FAQs: what you need to know
Curious about treatment options with Essential Mind Healthcare? Here are some common questions (FAQs)
Have more questions? Please reach out to us using the contact information provided, We’ll be glad to help.
How do I connect with a health care provider?
Your personalized tele-health via secured platform is a safe place to discuss your health care concerns with a health care provider at a convenient time, from any location. This eliminates the need for travel, taking time off work, or discussing your treatment with your employer.
What's the health care website like? Is it easy to use?
Navigating the site is easy, even for those less comfortable with technology. If you can use the internet, you’ll be able to access a mental health care provider through your computer, tablet, or smartphone. Helpful guides on the site, and our services team is ready to assist with any technical issues.
How will my care provider communicate with me?
Our online platform facilitates all communication with your health care provider through secure messaging within your dedicated room. This centralized location, houses all session materials, messages, and documents, both from scheduled sessions and between them. You’ll receive electronic message updates regarding session bookings, cancellations, and questionnaire reminders.
How long will it take before I feel better?
We tailor the number of visits to your individual needs with consideration to how you are feeling, medication tolerance, and your insurance coverage. During your visit we will assess, diagnose, plan, educate and continue to monitor your progress while actively prescribing and titrating medication safely, and assessing psychosocial factors that could hinder treatment compliance. Client education, and utilizing Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) techniques you learn between sessions, will also accelerate your progress. While everyone is different, many people find significant improvement in 4–6 weeks of medication initiation when addressing issues like anxiety, ADHD, depression, psychotic disorders and other comorbid issues.
CBT explained?
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is a structured, short-term, and goal-oriented form of psychotherapy. It’s based on the idea that our thoughts, feelings, and behaviors are interconnected and that changing negative thought patterns can lead to changes in feelings and behaviors. Here’s a breakdown of what CBT involves:
Key Components:
- Cognition: Refers to our thoughts and beliefs. CBT helps identify and challenge unhelpful thoughts.
- Behavior: Focuses on changing behaviors that contribute to or stem from mental health issues.
- Therapy: Combines techniques like journaling, role-playing, relaxation exercises, and exposure therapy to practice new ways of thinking and behaving.
Goals:
- Identify Negative Thought Patterns: Recognize and challenge distorted thinking.
- Develop New Skills: Learn strategies to cope with and overcome problems.
- Change Behavior: Modify harmful behaviors and replace them with healthier ones.
Applications:
CBT is effective for a variety of issues, including:
- Anxiety Disorders
- Depression
- Post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
- Obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD)
- Impulse-Control
- Sleep disorders
It’s a collaborative process between the care provider and the individual, with a focus on actively working towards specific goals. It’s also evidence-based, meaning it has been scientifically proven to be effective.
Who is a PMHNP?
At Essential Mind Healthcare, you will be seen by a DNP psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC) who can provide Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and motivational intervention. We also refer clients to qualified therapist who work with you to provide evidence based patient centered care. The type of care we provide will be tailored to your specific needs and what you hope to achieve as you seek mental health care. All of our clinicians are fully accredited.
How will our practice prepare you for the end of treatment?
As your treatment continues, your psychiatric practitioner will work with you to gain more independence in managing your mental health. You will participate more actively in your care, confidently utilize therapeutic skills learned during Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and medication management education. In your final session, you and your care provider will create a unique aftercare plan to ensure you have the tools, resources, and coping mechanisms you need to keep moving forward and navigate future problems effectively.
Typed, audio or video treatment options- What's the difference?
Essential Mind Healthcare offers one-on-one treatment options tailored to your needs, available in tele-health video conferencing. While all formats utilize treatment options that best meet an individual’s healthcare needs and involve scheduled 30–60-minute sessions within your secure online room, they differ in how you communicate with your clinician. The video option is available to everyone. If you’re self-referring, our external clinicians will assess your needs and work with you to schedule a convenient time for your visit.
What should I do in a health crisis?
If you or someone you know is in crisis, you can reach out to:
- 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline (U.S.) – Call or text 988 for free, confidential support.
- Crisis Text Line – Text HOME to 741741 for support from a trained counselor.
- Local Mental Health Crisis Services – Many states and counties have dedicated crisis lines for immediate assistance.
Call 911 or your country’s emergency number. Inform the operator that it is a mental health emergency.
If you are in immediate danger or unable to protect yourself, go to the nearest hospital ER for assistance or call 911.
Contact a family member, friend, or a trusted person who can stay with you or assist you in seeking professional aid.
