Important Medication Notice:
We do not prescribe the following medications:
- Benzodiazepines (e.g., Xanax, Ativan, Klonopin)
- Stimulants (e.g., Adderall, Ritalin)
- Opioids (e.g., Norco, Vicodin)
- Naltrexone
- Suboxone
- Hormonal Medications (e.g., estrogen, progestin, oral contraceptives)
- Weight Loss Medications (including GLP-1 agonists such as Ozempic, Wegovy, etc.)
This policy applies to all new and existing clients. We focus on trauma-informed, non-addictive, evidence-based approaches to psychiatric care. We only prescribe psychotropic medications which is used to treat psychiatric cases.
Referral to Specialists
We understand that some clients may present with medical or psychiatric conditions that involve hormonal or cardiometabolic concerns. While we do not prescribe hormonal or weight loss medications:
- We will refer to appropriate specialists such as Endocrinologists, Gynecologists, or Primary Care Providers if hormonal therapy is medically indicated.
- If you experience cardiometabolic side effects (e.g., increased abdominal weight, elevated glucose or lipids) related to psychiatric medication, we will:
- Reassess and adjust or discontinue the medication if clinically appropriate.
Telehealth Eligibility & Policy
At Vineyard Nursing and Behavioral Health Services, we are committed to delivering accessible, high-quality care through secure telehealth services. Please review the following guidelines to ensure you are eligible for care:
California Residents Only
Currently, we are only licensed to serve individuals whose primary residence is in California.
- You may attend sessions while traveling, but your permanent residence must remain in California for ongoing care
Age Requirement
Telehealth services are offered exclusively to adults age 18 and older.
We specialize in supporting women through adulthood, including life transitions such as pregnancy, parenting, menopause, and beyond.
Telehealth = In-Person Care
Teletherapy is considered equivalent to in-person therapy in terms of effectiveness, clinical quality, and confidentiality.
- All sessions are conducted via secure, HIPAA-compliant video platforms.
- You will receive the same compassionate, evidence-based care as you would in an office setting—just from the comfort of your own space.
Scheduling & Cancellations
- Appointments are by reservation only.
- Please provide at least 24 hours’ notice for cancellations or rescheduling.
- Late cancellations (<24 hours) will incur a $100 fee, unless due to emergency.
- No-shows will be charged the full session fee.
- Repeated cancellations or no-shows may result in service termination or a prepayment requirement.
Fees & Payment
- We are a private pay practice. Payment is due at the time of service.
- Superbills are provided upon request for out-of-network reimbursement.
- Sliding scale fees may be available on a case-by-case basis.
Telehealth Policy
- Telehealth services are available to individuals with a primary residence in California.
- Sessions may be attended while traveling, but you must reside in California to remain eligible.
- Telehealth is equivalent to in-person care in quality and confidentiality.
Medical Leave & Disability Documentation
- We do not complete State Disability or Pregnancy Disability forms.
- A Mental Health Leave of Absence letter may be provided if clinically indicated.
- This is considered after at least 2–3 sessions and active treatment engagement.
- We do not provide retroactive documentation.
State Disability & Pregnancy Disability Forms
At Vineyard Nursing and Behavioral Health Services, we aim to provide ethical, appropriate support for our clients’ mental health needs, including documentation when clinically necessary.
We do not complete State Disability Insurance (SDI) or Pregnancy Disability forms.
Please contact your Primary Care Provider (PCP), Gynecology, or Obstetrician for assistance with these forms.
Mental Health Leave of Absence
We may provide documentation for a medical leave of absence if it is clinically indicated due to your mental health condition and based on your ongoing treatment with us. Requests will be considered on a case-by-case basis and require:
- Active participation in therapy
- A clinical assessment supporting the need for leave
- At least 2–3 sessions to establish care, when appropriate
We do not provide retroactive documentation or letters for time off prior to beginning care.
Confidentiality & Emergencies
- All sessions are HIPAA-compliant and confidential.
- In case of emergency, contact 911 or go to the nearest ER.
We do not offer 24/7 crisis services
Cash Pay & Payment Policy
At Vineyard Nursing and Behavioral Health Services, we operate as a private pay practice. All services are self-pay, and payment is due at the time of service. We do not accept insurance at this time, but we are happy to provide a superbill for possible out-of-network reimbursement.
Cancellations & Rescheduling
If you need to cancel or reschedule your appointment, please provide at least 24 hours’ notice. This allows us to offer the time to another client who may be waiting for care.
Late Cancellations
Cancellations made with less than 24 hours’ notice will incur a $100 late cancellation fee, unless due to an emergency or extenuating circumstances. These will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis.
No-Show Policy
Clients who do not attend their scheduled appointment without prior notice will be charged the full session fee. This policy ensures we can continue serving clients who are actively engaged in their care.
Repeated Cancellations or No-Shows
Multiple late cancellations or no-shows may result in:
- A requirement to prepay for future sessions
- Or, in some cases, termination of services
This is to ensure continuity of care and fairness to all clients.
Address Scheduling when Emergencies Arise that prevent you from attending Sessions:
We understand that emergencies happen. If an unexpected situation prevents you from attending your session, please contact us as soon as possible. We will do our best to accommodate you without penalty when appropriate.
