Requesting a consultation

What we'll talk about

• What brings you inIn broad strokes. You don't need to tell your whole story yet; that is what the initial evaluation is for.
• What you're hoping will changeAnd whether the way I work is a good match for it.
• The practical sideFees, scheduling, in-person and telehealth visits, and out-of-network reimbursement.
• Your questionsAbout me, my approach, or anything else that would help you decide.

The call is a conversation about fit, not an evaluation. I won't diagnose, recommend treatment, or give medical advice during it, and it doesn't make you my patient. If this practice isn't the right fit, I can share some places to start looking for care that is.

From request to first appointment

1. You fill out a short request form. The consultation request form takes about five minutes. It asks for your contact information, a few times that work for a call, and a few practical questions, not your history.
2. I reach out to schedule the call. I typically respond within two business days (Monday through Thursday), by phone, text, or email, whichever you prefer.
3. We talk by phone. About 20 minutes, at no charge.
4. If we both feel it's a fit, we schedule your initial evaluation. Before it, you'll receive intake paperwork and a written Good Faith Estimate. Please complete the paperwork at least one business day before your evaluation, by the same time of day, so I have time to review it; if it hasn't arrived by then, we'll reschedule at no charge. The Initial Psychiatric Evaluation is 75 minutes, in person at my Pasadena office, and is $785.

A few things to know first

• I see adults, 18 and older, who live in California.
• The first visit is in person in Pasadena, and I see every patient in person at least once every six months. Follow-ups in between can be by telehealth.
• I don't bill insurance, though many patients are reimbursed through out-of-network benefits. I can't see patients with Medicare, including Medicare Advantage, or new patients enrolled in Medi-Cal.

Fees, policies, and common questions are covered in full on Services & Fees.

If you are in crisis or thinking about harming yourself or someone else, please don't wait for a call back. Call or text 988, call 911, or go to the nearest emergency room.