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Frequently Asked Questions

​About Us

What kind of practice is BayLight Psychiatry?
BayLight Psychiatry is a private telepsychiatry practice based in Florida. We are a two-physician team—both board-certified psychiatrists—offering individualized psychiatric care for adults. We work directly with you through secure video visits, without insurance involvement or administrative layers, so that we can spend more time with you and offer more flexible care.
Why choose a board-certified psychiatrist?
Board certification ensures that your doctor has completed advanced training (4 years of medical school and 4 years of specific psychiatry training), passed rigorous exams, and stays current with best practices. At BayLight Psychiatry, your care is delivered directly by physicians with deep expertise in adult psychiatry, neuropsychiatry, and geriatric psychiatry.
Why choose BayLight Psychiatry specifically?
We bring decades of combined clinical experience, including specialty training in cognitive and neuropsychiatric disorders and in geriatric psychiatry. We keep our practice intentionally small to maintain a close connection with each patient—you'll work directly with your psychiatrist every time.

​Services and Prices

How much do visits cost?
We offer clear, upfront pricing:
  • Initial Evaluation (90 minutes): $450
  • Follow-up Visit (30 minutes): $150
  • Follow-up Visit (60 minutes): $300​
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You'll never receive a surprise bill or find out later that something wasn't covered.
How do we decide how long follow-up visits should be?
Shorter visits (30 minutes) are typically for medication follow-up with brief counseling. Longer visits (60  minutes) are used for psychotherapy, more complex discussions, or deeper collaborative work.We'll decide together what length makes sense at each visit—you don't have to commit to the same option every time.
How often will we meet?
This depends on your goals and needs. We generally recommend:
  • Every 1-2 weeks if we're doing psychotherapy
  • Every 2-4 weeks during medication adjustments
  • Every 3-4 months once things are on the right track

We'll decide together what schedule works best for you.

​Payment and Insurance Reimbursement

How do I pay for my visit?
Payment is made by credit card at the time of the visit. We'll securely collect your card information when you schedule or at check-in.
Do you take any insurance at all?
No. We do not accept insurance and are not in-network with any plans. We are a fully cash-based practice.Because we don't contract with insurance companies, we can offer longer visits, greater flexibility, and care that's centered entirely around you—not what your insurance plan permits. This also means you'll never receive surprise bills or unexpected charges after the fact.
Can I still get reimbursed by my insurance company?
Maybe. If you have a PPO or another plan with out-of-network benefits, you may be eligible for partial reimbursement. We'll give you a superbill (an itemized receipt) that you can submit to your insurance company.

Not all plans cover telehealth, and some don't reimburse for out-of-network care, so we strongly recommend calling your plan to ask about:
  • Out-of-network reimbursement for psychiatry
  • Coverage for telehealth or virtual visits
  • Any exclusions for mental health services
Can I use my HSA or FSA to pay?
Yes, our services are generally eligible for payment or reimbursement through a Health Savings Account (HSA) or Flexible Spending Account (FSA).
Will I ever get a surprise bill?
No. Since we don't bill your insurance, you'll never be surprised by a denial or hidden fee. You'll always know the cost ahead of time, and we'll never charge you for anything you didn't agree to in advance.
I have traditional Medicare but am willing to pay out-of-pocket. Can you see me?
Unfortunately, no. Federal law prohibits us from accepting patients with traditional Medicare into our cash-pay practice, even if you're willing to pay out of pocket.
I have Medicare Advantage but am willing to pay out-of-pocket. Can you see me?
Yes, we can see patients who have Medicare Advantage plans, who are willing to pay out-of-pocket. We do not bill Medicare Advantage or any other insurance plan.Some Medicare Advantage PPOs include out-of-network coverage, in which case you may be able to submit for reimbursement. Medicare Advantage HMO plans usually do not cover out-of-network care, so they would generally not reimburse you.We are happy to provide documentation for reimbursement if your Medicare Advantage plan allows it, but we recommend calling your plan directly to confirm what they'll cover.

Appointments and Scheduling

How do I schedule an appointment?
To get started, just click here to set up a free 15-minute phone call. There's no obligation—this is simply a chance for one of us to talk with you about what's been going on and what you're looking for help with. We'll answer any questions you have and decide together whether our services are a good fit. If so, we'll walk you through the next steps for scheduling your first visit.
How soon can I see you?
We currently have same-week availability. In some cases, we may be able to offer a same-day appointment. We'll do our best to find a time that works for you as quickly as possible.
What days and times do you offer appointments?
Our standard hours are:
  • Monday: 3:00 pm to 7:00 pm
  • Tuesday through Friday: 8:00 am to 6:00 pm.

Our last new patient appointment of the day starts 90 minutes before our regular closing time.

