Frequently asked questions
Am I a good fit for Firefly Collaborative Mental Health?
Our practice can acommodate most patients conditions, but as a solo-provider practice that does not provide 24/7 crisis support, individuals with more acute mental health needs, such as those with recurrent or recent suicide attempts, rapid-cycling bipolar, or active substance abuse are better served a larger practice with 24/7 coverage. If we determine you would be better served by such a practice, we can provide referrals for local practices that may better meet your needs.
How do I become a patient?
Fill in the appointment request form below, call/text us at (804) 348-1708, or email us at [email protected] for more information.
Do you provide 24/7 crisis support?
We do not provide 24/7 crisis management. In the event of an urgent psychiatric crisis outside of normal business hours, patients must call 988 (suicide hotline), 911, or go to the nearest emergency room or urgent care center for immediate evaluation.
What medications do you prescribe?
With a focus on safety, efficacy, and tolerability, we can prescribe antidepressants, anxiolytics, mood stabilizers, antipsychotics, and ADHD medications including stimulants. Please note that for safety reasons as well as DEA regulations, there are limitations on how controlled substanes can be prescribed; please refer to our controlled substance policy for more information.
Do you take insurance?
Yes! We believe strongly in making mental healthcare accessible to all. For this reason, we are in-network with several insurers and are in the process of credentialing with more, including Medicaid and Medicare.
Do you do telehealth or in-person care?
Both! We can patients at our office in Richmond's West End, or over telehealth for anyone living in the state of Virginia through a HIPAA-compliant, secure platform. Please note that you must be physically in Virginia at the time of your appointment to be in compliance with regulations.
What is a nurse practitioner?
Nurse practitioners (NPs) are advanced-practice nurses who start out as registered nurses and go on to pursue education at the Master's or Doctoral level. NPs must pass board exams prior to being certified as an NP. NPs are trained to evaluate, assess, diagnose, prescribe medications, perform certain procedures, order and interpret bloodwork, and far more. Some NPs require physician supervision, while others practice autonomously. Margaret practices autonomously, but still values the expertise and wisdom of psychiatrists and other physicians, never hesitating to seek consultation when needed.
Do you have a supervising physician?
Margaret has obtained autonomous practice and does not require physician oversight. While she practices autonomously, Margaret strongly values collaboration, and feels that optimal care is delivered when the entire healthcare team, including a veritable alphabet soup; NPs, MDs, DOs, PAs, RNs, RDs, PT, OT, and more.
Why the name Firefly Collaborative Mental Health?
Fireflies represent a light in the darkness, providing a sense of wonder and joy. Collaborative, because collaborating with each patient is the heart of our approach. We develop treatment plans collaboratively and center your voice and your goals during our work together . Decisions are made collaboratively after carefully reviewing the risks and benefits of different options. Questions and curiosity are encouraged, and decisions are never made unilaterally.