How do I book my first appointment with Aura MD?

We've streamlined the process for requesting and scheduling an appointment! ✔ Please submit your information here and we will promptly reach out to you (typically the same business day👍) to schedule. Alternatively, you can call us at 832.430.2872 to speak to our staff (with the highest patient satisfaction ratings!) to book directly. Once you are a current patient at Aura MD, you can conveniently book your follow-up appointments directly on your provider's schedule through your online portal account. Call our staff or submit an online inquiry through our website

What can I expect the first visit?

The first visit is typically an online visit with a board-certified mental health expert, which usually lasts 45-60 minutes. Your provider will perform a full initial evaluation likely with a much better patient experience than what you've received from other providers. 🙌 We do not cut corners or skip any important aspects of a full initial evaluation. We are concise and create individualized treatment plans to help you meet your goals. That being said, we also do not perform excessive evaluation steps such as requiring all patients to come to multiple visits before making a diagnosis, performing neuropsychiatric evaluations, or use computer-based tests.

Are the visits online or in person?

All visits with your Aura MD provider are currently performed through a secure online video visit currently due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Effective July 19, 2021, we are happy to see new or existing patients in the office if that is your preference.👌 We will continue to offer virtual appointments for patients who prefer that option. Our goal is to provide you with the highest quality care in the setting that you are most comfortable.

Do I need to have seen a psychiatrist or received treatment in the past?

No, not at all 👌 We often see patients who haven't seen a mental health provider previously. We also accept patients who are wanting to transfer care from their current psychiatrist or mental health provider or patients that have a prior history of seeing a mental health professional consistently in the past. We can diagnose and treat your current issues without any history of prior treatment.

What if I'm in crisis?

Your safety is very important to us. If you are having a medical or mental health emergency, call 911 or go to your local emergency department Text Contact: The Crisis Text Line provides 24 hour assistance and confidential. Text HOME to 741-741 to connect with someone immediately Call Contact: You can always reach out to the Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 800-273-TALK to reach a live mental health professional 24/7 There is always help available. We recommend also reaching out to a supportive family member or friend to let them know that you are having these thoughts and ask for their assistance and support.

What is your cancellation policy?

Life happens, we get it.✌ We are happy to reschedule you when needed. We never overbook and truly value your time and appreciate that courtesy reciprocated for our provider's time as well. You will be responsible for the entire out-of-pocket appointment fee if you do not notify us within the designated time frame. New Patient Appointments: Please remember to cancel or reschedule at least 48 business hours in advance. Follow Up Appointments: Please be mindful to cancel or reschedule at least 1 full business day in advance.

Does Aura MD accept insurance?

We accept Cigna and Magellan (Blue Advantage HMO) plans only. If you are out of network or do not have insurance, we are happy to provide you a superbill that you can present to your insurance carrier for out-of-network reimbursement. This percentage varies by your insurance carrier but typically is around 50-70% reimbursement you can expect your insurance company to reimburse you directly for expenses paid for office visits. We do accept HSA/FSA as forms of payment.

What is the cost for visits?

For self-pay or out-of-network patients, there are standard rates depending on the provider of whom you choose to see. Dr. Ashley Toutounchi: Initial consultation: $450 Medication management follow-ups: $159. Brandon Provost, NP: Initial Consultation: $350 Follow-up appointments: $129. Taeler Morris, PA-C: Initial Consultation: $350 Follow-up appointments: $129. We typically see patients monthly initially only until your treatment plan is stabilized and then as soon as possible will continue your care typically with visits once every 3 months. Of course, you can always move up your appointment when needed.

What is out of network reimbursement?

For self pay or out of network patients, we are happy to provide you a superbill that you can submit to your insurance provider for out of network reimbursement. This is when your insurance plan will reimburse you directly a portion of your out of pocket fees paid for your appointment. You can find your specific insurance plan out of network benefit information typically in the Summary of Benefits in your information packet or your insurance company's website. The best way to be absolutely sure of your benefits is to clarify with your insurance company member services line. You can find this phone number on the back of your insurance card.

Where do I login to my portal account?

We are always available in between appointments if you need to contact us. You can access your Elation patient portal account here.

I forgot my portal password, what do I do?

No worries! It happens to all of us. 😊 You can easily reset your Elation portal password here.

How do I use Elation Passport?

It is unusually user-friendly! And by far the fastest and easiest way to contact your provider between visits. You can see details about Elation passport and how to download the app for easy access here.

What is Telemedicine?

