754-333-1765 | INFO@YOURINNERDISCOVERY.COM
Frequently Asked Questions
🧠 Evaluation & Treatment Process
What does the psychiatric evaluation consist of?
The psychiatric evaluation is a comprehensive process led by a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP). It includes a clinical interview, standardized assessment tools, symptom identification, and exploration of contributing factors. Your mental status, daily functioning, and overall quality of life are assessed. Based on this, I’ll formulate a diagnostic impression and collaborate with you to develop a personalized treatment plan—which may include therapy, medication, lifestyle changes, or referrals.
How does the treatment process work?
Treatment begins with a thorough evaluation and continues with regular follow-up sessions. We’ll work together to monitor progress, adjust your care plan, and address any emerging needs. Your active participation is essential to achieving meaningful outcomes.
Do you provide therapy or just medication management?
While sessions primarily focus on diagnosis and treatment, I also offer brief psychotherapy and counseling as needed. Modalities may include:
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
- Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)
- Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT)
- Cognitive reframing and challenging
- Exploration of coping and relationship patterns
- Problem-solving strategies
Can I continue seeing my current therapist while receiving treatment from you?
Yes. I encourage ongoing therapy with a licensed mental health counselor or psychotherapist. My services can complement your existing care through diagnosis, medication management, and brief therapeutic support.
How can I prepare for my first appointment?
To make the most of your first session:
- Write down symptoms, concerns, and goals
- Share your medical history and current medications
- Send any relevant records or assessments in advance
- Complete intake forms at least 24 hours before your appointment
- Confirm your appointment time and access link
- You may invite a trusted support person to join your telehealth session if helpful
👩⚕️ Provider Qualifications & Background
What is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP)?
A PMHNP is an advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) trained to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions across the lifespan. I provide evaluations, prescribe medications, offer psychotherapy, and collaborate with other professionals to create holistic, individualized care plans.
What is the difference between a psychiatrist and a PMHNP?
- Psychiatrists are medical doctors (MD/DO) with specialized residency training in psychiatry.
- PMHNPs are registered nurses with advanced degrees in psychiatric mental health. Both can diagnose, prescribe, and treat mental health conditions. PMHNPs approach care with a nursing lens, emphasizing education, empowerment, and holistic support.
What are your qualifications and experience?
I’m a board-certified Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP)and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), with graduate and post-graduate training from Florida Atlantic University. My background includes Pediatric ICU and Emergency Room care, Primary care and mobile health services for underserved populations, Memory and Wellness Center work, Adult psychiatric private practice.
I regularly attend psychiatric and mental health conferences to stay current with evidence-based treatments and evolving care models.
What languages do you speak?
I speak English fluently, and Spanish is my native language.
🧭 Conditions Treated
I treat a wide range of mental health concerns, including:
- ADHD
- Autism Spectrum & Developmental Disorders
- Depression
- Anxiety & Panic Disorders
- PTSD
- Bipolar & Mood Disorders
- Personality Disorders
- Sleep Disorders & Insomnia
- Eating Disorders
📅 Appointments & Scheduling
How do I schedule an appointment?
Click the “New Patient” button to request an appointment.
How do online therapy sessions work?
You’ll receive an email with a secure link before your session. Some platforms include a virtual waiting room. If there are connectivity issues, I’ll call you and resend the link via text to ensure a smooth connection.
How long are sessions, and how often will I need to visit?
- Initial visits: 50–60 minutes
- Follow-ups/medication management: 20–30 minutes
- Frequency depends on your needs—weekly for complex care, or every 4–6 weeks for medication maintenance in most cases.
What is your cancellation policy?
You may cancel or reschedule up to 24 hours in advance. Late cancellations or no-shows will incur an $85 fee, as that time is reserved exclusively for you. Upon booking, you’ll receive a confirmation email with links to reschedule or cancel.
What happens if I’m late to a session?
If you arrive late, your session may be shortened to honor the scheduled time. Full fees still apply.
