Practice Philosophy

At Aligned Mind Psychiatry and Wellness, care is grounded in the belief that mental health is best supported when clinical knowledge and inner balance are held together.

Psychiatric treatment is most effective when it is thoughtful, collaborative, and individualized. Medication, when appropriate, is used carefully and conservatively, as one part of a broader approach that also values insight, self-awareness, and non-pharmacologic supports.

The goal of care is not simply symptom reduction, but greater clarity, stability, and long-term well-being. Treatment is guided by evidence-based practice, ethical boundaries, and respect for each person's unique experience.

Care that is intentional, grounded, and aligned with you.

Payment Policy

Self-Pay Only

This practice operates on a self-pay basis and does not accept insurance, including Medicare or Medicaid.

Fees for Services

  • New Patient Evaluation: $200
  • Follow-Up Medication Management: $100
  • No-Show Fee: $75 (waived with 24 hours notice)
  • Form Completion: $40 (outside appointments)

Payment Methods

We accept cash, check, or credit card. Clients are encouraged to keep a valid credit card on file. The card will not be charged until end of business on the day of appointment.

Clients are responsible for full payment regardless of insurance reimbursement eligibility.

Insurance Reimbursement

The practice does not submit claims to insurance companies. Clients may request a superbill for potential out-of-network reimbursement; however, reimbursement is not guaranteed and is solely the client's responsibility.

Financial Responsibility

Failure to pay outstanding balances may result in suspension or termination of services.

Attendance, Cancellations, and No-Show Policy

Appointment Attendance

Clients are expected to attend all scheduled appointments on time. Consistent attendance is essential for safe and effective treatment.

Late Arrivals

If a client arrives late, the appointment may be shortened or rescheduled at the provider's discretion. Full session fees may still apply.

Cancellations

Clients must provide at least 24 hours' notice to cancel or reschedule. Notice may be given via phone or secure messaging.

No-Shows and Late Cancellations

A no-show is missing an appointment without notice or canceling with less than 24 hours' notice. A $75 fee may be charged. Repeated no-shows may result in discharge from the practice.

Emergency Exceptions

Fees may be waived in cases of documented emergencies.

Scope of Practice and Acuity Policy

Appropriate Level of Care

This practice provides outpatient psychiatric evaluation and medication management for individuals whose clinical needs can be safely managed in a low-acuity outpatient setting.

This practice does NOT provide care for:

  • Individuals with active suicidal or homicidal intent
  • Those requiring inpatient, residential, or intensive outpatient treatment
  • Severe psychosis or mania impairing outpatient participation
  • Acute substance withdrawal or intoxication

Emergency Situations

This practice is NOT an emergency service. For psychiatric emergencies:

  • Call 911
  • Go to the nearest emergency department
  • Call or text 988 (Suicide & Crisis Lifeline)

Controlled Substances Policy

No Controlled Substance Prescribing

This practice does NOT prescribe controlled substances, including:

  • Stimulants (amphetamines, methylphenidate)
  • Benzodiazepines
  • Opioid medications
  • Sedative-hypnotics classified as controlled substances

This policy promotes safe, evidence-based care and minimizes risks of dependency, misuse, and diversion. Requests for controlled substances will not be accommodated.

Communication Policy

Approved Methods

Communicate via secure patient portal or telephone during business hours.

Response Time

Non-urgent messages returned within 1–2 business days. Messages outside business hours addressed next business day.

Limitations

Electronic messaging is for brief administrative matters or non-urgent questions. Complex issues require a scheduled appointment.

Emergencies

This practice does NOT provide crisis services. Call 911, go to ER, or call/text 988.

Professional Boundaries

Therapeutic Relationship

The provider-client relationship is professional and focused solely on psychiatric care.

Boundaries

  • No social, romantic, or financial relationships outside therapy
  • Dual relationships that impair judgment are avoided
  • Contact limited to clinical/administrative matters via approved channels

Gifts and Social Media

  • Gifts are discouraged and may be declined
  • Provider does not connect on social media with clients

Respectful Conduct

Harassment, abusive language, or inappropriate behavior may result in termination of services.

Privacy Policy (HIPAA Notice)

Your Privacy Matters

Your personal health information is protected by federal HIPAA law and Connecticut state law.

How Information Is Used

  • Treatment – providing psychiatric care
  • Payment – processing payments/receipts
  • Operations – quality improvement, legal compliance

Limits of Confidentiality

Information may be shared without permission for:

  • Concern about serious harm to you or others
  • Legal requirement to report abuse/neglect (child, elderly 60+, person with intellectual disability)
  • Court order or subpoena

Mandated Reporter

As a CT-licensed APRN, the provider is a mandated reporter and must report suspected abuse, neglect, or exploitation.

Your Rights

  • Request copies of your medical record
  • Ask for corrections
  • Request limits on information sharing
  • File complaints without retaliation

Additional Policies

In-Person Services Only

This practice provides in-person services only. No telehealth is currently offered. All appointments occur at our Milford, CT location.

Medication Refill Policy

Refills require active relationship and adherence to follow-up appointments. Requests submitted via approved channels may take 2–3 business days. Refills denied if overdue for follow-up or outstanding balance. No emergency refills provided.

Emotional Support Animal (ESA) Policy

This practice does NOT provide ESA letters, evaluations, or documentation under any circumstances. This includes requests for housing, travel, or employment. Clients seeking ESA documentation should pursue providers who specifically offer that service.

Discharge/Termination

Services may be terminated for:

  • Repeated missed appointments
  • Nonpayment of fees
  • Disruptive, threatening, or unsafe behavior
  • Clinical needs exceeding practice scope

Written notice provided except in immediate safety concerns. Immediate termination may occur for threats, violence, harassment, or illegal activity.

Policy Acknowledgment

By engaging in services, clients acknowledge they have read, understood, and agreed to these policies.