Aura MD offers a modernized approach focused on flexibility for patients, many of who often have busy work schedules, frequently travel, or live outside of the Houston area making travel to the office in person inconvenient. Using our online psychiatry services, we can diagnose your symptoms and prescribe treatment options for your specific needs. We love to see our patients but realize you aren’t always able to make it to our office in person. Now, our patients can book an appointment online, meet with their provider and receive their prescriptions seamlessly.

What technology do I need for a visit?

Most laptops, tablets, and smartphones will have the equipment you need for your online visit. Only things needed for your appointment: Good Internet Connection Camera accessible on you phone, tablet or computer Headphones or speakers on your device

Is my information still private?

We take all of our patient's security very seriously. AuraMD is fully HIPAA compliant, and all information is 100% private.

Is a psychiatrist better than a psychologist?

In terms of a job, ending up being a psychiatrist offers a better salary, but psychologists may be a lot more employable simply due to the subspecialties they can enter. Psychiatrists can suggest medication in enhancement to offering therapy, whereas a lot of psychologists can just provide non-medical therapy.

How many years does it take to become a psychiatrist?

From college to medical college and also with residency, it takes around 12 years of training to become a psychiatrist. This may seem like a long time, yet for many individuals who complete their psychiatrist education, the payback deserves the initiative.

Do I need to talk to a psychiatrist?

If you think you are in need of a psychological drug for symptoms that you need help to alleviate that is created by a psychological condition, you are going to want to start out by speaking with a psychiatrist. If the problem you're wanting to address is relationship-focused, you may find what you require from a psychologist.

How difficult is it to become a psychiatrist?

Psychiatrists are clinical doctors, meaning they have to finish a bachelor's degree, medical degree, and also several years of a clinical residency before they can practice. Those can be demanding, tough, sleep-deprived years. These years are costly educational processes, but in most cases, very rewarding.

Can I become a psychiatrist with a psychology degree?

Although a bachelor's degree in psychology is a great choice for a hopeful psychiatrist, it does not prepare you to exercise this clinical specialty. In order to end up being a psychiatrist, you are required to finish a medical degree program, along with a 4- or 5-year residency in psychiatry.

How often should I see my psychiatrist?

When going to a psychiatrist, you will probably be there for 30 minutes to an hour. This usually happens once every 3 months. If you remain in the same state of mind that you were in prior to visiting your psychiatrist, or have particular problems or side effects with the drug you were prescribed, you will probably need to see the psychiatrist regularly. It all depends on your health and wellness.

Is it better to see a psychologist or psychiatrist for anxiety?

Psychiatrists often tend to be much more appropriate for extreme psychological health and wellness treatment as they are able to suggest medicine alongside psychological treatment. Many psychologists can only offer non-medical treatment. However, psychologists are still very helpful for less extreme mental health and wellness issues.

Do psychiatrists do therapy?

A psychiatrist is able to perform psychiatric therapy and also prescribe medications along with other clinical treatments.

How do psychiatrists treat anxiety?

Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRI) Psychiatrists often suggest an SSRI to patients struggling with an anxiousness disorder. This medicine obstructs particular afferent neurons from reabsorbing serotonin. The added serotonin relieves anxiousness and boosts mood.

Does anxiety mean you're mentally ill?

Occasional stress and anxiety are OKAY. Yet there are multiple side effects that are created from anxiety. There are a plethora of mental diseases that trigger constant overwhelming anxiousness and mental concerns. Excessive stress and anxiety can make work near impossible, and can be set off by everyday events like family gatherings, social scenarios, and even everyday simple tasks, and can intensify your already pre-exposed symptoms.

Can you tell your psychiatrist everything?

A psychiatrist is a medical doctor (an M.D. or D.O.) who specializes in mental health, including substance abuse disorders. Psychiatrists are qualified to assess both the mental and physical aspects of psychological problems.

Although the cause of ADHD is still unknown, research continues. Factors that may be involved in the development of ADHD include genetics, the environment or problems with the central nervous system at key moments in development.

What are the behaviors of ADHD?

Inattention and hyperactivity/impulsivity are the key behaviors of ADHD. Some people with ADHD only have problems with one of the behaviors, while others have both inattention and hyperactivity-impulsivity. Most children have the combined type of ADHD. In preschool, the most common ADHD symptom is hyperactivity.

Can ADHD make you suicidal?

One study found that people with ADHD, regardless if they have comorbidities or not, are more likely to attempt and complete suicide. [19]. Data consistently show that medical students have higher rates of suicidal thoughts, attempts, and plans than the rest of society.

