
Frequently Asked Questions
Do you offer in-person appointments?
No. I provide telehealth-only psychiatric care for individuals located anywhere in Washington State. All appointments are conducted via secure, HIPAA-compliant video through the MYIO app. Telehealth allows for safe, convenient, and flexible access to care—without the commute or waiting room.
What do I need for a telehealth appointment?
Just a few basics:
- The free MYIO app for secure, HIPAA-compliant video.
- A stable internet connection
- A private, quiet space
- A device with a camera and microphone (smartphone, tablet, or computer)
What ages do you treat?
We provide psychiatric care for children ages 6 and up, adolescents, and adults. Our approach with young clients includes collaboration with parents or caregivers when appropriate, and we work to create a safe, age-appropriate space where young people feel heard and respected.
What conditions do you treat?
We specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of:
- Bipolar I & II disorder
- Schizophrenia and other psychotic disorders
- PTSD and developmental trauma
- Healing from abusive relationships
If you’re unsure whether we treat a specific condition, please reach out for a free consultation.
Do you prescribe medication?
Yes. We are licensed to evaluate, diagnose, and prescribe psychiatric medications. However, medication is never the only option—and we always involve clients in the decision-making process. We believe in shared decision-making and will ensure you fully understand your treatment options before moving forward.
Do you prescribe benzodiazepines?
No. We do not prescribe benzodiazepines (such as Xanax, Ativan, Klonopin, Valium, Ambien, or Lunesta) due to safety concerns, risk of dependency, and lack of long-term effectiveness for most conditions we treat. If you’re currently taking benzodiazepines, we can discuss alternative treatment options that are safer and more sustainable.
Do you offer talk therapy?
We don’t provide ongoing talk therapy, but we do offer:
- Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART)
- Brief supportive therapy and psychoeducation during medication management sessions
If you’re seeking ongoing psychotherapy, we can refer you to trusted therapists in Washington State and collaborate in your care.
What is Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART)?
Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART) is a short-term, evidence-based therapy that helps resolve trauma, anxiety, and addiction-related triggers through guided eye movements and memory reconsolidation. It’s non-invasive, and a highly effective option for clients who want relief without long-term talk therapy. Many clients find relief after only two or three sessions.
ART is very effective for treating trauma, PTSD, anxiety, and addiction-related triggers, among other conditions, and can benefit people of all ages.
We offer ART remotely, adapted for secure telehealth delivery.
Learn more about ART here: https://acceleratedresolutiontherapy.com/what-is-art/
Do you accept insurance?
No, we do not accept insurance at this time. Our practice is private pay only, which allows us to offer more flexible, individualized care without the limitations or required diagnoses often imposed by insurance companies.
If you have out-of-network coverage, we can provide a superbill to help you request potential reimbursement from your insurer. We are happy to verify your benefits or answer questions about coverage.
What are your session fees?
- Initial Psychiatric Evaluation (60–90 minutes): $300
- Follow-Up Medication Management (30–45 minutes): $200
- Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART, 90 minutes): $250
We also offer longer or bundled sessions when clinically appropriate. Please reach out for details.
How do I get started?
The first step is to fill out the New Client Interest Form or call for a free phone consultation so we can learn more about your needs and answer any questions you have. If we’re a good fit, we’ll schedule your full intake session and begin developing a treatment plan together.
Call Mercedes Stepp, APRN at 564-228-1721
