Frequently Asked Questions

  • If you are experiencing a medical or psychiatric emergency, you should:

    → Call 911 or 988 for immediate or life-threatening mental health emergencies.

    → Visit the nearest emergency room.

    → Contact the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1 (800) 273-8255 for immediate support.

    LifeChange Psychiatry does not provide emergency mental health services or inpatient services. Please use the above methods to get the urgent help you need.

  • IMPORTANT: If you are already a patient of LifeChange Psychiatry, you must use the Patient Portal to reach out to your provider.

    The Patient Portal messaging service is a HIPAA-compliant way to ask a question or alert your provider to any problems with medication. From there, you can make, reschedule, or cancel your appointments.

    Documents and forms can be uploaded via the Patient Portal.

    For general enquiries, you can use the form from the Contact page.

  • For your first appointment at LifeChange Psychiatry, please be prepared with the following:

    → A valid form of identification, such as a driver’s license or passport.

    → Payment via credit card, which should be completed before your visit.

    → A detailed list of all medications, including dosages, that you are currently taking or have taken previously. This list should also include any supplements and herbal products.

  • We prioritize your privacy above all. In compliance with the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA), we follow rigorous standards to protect your medical records and personal health information. All documentation and communication are securely managed through our electronic medical record (EMR) system and the patient portal.

    To ensure your privacy and adhere to HIPAA regulations, please communicate with your provider exclusively through the patient portal, rather than using direct email. This approach safeguards your identity and personal information.

  • Yes, we provide telemedicine appointments for both new and existing patients. Telehealth is not suitable for everyone and requires:

    → a strong internet connection (to make sure you can sustain audio and video during the call), and

    → a private, quiet location where you can focus.

    IMPORTANT: You must be physically located in the state of Georgia during calls.

  • A PMHNP is an advanced practice nurse who specializes in the treatment of psychiatric disorders and mental health conditions, similar to the role of a psychiatrist. While a psychiatrist holds a medical degree, a PMHNP is a highly trained nursing professional. Both are qualified to treat the same patient populations.

  • Missed Appointments

    If you miss an appointment without notifying us at least 48 hours in advance, a $100 fee will be charged to the payment method we have on file for you.

    Urine Screens

    For all new patients, a mandatory urine screen is required before any controlled substances can be prescribed. This screening is part of your initial consultation fee. Additionally, your provider may request urine screens during follow-up visits, which will cost $15, payable by the patient.

    Disability Paperwork

    Please note that our office does not complete disability paperwork.

    Medication Refills

    Requests for medication refills outside of a scheduled appointment are subject to individual evaluation. A $25 fee will be charged if the refill is approved.

  • Symptom Management: Medications are designed to manage symptoms, not cure them. Stopping medication can lead to the return of symptoms.

    Benefits vs. Side Effects: It’s important to balance the benefits of a medication against its side effects, as individuals react differently to medications.

    Comprehensive Treatment: A complete treatment plan often includes therapy and other services in addition to medication.

    Patience: Some medications require weeks to start working effectively. Finding the right medication can take time but is often rewarding.

    For additional information on medication, visit Mental Health America.

  • If you miss 2-3 doses, please contact your provider through the Portal to make a decision about how to resume the medication.

  • Report side effects to your provider to adjust your plan accordingly. Avoid abrupt medication changes; consult with your provider before altering doses. For refills, check with your pharmacy first, then contact us if further action is needed.

  • Always check with your healthcare provider about potential interactions and avoid alcohol if unsure.

    Combining alcohol with certain medications, particularly those with sedative effects, can increase the risk of adverse events, including falls, driving accidents, and fatal overdoses.

    Alcohol can alter the metabolism and pharmacological effects of many common medications, and conversely, many medications can alter the absorption and metabolism of alcohol.

  • While generally safe when taken as prescribed, it’s crucial to understand both the short-term and long-term risks of psychiatric medications. Always discuss potential side effects with your provider to make well-informed decisions about your treatment plan.