What to expect
before your first visit.
First appointments can feel like a lot. Here's what actually happens, what to have ready, and answers to the questions most people have before they start.
Your first appointment
The initial evaluation is 60 minutes and takes place over video. Here's how it goes from request to follow-up.
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1
Request an appointment or book directly from calendar
Schedule an open date that works for you, fill out an inquiry form, or call (323) 970-2625. You'll typically hear back within one business day.
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2
Receive intake documents
Before your appointment, you'll receive a couple intake forms covering a few different topics. It takes about 10 minutes to complete and they can all be done on your mobile device.
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3
Join the video call
You'll receive a secure link for your appointment. You don't need to download any special software, but you'll need to have a camera and microphone (a phone, tablet, or computer works fine), a stable internet connection, and a private place where you feel safe to speak openly.
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4
The evaluation
Most of the 60 minutes will be spent in conversation covering topics like your current concerns, your history, any medications you've tried, and what you're hoping to understand or change.
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5
A clear next step
At the end of the appointment, you'll know or have a general idea of potential diagnoses, what's recommended, and when to follow up. The next visit will be scheduled before the call ends.
What to have ready
You don't need to prepare anything extensive. Having this information handy will help the evaluation go more smoothly.
- A list of any current medications, including doses (prescriptions, supplements, vitamins)
- Names of any psychiatric medications you've taken in the past and whether they helped
- Names of any past diagnoses, if you have them
- Names of any current or past therapists or doctors involved in your mental health care
- A private, quiet space for the call where you can speak openly
- Your insurance card (we'll verify coverage before the appointment)
If you don't have all of this, don't let it stop you from booking. We can work with whatever you have.
Accepted insurances
Currently, the following insurance plans are accepted. Coverage details vary by plan — feel free to contact before scheduling if you want to confirm your specific benefits.
Aetna
Quest Behavioral Health
Cigna
Carelon Behavioral Health
Anthem Blue Cross California
Before you ask,
here're some answers.
Not necessarily. Some patients leave their evaluation with a prescription; others don't. It depends entirely on what the evaluation finds and what makes clinical sense. I don't prescribe before having a clear picture of what's going on.
Umbrella Mental Health primarily provides psychiatric services — including evaluations, medication management, and ongoing care. While this isn't formal psychotherapy, sessions may incorporate elements of various therapy methods such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), supportive therapy, or motivational interviewing as part of your treatment. I strongly encourage you to see a dedicated therapist alongside psychiatric services and can help coordinate referrals to licensed therapists if you do not already see someone.
Yes — when appropriate, I can prescribe controlled medications. However, this depends on the clinical situation, the medication, and current regulations. I'll be clear and upfront about what's possible based on your specific situation.
Please provide at least 24 hours notice to cancel or reschedule an appointment. Late cancellations and no-shows may be subject to a fee. If something comes up, please reach out as soon as possible — I understand that life happens.
Umbrella Mental Health is an outpatient practice and is not equipped to handle psychiatric emergencies. If you are in immediate danger or crisis, please call 988 (Suicide and Crisis Lifeline), text HOME to 741741 (Crisis Text Line), or go to your nearest emergency room. For non-emergency concerns between appointments, email and I'll respond within one business day.
Still have questions? Call (323) 970-2625 or email info@umbrellamentalhealth.com.
Ready to book?
Request an evaluation and your appointment will be confirmed within one business day.