Frequently Asked Questions
General Practice FAQs
1. How do I schedule my first appointment?
The easiest way is to call Bibiana directly at (917) 688-2446 between 10 AM and 2 PM, Monday through Friday. She’ll walk you through everything, answer your questions, and find a time that works for your schedule. You can also use our online booking system if you prefer to schedule instantly. Bibiana makes sure the whole process feels as smooth as possible.
2. Do you accept insurance, and how does billing work?
Yes, we work with most major insurance plans. Bibiana handles all the insurance headaches for you—she’ll verify your benefits, get prior authorizations when needed, and submit claims. You’ll just need to pay your copay at the time of service. If you have questions about coverage, Bibiana will fight with your insurance company so you don’t have to.
3. What should I expect during my first visit?
Your first appointment is all about getting to know you. James takes time to understand your story, what’s been going on, and what you’re hoping to achieve. It’s not rushed—we want to really hear you. You’ll discuss your history, current concerns, and work together to create a treatment plan that makes sense for your life. Most people leave feeling heard and hopeful.
4. Can I see James for both medication management and therapy?
Absolutely. That’s actually one of the things that makes us different. James provides both services, which means better coordination of your care and no communication gaps between providers. You won’t have to repeat your story or wonder if your therapist and psychiatrist are on the same page—because they’re the same person.
5. What makes your practice LGBTQ+ affirming?
As a gay-identified provider, James understands challenges that others might miss or dismiss entirely. This isn’t just about being “LGBTQ+ friendly”—it’s about truly getting the unique stressors, family dynamics, and life experiences that can impact your mental health. You won’t have to explain or educate; you can focus on healing.
Comprehensive Medication Management FAQs
1. How do you decide which medication is right for me?
We don’t believe in one-size-fits-all approaches. James takes time to understand how your mind works, what you’ve tried before, what worked and what didn’t, and what your daily life looks like. Then we find medication that fits your life, not the other way around. It’s about finding what actually helps you feel like yourself again.
2. How often will I need medication management appointments?
Initially, you’ll typically see James every 2-4 weeks as we find the right medication and dosage. Once you’re stable and feeling good, appointments might spread to every 6-8 weeks or longer. The frequency depends on how you’re doing—we adjust based on your needs, not a rigid schedule.
3. What if I experience side effects?
We monitor this closely, especially when starting new medications. You’ll never be left wondering if what you’re experiencing is normal. James will work with you to adjust dosages, try different medications, or find solutions that minimize side effects while maximizing benefits. Your comfort and wellbeing always come first.
4. Can you help me get off medications I no longer need?
Absolutely. Some people need medication long-term, others for shorter periods. James will regularly evaluate whether your current medications are still serving you. If you want to reduce or discontinue medication, we’ll create a safe, gradual plan that protects your progress.
5. How do you handle prescription refills and pharmacy issues?
Bibiana handles all of this for you. She tracks your refills, calls pharmacies when there are issues, and makes sure you never run out of medication. If your pharmacy can’t fill something or insurance creates problems, she’ll sort it out. You focus on feeling better; we handle the logistics.
Individual Psychotherapy FAQs
1. What's your approach to therapy?
James believes therapy should be practical and real. Sessions aren’t just about talking through problems—they’re about building tools that actually work when life gets tough. The approach is tailored to you, whether you need help processing emotions, changing thought patterns, or developing coping strategies that fit your lifestyle.
2. How long does therapy typically last?
That’s entirely up to you and what you’re working on. Some people benefit from short-term focused work (a few months), while others prefer ongoing support. James doesn’t believe in keeping you in therapy longer than helpful, but he also won’t rush you out before you’re ready. Progress guides the timeline, not arbitrary session limits.
3. What if I've tried therapy before and it didn't help?
Many people come to us with that exact experience. Sometimes previous therapy didn’t work because it wasn’t the right fit, the timing wasn’t right, or the approach didn’t match your needs. James takes time to understand what didn’t work before and tries different strategies. Many clients are surprised by how different therapy can feel with the right provider.
4. Do you assign homework or expect me to do work between sessions?
Only if it’s helpful and you’re interested. Some people love having concrete things to practice between sessions, while others prefer to keep the work contained to our meetings. James will suggest tools and exercises based on what you’re working on, but it’s always your choice whether to use them.
5. How do you handle crisis situations or urgent concerns?
During business hours, James is available for urgent concerns. For true emergencies, you should call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room. James will help you create a safety plan so you know exactly what to do if you’re in crisis, including resources available 24/7 like the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.
Anxiety Treatment FAQs
1. How do you treat anxiety differently than other providers?
Anxiety shows up differently for everyone, so James builds treatment around your specific experience, not generic approaches. Whether your anxiety causes physical symptoms, racing thoughts, or avoidance behaviors, the treatment plan addresses what actually happens to you. No cookie-cutter solutions—just real strategies for your real life.
2. Will I need medication for my anxiety?
Not necessarily. Some people benefit tremendously from medication, others do well with therapy alone, and many find the best results with both. James will discuss all options with you and help you make decisions based on your preferences, lifestyle, and what you’re comfortable with. There’s no pressure either way.
