FAQs

A Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, or PMHNP, is a nurse with advanced training in mental health care. A PMHNP can diagnose mental health conditions, talk with you about what you're going through, and provide treatment such as therapy, medication, or both. They may also work with other health providers to make sure you get the best care possible.

It might be time to consider seeing a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) if your child or teen is struggling with emotions, behaviors, or changes in mood that are affecting their daily life. This can include:

• Ongoing sadness, worry, or anger

• Trouble with school, friendships, or family relationships

• Changes in sleep, appetite, or energy

• Difficulty focusing or sitting still

• Withdrawing from activities they used to enjoy

• Talking about self-harm or showing signs of distress

You don’t need to wait for a crisis to seek help. A PMHNP can work with you and your child to better understand what’s going on and explore supportive options, whether that includes therapy, coping tools, or other treatments.

At Luke Wellness, we provide personalized care for a wide range of mental health concerns. We specialize in supporting children, teens, and young adults who may be experiencing:

• Anxiety

• Depression

• Trauma

• Stress related to bullying or life transitions

• Emotional or behavioral challenges

• Neurodivergent experiences (such as ADHD or autism spectrum traits)

At Luke Wellness, our approach to mental health care is holistic and integrative. This means we consider the whole person—mind, body, and lifestyle—rather than focusing solely on symptoms. While traditional psychiatrists often concentrate on diagnosing conditions and prescribing medications, and therapists primarily provide talk therapy, we blend these methods to offer comprehensive care tailored to each individual's needs.

Our services may include:

• Personalized Treatment Plans: Combining therapy, medication management, and lifestyle support to address your unique situation.

• Collaborative Care: Working closely with you to set goals and adjust treatments as needed.

• Inclusive Environment: Providing affirming care for all individuals, including those from LGBTQ+ communities.

By integrating various aspects of mental health care, we aim to support your overall well-being and empower you on your journey toward wellness.

Your first appointment is a chance for us to get to know each other and begin understanding your needs. We'll talk about your current concerns, your personal and family history, any past treatments, and other important parts of your life and health.

This visit usually lasts about 60 minutes and helps us create a plan that fits your goals. You’re welcome to ask questions at any time, and we will work together to collaborate on your treatment plan. The goal is to make sure you feel heard, supported, and comfortable moving forward.

Without insurance, a comprehensive initial evaluation is $300. Continued care sessions typically range from $100 to $200, depending on the services provided and the length of the visit. If you plan to use insurance, we recommend checking with your insurance provider for specific benefit and cost details. For more details on pricing and insurance please see the “Pricing & Insurance” section of our website.

We are currently in-network with UnitedHealthcare/Optum.  We are out-of-network with all other insurance payors but are continuing to work on obtaining contracts with BCBS of SC, Cigna, Aetna, and Tricare East.  We do not accept any Medicare or Medicaid plans at this time.  Please see the “Pricing & Insurance” section of our website for further details. 

The best way to schedule an appointment is through clicking, “Book Now” through the website.  This will redirect you to our booking platform, PracticeQ. When you book your appointment, you will receive a questionnaire to complete where you can share information about yourself, including your reasons for seeking care, any previous treatment history, and insurance details. This helps me understand your needs and determine whether I’m the right fit for you before the appointment is confirmed.

To ensure we can make the most of your appointment time, it is essential that all required documentation is completed in advance through the PracticeQ portal. This includes consent forms, screening questionnaires, and any additional requested paperwork.

In addition to uploading these documents, please bring the following items with you to your appointment:

• A valid photo ID

• Insurance card(s)

• An up-to-date list of current medications

• Any relevant prior psychiatric or medical records

Thank you for your cooperation in helping us provide you with comprehensive and efficient care.

Yes, we do offer telehealth/virtual appointments for South Carolina residents only. However, if you are seeking medication management involving controlled substances—such as stimulants or benzodiazepines—an in-person visit is required in accordance with current regulations.

When you call our office, you’ll reach a voicemail system. I check messages frequently during business hours, and return calls as soon as I am able. If you’re an established patient, you’re also welcome to message me through the patient portal on PracticeQ.

Please note that I do not provide after-hours or emergency services. If you are experiencing a medical or mental health crisis, please call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room.