Frequently Asked Questions
Check out the answers to some of our most frequently asked questions below. If there’s something you need more details about that isn’t mentioned here, please get in touch for more information. We’ll get back to you as soon as possible.
Do I need insurance?
No, you do not
You are welcome to book an appointment and pay out of pocket at a rate of $300 per hour for your visit. If you would like, a superbill can be provided for you to submit to your insurance or FSA/HSA for potential out-of-network reimbursement. We currently accept Aetna, Cigna, Carelon, TRICARE, Optum, UHC, CHAMPVA, Anthem Blue Cross, and Medicare with more insurance plans being accepted soon.
This will be discussed with your provider during your visit
Not everyone will benefit from taking medication for their mental health concern, but many people will. Our providers will discuss your options and risks and benefits before starting medication. Your input is valuable, we work as a team to make sure your needs are met through a process of shared decision making.
What if I don't want medication?
Do you do therapy?
We integrate supportive therapy with medication management.
Our providers are Nurse Practitioners who have specialized in Psychiatric and Mental Health care. We utilize supportive therapy and therapeutic techniques during the visit, but do it in conjunction with medication management. If you need a therapist who you want to see on a regular basis you can reach out and we can provide a referral.
This is a common concern and will be discussed with your provider during your visit
Some medications are taken for a short period of time, or only in certain circumstances. Whereas other medications can be taken for life. This largely depends on your diagnosis, the medication and your specialized treatment plan. Our goal is to get your symptoms to remission prior to reducing the dose of your medications.
If I start medication will I have to be on it forever?
What if I want to get off medication?
De-prescribing can be beneficial
Getting off medication is something we can help you achieve. Medication taken for mental health should not be abruptly stopped, but gradually tapered and discontinued. We can help de-prescribe medication and see if this is a good option for you and your mental health.
We do our best to help all potential patients, but some specialized medications, interventions and treatments are not offered at this practice. These include:
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Suboxone
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Ketamine (including Spravato)
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TMS
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ECT
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Acute alcohol or benzo withdrawal
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ESA letters
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Long term disability paperwork
What can you not help with?
What can medication help with?
Many different symptoms
Medications can help treat depression, anxiety, ADHD, Bipolar Disorder, psychosis, and other mental illnesses. Some antidepressants are used to treat anxiety or ADHD as well as depression. The medication that would be prescribed would be based on your symptoms and medical history. Unfortunately, there is no magic pill that can fix everything, but utilizing medication and therapy together can be helpful.
Coastal Breeze Mental Health is firmly committed to providing inclusive, culturally responsive, and trauma-informed psychiatric care. We celebrate and welcome clients of all sexual orientations, gender identities, racial and ethnic backgrounds, and belief systems.
Our trauma-informed approach means we recognize how past life experiences shape nervous system health. We prioritize your autonomy, move at a pace that feels safe for you, and collaborate with you on every treatment decision. We do not make ultimatums, assumptions, or judgments.
What is your approach to care? Are you LGBTQ+ affirming and trauma-informed?
What should I do if I am experiencing a mental health crisis?
If you are having an emergency please call emergency services.
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Coastal Breeze Mental Health is an outpatient practice and does not provide 24/7 emergency services. If you are experiencing a life-threatening psychiatric emergency or thoughts of self-harm, please call or text 988 for the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, dial 911, or go to the nearest hospital emergency room.
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Your first appointment is an in-depth, 60-minute intake. We will review your mental health and medical history, current symptoms, lifestyle factors, and treatment goals. Together, we will discuss whether medication, supportive therapy, lab work, or referrals make the most sense for you.
What happens during the initial evaluation?
What should I do if I am experiencing a mental health crisis?
If you are having an emergency please call emergency services.
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Coastal Breeze Mental Health is an outpatient practice and does not provide 24/7 emergency services. If you are experiencing a life-threatening psychiatric emergency or thoughts of self-harm, please call or text 988 for the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, dial 911, or go to the nearest hospital emergency room.
Yes, we offer virtual visits statewide throughout California and Colorado.
While we here at Coastal Breeze Mental Health are big fans of spending time by the beach, it is not required for you to live in Santa Cruz County to get treatment with us. Our providers can see patients who live anywhere in California, from Eureka to San Diego, we are here to help. We are also licensed in Colorado for telehealth only.
Can I receive care through telehealth?
Where are you located?
We are located in Downtown Santa Cruz, CA at 777 Chestnut Street.