Frequently Asked Questions
We understand that starting psychiatric care can come with a lot of questions. Below are answers to common questions about Fortitude Mental Health Group.
Getting Started
How do I get started?
Getting started is simple and designed to be convenient. You can schedule your initial appointment directly through our secure self-scheduling link, allowing you to choose a time that works best for your schedule. Additionally, you may call our office or reach out to us through our Contact Us section and we will get back to you within 1-2 business days to schedule an appointment.
After booking, you will receive access to complete a set of confidential intake forms. These forms help us understand your medical history, current concerns, and treatment goals so we can prepare thoughtfully for your visit.
Your first appointment will take place through a secure telehealth video platform, where we will complete a comprehensive evaluation and begin developing a personalized treatment plan tailored to your needs.
Who will be providing my care?
You will be working directly with a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) who is licensed in California to diagnose mental health conditions, develop treatment plans, and prescribe medications.
Your PMHNP will serve as your primary point of contact and partner in care. They will take the time to understand your needs, goals, and concerns, and will create a personalized treatment plan tailored specifically to you.
In addition, your PMHNP collaborates closely with a supervising psychiatrist (MD) to ensure that your care is safe, comprehensive, and of the highest quality. While you will not meet with the psychiatrist directly, they work together behind the scenes to support your treatment.
Is a PMHNP as qualified as a psychiatrist?
Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioners (PMHNPs) are highly trained, licensed clinicians who specialize in mental health care. They are qualified to diagnose conditions, provide therapy, and prescribe medications in California.
PMHNPs often take a holistic, patient-centered approach and spend meaningful time getting to know you and your goals. In our practice, your PMHNP also collaborates with a psychiatrist (MD), giving you the benefit of a team-based approach to care.
Can my PMHNP prescribe medication if needed?
Yes. Your PMHNP is licensed in California to prescribe psychiatric medications. If medication is part of your treatment plan, your provider will discuss options with you and monitor your progress closely to ensure safety and effectiveness.
Who is a good fit for Fortitude Mental Health Group?
Fortitude Mental Health Group works best for adults seeking thoughtful, personalized psychiatric care in California. Services may be especially helpful for individuals experiencing anxiety, depression, ADHD, burnout, insomnia, mood symptoms, or stress-related concerns.
Appointments & Telehealth
Do you offer online psychiatry appointments in California?
What if I need to cancel or reschedule an appointment?
If you need to make a change, you can easily cancel or reschedule through your patient portal or by calling our office. We kindly ask for at least 48 hours’ notice. Please note that late cancellations or missed appointments may be subject to a fee.
How often will I need follow-up appointments?
The timing of follow-up visits is based on your individual needs, progress, and care plan. Appointments are usually more frequent when starting or adjusting medications, and may become less frequent as your symptoms improve. For many patients, follow-ups occur every 2–8 weeks, depending on their condition and treatment needs.
How do I contact the office between appointments?
Patients can contact Fortitude Mental Health Group through the secure patient portal, contact form, or by phone. Messages are typically reviewed during normal business hours, and response times may vary depending on urgency and provider availability.
Treatment & Services
What mental health conditions do you treat in California?
Fortitude Mental Health Group provides psychiatric evaluation and medication management for adults experiencing: anxiety disorders, depression, bipolar disorder, panic symptoms, adult ADHD, insomnia and sleep disorders, adjustment disorders, and stress and burnout.
Do you provide therapy or medication management only?
Fortitude Mental Health Group primarily provides psychiatric evaluation and medication management. Appointments often include supportive psychotherapy, education, lifestyle guidance, and collaborative treatment planning. If ongoing weekly therapy would be beneficial, we are happy to coordinate care with your therapist or provide recommendations.
What if medication is not the right option for me?
Medication is not always necessary. Treatment decisions are made collaboratively based on your symptoms, preferences, and goals. When appropriate, other strategies such as therapy, lifestyle adjustments, behavioral strategies, therapy, sleep optimization, stress management, and other non-medication supportive resources may also be recommended.
