Online Psychiatric Care & Medication Management for Adults in Colorado, Nevada, Arizona & New Mexico

Personalized Telepsychiatry For Your Unique Mental Health Challenges

I provide psychiatric care for adults navigating a range of mental health challenges – whether you're looking to get a diagnosis, manage your current medications, or explore new treatment options.

Common concerns I work with include:

• Anxiety disorders (GAD, panic disorder, social anxiety, etc.)

• Depression and mood disorders

• ADHD (assessment and long-term support)

• PTSD and trauma-related symptoms

• OCD

• Insomnia and other sleep issues

• PMDD and mood changes tied to hormonal shifts

• Complications related to past or current psychiatric medication

WHAT I TREAT

WHY PEOPLE REACH OUT TO ME

Overwhelmed, Disconnected & Struggling To Cope? You’re Not Broken!

Many clients who come to see me at Out West Mental Health feel overwhelmed and exhausted by the weight of their daily life. Maybe you're missing deadlines at work, canceling plans with friends, or lying awake at night, spiraling through worries you can’t seem to turn off. It might feel like everything requires more effort than it should. Even the thought of asking for help comes with fear of being judged, labeled or pushed into a treatment that doesn’t feel right.

You might be navigating tension in your relationships, dealing with emotional outbursts or feeling frustrated with yourself for procrastinating or "checking out" of your life completely. In many of those cases, my clients find themselves relying on caffeine, scrolling, cannabis or other unhealthy coping mechanisms to get through the day. - all the while secretly wondering why what seems easy for everyone else feels so hard.

It’s also normal to have mixed feelings about psychiatric care. Many people worry about being labeled, losing control, or experiencing side effects from medication that change their personality or numb them out. Maybe you’ve been burned by providers before or feel stuck between needing support and fearing it’ll make things worse.

At Out West, my goal isn’t to over-medicate or rush into treatment. it’s to help you feel like yourself again, with clarity and calm instead of constant mental noise. That might mean sleeping better, focusing more easily, easing emotional triggers, or just having more energy to take care of your life and relationships. We’ll work together to reduce symptoms with the least medication necessary - and create a plan that feels sustainable, effective, and supportive from day one.

MY SERVICES AT A GLANCE

Compassionate Psychiatric Support, Medication Management & Holistic Mental Health Guidance

Psych Evaluations & Diagnoses

Medication Prescriptions & Management

On-Going Support, Refills & Check-Ins

Holistic Guidance & Therapy Referrals

Medication Tapering & Discontinuation

Your first session includes a thoughtful, collaborative psychiatric evaluation where we explore your history, symptoms & goals. The aim isn’t just diagnosis, it’s understanding the full picture so we can build a plan that makes sense for you.

If medication is a good fit, we’ll take a “low and slow” approach, meaning we’ll focus on minimal effective doses, patient education, and shared decision-making. You’ll never be rushed or pressured into something you’re not comfortable with.

After you get settled in your new treatment, we’ll meet regularly for check-ins to discuss progress, refill prescriptions, and make adjustments as needed. You’ll get steady, personalized care - not a revolving door of impersonal providers.

If you’re hoping to reduce or stop current medications you’re taking, we’ll do so gradually and safely based on how you feel, not on a fixed timeline. I’ll guide you through the entire process with close monitoring of side effects and making sure you feel safe and comfortable.

Mental health isn’t just about medication. I offer lifestyle-integrated support that includes mindfulness tools, gentle psychotherapy and if needed, optional therapist referrals to ensure care is well-rounded and truly sustainable.

MY APPROACH TO CARE

Whole-Person Mental Health Care

Built on Trust – Not Just Treatment Plans

At Out West Mental Health, I believe good care starts with a real relationship based on trust. Many of my clients come in carrying skepticism, past disappointments, or fear of being judged. That’s why I center every conversation around real connection, so you feel seen, respected, and never rushed. Whether you're navigating a new diagnosis, considering medication, or just trying to make it through the day, I meet you with warmth, curiosity, and zero pressure.

This is a different kind of psychiatry – one that blends evidence-based treatment with real listening and a personal touch. I’m the only person you’ll see, and I handle every part of your care myself. That might mean a thoughtful conversation about medication, a check-in when life feels heavy, or even a birthday card to remind you that someone’s thinking of you. My clients often say it feels more like talking to a trusted friend or family doctor than an unfamiliar provider behind a screen.

I tell every new client that I’ll never push treatment that doesn’t feel right or prescribe something I wouldn’t give to someone I love. Instead, we’ll work together to find a plan that helps you feel like yourself again. This is care designed for your whole life – not just your symptoms – and it’s grounded in values that feel honest, kind and distinctly local.

Sommer is the best provider I have ever had! I've been with her for a year and a half. I can't express how grateful I am to have found her. I've had so many providers dismiss how I actually feel and what management is best for me. I gave up hope that I would ever find someone that really has the desire to understand each individual person and what management applies to them. She's someone you can trust with yourself and know that she is going to provide you with the best care and professional guidance. You'll get this feeling the second you meet her. I've never had a provider be so genuinely invested in me and so accessible/easy to reach. She also recommended me to the best therapist I've ever had! So she is a crucial part to the growth and happiness I have today that I never thought I'd find. You'll regret not seeing her!

