Frequently asked questions
Your first visit with Dr. Atwal is an initial evaluation. These sessions last from 60-90 minutes, depending on the specific situation. If the patient is a minor, the legal guardian must be present. Dr. Atwal will speak to the patient and guardian to gather information.
Please arrive 15 minutes early to your first visit. You can download the required forms from our website prior to your appointment or fill them out in the lobby. We highly recommend bringing in any IEP/504 paperwork, copies of important medical or psychiatric records, laboratory results, and any psychological or educational testing results.
During the first visit, you and Dr. Atwal will discuss, among other topics, details related to current concerns, past psychiatric history, medical history, and family history. Dr. Atwal will gain a customized and holistic understanding of the factors important in your life. In some situations, she may require feedback from teachers, past psychiatrists or therapists, your primary medical care provider, or other important players in your life.
Based on her assessment, she may recommend medication, laboratory testing (i.e. blood draw), psychotherapy, and/or specific behavioral interventions. The decision about medication is a personal one for you, and they are not recommended in all cases. If medications are recommended, Dr. Atwal will discuss the risks, benefits, side-effects and alternatives to the specific medication and answer any questions you have. She will work closely with you to help make a suitable and mutually agreeable plan for treatment.
A psychiatric emergency can be many different things. A person might be a danger to himself or others, or be unable to adequately care for himself. There are many factors to consider, and if you are experiencing an emergency, the first step is to call 911. You should also know the locations of your nearest emergency departments.
Here are some additional resources:
Central Valley Suicide Prevention Hotline : 1-888-506-5991
Exodus Recovery : For 24/7 crisis stabilization services
Adults: (559) 453-1008
Children: (559) 512-8700
National Suicide Prevention Hotline: 1-800-273-8255
Refills require regular follow-up as suggested by Dr. Atwal. Please inform your pharmacy of the refill request as early as possible. Try to plan ahead, and please give our office 3business days to fulfill the request. Refills will, in general, be done electronically. Lost or stolen medications will be dealt with on a case-by-case basis.
24-hour notice is required prior to rescheduling or canceling appointments. There is a $75.00 fee for appointments that are not cancelled or rescheduled with 24-hour notice. Appointments that are not canceled or rescheduled with 24-hour notice are considered no-shows. Three no-shows within a one year span of time may result in discharge from the practice. Dr. Atwal will do her best to work with you in the event of unexpected schedule changes. Life happens!