Frequently Asked Questions
Your First Visit
What To Expect
How do I schedule an appointment?
You can schedule an appointment by clicking the “Schedule” button at the top of the page and selecting a time that works best for you.
What is your cancellation or no-show policy?
Appointments must be canceled at least 24 hours in advance.
Clients are considered a no-show if they are more than 10 minutes late without notice.
If you're running late or unable to attend, please message us via the client portal, text, or email before your appointment.
Do you offer a sliding scale or financial assistance?
We don’t have a structured sliding scale, but we recognize that financial stress can impact access to care. We periodically offer discounted rates and are open to discussing options if you’re facing hardship. Please feel free to contact us.
Do you prescribe medication?
Yes. Holistic Haven provides psychiatric evaluation and medication management for adults across Illinois.
FAQS
Do you accept insurance for virtual psychiatry in Illinois?
Yes. Holistic Haven accepts Aetna, Blue Cross Blue Shield, Cigna, United Healthcare, and Self Pay. We are happy to provide superbills upon request for out-of-network reimbursement.
What is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP)?
A PMHNP is an advanced practice registered nurse trained to diagnose mental health conditions, prescribe medications, and provide supportive therapy. We take a holistic, person-centered approach to psychiatric care and work collaboratively with you to find what works best for your needs.
What happens during a session?
Your initial visit is a comprehensive evaluation where we explore your history, current concerns, and treatment goals. We’ll discuss medication when appropriate, including risks and benefits, and integrate lifestyle and holistic strategies to support your mental wellness.
Follow-up sessions focus on monitoring progress, adjusting treatment as needed, and supporting you through life stressors with both pharmacological and non-pharmacological approaches.
Do you offer therapy?
We do not provide traditional weekly talk therapy. However, sessions often include space to process emotions, explore life stressors, and reflect on treatment. We incorporate elements of motivational interviewing, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), and dialectical behavior therapy (DBT). If you need more in-depth therapy, we can refer you to trusted providers.
Do you offer in-person appointments?
Yes. Holistic Haven is a telehealth-first practice serving adults across Illinois.
In-person appointments are available at our Chicago office by scheduled appointment only and when clinically appropriate.
Some evaluations or medication types may require an in-person visit. This will be discussed with you during your intake or treatment planning process.
Our goal is to provide flexible care while maintaining safe, structured clinical standards.
What conditions do you treat?
We treat a range of mental health concerns including:
- Depression
- Anxiety
- OCD
- Bipolar disorder
- Psychosis
- PTSD
- Sexual health-related concerns
- Medication-related sexual side effects
Do you complete disability paperwork or provide work/school excuses?
Holistic Haven may complete disability forms, letters, or work/school excuses only for established clients who have an ongoing treatment relationship and when the clinical need has been assessed prior to the event.
We do not complete documentation for:
- Individuals not established with the practice before the event or leave
- Retroactive requests for work excuses or accommodations
- Situations where time off was taken without prior consultation or medical recommendation
What kind of psychiatric assessment will be completed?
A psychiatric assessment is a comprehensive evaluation where we discuss your current symptoms, review your mental health and medical history, and explore contributing factors like family history, substance use, and life stressors. The goal is to better understand what you're experiencing and to rule out or identify common psychiatric diagnoses so we can create a personalized treatment plan
At Holistic Haven, we focus on collaborative, whole-person care.
We do not provide:
- Court-ordered or forensic psychiatric evaluations
- Firearm or gun ownership assessments
- Pre-surgical or medical clearance evaluations
If you're unsure whether your needs fall within our scope, feel free to reach out. We’re happy to guide you in the right direction.
What’s the difference between a PMHNP, therapist, and psychologist?
- A psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) is an advanced practice nurse who can diagnose mental health conditions, prescribe medication, and provide supportive therapy. PMHNPs often take a holistic and collaborative approach to care.
- A psychiatrist is a medical doctor (MD or DO) who specializes in mental health. Like PMHNPs, they can prescribe medication and diagnose conditions. Psychiatrists typically have more training in complex medical cases or may offer specialized care such as inpatient psychiatry or treatment-resistant conditions.
- A therapist (LCSW, LCPC, LMFT, etc.) provides talk therapy but does not prescribe medication.
- A psychologist (PhD or PsyD) is trained in therapy and psychological testing. They usually cannot prescribe medication unless licensed to do so in specific states.
What is your policy on controlled substances?
Controlled medications may be prescribed when clinically appropriate and safe. Additional safeguards may include an in-person visit, drug screening, and a treatment agreement.
These medications are not prescribed in the presence of active substance misuse or unstable psychiatric conditions.
Can you diagnose ADHD?
Yes. A PMHNP can assess and diagnose ADHD based on clinical interviews, history, and screening tools. However, formal neuropsychological testing is considered the gold standard for diagnosis, and may be recommended for clarity in complex cases.
Do you work with LGBTQIA+ clients?
Absolutely. Holistic Haven is a queer-affirming, inclusive practice. Everyone deserves care that honors who they are we’re here to support you without judgment.
Do you have any questions? If you still need help, please contact us.