FAQs
Get the information you need about our psychiatric care, from scheduling your first appointment to understanding insurance coverage and treatment options.
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the difference between a psychiatrist and a therapist?
Psychiatrists and psychiatric nurse practitioners like our team at Astra Psychiatry are medical providers who specialize in medication management for mental health conditions. We combine this with supportive psychotherapy to help you achieve emotional stability and improved functioning. While therapists focus primarily on talk therapy, we provide comprehensive psychiatric care that includes prescribing and managing medications alongside supportive counseling.
Do I need a referral to schedule an appointment?
No referral is needed. You can schedule directly with us by booking online through our secure patient portal or calling our office. We offer a free 15-minute phone consultation to help determine if we’re the right fit for your needs—no commitment required.
What happens during my first appointment?
Your initial assessment is a comprehensive 60-minute session where we take time to truly understand your full story. We’ll explore your mental health concerns, medical history, current symptoms, and personal goals. Together, we’ll develop a collaborative treatment plan that’s customized to your unique needs. You’ll never feel rushed—we limit our caseload specifically to ensure quality time with each patient.
Do you accept insurance?
Our insurance and payment options are currently being finalized. Please contact our office directly for the most up-to-date information about accepted insurance plans, self-pay options, and payment methods. We’re committed to transparency and will provide clear information about costs and coverage.
How quickly can I expect to see improvement?
Every person’s journey is unique, but many patients begin experiencing initial improvements within 2-6 weeks of starting medication. We typically spend 3-6 months in an optimization period to find your ideal treatment balance, with ongoing adjustments as needed. Throughout this process, we provide regular check-ins and responsive support to ensure your treatment is working effectively.
Do you offer virtual appointments?
Yes! We provide secure telepsychiatry services throughout New York and Connecticut, making quality psychiatric care accessible from the comfort of your home. We also offer in-person appointments at our Rye Brook, NY and Stamford, CT locations. You can choose whichever format works best for your schedule and preferences.
What conditions do you treat?
We provide comprehensive care for a wide range of mental health conditions including anxiety, depression, ADHD, bipolar disorder, OCD, PTSD, substance use disorders, and many others. We specialize in general adult psychiatry, child and adolescent psychiatry, geriatric psychiatry, and addiction psychiatry. If you’re unsure whether we can help with your specific concern, our free 15-minute consultation is a great place to start.
How often will I need appointments?
After your initial 60-minute assessment, most patients schedule monthly or bi-weekly follow-up sessions depending on their progress and needs. The frequency is flexible and adjustable—we work collaboratively with you to determine what level of support is right for your situation. Between sessions, we’re available via email for scheduling and administrative needs, and you can reach us by phone for urgent matters.
Take the first step towards lasting wellness, with Astra Psychiatry
Book an Appointment
- Our Services
Comprehensive Psychiatric Services
Medication Management