💊 Medication Management
Do I have to take medication if it’s recommended?
No. You have the right to decline medication. If you choose to proceed, I’ll explain its purpose, usage, potential side effects, and what to do if concerns arise.
What are my responsibilities if I take medication?
You agree to:
- Take medications as prescribed
- Inform me of all supplements or medications you’re using
- Report any side effects
- Avoid stopping medication without consulting me
- Never share or misuse your prescriptions
Will I need an in-person visit for medication?
Possibly. Some laws require a face-to-face meeting before prescribing or refilling certain medications. I’ll let you know if this applies to your care.
Do I need to sign a separate agreement for controlled medications?
Yes. If a controlled medication is recommended, you’ll be asked to sign a Controlled Substance Agreement outlining safe usage, refill protocols, and legal requirements. This agreement must be reviewed and renewed periodically.
⚡️ ADHD Evaluation
What does the ADHD evaluation process involve?
ADHD evaluation requires a minimum of three appointments:
- Initial Evaluation – Comprehensive intake
- Detailed Interview & Assessment Review – Clinical interview and self-assessment tools
- Diagnosis & Treatment Planning – Review findings and discuss care options
If recommended, the Creyos ADHD Assessment Tool may be used. This carries an additional fee, which will be discussed in advance.
If I’ve already been diagnosed or treated for ADHD, will you automatically continue my prescription or do I need a new evaluation?
We require previous medical records in order to continue treatment with controlled medications in most cases. If documentation is insufficient, a new evaluation may be necessary. This will be determined on a case-by-case basis.
🐾 Emotional Support Animal (ESA) Documentation
How do I request ESA documentation?
Just let me know during your evaluation or treatment. If ESA support is clinically appropriate, I’ll provide a formal letter that meets housing and travel requirements. Additional documentation fees may apply.
How often does ESA documentation need to be renewed?
ESA letters are typically valid for one year and should be renewed annually to reflect your current needs and treatment plan.
📄 Documentation & Form Requests
Are there additional fees for documentation or form completion?
Yes. Most requests require a scheduled appointment, and sometimes an additional visit. A document preparation fee applies based on the number of pages or complexity. Payment is required before documents are released.
Do you complete disability or medical marijuana forms?
No. I do not certify patients for Social Security disability or medical marijuana.
What forms can you complete?
I may complete:
- Workplace or school accommodation letters
- ESA letters
- Medical certifications and prescription letters
- Bariatric surgery clearance letters
- FMLA and employer forms – (On a case-by-case basis, typically after five visits)
- Other patient-requested documentation
🔐 Privacy & Health Information
Is my personal information kept confidential?
Yes. At Inner Discovery, your privacy is protected under HIPAA. We use secure systems to safeguard your data and never disclose personal or health information without your explicit consent—except when required by law.
Can my health information be shared without my permission?
Yes, in specific cases such as treatment coordination, legal requirements, or safety concerns. Otherwise, written authorization is required.
Are session notes treated differently from other records?
Yes. Session notes are kept separately and require your written authorization for disclosure, except in limited legal or clinical circumstances.
Can you share my information with family or friends?
Only with your permission. I may share relevant information with someone involved in your care or payment unless you object. In emergencies, consent may be obtained retroactively.
What if I pay out-of-pocket for a service?
You may request that I do not share information about services you’ve paid for in full with your insurance provider.
📄 Accessing & Managing Your Records
Can I see or get a copy of my medical records?
Yes. You may request an electronic or paper copy of your records (excluding session notes). I’ll provide them within 30 days of your written request and may charge a reasonable fee.
Can I request corrections to my health information?
Absolutely. If something is inaccurate or missing, you may request a correction. If I’m unable to make the change, I’ll explain why in writing within 60 days.
Can I get a list of who has accessed my information?
Yes. You may request an accounting of disclosures made for reasons other than treatment, payment, or operations. I’ll provide this within 60 days, covering up to six years.