We also offer a limited number of weekend appointments—just let us know what you need, and we'll do our best to accommodate.
What happens during my visit?
Your first visit is a 90-minute evaluation where we'll talk in depth about what's been going on, any past experiences with treatment, and what you're hoping to get out of care. We'll take the time to fully understand the big picture and come up with a plan together.Follow-up visits can be either 30 or 60 minutes, depending on your needs. Shorter visits are typically used for medication management with some brief counseling. Longer visits are for therapy, more complex issues, or when we're working on goals that need more time. You don't have to pick the same visit length every time—we'll decide together what makes the most sense.
How often will I see you?
How often we meet depends on what we're working on. As a general guide:
  • Every 1-2 weeks if we're doing psychotherapy
  • Every 2-4 weeks during medication adjustments
  • Every 3-4 months once things are on the right track
     
We'll tailor the schedule to what's most helpful for you.
How long will I need to be in treatment?
It depends on your situation and your goals. Some people work with us for just a few months to get through a difficult time or adjust medications. Others stay in care longer for ongoing support, therapy, or management of chronic conditions. There's no set timeline—we'll check in regularly about how things are going and adjust the plan as needed. You're always in control of how long you continue treatment.

Who We Serve

Who do you see in your clinic?
We provide care to adults age 18 and older, located anywhere in the state of Florida. All visits are conducted via secure video, so you can connect from the comfort of your home—whether you live in a large city or a rural area.

We have advanced training and extensive experience in general adult psychiatry, as well as in treating:
  • People navigating difficult-to-treat anxiety, depression, or overlapping symptoms 
  • Older adults with memory loss, depression, or complex health needs
  • Individuals living with dementia or other neurodegenerative conditions
  • Patients with psychiatric symptoms related to neurologic or medically complex conditions (including stroke, traumatic brain injury, and chronic illness)
  • Veterans and veteran-related issues

We are committed to providing compassionate, respectful care to people of all backgrounds. We do not discriminate based on race, ethnicity, color, national origin, age (within our adult service population), disability, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, religion, marital status, military status, genetic information, or any other status protected by law. We provide inclusive, respectful care to all adults age 18 and older.
Can you see someone under 18?
No. We specialize in adult psychiatry and only see individuals age 18 and older.
I'm not in Florida—can you still see me?
No. We are licensed in Florida and can only see patients who are physically located in Florida at the time of the visit. As long as you are in Florida, you can be anywhere in the state; it doesn't matter what part of Florida you're in, or if you live in a large city or a rural area.
Do you see older adults?
Yes. We have extensive experience working with older adults, including those navigating retirement, grief, changes in independence, or chronic health issues. We specialize in treating both psychiatric and cognitive symptoms in later life. Whether the concern is depression, anxiety, memory loss, or behavior changes, we tailor care to meet the unique needs of aging adults.
Do you see people with thinking and memory problems or dementia?
​Yes. We have years of experience evaluating and treating people with Alzheimer's disease, frontotemporal dementia, Lewy body dementia, and other neurocognitive disorders. We can help manage behavioral and psychiatric symptoms, support caregivers, and coordinate with your primary care doctor or neurologist.
What if my family member has thinking and memory problems and can't manage appointments on their own?
We often work with family members or caregivers to help get someone started with care. You can contact us on their behalf, help them join video visits, and join the appointment if needed. We'll guide you through the process and make sure everything is set up in a way that works for your family.
Do you see people with complex medical or neurologic issues?
Yes. We specialize in treating psychiatric symptoms in people with overlapping medical conditions—including stroke, traumatic brain injury, Parkinson's disease, autoimmune illness, and chronic pain. We understand how these conditions can affect mood, thinking, and behavior, and we tailor treatment to each person's unique situation.
Do you coordinate with other doctors or therapists?
Yes. With your permission, we are happy to collaborate with your primary care doctor, neurologist, therapist, or other specialists. This is especially helpful when dealing with complex or overlapping conditions, as it helps ensure safer prescribing, shared decision-making, and more coordinated care overall.

