Mental Health Guides
Straight answers about psychiatric care, medication, ADHD and insurance in Massachusetts.
Clinically reviewed by Joseph Lavoie, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-BC · Last reviewed
The short answer
These mental health guides answer the questions patients ask most, from what a PMHNP is to how long antidepressants take. Each guide is clinically reviewed by Joseph Lavoie, PMHNP-BC, and cites sources such as NIMH and the FDA.
Pick a topic below. Guides are general information, not a diagnosis or a treatment plan for you. For that, start with a psychiatric evaluation.
Understanding your care
- PMHNP vs. psychiatrist: what’s the difference?
- Can nurse practitioners prescribe in Massachusetts?
- Psychiatric provider or therapist: which do you need?
- Therapy vs. medication for anxiety and depression
Getting started
- What happens at your first psychiatric evaluation
- How to prepare for a telehealth psychiatry visit
- Does insurance cover telehealth psychiatry in Massachusetts?
- How to switch psychiatric providers
Medication
- What is medication management?
- How long do antidepressants take to work?
- SSRI side effects: what’s common and when to call
ADHD, anxiety and teens
- Signs of ADHD in adults
- ADHD medication by telehealth in Massachusetts
- Anxiety attack vs. panic attack
- Signs your teen needs psychiatric care
Can’t find what you need? The FAQ page and the new-patient page cover practical questions about booking, video visits and coverage.
Frequently asked questions
Who reviews these guides?
Every guide is clinically reviewed by Joseph Lavoie, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-BC, a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner. The review date at the top of each guide updates when the page does.
Are the guides medical advice?
No. They explain how conditions and treatments generally work. Your own care depends on an evaluation by a clinician who knows your history.
Where does the information come from?
Guides draw on public health and clinical sources such as NIMH, SAMHSA, the FDA and MedlinePlus. Each guide lists its sources so you can read further.
Which guide should I read first?
If you are new to psychiatric care, start with what happens at your first evaluation and how to prepare for a telehealth visit. If cost is on your mind, read the insurance guide.
Can I ask a question that isn’t covered?
Yes. Call 617-858-8276. Please don’t send medical details by email; use the secure patient portal once you are a patient.
Can a guide tell me whether I need medication?
No. A guide can explain your options and what questions to ask. Whether medication fits is decided with a clinician after a full evaluation.
Take the next step in your journey.
Same clinician every visit. Telehealth anywhere in Massachusetts.
Book a VisitNot sure where to start? Answer 4 quick questions