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Answers

Frequently Asked Questions

Answers on insurance, fees, prescribing, telehealth, and what to expect from psychiatric care with Suzanne Gallagher, PMHNP-BC. Have a question that isn't covered here? Reach out directly.

Questions & Answers

Everything Patients Ask Most

Prescribing

Can a psychiatric nurse practitioner prescribe medication in Connecticut?

Yes. As a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC) in Connecticut, Suzanne may evaluate, diagnose, and prescribe psychiatric medications for conditions including anxiety, depression, and ADHD, in compliance with federal and Connecticut law, as part of ongoing medication management.

Can a PMHNP prescribe Adderall or other ADHD stimulants?

In appropriate cases, yes. When clinically indicated after a thorough evaluation, Suzanne may prescribe stimulant or non-stimulant medications for adults diagnosed with ADHD, in compliance with federal and Connecticut law. Prescribing decisions follow evaluation and ongoing monitoring — never automatic.

Can a PMHNP prescribe antidepressants like SSRIs?

Yes. Suzanne prescribes and manages antidepressants such as SSRIs and other psychiatric medications for adults across Connecticut. Treatment starts with a careful evaluation, and medications are adjusted over time based on your response and side effects, with closer follow-up while a new medication is being dialed in.

Can controlled substances be prescribed over telehealth?

In some cases, yes. Under current federal telemedicine flexibilities (extended through December 31, 2026), certain controlled medications may be prescribed via telehealth when clinically appropriate and compliant with federal and Connecticut law.

Insurance & Fees

What insurance do you accept?

Suzanne is in-network with Aetna, Cigna, Oxford, UnitedHealthcare, and Optum. Coverage details like copays and deductibles vary by plan, so it's worth verifying your outpatient behavioral health benefits. Out-of-network patients can use self-pay rates and receive a superbill to submit for possible reimbursement.

How much do appointments cost?

Self-pay rates are $300 for the initial psychiatric evaluation and $150 for follow-up medication-management visits. With in-network insurance — Aetna, Cigna, Oxford, UnitedHealthcare, or Optum — your cost depends on your plan's copay and deductible. Out-of-network patients receive a superbill for possible reimbursement.

Appointments & Care

Do you offer in-person and telehealth appointments?

Yes. Suzanne sees patients in person at her New Canaan, CT office and provides secure video telehealth visits to adults located anywhere in Connecticut. Many patients combine the two — coming into the office when helpful and using telehealth for routine follow-up visits.

What happens at the first appointment?

The first visit is a comprehensive psychiatric evaluation of your history, symptoms, and goals, used to reach a diagnosis and, when appropriate, begin a medication plan. It's scheduled as an extended visit — in person in New Canaan or by telehealth — and you'll leave with clear next steps and a follow-up plan.

How do I become a new patient?

Complete the appointment request form. Suzanne reviews each request to ensure a good fit, then invites you to set up your secure patient portal and schedule your first visit.

Do you work with my therapist or primary care provider?

Yes. Suzanne coordinates care with a patient's therapist or primary care provider when helpful, focusing on medication management as part of a broader treatment team. Medication and therapy often work best together, and if you don't have a therapist, she can suggest a referral.

What conditions do you treat?

Suzanne treats adults with anxiety, depression, ADHD, OCD, mood and bipolar disorders, and women's and perinatal mental health concerns. Care is provided in person in New Canaan and by telehealth statewide, with every new patient starting with a comprehensive psychiatric evaluation.

What's the difference between a PMHNP and a psychiatrist?

Both evaluate, diagnose, and prescribe psychiatric medication. A PMHNP is an advanced-practice registered nurse with specialized psychiatric training; a psychiatrist is a physician. In Connecticut, Suzanne provides evaluation and medication management as a board-certified PMHNP.

Ready to take the first step?

Complete the appointment request form and Suzanne will personally review your request.