Common triggers include: stress, poor sleep, certain foods and additives, overstimulation, and technology. You can identify the triggers for ADHD symptoms and make lifestyle changes to improve your control.

Is Caffeine good for ADHD?

It's in coffee, tea, chocolate, soda, and other foods. A few studies have looked at how caffeine can affect ADHD symptoms, but the results have been mixed. Even though caffeine is a stimulant, it's not generally recommended as a treatment for ADHD because it hasn't proved to be as effective as prescription medications.

ADHD doesn't disappear because symptoms are less obvious. Its effects on the brain linger. Some adults with milder ADHD symptoms as children may have developed coping strategies that address their symptoms effectively enough to prevent ADHD interference in their daily lives.

Is ADHD a form of autism?

Answer: Autism spectrum disorder and ADHD are related in several ways. ADHD is not on the autism spectrum, but they have some of the same symptoms. Having one condition increases your chances of getting the other.

What is the problem with ADHD?

ADHD is one of the most common neurodevelopmental disorders of childhood. It is usually first diagnosed in childhood and often lasts into adulthood. Children with ADHD may have trouble paying attention, controlling impulsive behaviors (may act without thinking about what the result will be), or be overly active.

How does an ADHD child feel?

Young children are generally active, impulsive, and rambunctious. They love to run and climb, and they often play loudly. They squirm and fidget and love to be up and out, exploring the world around them. It is not unusual for kids to have trouble listening, remembering, and following directions.

Does ADHD shorten lifespan?

ADHD has been identified by researchers as a major risk factor for premature death in adults. A study published in The Lancet showed that people with ADHD have a lower life expectancy and are more than twice as likely to die prematurely as those without the disorder.

Can ADHD be confused with depression?

Both disorders cause mood problems, forgetfulness, inability to concentrate, and other symptoms. However, there are some differences. Emotions: ADHD moods are transient, precipitated by a setback. Depression is a common and persistent condition. Motivation: Individuals with ADHD are overwhelmed by deciding what to do first.

Are people with ADHD smarter?

A popular misconception is that all kids with ADHD are always smarter and have a much higher IQ than children without ADHD. However, there is no correlation between this condition and intelligence.

What foods trigger ADHD?

Common foods that can trigger ADHD reactions include chocolate, milk, soy, eggs, tomatoes, grapes, and oranges. Talk to your ADHD doctor if you suspect that your child may have a food allergy.

Is banana good for ADHD?

Bananas are a staple in smoothies. They are high in vitamin B6 (pyridoxine), which aids the formation of neurotransmitters that influence behavior. Try making a fruit smoothie from fresh fruit and yogurt.

Does Mountain Dew help ADHD?

Mountain Dew, which is higher in caffeine (in the U.S.) than most all sodas, but not as high as coffee, seems to be beneficial for ADHD in children. It has natural flavors, and the yellow coloring used does not seem to affect kids as some artificial colorings do.

Untreated ADHD can cause problems throughout life. People with ADHD tend to be impulsive and have short attention spans, which can make it harder to succeed in school, at work, in relationships, and in other aspects of life.

Are you born with ADHD or do you develop it?

The short answer is that ADHD does not happen suddenly in adults. To be eligible for ADHD diagnosis, you must have several symptoms in childhood that cause impairment. Specifically, signs of ADHD need to be evident before age 12. 2 Technically, ADHD doesn't develop in adulthood.

At what age does ADHD peak?

What is the worst age for ADHD symptoms? The symptoms of hyperactivity are typically most severe at age 7 to 8, gradually declining thereafter. Peak severity of impulsive behavior is usually at age 7 or 8.

At what age is ADHD diagnosed?

Is it too early to determine if your preschooler or toddler has ADHD? Most children don't get ADHD tested until they reach school age. However, AAP guidelines state that ADHD can be diagnosed as early as 4 years old. Many children are active and impulsive at this age.

Does ADHD worsen with age?

Is ADHD worsened with age? ADHD does not usually get worse with age, if the person is aware of the symptoms and knows how they can be managed.

Can ADHD cause anger?

ADHD is linked to other mental health issues that can also drive angry reactions. These include depression and oppositional defiant disorders (ODD). ADHD patients may also be suffering from undiagnosed learning difficulties. These challenges can cause stress.

Is ADHD a disability?

ADHD is a disability under both the ADA as well as another law, the Rehabilitation Act of 1973. However, there are strict stipulations. For instance, ADHD is considered a protected disability if it is severe and interferes with a person's ability to work or participate in the public sector.

Are people with ADHD smart?

