Question 1

How long is the first appointment?

Accepted Answer

Your initial evaluation is typically 60 minutes so we have time to fully understand your story.

Question 2

How long are follow-up visits?

Accepted Answer

Follow-ups are typically 20–30 minutes and take place every 1–3 months once you're stable — or sooner when adjusting treatment.

Question 3

What should I expect at the first visit?

Accepted Answer

A calm, unhurried conversation. We'll review your history, current symptoms, and goals — then finish with a shared plan.

Question 4

Do I need a referral?

Accepted Answer

No. You can request an appointment directly through our contact form — no referral required.

Question 5

How do I schedule?

Accepted Answer

Use the Book Appointment button to reach our contact form. Send your preferred times and insurance or private-pay details, and we'll reply within one business day to confirm your visit.

Question 6

What is telepsychiatry?

Accepted Answer

Telepsychiatry is psychiatric care delivered through secure, HIPAA-compliant video visits. It's private and convenient, and research suggests it can be as effective as in-person care for many outpatient psychiatric needs when clinically appropriate.

Question 7

Do you offer in-person visits?

Accepted Answer

No — Thrive is a telehealth-only practice. All appointments are via secure video.

Question 8

Is telehealth confidential?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Visits use a secure, HIPAA-compliant platform and are private between you and your provider.

Question 9

Where do I need to be during my visit?

Accepted Answer

You must be physically located in Texas or California at the time of your appointment.

Question 10

Can medications be prescribed online?

Accepted Answer

Yes. When clinically appropriate, medications are sent electronically to your pharmacy of choice, in accordance with state and federal telehealth prescribing rules.

Question 11

Do you prescribe controlled medications?

Accepted Answer

In many cases, yes — when clinically appropriate and permitted by law. Not every controlled medication can be prescribed via telehealth in every situation. We'll discuss options during your evaluation.

Question 12

How do refills work?

Accepted Answer

Refills are requested through the patient portal and sent electronically to your pharmacy after clinical review.

Question 13

Do you prescribe medication when appropriate?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Medication is one tool among others. We only prescribe when it fits your goals, history, and clinical picture.

Question 14

Do you take insurance?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We accept insurance and private pay. Plans include Aetna, Cigna, Carelon Behavioral Health, Ascension (SmartHealth), Blue Cross and Blue Shield, Oxford (Optum), Oscar (Optum), and United Healthcare (Optum). You'll see eligibility and estimated cost when you book.

Question 15

What are your rates?

Accepted Answer

Rates and insurance coverage vary by plan. You can view specific costs during the booking process.

Question 16

Do you offer private pay?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Private-pay options are available if you prefer not to use insurance or if your plan isn't accepted.

Question 17

Can I get a superbill?

Accepted Answer

Yes. If you pay out of pocket or use out-of-network benefits, we can provide a superbill you may submit for possible reimbursement.

Question 18

What technology do I need?

Accepted Answer

A phone, tablet, or computer with a camera and microphone, plus a stable internet connection and a private, quiet space.

Question 19

What if my connection drops?

Accepted Answer

We'll help you reconnect. Keep your booking confirmation and any visit link handy, and use a reliable Wi-Fi or cellular connection when possible.

Question 20

Do I need to download software?

Accepted Answer

Most visits run in a browser or a simple secure link from our booking partner — no complex setup required.

Question 21

Which states do you serve?

Accepted Answer

We're licensed to see patients in Texas and California only.

Question 22

What ages do you see?

Accepted Answer

We see patients ages 12 and older — adolescents and adults.

Question 23

Are you accepting new patients?

Accepted Answer

Yes — we are currently accepting new patients in Texas and California.

Question 24

Who will I see for care?

Accepted Answer

Emmanuel Anigwe, PMHNP — a Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner.

Answers to help you feel ready.

Appointments

Telehealth

Medication

Insurance

Technology

General Questions

Ready when you are