Taking the first step to getting psychiatric care can be overwhelming, especially when you’re not feeling your best.
IMHS wants to make it as easy (and affordable) as possible for you to get high-quality care.
If you have any questions not answered below, we’re here to help. Pick up the phone and speak to a member of our team today.
Psychiatric medication management involves the careful and continuous oversight of medications prescribed for mental health conditions. It is a process led by experienced psychiatrists and psychiatric nurse practitioners. The goal is to optimize the benefits of psychiatric medications, reducing or resolving symptoms while minimizing any potential side effects.
This process begins with an initial evaluation to establish treatment goals. Your provider will then select suitable medications, determine the appropriate dosage, and closely monitor the response, making adjustments as necessary. Regular follow-up sessions are scheduled to assess how you’re responding to your medications, address any concerns, and ensure your overall improvement, and achieve your goals.
At IMHS we believe that maintaining an open line of communication between you and all members of your care team is a key component to effective medication management.
With feedback from you and your therapist, your provider can make adjustments when needed and minimize side effects. In service of that goal, your IMHS provider will communicate with your therapist throughout the medication management process but ONLY IF you consent. If you prefer your IMHS not speak with your therapist, that’s fine too!
A psychiatric nurse practitioner (PNP) is an advanced practice registered nurse who specializes in mental health and psychiatric care. PNP’s have completed advanced education and training, typically earning a master’s or doctoral degree in psychiatric nursing.
Psychiatric nurse practitioners are trained to evaluate your mental health, conduct thorough psychiatric assessments, and formulate diagnoses based on recognized criteria. They can prescribe and manage psychiatric medications, monitor treatment response, and adjust medication accordingly.
If you have insurance, you will never pay more than $150 out of pocket for an appointment at IMHS. Most patients pay considerably less than that or nothing at all. If your insurance company requires a copay or deductible, then you will be responsible for that cost.
IMHS understands that high costs are a barrier for many people to receive the psychiatric care they need. That’s why we DO accept most insurance plans.
Our administrative team is available to take your call Monday through Friday from 7am to 8pm (EST). While you’re on the phone, they can verify your insurance and tell you if there is any cost to you due to copays, coinsurance or deductible payments required by your insurance provider. During the same call, we can schedule your first appointment and get you started on your new patient paperwork. All you have left to do is show up for your appointment, which can be scheduled as quickly as the next business day!
IMHS providers are available to meet with you in person if you live in or near New York City. Virtual appointments are also available for all New York residents. If you live near our clinic on the Upper West Side but feel more comfortable meeting with our providers from the comfort of your own home, you are welcome to attend your appointment virtually.
Your provider will schedule regular follow-up appointments to evaluate the medication’s efficacy, address any concerns, and ensure your overall well-being.
Initially, we will schedule weekly appointments as you acclimate to your medication so that we can make adjustments as needed. Once we see that you’re responding well to treatment, we will start seeing you less frequently with follow-up appointments occurring just once every other month.
Call IMHS today to verify your insurance and schedule your first appointment as soon as the next business day.