Question 1

What can I expect in the first session?

Accepted Answer

Our first appointment will last approximately 60 minutes. Prior to the session, you will receive intake forms to help guide the session. For most effective use of our time, please submit these forms 48 hours prior to your appointment.
 
During the first session,  we will review your main goals, concerns and priorities, your mental health journey including past and present, current symptoms, the status and influence of your social setting and environment, and relevant family information. We will also review any past medical history, current physical symptoms and other medications or supplements you may be taking. Together we will spend time reviewing your diagnosis, various treatment options that incorporate  biological, psychological, and environmental elements, and work to create a comprehensive treatment plan.
 
If this is a second opinion or one-time consultation, I will provide a written report to you and/or to your primary clinician with multi-tiered recommendations for your health.

Question 2

Are sessions confidential?

Accepted Answer

In general, the law protects the confidentiality of all communications between a patient and physician. No information is disclosed without prior written permission. However, there are some exceptions required by law to this rule. Exceptions include:
 
Suspected child abuse or dependent adult or elder abuse. Clinicians are considered mandated reporters and must report this to the appropriate authorities immediately.
If a patient is threatening serious bodily harm to another person. The clinician is required to notify the police.
 If a patient intends self-harm. The clinician will make every effort to work with the individual to ensure safety. However, if an individual does not cooperate, additional measures may need to be taken.

Question 3

Will insurance cover my visit?

Accepted Answer

We accept BlueCross BlueShield (BCBS), Mountain Health CO-OP, and Allegiance/Cigna. For those who have different insurances, we will provide paperwork to assist in seeking out of network reimbursement from the insurance company. We are partnered with Reimbursify to offer a hassle-free reimbursement process (read more about it on our blog).

We encourage you to call their insurance company to determine the exact amount for which they would be reimbursed for out-of-network care. Some guiding questions include:
How do I submit a claim for out-of-network reimbursement?
How much is my "out-of-network deductible"?
After I meet my deductible, how much can I be reimbursed for an initial diagnostic evaluation (code 90792 + modifier GT) and/or follow up med management/psychotherapy session (codes 99213 or 99214 + 90836 or 90838 + modifier GT)?

Question 4

How does payment work?

Accepted Answer

Luminello:  click here to read more about how payments will work through the patient portal.

Question 5

How do I access my bill?

Accepted Answer

Invoices are easily accessible through the Luminello patient portal. Simply log in to your Luminello account, click on the billing link on the left-hand side of the page. Your billing history will appear. Specific invoices are located in the "invoices" tab. Additional information can be found on the Luminello site here.

Question 6

Do I have to take medications to see you?

Accepted Answer

No, taking medications is not a requirement to seek our services. We understand that each individual's needs are unique, and we collaborate with you to develop a personalized treatment plan. While medication may be recommended in some cases, we also offer various therapeutic approaches, and together we'll explore what aligns best with your goals and preferences. Our aim is to provide comprehensive and individualized mental health care that respects your choices and values.

Question 7

Is therapy right for me?

Accepted Answer

People seek therapy for various reasons. It may involve exploring and alleviating persistent psychological issues such as anxiety or depression. Alternatively, therapy can serve as a tool for navigating significant life decisions, transitions, coping with loss, fostering personal growth, or pursuing positive change. If you're uncertain, feel free to reach out and determine if  psychotherapy with  aligns with your needs and preferences.

Question 8

What type of psychotherapy will I be engaged in?

Accepted Answer

The most suitable psychotherapeutic approach for you depends on your individual goals, ranging from insight-oriented treatment and cognitive-behavioral skills to mindfulness-based therapies and addressing interpersonal and relationship issues. During our initial sessions, we will collaboratively develop a treatment plan, outlining your objectives and the most effective strategies to attain them.

In addition to individual psychotherapy, we are also introducing small group sessions as a beneficial component of a comprehensive treatment plan in the near future.

Question 9

What is psychodynamic therapy like?

Accepted Answer

Psychodynamic psychotherapy can also be considered expressive, open-ended, and exploratory. Each session aims to establish a setting of security, respect, warmth, and empathy in order for us to embark on a journey that typically focuses on here-and-now issues and concerns in your life as well as your past, childhood, and upbringing. Our primary goal is to develop a narrative of your life story to obtain greater understanding and personal growth. This style of therapy works best with weekly or twice weekly sessions.

Question 10

What is Reproductive/Perinatal Psychiatry?

Accepted Answer

Reproductive/Perinatal Psychiatry is a specialized field within psychiatry that focuses on the mental health and well-being of individuals during the reproductive stages of life, which include pregnancy, postpartum, and the broader reproductive years. Reproductive psychiatrists are trained to address the unique mental health challenges that may arise during these phases, providing support and treatment for conditions such as perinatal mood and anxiety disorders, infertility-related distress, and psychiatric concerns associated with reproductive transitions.  Perinatal Psychiatry is even further specialized care that works with women and birthing parents who are in the process of conception, pregnancy, or within the first year postpartum. At Cordillera Mental Health Services, our team is committed to offering specialized care that recognizes and addresses the diverse mental health needs of individuals throughout their reproductive journey.

Question 11

I already have a therapist. Can I see you for medication consultation?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely. We advocate for psychotherapy and are glad that you have already established a therapeutic relationship. We will gladly work with your current therapist and primary clinician to ensure comprehensive and collaborative care.

Question 12

How do I schedule an appointment?

Accepted Answer

Kindly go to the "For Patients" page to either enroll or access the patient portal if you are already a registered user.

Question 13

What if I need to cancel/reschedule my appointment?

Accepted Answer

For existing patients, please be advised that any cancellations or no-shows with less than 48 hours' notice will incur a charge equivalent to 50% of the scheduled visit.

Question 14

What about communication in between appointments?

Accepted Answer

We provide a secure email portal for communication between appointments to address simple requests. However, email cannot substitute face-to-face appointments for discussing medication changes or alterations to your treatment plan. You will be directed to make an appointment if you have requests of this nature.

If you have paperwork/forms requiring completion, kindly schedule an appointment before the due date, allowing us to review and discuss them together.

Phone calls under ten minutes are not charged. Beyond that, charges will be prorated to your hourly fee, as insurance companies typically do not reimburse for phone charges. For longer discussions, it is advisable to schedule an appointment to thoroughly address any questions or concerns.

Question 15

Cordillera is an interesting word, what does it mean?

Accepted Answer

In our context, "Cordillera" (kor-dil-EHR-ah) refers to a mountain range, and it reflects the diverse and expansive landscapes we aim to support in our mental health services. Our clinic, Cordillera Mental Health Services, draws inspiration from the strength, resilience, and interconnectedness symbolized by mountainous terrains. We strive to provide comprehensive mental health care that mirrors the diverse needs of individuals across Washington, Wyoming, Idaho, Montana, and Colorado.

Question 16

What if I have a question not addressed here?

Accepted Answer

Please feel free to reach out and I will be happy to answer any additional questions.

Cordillera Mental Health Services

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