- Anonymous

★★★★★

★★★★★

I’ve been battling focus, procrastination, and time management for years, feeling like I was constantly falling behind. But then I met Sommer Perkins, and everything changed. From the very first appointment, I felt truly heard, understood, and supported. Sommer took the time to listen to my concerns and ask thoughtful questions, making me feel like a priority rather than just another patient. One of my biggest concerns was finding the right approach without dealing with unwanted side effects. Sommer was incredibly patient, making small adjustments and following up regularly to ensure I was feeling my best. Whether you need support with focus or organization, Sommer takes a personalized approach rather than a one-size-fits-all method. I finally feel more in control of my life again! As someone with a busy schedule, I love that Sommer offers telehealth appointments, making it so much easier to get the care I need.

- Anonymous

COST & INSURANCE INFORMATION

Affordable, Transparent Online Teen Psychiatric Care in Colorado, Arizona, Nevada & New Mexico

Insurance Accepted

I currently accept most major insurance plans, including:

• Blue Cross Blue Shield (pending verification)

• Kaiser Permanente (pending verification)

• TriWest (formerly Tricare West)

• Carelon (pending verification)

• Cigna

• Optum (UnitedHealthcare)

• Aetna

• UMR

Before your appointment, I’ll help confirm your insurance benefits to avoid any surprises.

Billing Process & What to Expect

• I submit claims to your insurance first, and you will only receive a bill after your insurance processes the claim.

• I can provide superbills for out-of-network reimbursement if needed.

• I value clear communication about costs and coverage as a top priority - no surprise fees.

Self-Pay Options

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.

MY SERVICES AT A GLANCE

4 Simple Steps To Help You Know What Lies Ahead

Book The First Session With Me

Join The 60 Min Intake Evaluation

Receive On-Going Care & Treatment

Come For Monthly Refills & Check-Ins

Schedule your initial appointment easily through my online booking system. Before we start, I’ll ask for some basic information about your medical history, current medications, lifestyle and background so I can be prepared for our first session. All sessions will be hosted via Zoom.

During our first intake session, we’ll spend time getting to know each other as well as understanding your unique situation, symptoms, and goals. This is a judgment-free space to share your story, ask questions, and discuss any worries you have about treatment or medication.

For the first six months, we’ll have regular sessions to decide on the right treatment plan for you, monitor how you’re responding and provide any additional support needed to help you make progress. You can conveniently schedule each session in my online patient portal.

Once things feel more stable, we’ll move to monthly appointments to refill prescriptions and check in on how you’re doing. These sessions help us keep track of your progress, make any needed adjustments, and ensure your care continues to fit your life and needs over time.

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Is this the right fit for me?

If you’re feeling overwhelmed, burned out, anxious, or just not like yourself, and want thoughtful, collaborative care, you’re in the right place. You don’t need a diagnosis or crisis to get support. We’ll figure it out together.

GOOD TO KNOW

Frequently Asked Questions

What kind of medications do you prescribe?

I commonly prescribe antidepressants, anti-anxiety medications, sleep aids, mood stabilizers, and occasionally stimulants or antipsychotic medications when appropriate. I generally avoid high-risk medications that require intensive lab monitoring, unless you’re already stable on them. Controlled substances may be continued if you're already on a safe, effective dose but new prescriptions are considered carefully on a case-by-case basis. I’ll always work with you (and your primary care provider) to ensure your medication plan is safe, informed, and supportive of your long-term health.

Do you offer crisis services?

I don’t provide crisis or emergency care. As a telemedicine service, I am unable to treat patients with complex mental health issues such as schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, personality disorders, substance abuse, or eating disorders. If you’re experiencing intense distress, active suicidal thoughts, or need immediate help, please call 911, go to the nearest clinic or ER, or contact the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.

I’ve had bad experiences with psychiatric care before – what makes this different?

My approach is based on compassion, respect, trust and patient autonomy. You’ll never be rushed, dismissed, or treated like a diagnosis. I’ll always explain your options clearly and offer the kind of care I’d want for someone I love.

How do I book and join an appointment?

If you’re new, you can easily schedule your first intake evaluation here. 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. Returning patients have the ability to conveniently book their follow-up appointments via my patient portal.

How quickly will I see results or feel better?

Some people start noticing positive changes (like reduced anxiety, better sleep or clearer focus) within a few weeks. Others need more time, depending on the medication and what we’re treating. We’ll stay in close contact to monitor progress, adjust as needed, and make sure you're never navigating it alone.

Can I reach out between sessions if I have questions or concerns?

Absolutely. You’ll have direct access to me between check-ins via secure email or messaging for quick questions, reassurance, or updates. Support doesn’t end when the session does.

What is your cancellation policy?

Life happens and I understand that sometimes plans change unexpectedly. You’re welcome to cancel or reschedule up to 3 hours before your appointment with no charge. If you cancel within that 3-hour window, fees apply: $25 for the first late cancel, $50 for the second, and $100 for the third, which may also result in discharge from care. If you’re more than 10 minutes late, your appointment will be marked as a no-show, and the same fees above will apply. These fees help protect time for all clients who need support. Thanks for honoring your appointment time — it allows me to offer consistent, thoughtful care for everyone.

GET STARTED

Take The First Step Towards Feeling Better

Reaching out for support can feel like a big step but you don’t have to have it all figured out to get started. Whether you’re overwhelmed, unsure what’s going on, or just ready for things to feel easier, I’m here to help. Click below to schedule your first appointment. I look forward to meeting you!