Frequently Asked Questions
Knowing what to expect makes the next steps easier, here's what you need to know about Alibi Mental Health Care!
FAQ
What is a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner?
A Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) is an advanced practice nurse with specialized graduate training in mental health care. PMHNPs conduct comprehensive psychiatric evaluations, diagnose mental health conditions, prescribe and manage medications, and provide therapy. If your care ever requires a psychiatrist's or other specialist's expertise, I'll provide a referral and support you through that process.
What does ADHD-CCSP mean?
ADHD-Certified Clinical Services Provider is an advanced certification in evidence-based ADHD assessment and treatment across the lifespan. It means your ADHD care is informed by specialized training in how ADHD actually presents and responds to treatment, not just general psychiatric practice.
Do you prescribe medications?
Yes. Alibi Mental Health Care provides psychiatric evaluation and medication management, including for ADHD. Some prescriptions, particularly stimulant medications, may require an initial in-person evaluation under current regulations. We'll walk you through exactly what's needed when you schedule.
Do you accept insurance?
Yes! We are in-network with Aetna, CareFirst, United HealthCare, and Cigna. For other plans, we work with Thrizer to process out-of-network reimbursement automatically, so you may only pay a reduced upfront cost. Sliding-scale options are also available. See the Insurance & Fees page for more details.
Do you offer in-person or online sessions?
Both. In-person care is available at our downtown D.C. office, and telehealth is available for clients located in Washington, D.C. Most child and adolescent evaluations, and some prescribing situations, require an in-person visit.
How do I know if this practice is right for me?
If you or your child are dealing with ADHD, executive function struggles, anxiety, or depression, or you're experiencing PMDD or mood symptoms tied to your cycle, we're likely a good fit. The free 15-minute consultation exists exactly for this question.
How do I know if this practice is right for me?
If you're in immediate danger or need urgent support, call 988 or 911. You can also text HOME to 741741 to reach the Crisis Text Line: free, confidential, 24/7. This practice provides ongoing care and is not equipped for emergencies.
Can I do ADHD coaching without medication management?
Yes. Coaching packages are a standalone, cash-pay service, you don't need to be (or become) a medication patient here. Every package starts with a 60-minute intake, and the plan is built around the hours of support you need.
How do I get started?
Schedule a free 15-minute consultation. We'll talk about what you're looking for, answer your questions, and decide together whether to book an intake.
Appointment Information
Intakes for teens (13+)
& adults
A comprehensive 90-minute evaluation covering your history, current concerns, health, and goals, the foundation for an accurate diagnosis and a treatment plan that fits your life.
Intakes for a new ADHD diagnosis are conducted in person.
Intakes for children
Child evaluations are structured in three parts, because a thorough picture takes more than one visit:
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Visit 1: Parent intake (50 minutes): Parents only. We cover your child's history, development, school experience, and your concerns candidly, without your child in the room.
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Visit 2: Child evaluation (60 minutes): A face-to-face session with your child, in person, designed to be comfortable and low-pressure.
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Visit 3: Findings & recommendations (50 minutes): Parents only. We walk through what the evaluation showed, what it means, and a clear, practical treatment plan with plenty of time for questions.
Follow-up visits
After intake, follow-up care is matched to what you actually need:
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Quick med management (20 minutes): brief check-in and refill for stable patients
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Mental health management check (30 minutes): A review of the current care plan with time to discuss how things are going
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ADHD Coaching (40 minutes): Executive function coaching integrated into your medication check-ins
- Extended Sessions (50 minutes): Therapy, focused coaching, educational sessions
In-person requirements
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New ADHD diagnosis intakes must be done in person
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Patients prescribed controlled substances (including stimulants): an in-person visit is required twice per year. All other visits may be telehealth.
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Most child and adolescent evaluations take place in person