Mental health medication management and therapeutic interventions in Castle Rock Co!

Clear Minds Rx

(720) 775-6822

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(720) 775-6822

Clear Minds Rx
  • Home
  • Schedule Appointment
  • About
  • Services
  • Insurance/ Payment
  • FAQ
  • Contact

Frequently asked questions

What is the difference between a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner and a psychiatrist?

In Colorado, both Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioners (PMHNP-BC) and psychiatrists are licensed to diagnose, treat, and manage mental health conditions. While their roles often overlap, there are key differences in training and scope of practice.

A psychiatrist is a medical doctor (MD or DO) who has completed medical school and a residency in psychiatry. Psychiatrists are uniquely qualified to address complex psychiatric and medical conditions, and they may perform specialized procedures such as electroconvulsive therapy (ECT).


A PMHNP-BC, on the other hand, is an advanced practice registered nurse with specialized graduate-level training in psychiatric and mental health care. In Colorado, PMHNPs have full practice authority, meaning they can independently assess, diagnose, prescribe medications, and provide therapy without physician oversight. This allows for accessible, holistic, and patient-centered care—especially valuable in underserved areas.


Both professionals are dedicated to improving mental health outcomes, and the choice between them often comes down to individual needs and preferences.

Do you prescribe controlled substances?

Some mental health medications—like stimulants, benzodiazepines, certain sleep aids, and medications for substance use treatment—are classified as controlled substances. While I do prescribe these when they’re the right fit, they’re not a one-size-fits-all solution. Each case is approached with care and intention.


Medications such as benzodiazepines and sedative-hypnotics are typically used short term due to the potential for dependence, withdrawal, and other long-term effects. Stimulants can be very effective for ADHD, but their use depends on your unique mental health needs, goals, and lifestyle.

Together, we’ll decide what makes sense for you. My goal is always to support your wellness with treatment that’s safe, personalized, and grounded in trust.


Safe handling of controlled substances - To help ensure safety and responsibility, early refills for lost or misplaced controlled substances cannot be approved. Please store your medication in a secure location at all times and only travel with the amount you need.

Avoid leaving medications in your vehicle or any place where they could be lost or stolen. If your medication does go missing, I encourage you to contact your local police department to file a report.


These guidelines are in place to help protect your treatment and support safe, consistent care.

Do you treat substance use disorders?

  

Yes, I do treat substance use disorders, and I offer a compassionate, evidence-based approach tailored to your recovery goals. Treatment may include therapeutic support and medications like Buprenorphine-Naloxone (Suboxone), Naltrexone, and other options that help manage cravings and support long-term wellness.

Can any client receive treatment through telehealth?

It is my preference for clients to have their initial appointments in person. Initial assessments via telehealth will be approved on a case-by-case basis. 


Telehealth can be a convenient and effective way to receive care, depending on your individual needs and treatment goals. Whether telehealth is the right fit for you will be determined together during the course of your care.


As of December 2025, the Ryan Haight Online Pharmacy Consumer Protection Act is expected to be reenacted. This federal law is designed to prevent the inappropriate distribution of controlled substances online. Once reinstated, clients prescribed controlled substances will need to complete an in-person appointment prior to receiving these medications and, and will be required to follow up in person at least once annually to continue treatment.


Our telehealth platform is HIPAA-compliant and maintains strict confidentiality. To make the most of your appointment, please join from a quiet, private space, free from distractions. Your full presence allows me to support you with the care and attention you deserve. For everyone’s safety, I’m unable to continue appointments if a client is driving or engaged in other activities.

What is the age of consent in Colorado?

In Colorado, individuals aged 15 and older can consent to their own mental health care. This means that teens in this age group are empowered to make decisions about beginning therapy or psychiatric services.

If a client age 15 or older wishes to involve a parent or guardian in their care, they will need to sign a Release of Informationform before any protected health details can be shared. This helps ensure confidentiality while also honoring the client's right to choose who is involved in their treatment.

What is your cancelation/ late arrival/ no show policy?

I understand that unexpected situations can arise, and there may be times when you're unable to attend your scheduled appointment. To best serve all clients, I kindly request at least 24 hours’ notice for any cancellations or rescheduling. This allows the opportunity for another client to use that time.

If notice is not provided within 24 hours, the full session fee will be charged. Payment for the missed appointment will be required prior to booking your next session. Thank you for your understanding and cooperation.


Client’s that are more than 10 minutes late to a follow-up appointment and more than 15 minutes late to an initial appointment will be considered no show. 


If an emergency arises, please contact our office immediately so we can assist you in rescheduling your appointment.

Do you fill out disability paperwork, complete forms, or write letters for clients?

For clients actively engaged in care, I offer completion of forms, disability paperwork, and letters when clinically appropriate. Depending on the complexity, a fee of $0–$150 may apply.


All fees will be discussed in advance, and payment is required prior to completion. Please note that this fee is not covered by insurance and is the responsibility of the client.


Requests are reviewed on a case-by-case basis and are completed at the provider’s discretion. If you have documentation needs, we can talk through them during your appointment.


Emotional support animal letters-

For clients who may benefit from the support of an emotional support animal, I do provide ESA letters when clinically appropriate. This service includes a thorough assessment to determine whether an ESA aligns with your mental health needs and treatment goals. If a client does not meet the legal requirements for an ESA, a letter will not be written. 

Please note:

  • ESA letters are available only to established clients who are actively engaged in ongoing care.
  • There is a $150 administrative fee for the evaluation and letter. This fee is not covered by insurance.
  • Letters may require annual renewal to remain valid for housing or other accommodations.
  • Each letter will include documentation that complies with current federal housing guidelines and relevant regulations.


If you’d like to explore whether an ESA is right for you, we can talk more during your session and decide on the next steps together.

What should I do if I need to contact my provider?

We offer outpatient mental health services focused on ongoing support and treatment. Please note that we do not provide emergency or crisis care.

For non-urgent concerns, phone calls and emails will be returned within 48 business hours, unless otherwise noted through our voicemail.  If you’re running low on medication, we encourage you to contact our office in advance to avoid interruptions in treatment.


If you're experiencing a mental health emergency or need immediate support, please call 911, dial 988 for the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, or visit your nearest emergency room or mental health walk-in center.


Your safety and well-being matter—and we're here to support you in accessing the right level of care when you need it most.


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