Follow the steps outlined in your safety plan prepared with a mental health care provider.
What is my waiting period before my first appointment?
You’ll receive a message to schedule your first session with your clinician at a time that works for you. After this initial appointment, all subsequent sessions will be arranged directly with your clinician through secure messaging, during your appointment or by contacting us to schedule a visit. Simply add the agreed-upon date and time to your personal calendar. Your first appointment is typically scheduled within 3-5 working days of signing up, though occasional high demand may cause slight delays.
When will I be able to book my appointment?
With session availability three days a week, from 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM on Wednesdays and Saturdays, and from 13:00 PM to 6:00 PM on Sundays, you can easily schedule appointments that fit your busy lifestyle. To maintain consistency and streamline your routine, it’s often helpful to establish a regular appointment time that aligns with your daily schedule when booking your first session. This recurring session time will be booked during your appointment.
Is it possible to use self-help materials for my treatment?
While self-help resources like videos and journaling can be beneficial, many find that Essential Mind Healthcare’s treatment options lead to quicker improvements due to their:
- Individualized approach: Weekly one-on-one sessions with a dedicated clinician provide personalized support and guidance, making it easier to stay on track with your treatment plan.
- Tailored treatment: Our treatment options are designed to meet your specific needs, rather than using a generic approach.
- Accelerated progress: This targeted approach often leads to faster results.
I have registered, what's the procedure moving forward?
Getting Started with Essential Mind Healthcare
You can typically expect to be contacted within 1–5 days of signing up. During busier periods, it may take slightly longer. You can also email us with questions and concerns.
Once you’ve scheduled an appointment with Essential Mind Healthcare, you’ll complete a brief self-assessment. This information helps us understand your needs and find the most suitable way to help provide patient centered care.
To ensure we can provide the best possible support, we’ll need some information from you, including:
- Your doctor’s details
- Your home address and some basic personal information
- Your mobile phone number
- Your preferred appointment times
- Your completed self-assessment questionnaires
After reviewing your information, we’ll confirm the appointment and Essential Mind Healthcare will reach out to you with available dates and time. If so, you’ll receive a message to schedule your first session.
What is the reason for these questionnaires?
We understand that completing questionnaires can feel like an extra step when you’re seeking support. We wish there was a simpler way too! However, to ensure we understand your needs and to be able to provide the best possible care, we need to gather some essential information about you.
These questionnaires help your mental healthcare provider understand your current mental well-being and any challenges you’re facing. They also help you track your progress throughout treatment and identify any areas that require further attention.
Essential Mind Healthcare requires all clients to complete these questionnaires before their initial visit. This information is crucial for us to provide you with the most effective and personalized support.
Wednesdays: 9:00 – 19:00
Saturdays: 9:00 – 19:00
Sundays: 13:00 – 18:00
In an Emergency
If you or someone you know is in an emergency or has suicide thoughts, take quick action to protect their safety. Instead of phoning an outpatient clinic, which may not give urgent assistance, follow these steps:
1. Contact the crisis hotline
Call or SMS 988 (Suicide and Crisis Line): This service is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week in the United States, and links you to qualified counselors who can provide urgent help and resources.
Text HOME to 741741 to speak with a crisis counselor.
Lifeline for Veterans: Call 988 and press 1 for specialized assistance for veterans.
2. Contact emergency services
In the event of a life-threatening situation, dial 911 or your country’s emergency number. Inform the operator that it is a mental health emergency to guarantee the appropriate reaction.
3. Go to the nearest emergency room (ER)
If you are in immediate danger or unable to protect yourself, go to the nearest hospital ER for assistance. Emergency medical experts are trained to help people in mental health crises.
4. Reach out to a trusted person
Contact a family member, friend, or trusted someone who can stay with you or assist you in seeking professional aid.
If you feel like you could hurt yourself, avoid being alone.
5. Utilize local crisis centers.
Many communities have walk-in crisis centers or mobile crisis units that offer in-person assistance. Search the internet for services in your area.
6. Use a safety plan.
Follow the steps outlined in your safety plan prepared with a mental health provider.
Determine safe areas, coping skills, and who to contact for help.
7. Use immediate coping strategies.
Listening to music, journaling, or engaging in mindfulness exercises can all help you relax.
Remove any potential sources of self-harm from your immediate area.
Important Reminder
Mental health challenges can manifest in various ways, including insomnia, intrusive thoughts, anxiety, and depression. Essential Mind Healthcare’s therapists offer support for a broad spectrum of mental health concerns.