Conditions We Treat

Do you treat depression?
Yes. Depression is one of the most common reasons people seek care with us. We offer thoughtful, personalized treatment that may include medication, talk therapy, and lifestyle changes. If you're feeling persistently sad, unmotivated, or overwhelmed, we'll take the time to understand your goals and help you feel better.
Do you treat anxiety?
​Yes. We treat a range of anxiety symptoms and conditions, including generalized anxiety, panic attacks, social anxiety, health anxiety, and excessive worry. We'll help you understand how anxiety is affecting your life and work with you to develop a plan based on what's most helpful for you.
Do you help with insomnia and other sleep problems?
Yes. We regularly help patients with trouble falling asleep, waking up too early, or feeling tired despite a full night of sleep. We offer both medication and non-medication approaches, and we'll work with you to build a plan that supports lasting improvements in sleep and mental health.
Do you treat PTSD?
Yes. We work with individuals experiencing post-traumatic stress, including symptoms like intrusive memories, hypervigilance, nightmares, avoidance, and mood changes. Whether your trauma was recent or occurred many years ago, we'll help you find a path forward that feels manageable and supported.
Do you treat OCD?
Yes. We treat obsessive-compulsive disorder and related symptoms such as intrusive thoughts, compulsive behaviors, and mental rituals. We'll tailor the approach to your individual needs.
Do you treat schizophrenia or bipolar disorder?
Yes. We have extensive experience treating serious mental illnesses, including schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorder, and bipolar disorder. We take a comprehensive and respectful approach to care, whether you're newly diagnosed or have been living with these conditions for many years. Treatment may include medication, therapy, coordination with other clinicians, and support for functioning in daily life.
Do you treat people with dementia or thinking and memory problems?
Yes. We work with adults experiencing memory loss, confusion, changes in behavior, or trouble thinking clearly. This includes conditions like Alzheimer's disease, frontotemporal dementia, and other forms of dementia. We can help manage symptoms, support family members, and coordinate with your primary care doctor or neurologist.
Can you help after a traumatic brain injury (TBI)?
Yes. We are experienced at treating people with psychiatric and cognitive changes after a traumatic brain injury (TBI). Common concerns include mood changes, anxiety, irritability, trouble with memory or focus, and adjusting to life after injury. We offer support and treatment to help you function as well as possible.
Do you treat people with Parkinson's disease, epilepsy, history of stroke, multiple sclerosis, other neurologic conditions?
Yes. We often treat patients who have psychiatric symptoms related to neurologic conditions such as Parkinson's disease, stroke, epilepsy, multiple sclerosis, or autoimmune illnesses. We understand how medical and mental health issues interact and tailor care to your situation, and provide thoughtful, integrated care for these challenges.
Do you help with aging-related concerns?
Yes. We frequently work with older adults facing challenges like grief, changes in independence, depression, sleep problems, memory loss, and coping with multiple health issues. We take a respectful, whole-person approach to care and can also support family members or caregivers involved in your care.
What other conditions do you treat?
We also treat adjustment disorders, grief, and stress-related problems; psychiatric symptoms related to chronic illness, neurologic conditions, and aging; and other mental health conditions. We will work together to find the plan that is right for you.

How Telepsychiatry Works

How does telepsychiatry work?
​We conduct all visits through secure video on our HIPAA-compliant visit website. You'll receive a unique link for each appointment. There's no software to download—just click the link on your phone, tablet, or computer.
Does telepsychiatry really work?
​Yes—scientific studies have shown that telepsychiatry is just as effective as traditional in-person care for most mental health conditions*. For many people, telepsychiatry is actually more convenient and comfortable than going to an office—and it offers the same high standard of care.

*Sharma G, Devan K. The effectiveness of telepsychiatry: thematic review. BJPsych Bull. 2023 Apr;47(2):82-89. doi: 10.1192/bjb.2021.115. PMID: 34915955; PMCID: PMC10063994.
Is telehealth secure and private?
​Yes. We use a trusted platform that meets all federal privacy and security standards. Your visits and medical records are fully confidential and protected, just like in a traditional office.
What if I'm not comfortable using a computer or smartphone? Can I have a family member or friend help me get the visit set up?
​That's totally okay. Many of our patients—especially older adults—need help getting set up for telehealth visits. A family member or caregiver is welcome to assist with joining the video call, and can stay for the visit if you want. We'll send a simple link and walk you through the process if needed. You don't need to install anything or be tech-savvy to get started.
Do you offer in-person visits?
No. BayLight Psychiatry is a fully telehealth-based practice. All visits are conducted securely by video, so you can connect from the comfort and privacy of your home or office. We do not offer in-person appointments.
Do you offer phone visits?
No. We provide care through secure video only—not by phone. This allows us to see you face-to-face and maintain a high standard of care. If you're having technical difficulties and can't connect by video, we may offer a temporary phone visit or help you reschedule, depending on the situation.
Can I message my psychiatrist between visits?
Yes, for simple questions (like asking if you can change the time of day you take a medication), you can message us securely through the patient portal. If your concern is more complex (your medication isn't working, you've had a new symptom, or you're not sure how to proceed), we'll recommend scheduling a follow-up visit so we can give the issue the time and attention it deserves.
How quickly will I get a response if I call or message?
We do our best to respond as soon as possible during regular business hours; while you'll always hear back directly from us, we are not able to guarantee an immediate response. In general, we respond to messages and phone calls within 24-48 hours, excluding weekends and holidays. If you're experiencing a crisis or need urgent help, please call 911 or go to your nearest emergency room.

