upon request.

If the standard office hours aren't suitable for your unique circumstances, please reach out! I am dedicated to supporting you and can offer different appointment options to assist you in prioritizing your mental health!

Online appointments for psychiatry are just like in-person, except via video. I use a secure, HIPAA-compliant video platform designed for healthcare professionals (IntakeQ/PracticeQ).

• The URL to join an online session is automatically included in email or SMS appointment confirmations.

• To make sure your device and browser are supported, please click here to run a test.

• Looking for more information on how to prepare your device? Please click here.

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Some patients find that they prefer online appointments to in-person therapy due to the convenience and privacy of having sessions from home. I also offer sessions via telephone (no video), if this method is preferred. 

Please note that online appointments are not suitable for all patients. During your initial phone consultation, we will discuss whether online therapy is the right fit for you.

The frequency of your sessions will depend on your treatment plan and the level of support you need. Most people begin with biweekly (every other week) or monthly appointments.

As we work towards your goals, sessions may be scheduled every 3 to 6 months. We’ll further discuss session frequency options in our first session together.

You might be wondering if I'm a psychiatrist—actually, I’m a Certified Physician Assistant (PA-C)! This means I’m a highly trained medical provider specializing in the diagnosis and treatment of mental health conditions. As a PA-C, I’m educated in the physician-based medical model, which prepares me to offer mental health services, including psychiatric care, in collaboration with licensed physicians.

As a Physician Assistant, I’m authorized to diagnose, prescribe, and manage both prescription and over-the-counter medications, including controlled substances. If necessary, and based on clinical needs, I may refer you to a collaborating psychiatrist or other healthcare provider.

I’m dedicated to providing safe and exceptional care, and I’ll make sure any necessary referrals are communicated clearly to ensure a smooth transition of care.

Controlled substances include medications such as stimulants (e.g., Adderall, Ritalin, Vyvanse) and benzodiazepines (e.g., Xanax, Ativan, Klonopin). These medications will only be prescribed if they are clinically appropriate and part of a well-rounded treatment plan.

• Colorado Patients: In line with Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) regulations and the Ryan Haight Act, I require regular in-person visits at our Monument, Colorado location (212 Washington Street, Monument, CO 80132).

• Minnesota Patients: In compliance with DEA regulations, I do not prescribe controlled substances to patients located in Minnesota. However, if needed, we can work with your primary care or specialty provider to manage or recommend these medications.

1. Appointments: All services are by appointment only, reserved specifically for each patient. Emergency accommodations will be made when possible. Converting an in-person appointment to a virtual is always free.

2. Cancellations: Non-emergency cancellations must be made at least 48 business hours in advance. Cancellations within 48 hours incur a $100 fee; same-day cancellations incur the full appointment cost. Emergency cancellations will apply charges to the next visit.

3. Missed Appointments: If a non-emergency appointment needs to be missed, please notify as soon as possible via phone, text, or email. No-shows will be charged the full appointment cost. Excessive no-shows may result in discharge from the practice. Charges for emergency-related missed appointments will be applied to the next visit.

4. Emergency Exceptions: I understand that emergencies can happen! Please communicate with me regarding any unexpected situations via phone, text, or email.

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This policy is in place because I reserve your time slot exclusively for you and often cannot fill it with less than 48 hours' notice. Thank you for your understanding and cooperation!

To get started, simply click on this link to schedule an initial psychiatric assessment or free 15-minute consultation.

You will receive intake forms via email. Please complete these forms at least 24 hours before our first visit. If the forms are not completed in time, we may need to reschedule your appointment.

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If you have any questions or need assistance, please reach out via phone, text, or email! You may also submit a contact form by clicking here.

During your initial psychiatric assessment, we’ll spend about 60 minutes discussing your current mental health concerns, reviewing your medical and psychiatric history, and exploring your treatment goals. We will consider various options, including medication, therapy, and lifestyle changes.

By examining your past treatments, family background, work life, and current challenges, we’ll collaborate to create a holistic treatment plan tailored to your needs. I’ll be here to answer any questions and ensure you feel comfortable with our approach.

Please complete your intake forms at least 24 hours before our first visit. If you haven’t received them via email or SMS, please let me know! If the forms are not completed in time, we may need to reschedule your appointment.

A Good Faith Estimate gives you a preview of the cost of your care if you don’t have insurance. It’s your right to receive this estimate so you know what to expect.

Here’s how it works:

If you’re paying out-of-pocket, healthcare providers are required by law to provide you with an estimate of the costs for your medical care. This includes not just the main service, but also any related expenses like tests, prescriptions, equipment, and hospital fees.

To make sure you’re well-informed, ask your healthcare provider for a Good Faith Estimate in writing at least one business day before your appointment or service. You can also request this estimate before scheduling any service or item.

If you receive a bill that’s $400 or more above the estimate, you have the right to dispute it.

Don’t forget to keep a copy or photo of your Good Faith Estimate. For more details about your rights or if you have any questions, you can visit www.cms.gov/nosurprises or call 800-985-3059.

If you are in immediate danger, please call 911 or go to your nearest emergency department.

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Available 24-hours for Everyone

988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline

If you are in crisis and need support, call or text the 24-hour Crisis Line at “988,” or use the online chat service.

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Colorado Residents:

Colorado Crisis Services

Free, confidential and immediate support from trained professionals and peer specialists, available 24/7/365 by calling 844-493-TALK (8255), or texting TALK to 38255. Colorado residents can also seek services in-person at our walk-in centers, regardless of ability to pay.