FAQ

Ages 3 and older (across the lifespan).

At SOWEGA Autism and Psychiatry, we will conduct assessments to determine the best treatment plan and will prescribe medications for psychiatric challenges, however, they are not necessary in every situation. We are trained to deal with the psychological and interpersonal aspects of mental challenges in addition to prescription of medications. Often, a change in life situations and/or therapy is an appropriate intervention. We will assist you with referrals if requested.

New visit, approx. 1 hour; established visit, approx. 30 minutes. However, the length of your appointment can vary
based on your individualized treatment.

If you are experiencing a lifethreatening condition or medical emergency, please call 911. If you are experiencing an urgent/crisis situation that is not immediately life-threatening, Call SOWEGA Autism & Psychiatry at (229) 800-5547. The staff will assist you with taking the next steps.

• What is the name of the medication, and what is it supposed to do?
•  How and when do I take it, and when do I stop taking it?
• What if I miss a dose?
•  What foods, drinks, or other medications should I avoid while taking the prescribed
  medication?
• Should it be taken with food or on an empty stomach?
•  Is it safe to drink alcohol while on this medication?
• What are the side effects, and what should I do if they occur?
• Is there some printed information about the medication available?
•  What are my options?

Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) is a therapy based on the science of learning and behavior. ABA helps us to understand how behavior works, how behavior is affected by the environment and how learning takes place. ABA therapy applies our understanding of how behavior works to real situations. The goal is to increase behaviors that are helpful and decrease behaviors that are harmful or affect learning.

Routine bloodwork is an important part of assessing a patient’s overall health. Tests such as a complete blood count, metabolic panel, lipid panel, thyroid function tests, and hemoglobin A1c test (screening for diabetes) can help a mental health provider understand the general medical health of a patient. Often, such test results can be forwarded from the patient’s primary care provider (PCP). However, in some cases, the mental health professional may need to order more specific lab work.

Research shows that telehealth services are as effective as in-person appointments when it comes to treating mental health conditions. Some people find that telehealth is more effective because it makes attending appointments easier. We offer both online and inperson appointments. If you prefer telehealth sessions only, you can get the treatment you need entirely online. If you want to see your provider in-person sometimes, or all the time, you have the flexibility to do that as well.

 For your appointment, you will need to have access to a private place and a computer/tablet/smartphone with a camera and a high-speed internet connection. SOWEGA Autism & Psychiatry will provide you with access to a secure HIPAA compliant videoconferencing software free of charge. All you have to do is be on your device and log on at the time of your appointment. We will send you directions on how to log in after you set up and confirm your appointment.

Walk in appointments are for new patients, only. At SOWEGA Autism & Psychiatry, we opens the door to the concept of mental health support. In that way, it encourages people to seek out the help that is readily available to them.