Frequently Asked Questions

• Do you see adult patients in your practice?
• How long does psychiatric treatment usually take?
• How much does psychiatric treatment cost?
• Will my health insurance plan cover the cost of treatment?
• Will information and treatment be kept confidential?
• Are parents and families responsible for their child’s illness?
• What happens if my child has to be hospitalized?

Do you see adult patients in your practice?

Yes. Although my sub-specialty is in child and adolescent psychiatry, I also see adult patients in my practice. I also provide family and couples counseling upon request.

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How long does psychiatric treatment usually take?

Unfortunately, there is no definite answer. Some people respond to short-term treatment (e.g. after 12 or so sessions). When people have had their symptoms for a long time or have a complicated clinical picture, longer-term treatment may be necessary. A few disorders such as bipolar disorder and schizophrenia may require continuing care. After the initial evaluation, I am usually able to give patients and family some idea of what length of treatment would be optimal.

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How much does psychiatric treatment cost?

My rates are comparable to those of other child, adolescent, and adult psychiatrists in the West Los Angeles area. You should contact me directly to discuss fees for treatment.

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Will my health insurance plan cover the cost of treatment?

In my practice, I provide monthly statements with all the necessary information that you can submit to your insurance company for partial reimbursement. Many fee-for-service providers such as Blue Cross will reimburse between 50-80% of charges. Payment is requested at the completion of each session and may be in the form of cash, check or credit card.

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Will information and treatment be kept confidential?

I will not discuss information about you and/or your child with others without your consent except as required by law – i.e. situations where the patient is either an imminent danger to themselves or others.

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Are parents and families responsible for their child’s illness?

Feeling responsible for the child’s problems is a normal sign of caring and attachment. It is important to realize that most mental health problems have multiple causes, are usually not anyone’s “fault,” and are treatable. Whenever possible, I try to help parents and families resolve the feelings of “Why my child?”

Also, parents and family members take on an integral role during the treatment process, as they are educated about what their child is learning in therapy and what steps they can take to help their child recover from their illness.

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What happens if my child has to be hospitalized?

Because I maintain affiliation with UCLA Neuropsychiatric Hospital, I can facilitate direct admission to this facility if necessary.

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Los Angeles psychiatrist