🤝 Collaborative Care
How do you collaborate with other healthcare providers involved in my care?
Collaboration is central to comprehensive, coordinated care. With your consent, I share relevant information—such as treatment plans, progress notes, and medication updates—with your primary care physician, therapist, or other specialists. I may consult with other providers to gather insights, refer you to services outside my scope, and incorporate their input into your treatment plan. Ongoing communication ensures that all providers are aligned in supporting your well-being.
📞 Emergencies & Crisis Support
What should I do in case of an emergency or crisis?
In urgent or life-threatening situations, prioritize your safety and seek immediate help:
- Call 911 if you or someone else is in danger.
- Use national crisis resources:
- Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: Dial 988 (24/7 support)
- Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741
- Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-SAFE (7233)
- Sexual Assault Hotline: 1-800-656-HOPE (4673)
- Veterans Crisis Line: 1-800-273-8255 (press 1) or text 838255
- Reach out to a trusted support person—a friend, family member, or caregiver who can help you navigate the situation.
- Utilize local resources such as walk-in clinics, psychiatric emergency departments, or crisis centers in your area.
- Notify me via secure message if you’re in crisis and already under my care. I’ll guide you on next steps or refer you to appropriate emergency services. Please note my secure messaging service is NOT available 24/7 and I may sometimes take up to 48 hours to answer. This should be treated as a “notification” rather than a first-line action.
Remember: electronic messaging and telehealth are not appropriate for emergency communication. Always seek immediate help through emergency services.
🌐 Telehealth & Digital Communication
What platform do you use for virtual sessions?
If your care is billed through Grow Therapy, you’ll use their secure telehealth platform. All other patients receive a HIPAA-compliant video link via Inner Discovery Mental Health Services, sent through email or the patient portal.
Can I stop or opt out of telehealth sessions?
Yes. You may end a session if the connection is poor or the format isn’t working for you. You also have the right to withdraw consent for telehealth at any time.
What are the benefits and limitations of telemedicine?
Telemedicine offers convenience, continuity of care, and reduced travel time. However, it may limit my ability to observe certain physical or behavioral cues. We’ll work together to ensure remote care remains clinically appropriate.
Is there a guarantee of results from telehealth treatment?
No. While I’m committed to providing high-quality care, outcomes depend on many factors. I’ll continue to adjust your treatment plan to support your progress.
💬 Messaging & Communication Preferences
Is messaging between appointments secure?
Yes. Our Inner Discovery patient portal, powered by SimplePractice, is encrypted and HIPAA-compliant. It’s the best way to communicate securely for non-urgent matters.
Can I text or email you?
Yes—for scheduling or administrative questions only. These methods are not secure for clinical discussions or emergencies. By continuing to use them, you consent to this form of communication.
What are your response time expectations?
I aim to respond to non-urgent messages within 48 business hours. Messaging is not monitored continuously and should never be used for emergencies.
Can I choose how you contact me?
Yes. You may request communication via phone, email, or mail at a specific address or number. I’ll honor all reasonable requests to protect your privacy.
Will I receive appointment reminders or updates?
Yes. If you’ve provided a cell number or email, you may receive reminders or announcements. You can opt out anytime by replying “STOP” or clicking “unsubscribe.”
"Carolina provides a safe and holistic approach to help with your healing journey. I have felt at ease knowing that any concerns with my medication are addressed, which puts me at ease. I have been able to build trust with Carolina to ensure that I am receiving the proper treatment. I am extremely grateful that I am not alone and have the support I need to be the best version of myself."
Alyssa
We Accept Most Major Insurances
*Self-pay rates are available.
CONTACT INFO
Phone:
754-333-1765
Fax:
954-405-8692
OFFICE HOURS
Days:
Monday - Friday
Hours:
9:00 am - 5:00 pm
If you or someone you know is experiencing an emergency or crisis, call 988 (the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline), call 911, or go to the nearest emergency room.
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