3. How quickly will I start feeling better?
This varies, but many people notice some improvement within the first few weeks, especially with the right combination of support and treatment. James focuses on giving you practical tools you can use immediately while working on longer-term changes. You won’t be left struggling while waiting months to feel different.
4. What if my anxiety is affecting my work or relationships?
That’s exactly what we work on. James helps you develop strategies for managing anxiety in real-world situations—whether it’s presentations at work, social situations, or intimate relationships. The goal is helping you participate fully in your life, not just reducing symptoms on paper.
5. Can you help with panic attacks?
Absolutely. Panic attacks can feel terrifying and overwhelming, but they’re very treatable. James will help you understand what’s happening in your body, teach you techniques to manage panic in the moment, and work on preventing future attacks. Many people find significant relief once they have the right tools and support.
Depression Support FAQs
1. How do you approach depression treatment?
James understands that depression isn’t just sadness—it can show up as numbness, exhaustion, irritability, or feeling overwhelmed by everything. Treatment focuses on what depression actually looks like in your life and builds a path forward that makes sense. Whether it’s medication, therapy, lifestyle changes, or all of the above, the approach is tailored to you.
2. What if I can barely get out of bed some days?
That’s not uncommon with depression, and James gets it. You won’t be judged or told to just “push through it.” Instead, we work on small, manageable steps that help you function better day by day. Sometimes that means starting with very basic goals and building from there. Progress isn’t always linear, and that’s okay.
3. How long will it take to feel better?
Everyone’s timeline is different, but many people start noticing small improvements within a few weeks of starting treatment. Depression often lifts gradually rather than all at once. James will help you recognize progress even when it doesn’t feel dramatic, and adjust treatment if you’re not seeing the changes you need.
4. Can you help if I've been depressed for years?
Absolutely. Long-term depression is challenging but very treatable. James has extensive experience helping people who’ve struggled for years find relief and rediscover what it feels like to enjoy life again. Sometimes chronic depression requires a different approach, and that’s exactly what you’ll get.
5. What if my depression is related to life circumstances?
Depression often involves both brain chemistry and life situations. James addresses both aspects—helping you process difficult circumstances while also treating the depression itself. You don’t have to choose between talking about what’s happening in your life and getting medical treatment. You get both.
OCD Treatment FAQs
1. How do you treat OCD specifically?
OCD requires specialized understanding and treatment approaches. James combines evidence-based techniques with compassionate support, helping you gradually reclaim control from obsessive thoughts and compulsive behaviors. Treatment is individualized because OCD shows up differently for everyone—what matters is what works for your specific symptoms.
2. Will you make me stop my rituals immediately?
No. Effective OCD treatment involves gradual, manageable steps that you’re comfortable with. James works with you to slowly reduce the power that obsessions and compulsions have over your life. You’re always in control of the pace, and changes happen when you’re ready, not according to some arbitrary timeline.
3. How long does OCD treatment typically take?
OCD treatment is often longer-term than treatment for some other conditions, but many people see meaningful improvement within a few months. The goal isn’t perfection—it’s helping you live your life without OCD controlling your daily decisions. Some people need ongoing support, while others develop enough tools to manage independently.
4. What if my OCD thoughts are disturbing or embarrassing?
James has heard it all, and nothing will shock or disgust him. OCD often involves thoughts that feel shameful or frightening, but these thoughts don’t reflect who you are as a person. Creating a safe space to discuss these experiences openly is essential for effective treatment. You won’t be judged.
5. Can medication help with OCD?
Yes, certain medications can be very effective for OCD, often in combination with therapy. James will discuss whether medication might be helpful for your specific situation. Some people do well with medication alone, others prefer therapy-only approaches, and many find the best results with both. The choice is always yours.
OCD Treatment FAQs
1. How do you approach ADHD treatment for adults?
James understands that your brain works differently, and that’s not a problem to fix—it’s a reality to work with. Whether you’re dealing with focus issues, organization challenges, or emotional regulation, treatment focuses on building systems that work with your ADHD brain, not against it. The goal is helping you thrive, not just cope.
2. Do I definitely need medication for ADHD?
Not necessarily. While medication can be incredibly helpful for many people with ADHD, it’s not the only option. James will discuss all approaches—medication, therapy, lifestyle strategies, and organizational tools. Some people do great with medication alone, others prefer non-medication approaches, and many find the best results combining different strategies.
3. What if I wasn't diagnosed with ADHD until adulthood?
You’re not alone—many adults discover they have ADHD later in life. James helps you understand how ADHD has been affecting you and develop strategies moving forward. There’s often some grief about missed opportunities or struggles that make sense now, and that’s a normal part of the process.
4. How do you help with ADHD-related anxiety or depression?
ADHD often comes with secondary anxiety or depression from years of struggling with focus, organization, or feeling different. James addresses all of these interconnected issues. Sometimes treating ADHD effectively reduces anxiety and depression significantly. Other times, each condition needs specific attention.
5. Can you help me develop better organizational systems?
Absolutely. Generic organization advice rarely works for ADHD brains. James helps you develop practical systems that actually stick—whether it’s managing time, organizing your space, or keeping track of important tasks. The key is finding strategies that work with how your brain naturally functions, not fighting against it.
