Question 1

How do I book my first appointment with Aura MD?

Accepted Answer

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

Question 2

What can I expect the first visit?

Accepted Answer

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.

Question 3

Are the visits online or in person?

Accepted Answer

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.

Question 4

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

Accepted Answer

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.

Question 5

What if I'm in crisis?

Accepted Answer

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.

Question 6

What is your cancellation policy?

Accepted Answer

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.

Question 7

Does Aura MD accept insurance?

Accepted Answer

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.

Question 8

What is the cost for visits?

Accepted Answer

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.

Question 9

What is out of network reimbursement?

Accepted Answer

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.

Question 10

Where do I login to my portal account?

Accepted Answer

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

Question 11

I forgot my portal password, what do I do?

Accepted Answer

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

Question 12

How do I use Elation Passport?

Accepted Answer

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.

Question 13

What is Telemedicine?

Accepted Answer

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.

Question 14

What technology do I need for a visit?

Accepted Answer

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

Question 15

Is my information still private?

Accepted Answer

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

Question 16

Is a psychiatrist better than a psychologist?

Accepted Answer

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.

Question 17

How many years does it take to become a psychiatrist?

Accepted Answer

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.

Question 18

Do I need to talk to a psychiatrist?

Accepted Answer

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.

Question 19

How difficult is it to become a psychiatrist?

Accepted Answer

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.

Question 20

Can I become a psychiatrist with a psychology degree?

Accepted Answer

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.

Question 21

How often should I see my psychiatrist?

Accepted Answer

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.

Question 22

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

Accepted Answer

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.

Question 23

Do psychiatrists do therapy?

Accepted Answer

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

Question 24

How do psychiatrists treat anxiety?

Accepted Answer

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.

Question 25

Does anxiety mean you're mentally ill?

Accepted Answer

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.

Question 26

Can you tell your psychiatrist everything?

Accepted Answer

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.

Question 27

What Causes ADHD?

Accepted Answer

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.

Question 28

What are the behaviors of ADHD?

Accepted Answer

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.

Question 29

Can ADHD make you suicidal?

Accepted Answer

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.

Question 30

What worsens ADHD?

Accepted Answer

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.

Question 31

Is Caffeine good for ADHD?

Accepted Answer

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.

Question 32

Can ADHD go away?

Accepted Answer

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.

Question 33

Is ADHD a form of autism?

Accepted Answer

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.

Question 34

What is the problem with ADHD?

Accepted Answer

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.

Question 35

How does an ADHD child feel?

Accepted Answer

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.

Question 36

Does ADHD shorten lifespan?

Accepted Answer

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.

Question 37

Can ADHD be confused with depression?

Accepted Answer

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.

Question 38

Are people with ADHD smarter?

Accepted Answer

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.

Question 39

What foods trigger ADHD?

Accepted Answer

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.

Question 40

Is banana good for ADHD?

Accepted Answer

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.

Question 41

Does Mountain Dew help ADHD?

Accepted Answer

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.

Question 42

Is ADHD a bad thing?

Accepted Answer

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.

Question 43

Are you born with ADHD or do you develop it?

Accepted Answer

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.

Question 44

At what age does ADHD peak?

Accepted Answer

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.

Question 45

At what age is ADHD diagnosed?

Accepted Answer

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.

Question 46

Does ADHD worsen with age?

Accepted Answer

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.

Question 47

Can ADHD cause anger?

Accepted Answer

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.

Question 48

Is ADHD a disability?

Accepted Answer

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.

Question 49

Are people with ADHD smart?

Accepted Answer

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.

Question 50

Are people with ADHD dumb?

Accepted Answer

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.

Question 51

Does sugar make ADHD worse?

Accepted Answer

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.

Question 52

Can a child with ADHD sit and watch TV?

Accepted Answer

Sometimes parents make the same point about television: My child can sit and watch for hours -- he can't have A.D.H.D. A child's ability focus on a screen while not looking elsewhere is a sign of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder.

Question 53

Can Aspergers look like ADHD?

Accepted Answer

There is a lot of overlap between ADHD and Aspergerâ€™s symptoms. My experience shows that between 60 and 70 percent of Asperger's Syndrome children have symptoms that are compatible with an ADHD diagnosis. ADHD symptoms in PDD are so common that it technically subsumes ADHD.

Question 54

Can ADHD cause speech delay?

Accepted Answer

Another speech issue connected with ADHD is speaking too quickly. This will sound almost as if the child's speech is slurred. This can be due to the cognitive impulsivity related to ADHD. This can be treated in a therapy session or a speech session. The child should draw slow, wavy lines while speaking.

Question 55

Can ADHD mask autism?

Accepted Answer

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) may mask autism in children who have both conditions. Many of these children receive their autism diagnosis an average of four years later than those who have autism alone, suggests a new study.

Question 56

Can a child outgrow ADHD?

Accepted Answer

Many children (perhaps as many as half) will outgrow their symptoms but others do not, so ADHD can affect a person into adulthood.

Question 57

How do ADHD brains develop differently?

Accepted Answer

There are alterations in blood flow to various areas of the brains in people with ADHD compared to people who do not have ADHD, including decreased blood flow to certain prefrontal areas. A decreased blood flow means that brain activity is decreasing.

Question 58

What does undiagnosed ADHD look like?

Accepted Answer

Failing to pay attention to details or constantly making careless mistakes. Having difficulty organizing tasks and activities. Often avoiding tasks that require mental effort over a long period of time. Often losing things necessary for tasks and activities (e.g. Keys, wallets, keys, and paperwork are all easily lost.)

Question 59

What do adults with ADHD struggle with?

Accepted Answer

ADHD adults may have difficulty focusing and prioritizing, which can lead to missed deadlines, forgotten meetings, or social plans. The inability to control impulses can range from impatience waiting in line or driving in traffic to mood swings and outbursts of anger.

Question 60

Can a child with ADHD live a normal life?

Accepted Answer

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), which affects people's behavior, can cause them to have difficulty living a normal life.

Question 61

How are you tested for ADHD?

Accepted Answer

There's no simple test to determine whether you have ADHD, but your specialist can make an accurate diagnosis after a detailed assessment. A physical exam may be part of the assessment, which can help rule other possible causes. a series of interviews with you or your child.

Question 62

How long can ADHD last?

Accepted Answer

ADHD is a disorder that can last throughout a person's life. You can also read our companion article about adult ADHD. Research indicates that up to 60% of children with ADHD continue to have symptoms of restlessness and distractibility throughout the teen years and into adulthood.

Question 63

Does caffeine help ADHD?

Accepted Answer

Some studies have found that caffeine can boost concentration for people with ADHD. It is a stimulant drug and mimics some of the stimulants used to treat ADHD. However, caffeine is not as effective as prescription medications.

Question 64

Why is math hard for ADHD?

Accepted Answer

Math requires constant attention to remember facts and the sequence of steps. It also requires self-monitoring and checking for answers. Students with ADHD may find it difficult to focus or lose their way when trying to solve multiple math problems.

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