About Out West Mental Health
Welcome to Out West Mental Health, where your mental well-being is my top priority. I understand that taking the first step toward addressing your mental health concerns can be challenging (and even daunting), and I am here to support you every step of the way. I am dedicated to promoting recovery, resilience, and overall well-being.
I am committed to creating a safe and nurturing environment, allowing you to explore your thoughts and feelings without judgment. Whether you are seeking care for anxiety, depression, or any other mental health concern, I offer personalized and conservative approaches tailored to your unique needs. You deserve to feel better, and I am committed to walking this journey with you, providing guidance and encouragement along the way.
Sommer Perkins, MSN, RN, APRN, PMHNP-BC
Hello. I am Sommer Perkins, a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. My career journey has been fueled by a deep empathy and understanding for those struggling with mental health concerns. My passion for mental health was ignited during my tenure as a registered nurse on a medical-surgical unit, where I witnessed firsthand the profound impact that mental health issues can have on our thoughts, actions, interactions, and physical well-being.
My Master of Science in Nursing as an Advanced Practice Registered Nurse, earned with honors from Nova Southeastern University in Florida, is a testament to my dedication and expertise. I have rich experience working with clients of diverse ethnicities and am committed to fostering strong practitioner-client relationships with individuals of all ages.
My approach to mental health medication management is rooted in collaboration and respect for your autonomy. I firmly believe that medications are not always the answer. If necessary and beneficial, I prefer a "low and slow" prescription method, making adjustments only with your full agreement. I take great pleasure in empowering my clients to advocate for their well-being. As your practitioner, I strongly advocate for a holistic approach that combines therapy with the proper medications and dosages.
Frequently asked questions
What is your cancellation policy?
Life happens, and I understand that sometimes plans change unexpectedly. Cancellations are permitted without charge up to three hours before the scheduled appointment. However, if cancellations occur within this three-hour window, fees will apply: the first cancellation will result in a $25 charge, while the second will incur a cost of $50. For a third cancellation, the fee increases to $100, and it is important to note that this may also lead to potential discharge from the clinic. I encourage clients to provide timely notice of any appointment changes to avoid these fees and maintain a positive relationship with my services.
Please note that your scheduled appointment time is reserved exclusively for you, ensuring you receive the attention and care you deserve. I understand that unexpected circumstances can arise, but it is important to remember that late cancellations can significantly impact my ability to serve other clients. When appointments are canceled at the last minute, others who could benefit from that time slot cannot be seen. I kindly ask for your understanding and cooperation in honoring your appointment time. Doing so, you help me provide the best service possible to everyone in need. Thank you for your consideration and support!
What if I am running late or I am a no-show?
If you arrive late for your appointment, please note that your spot will only be held 10 minutes beyond the scheduled time. After this grace period, if you have not checked in, your appointment will be considered a no-show. Please note that the incremental fees outlined in the cancellation policy above will apply. I encourage you to arrive on time to avoid any inconvenience and additional charges, ensuring you receive my services' full benefits. Please plan accordingly and let me know if you anticipate any delays so I can assist you in rescheduling if necessary.
How do I book an appointment?
If you're new to Out West Mental Health, booking an intake appointment is easy—just click here to get started. After you schedule your appointment, be sure to complete the new patient paperwork that will be sent to your email; this is necessary to confirm your booking. On the day of your appointment, you will receive a Zoom link to join the session—simply click on it a few minutes before your scheduled time. For returning patients, accessing the patient portal allows you to select "book" in the upper right corner, where you can conveniently choose to schedule a follow-up appointment. I look forward to supporting you in your mental health journey!
Does the initial appointment mean I have been accepted as a patient?
After the initial evaluation, it is vital to determine the most suitable care setting for your needs. In some cases, an in-person clinic or a higher level of care may be more appropriate for your situation. If it becomes clear that our services are not the right fit for you, I will ensure you have the necessary resources to seek alternative options. I can provide contact information for several reputable clinics that better suit your requirements. Your well-being is the priority, and I am committed to helping you find the best possible care, whether with me or elsewhere.
What insurance is accepted?
I accept Cigna, Optum (UHC), UMR, and Aetna. BCBS, Carelon, Tricare West, and Keiser Permanente are pending finalization; check back soon!
What is the cost for self-pay?
Intake evaluations for self-pay clients are priced at $300, while follow-up visits cost $150. For your convenience, I can provide an itemized receipt with all the necessary billing information, commonly referred to as a super bill. This document will allow you to file for reimbursement should you choose to utilize any out-of-network insurance benefits. If you have any questions regarding the payment process or need assistance with insurance claims, please feel free to reach out. Your health and financial well-being are important, and I am here to support you in navigating these options.
Do you offer crisis services?
My clinic operates exclusively during regular business hours, ensuring a structured approach to patient care with a planned four-business-hour response time for all requests. As a telemedicine service, I focus on providing support for lower acuity conditions, and I am unable to treat patients with complex mental health issues such as schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, personality disorders, substance abuse, or eating disorders. I also do not offer crisis support. Patients experiencing high acuity situations or those with active suicidal ideations should seek immediate assistance through appropriate channels, including in-person clinics, intensive outpatient programs (IOPs), or emergency services such as calling 911 or the mental health crisis line at 988. Your well-being is paramount, and I encourage seeking the right level of care for your needs.
What is your medication policy?
If you are receiving medication from my clinic, it is crucial to review both the pharmacy printout and the electronic summary provided to you. Please ensure that your primary care physician (PCP) is updated on any medication changes and make it a priority to attend your yearly PCP visits. My clinic generally refrains from prescribing high-risk medications that require lab monitoring, except in some instances where patients have stable or pre-existing prescriptions. Additionally, it is essential to be aware that controlled substances are typically not prescribed at the clinic, though exceptions may be made for ongoing prescriptions. Your health and safety are my top priority, so staying informed and proactive about your medication management is essential.
Do you only offer telemedicine services?