Research suggests that there is no connection between ADHD and intelligence. There are no known links between ADHD intelligence. Some people still dispute this. ADHD can impact a person's ability at work and school.

Are people with ADHD dumb?

ADHD people have a lot of energy and creativity, and often achieve more than those without the condition. ADHD can be interpreted as a person being lazy or dumb. ADHD has nothing to do with a person's intellectual ability. ADHD can affect highly intelligent people.

Does sugar make ADHD worse?

But years of medical research have shown that eating sugar doesn't cause ADHD or make kids more hyperactive. In one study, kids ate either sugar or a non-sugar substitute. Adults rated the children's activity by rating their food intake without knowing what they had eaten.

New Patient Appointment Request

A New Generation of Modernized Psychiatric Care with a Refreshing Approach.

Concierge Style Treatment

ONGOING ACCESS TO PROVIDER

We’re here when you need us.
We stay in touch so you feel better, faster.

Contact our care team any time and get a response within 24 hours.

Prescriptions Sent to You

MODERNIZED TREATMENT

When a refill is due between visits, simply request through your Patient Portal.

We'll take care of the rest.

Convenient Check-Ins

FOLLOWUPS EVERY 3 MONTHS

Once your treatment plan is optimized, your visits typically are every 3 months.

Of course, you can always move up your appointment if needed.

How It Works: After Initial Visit

VIRTUAL CARE MADE SIMPLE

Typically, you will see your provider for initially for brief online visits once a month for the first couple of months while work tailoring your treatment plan for your specific needs and desired outcomes.

Adult ADHD

Could ADHD be holding you back from performing at your best?

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Anxiety

Take Control of Your Anxiety and Live Freely.

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Depression

Control Your Depression and Get Back on Track.

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DNA Genetic Testing

Discover the medications that are the best fit for you through GeneSight Testing.

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Insomnia

Refresh Yourself! Chronic Insomnia has adverse health effects.

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Wellness & Weight

Achieve Your Optimal Health- Mentally and Physically!

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Women's Health

Could Hormonal Changes Be Affecting Your Mood?

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Bipolar Disorder

Bipolar Can Make Life Complicated. Let Us Help.

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Texas Psychiatrist Office Locations

Aura MD | Ashley Toutounchi, MD – Psychiatrist Houston – Online and in Office Appointment in Texas

952 Echo Lane Suite 210, Houston, TX 77024

+1-832-430-2872

Houston Psychiatrists specializing in telepsychiatry, and online psychiatric appointments for Adult ADHD, depression, and anxiety treatments and offering convenient telemedicine psychiatry appointments.

Aura MD | Ashley Toutounchi, MD – Psychiatrist Dallas – Online and In Office Appointments in Texas

4131 N. Central Expressway, Suite 900, Dallas, TX 75204

+1-214-382-0103

Dallas Psychiatrists specializing in telepsychiatry, and online psychiatric appointments for Adult ADHD, depression, and anxiety treatments and offering convenient telemedicine psychiatry appointments.

Aura MD | Ashley Toutounchi, MD – Psychiatrist Austin – Online and In Office Appointments in Texas

200 Lee Barton Dr #100, Austin, TX 78704

+1-512-764-9858

Austin Psychiatrists specializing in telepsychiatry, and online psychiatric appointments for Adult ADHD, depression, and anxiety treatments and offering convenient telemedicine psychiatry appointments.

New Patient Appointment Request

Concierge Style Treatment

ONGOING ACCESS TO PROVIDER

Prescriptions Sent to You

MODERNIZED TREATMENT

Convenient Check-Ins

FOLLOWUPS EVERY 3 MONTHS

How It Works: After Initial Visit

VIRTUAL CARE MADE SIMPLE

Adult ADHD

Anxiety

Depression

DNA Genetic Testing

Insomnia

Wellness & Weight

Women's Health

Bipolar Disorder

Texas Psychiatrist Office Locations

Locations

Socials

Services

Quick Menu

New Patient Appointment Request​

Concierge Style Treatment

ONGOING ACCESS TO PROVIDER

Prescriptions Sent to You

MODERNIZED TREATMENT

Convenient Check-Ins

FOLLOWUPS EVERY 3 MONTHS

How It Works: After Initial Visit​

VIRTUAL CARE MADE SIMPLE

Adult ADHD

Anxiety

Depression

DNA Genetic Testing

Insomnia

Wellness & Weight

Women's Health

Bipolar Disorder

Texas Psychiatrist Office Locations​

Locations

Socials

Services

Quick Menu

New Patient Appointment Request

How It Works: After Initial Visit

Texas Psychiatrist Office Locations