What if I am already seeing a therapist?
Many patients work with both a therapist and a psychiatric provider. If you are currently seeing a therapist, I encourage continuing that relationship. With your permission, I can collaborate with your therapist to ensure that your treatment plan is coordinated and supports your overall mental health goals.
Medication
Do you prescribe psychiatric medication online in California?
Do you prescribe medications for ADHD?
Are controlled medications prescribed via telehealth?
When clinically appropriate, certain controlled medications may be prescribed as part of treatment. All prescribing decisions are based on a comprehensive psychiatric evaluation, clinical guidelines, and applicable regulations. In some cases, additional assessment, documentation, or follow-up visits may be required to ensure medications are prescribed safely and responsibly.
What happens if I need medication refills?
Medication refills are typically provided during scheduled follow-up appointments, where we review your progress and determine whether any adjustments are needed. Patients are encouraged to schedule follow-up visits before running out of medication. If you have any questions about a refill between appointments, please feel free to reach out to our office by phone, through the patient portal, or via the contact form—we’re here to help.
Labs & Genetic Testing
Why is laboratory testing recommended?
When appropriate, laboratory testing may be included as part of your care based on your symptoms, medical history, medications, and goals. These results can provide helpful insight, allowing for a more personalized and thoughtful approach to your treatment.
What is Routine Laboratory Testing?
At times, routine laboratory testing may be recommended to help support safe medication management and your overall well-being. These tests are usually completed through standard laboratories and are often covered by insurance, depending on your plan. If not, costs can vary based on the type of testing and the laboratory used.
What is Specialized Functional Laboratory Testing?
When appropriate, specialized functional laboratory testing may be included to provide deeper insight into underlying factors that may be impacting your mental health and overall well-being. These tests typically range from $100–$500, and insurance coverage may vary, with partial coverage or reimbursement sometimes available.
Insurance & Private Pay Options
Do you accept insurance?
Yes! We currently accept several major insurance plans for psychiatric evaluations and medication management. If you’re unsure whether your specific plan is accepted, please reach out—we are happy to help verify your benefits before your first appointment.
What insurance plans do you accept?
We currently accept:
- Aetna
- Anthem Blue Cross
- Carelon Behavioral Health
- Cigna
- UnitedHealthcare
Insurance participation may change over time, so if you don’t see your plan listed, please contact us to discuss your options.
What if you don't accept my insurance?
If we are not in-network with your insurance plan—or if you prefer not to use insurance—you are welcome to schedule as a private-pay patient. We can also provide a superbill that you may submit to your insurance company for possible out-of-network reimbursement, depending on your benefits.
Can I choose private pay even if you accept my insurance?
Absolutely. Some patients prefer not to use insurance for privacy or personal reasons. You’re welcome to choose the payment option that best meets your needs.
What are your private pay fees?
Private-pay rates are:
- Initial Psychiatric Evaluation: $300
- Follow-Up Medication Management: $175
Payment is due at the time of service.
Follow-up appointment frequency varies depending on treatment needs.
Do you provide superbills?
Yes. If you’re paying privately, we can provide a detailed superbill after your appointment that you may submit to your insurance company for potential out-of-network reimbursement. Coverage and reimbursement vary by insurance plan. Please contact your insurance plan for more information.
Will you verify my insurance?
Yes. Whenever possible, I’ll verify your insurance benefits before your first appointment to help you better understand your expected costs, including copays, deductibles, or coinsurance.
Please note that benefit verification is not a guarantee of payment, and patients are ultimately responsible for any balances not covered by their insurance.
I still have questions about insurance or payment. What should I do?
We are happy to help! If you have questions about your insurance coverage, private-pay options, or expected costs, please don’t hesitate to reach out before scheduling. My goal is to make the process as simple and transparent as possible.
Disclaimer: Fortitude Mental Health Group does not provide emergency or crisis services. If you are experiencing a mental health emergency, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room. You can also call or text 988 for immediate support.
Still Have Questions?
We’re happy to help.
Reach out and we’ll get back to you within 1–2 business days.