Getting into specialized care- A step-by-step guide
New Patient Enrollment Process (Only for individuals interested in clinical services with Sera Psychiatry for Women)
The enrollment process at Sera Psychiatry for Women has been designed to protect patient safety, ensure an appropriate clinical fit, and provide a structured, supportive pathway into care. Each step has a specific purpose, and together they help create a stable foundation for thoughtful, specialized treatment.
1. Initial Inquiry
Your first step is simply to let the practice know you are interested in care.
You may submit an inquiry through:
The website’s appointment request form (https://pp-wfe-100.advancedmd.com/163216/onlineintake/demographic)
This first step does not collect any confidential medical details. You will only be asked for:
Your name
Your contact information
A very general description of what you are seeking (e.g., “hormonal mood concerns,” “ADHD evaluation,” “postpartum symptoms,” “ongoing therapy”)
This step helps determine whether appointment slots are available and whether the practice can proceed to screening.
2. Screening Packet:
If appointments are available, you will receive a screening phone call.
Purpose of the Screening Call:
To determine whether your needs fit the practice’s scope
To ensure that telehealth is clinically appropriate and safe
To confirm residency/physical presence in New York State
To describe fees, out-of-network structure, and provide a Good Faith Estimate (GFE) overview
What the Screening call will enquire into:
High-level clinical fit questions (e.g., “Are you seeking therapy, psychiatric consultation, or both?”)
Whether you have a current therapist or primary care provider
Whether you require specialty care outside this practice’s scope
Whether you can participate in camera-on telehealth requirements
Financial transparency (fees + GFE overview)
Why Screening Comes Before Intake:
Screening helps determine whether the practice can safely and ethically provide care. If the screening suggests this practice is not appropriate, you will receive referrals or external recommendations (though acceptance by another provider cannot be guaranteed).
3. Consultation Scheduling
If the screening confirms an appropriate match, you will be offered a selection of initial consultation times.
The initial consultation is:
A 60-75-minute comprehensive psychiatric evaluation
A chance to clarify the diagnostic picture
An opportunity to explore treatment options
A collaborative discussion about whether ongoing care is appropriate
If ongoing care is not the right fit, you will receive supportive recommendations for alternative services.
4. Intake Packet
After your consultation is scheduled, you will receive your Intake Packet, which includes:
1. Intake Form
A detailed clinical and reproductive-mental-health history, including:
Psychiatric history
Medical history
Reproductive and hormonal history
Medication list
Past therapy or treatment
Safety information
Goals for care
This form allows your clinician to understand your full context before the visit.
2. Practice Policies & Acknowledgement
Clear explanations of:
Expectations for appointments
Cancellation/no-show policy
Telehealth requirements
Communication guidelines
Refill timeframes
Safety procedures
Eligibility for ongoing care
Controlled-substance policies
You will sign an acknowledgement that you have reviewed and understand these policies.
3. Good Faith Estimate (Formal)
A federally required GFE, outlining:
Expected annual costs
Potential variations depending on care decisions
4. Telehealth Instructions
Including:
How to prepare for your session
Technology requirements
Camera-on expectations
Privacy recommendations
All materials must be completed and returned at least 5 business days before the appointment.
If forms are incomplete, the consultation may need to be rescheduled.
5. Day of Appointment
On the day of your visit:
Use the secure telehealth link provided through the EMR
Join from a quiet, private space
Test your audio, video, and internet connection ahead of time
Keep your camera on throughout the session (required for safety and verification)
Bring any information you may want to reference (e.g., medication list, symptom notes)
Technical difficulties should be communicated as soon as possible.
6. After the Consultation
Following your consultation, you will receive:
If ongoing care is appropriate:
A personalized follow-up schedule
A collaborative treatment plan
Prescriptions when clinically indicated
Recommendations for labs, trackers, or outcome measures
Access to secure messaging for non-urgent questions
Guidance on therapy, lifestyle supports, and self-monitoring
If the practice cannot meet your needs:
Personalised recommendations
Referrals to appropriate services (though acceptance cannot be guaranteed)
Instructions on how to connect with alternative services, if needed
The goal is to ensure you receive care that is safe, ethical, and aligned with your clinical needs.