Treatment Approach

Do you prescribe medications?
Yes. As licensed medical doctors, we prescribe a full range of psychiatric medications when appropriate. We use treatments that have been carefully studied, proven to work, and shown to be safe. We’ll talk together about your symptoms, what has or hasn’t helped in the past, and what you’re hoping to change; and make a decision about medications together.  While we do prescribe medications when they’re the right fit, we don’t routinely use controlled substances, because most people improve more with other treatments that are safer and more effective over time.
Do you prescribe Adderall, Xanax, Ambien, or other controlled substances?
​Not usually. In rare cases, we may prescribe certain controlled medications with the appropriate documentation and safeguards, but this is not our usual practice. For most people, there are other options that are safer and more effective in the long run, so we typically use these treatments instead. In addition, federal rules for prescribing controlled substances via telehealth are changing, and we follow all current laws. If you need regular treatment with these medications, in-person care may be more appropriate.
Do you offer talk therapy, or just medication?
We offer both; however, not every patient needs both from us. If you already have a therapist you like, we're happy to focus on medications while you continue therapy elsewhere—and we can coordinate with your therapist if you'd like. If you don't have a therapist, we can provide talk therapy during visits with us, either occasionally or on a regular basis. Some patients do both with us; some just need medication management. If you're looking for therapy outside our practice, we can help connect you with someone and collaborate with them to support your goals. We'll work with you to figure out the right setup for your needs.
Are medications the only treatment you offer?
Not at all. Medications can be helpful tools, but they're not the only ones. We also focus on psychotherapy, behavior change, and working with you to improve sleep, stress management, activity level, and other lifestyle factors that affect mental health. We'll tailor your treatment to what matters most to you.
What if I'm not sure I want to take medication?
That's completely fine. We're here to talk through your options, answer questions, and help you make an informed decision—without pressure. Some people benefit from therapy and lifestyle changes alone. If we do consider medication, we'll explain the risks, benefits, and what to expect.
Do you help people get off psychiatric medications?
Yes. We have experience working with patients who are interested in reducing or stopping psychiatric medications safely. This process, sometimes called deprescribing or medication simplification, is done gradually and with careful monitoring. Whether you're experiencing side effects, feel your medications are no longer needed, or simply want a second opinion, we can help evaluate your options and guide you through the process.
Can you simplify my medications?
Absolutely. Many people come to us taking multiple psychiatric medications, sometimes prescribed over years by different dcotors We can help assess which medications are still needed, which may be reduced or stopped, and whether a simpler approach might be safer or more effective. We always take your goals into account and make changes slowly and thoughtfully.
Do you help with lifestyle change and overall mental wellness?
Yes. We believe that mental health is closely linked to how we live—sleep, activity, nutrition, social connection, and stress management all play a role. We can help you set realistic goals and support you in making meaningful changes over time, at a pace that works for you.
Do you do disability or forensic evaluations?
No. Our focus is on providing clinical psychiatric care—diagnosis, treatment, and support for your mental health. We do not offer formal disability evaluations, forensic assessments, or other services that fall outside the scope of clinical care. If you're looking for an evaluation specifically for legal, employment, or benefits purposes, we recommend seeking a psychiatrist who specializes in those types of assessments.
Do you provide emotional support animal or service animal evaluations or paperwork?
No. We do not provide evaluations or documentation for emotional support animals or service animals. Our practice focuses on clinical psychiatric care. If you need assistance in this area, we recommend seeking clinicians who specifically offer these services. 

Emergencies and After-Hours Care

Do you provide emergency or after-hours services?
No. As we are a small two-person practice, we are not able to guarantee immediate responses to messages and calls, and we do not offer after-hours or emergency coverage.

Our goal is to work together with you during visits to improve mental health and wellbeing, and prevent symptoms from developing into a crisis. However, if you do experience a crisis or need urgent help, please:
  • Call 911 or go to your nearest emergency room
  • Call or text the National Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: 988
  • Text HOME to 741741 to reach the Crisis Text Line

We are happy to coordinate non-urgent follow-up care after an emergency has been addressed.

Care Coordination with Other Services

Can you coordinate with my outside therapist?
Yes. If you're seeing a therapist outside our practice, we're happy to collaborate with them—with your consent to ensure your treatment is aligned and consistent. Whether we're managing medications, providing additional therapy, or just helping track progress, open communication with your therapist can make care more effective and cohesive.
Can you communicate with my PCP or other specialists like my neurologist?
Absolutely. With your permission, we can coordinate care with your primary care doctor, neurologist, therapist, or other specialists. This is especially important for patients with complex conditions involving both medical and psychiatric concerns. Sharing relevant information ensures safer prescribing, helps identify potential interactions, and improves overall outcomes.
Can you coordinate with case managers, home health, or other services involved in my care?
​Yes. With your permission, we're happy to communicate with case managers, home health services, community agencies, or other support teams involved in your care. This kind of coordination can be especially helpful for patients with complex needs, and we're glad to work together to ensure your care is as effective and streamlined as possible.
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