New Patients
Everything you need to know before your first visit
Your First Visit
Schedule Your Appointment
Contact our office by phone or through our secure online form. We'll answer any questions about insurance, fees, and what to expect during your initial visit.
Complete Your Paperwork
Arrive 15 minutes early to complete intake forms, or request forms in advance. This ensures we can start your appointment on time and maximize your time with Arlene.
Initial Evaluation
Your first appointment is a comprehensive assessment lasting 60-90 minutes. Arlene will review your mental health history, current symptoms, and treatment goals in a comfortable, confidential setting.
Personalized Treatment Plan
Together, we'll develop a treatment plan tailored to your unique needs. This may include medication management, therapy, lifestyle recommendations, or a combination approach with regular follow-ups.
What to Bring
Photo ID & Insurance Card
Bring a current government-issued photo ID and both sides of your insurance card. We'll verify your benefits and coverage before your appointment.
Current Medication List
List all current medications including dosages, frequency, and prescribing physicians. Include over-the-counter medications, supplements, and vitamins.
Prior Medical Records
If available, bring records from previous mental health treatment providers, hospitalization summaries, or recent lab work relevant to your care.
Emergency Contact Information
Please provide name and phone number for an emergency contact person who can be reached if needed during your treatment.
Patient Forms
Forms are available at our office or can be completed during your first appointment. Arriving early allows time to complete paperwork before your scheduled session.
Patient Intake Form: Comprehensive health history and reason for visit
Consent for Treatment: Authorization to provide psychiatric care
HIPAA Authorization: Privacy practices and health information disclosure
Financial Policy: Payment terms and insurance information
Telehealth Appointments
How It Works
Secure video appointments from the comfort of your home. You'll receive a private link before your scheduled session—simply click to join at your appointment time.
Device Requirements
A smartphone, tablet, or computer with camera, microphone, and stable internet connection. Chrome or Safari browsers work best for our HIPAA-compliant platform.
Privacy & Comfort
Find a quiet, private space where you won't be interrupted. Use headphones for additional privacy and ensure you're in a comfortable setting where you can speak freely.
Office Policies
Cancellation Policy
We require 24 hours advance notice for appointment cancellations or rescheduling. This allows us to offer your time slot to other patients who need care.
Cancellations made with less than 24 hours notice may be subject to a cancellation fee. We understand emergencies happen—please contact our office to discuss your situation.
Late Arrivals
Please arrive on time for your scheduled appointment. If you arrive more than 15 minutes late, we may need to reschedule your appointment to avoid disrupting other patients' scheduled times.
Your appointment time will end at the originally scheduled time even if you arrive late, to maintain our schedule for other patients.
No-Show Policy
Missing an appointment without advance notice is considered a no-show. No-show appointments may be subject to a fee and can affect your ability to schedule future appointments.
Multiple no-shows may result in discharge from the practice. We value your time and ask that you respect ours and that of other patients who need care.
Payment Policy
Payment is due at the time of service. We accept most major insurance plans, as well as cash, check, and credit cards. Copays and deductibles are collected at each visit.
For insurance claims, we will submit claims on your behalf. You are responsible for any amounts not covered by your insurance, including copays, coinsurance, and deductibles.
Ready to Get Started?
Schedule your initial consultation and take the first step toward compassionate, personalized mental health care.