Practice Policies
Consent for Care, Policies & Procedures
Initial Evaluation & Sessions
Michelle Bajema, ARNP, conducts a thorough psychiatric evaluation during the initial session – which is scheduled for 60 minutes. This assessment focuses on determining the best treatment plan possible and is specific to each individual patient. It is extremely important for this initial assessment to be as comprehensive as possible. Therefore, please complete all intake forms through the online patient portal (you will be given access) prior to attending this appointment and make sure to provide information about previous providers, past psychiatric treatment, and medication trials. If you are unable to fill out important intake information, you may come in earlier than the scheduled appointment time to fill out required paperwork (most will be on our iPad). In some situations, extra sessions are needed to complete an appropriate evaluation. Additionally, collateral information (i.e., school reports, family reports, etc.) are often necessary for adolescents – and helpful for adult patients as well. These issues will be discussed during the initial session. Please remember that a comprehensive assessment is necessary regardless of the treatment modality (i.e., psychotherapy, psychiatric medications, or both) as it allows us to provide the best possible care. Additionally, we will mutually determine if Michelle Bajema, ARNP, is the best fit for your individualized care.
Medication Management
Psychiatric medications can be used in conjunction with psychotherapy to treat many conditions. It is important to find the best combination of medications and therapy for each individual case. Michelle Bajema, ARNP can provide an integrated approach as trained to administer both psychiatric medications and therapy. In many situations, due to the high demand for providers who specialize in psychotropic medications, it may be appropriate to consider merely managing your medications and sharing the psychotherapy sessions with an alternative provider; this is often called the ‘split treatment’ model. In situations that warrant the use of medications, it is imperative for you to understand the target symptoms and likely outcomes. Additionally, since all medications have the potential for side effects, we will discuss the risks, benefits, side effects, government warnings, and alternative treatments with you.
Psychopharmacotherapy
Psychotherapy is often called talk therapy which can be helpful to many individuals, couples, and families. Benefits can include significant stress reduction, improved relationships, resolution of specific problems, and improved self insight. Michelle Bajema, ARNP is trained in prescribing psychiatric medications and provides talk- therapy as an adjunct. Typically, patients are assessed, diagnosed, receive psychotherapy during each visit, while we find the best medication regimen. Accelerated Resolution Therapy may be initiated after a few visits.
Privacy & Release of Information
Please see our Privacy Practices page for more information.