Frequently Asked Questions

  • A psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner, or PMHNP, is a licensed advanced practice registered nurse with specialized training to diagnose mental illnesses, prescribe medication, and provide therapy to patients of all ages who have psychiatric disorders, medical conditions with psychiatric symptoms, or substance abuse.

    PMHNPs have full practice authority and can practice autonomously in 32 states. In the remaining states, including Georgia, PMHNPs must have a collaborative agreement with a physician supervisor. Our psychiatric nurse practitioner has a collaborative agreement with board-certified psychiatrist, Neil Jariwala MD who is a practicing physician in the Atlanta area.

  • Stress activates the brain's "fight or flight" response, triggering the release of stress hormones such as cortisol. Chronic stress can affect the hippocampus, which plays a critical role in memory and emotional regulation, and may contribute to feelings of anxiety, depression, and cognitive difficulties. Over time, prolonged stress can negatively impact the brain's ability to regulate emotions, focus, and process information, making it essential to address stress through appropriate coping mechanisms and treatment.

  • The duration of medication use depends on individual needs and treatment goals. For some, medication may be a temporary support while other therapeutic strategies take effect, such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) or lifestyle changes. Others may require long-term medication management, especially for chronic conditions like depression or anxiety. We will work together to assess your progress and regularly evaluate if adjustments to your treatment plan are necessary.

    1. Attention Regulation: Individuals with ADHD often experience difficulty maintaining focus, especially on tasks that require sustained mental effort. This can lead to problems with concentration and organization.

    2. Impulse Control: Impulsivity is another hallmark of ADHD, leading to actions without considering consequences. This may manifest in interrupting others or difficulty waiting for one's turn in social or work settings.

    3. Emotional Regulation: People with ADHD may struggle with managing their emotions, leading to frequent mood swings, frustration, or irritability, often in response to external stressors.

    • CHADD (Children and Adults with ADHD): Provides educational materials, support groups, and professional resources. www.chadd.org

    • ADDitude Magazine: Offers a wealth of information on ADHD management, research, and expert advice. www.additudemag.com

    • National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH): Provides scientific insights into ADHD and treatment options. www.nimh.nih.gov

      These resources can help guide you in understanding ADHD better and exploring strategies for managing symptoms.

  • RSD is a condition often associated with ADHD where individuals experience extreme emotional pain and distress in response to perceived or actual rejection. This can manifest as feelings of worthlessness or anger when faced with criticism or a lack of acceptance. RSD can significantly affect personal relationships and self-esteem, but with proper support and treatment, individuals can learn strategies to manage emotional reactions and reduce the intensity of these feelings.

  • Hormonal changes can have a significant impact on mental wellness, especially during periods of life such as puberty, pregnancy, postpartum, and menopause. Fluctuations in hormones like estrogen, progesterone, and cortisol can influence mood, energy levels, and cognitive function. It’s important to address both the physical and emotional effects of hormone changes with a balanced approach that may include therapy, medication, and lifestyle changes. If you notice mood swings or changes in mental clarity related to hormone shifts, it’s beneficial to discuss these with a healthcare provider for a comprehensive treatment plan.

  • 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

    If you’re prescribed controlled medications like benzodiazepines or stimulants, your provider may ask for an urine drug screen. This simple, on-site test helps us make sure your medications are being used safely and as intended. The cost is just $15, which we’ll charge to the payment method you have on file. 

    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.