Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know before your first appointment — and answers to the questions patients ask most.

Getting Started

What is the first step to becoming a patient?

The easiest first step is scheduling a free 15-minute consultation. This is a no-pressure phone or video call where you can share what you're experiencing, ask questions, and determine if At Peace Psychiatry is the right fit for you. There's no commitment required.

What is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP)?

A PMHNP is an advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) with specialized graduate training in psychiatric and mental health care. PMHNPs are licensed to perform psychiatric evaluations, diagnose mental health conditions, and prescribe medications — including controlled substances. Jorylyn is board-certified (PMHNP-BC) through the American Nurses Credentialing Center.

Is At Peace Psychiatry accepting new patients?

Yes! At Peace Psychiatry is currently accepting new patients. You can book your initial evaluation directly online at atpeacepsychiatry.com/book, or contact us with any questions.

Who does At Peace Psychiatry treat?

Jorylyn Galperin treats adults and adolescents (teens). The primary focus is adult patients, though adolescents navigating mental health challenges are also welcome. If you're unsure whether your situation qualifies, feel free to reach out via the contact page before booking.

Appointments & Telehealth

How does telehealth psychiatry work?

All appointments at At Peace Psychiatry are conducted via secure, HIPAA-compliant video. After booking, you'll receive a link to join your appointment. All you need is a device with a camera and microphone and a private, comfortable space. It's that simple.

Do I need to be in California to receive care?

Yes. Jorylyn is licensed in California, so patients must be physically located in California at the time of their appointment. This applies to telehealth — you don't need to be near a specific city, but you must be in the state.

How long are appointments?

Your initial psychiatric evaluation (first appointment) is 60 minutes. Follow-up medication management appointments are approximately 30 minutes.

How often will I need to come in for follow-ups?

The frequency of follow-ups depends on your treatment plan and progress. Initially, appointments are often scheduled more frequently (every 4-6 weeks) as medication is being established. Once stable, patients often transition to every 1-3 months.

What do I need to have ready for my first appointment?

It helps to have a list of current medications (including supplements), any previous psychiatric or mental health diagnoses, names of other providers you see, and a summary of what you've been experiencing. Don't worry if you don't have everything — Jorylyn will walk through it all with you.

Insurance & Billing

Does At Peace Psychiatry accept insurance?

Yes. At Peace Psychiatry accepts insurance through Headway. You can verify your specific insurance coverage directly on the Headway platform before booking. Many major insurance plans are accepted.

How do I verify my insurance?

Visit the Headway booking page for At Peace Psychiatry. Headway will walk you through insurance verification and show you your expected costs before you book your first appointment.

Is self-pay available?

Yes, self-pay options are available. Contact us directly to discuss pricing and payment arrangements if you're not using insurance.

Do you accept Medi-Cal or Medicare?

Please verify your specific plan through the Headway booking page or contact us directly to confirm coverage. Plans accepted can change, and Headway keeps this information current.

Medications & Treatment

Will I definitely be prescribed medication?

Not necessarily. Medication is recommended when clinically appropriate based on your evaluation, symptom severity, and goals. The decision to prescribe is always made collaboratively — you'll be fully informed of the reasoning and alternatives.

Are the medications addictive?

Most psychiatric medications — including antidepressants, mood stabilizers, and many anxiety medications — are not addictive. Some medications, like benzodiazepines or stimulants, have a higher potential for dependence and are prescribed cautiously with careful monitoring.

How long does it take for medications to work?

This depends on the medication. Antidepressants and anti-anxiety medications typically take 2-4 weeks to show initial effects and 6-8 weeks for full benefit. Stimulants for ADHD often show effect much more quickly — sometimes within hours of the first dose.

What if a medication isn't working or causes side effects?

This is exactly what follow-up appointments are for. If a medication isn't effective or is causing bothersome side effects, Jorylyn will work with you to adjust the dose or try a different approach. Getting the right fit is a process, and she's with you throughout it.

Can I get prescriptions refilled between appointments?

Ongoing care at At Peace Psychiatry includes managing prescriptions. The process for refills is handled through your patient portal or Headway, and Jorylyn ensures continuity of your medications as part of your care plan.

Crisis & Emergencies

Does At Peace Psychiatry provide crisis services?

No. At Peace Psychiatry provides scheduled outpatient psychiatric care and is not equipped for mental health crises or emergencies. If you are in crisis, please call or text 988 (Suicide & Crisis Lifeline), call 911, or go to your nearest emergency room.

What if I need help between appointments?

At Peace Psychiatry has protocols for between-appointment needs — your patient portal through Headway allows for messaging and care coordination. For non-emergency concerns between appointments, reach out through your portal. For emergencies, always call 988 or 911.

Still Have Questions?

Book your evaluation online to get started, or send a message and we'll respond promptly.