FAQ
COMMON QUESTIONS
Where are you located?
Our office is at 925 The Alameda, Unit 17, Berkeley, CA. We also offer telehealth appointments to patients anywhere in California.
Are you accepting new patients?
Yes. We are currently accepting new patients for both psychiatric care and psychotherapy. Availability varies by service, but we do our best to offer timely appointments.
Do you accept insurance?
We accept select plans, including Medicare, Optum, Anthem, Aetna, and Blue Shield. For other plans, we can provide a superbill, an itemized receipt you may submit to your insurer for possible out-of-network reimbursement.
Will my prescriptions be covered by insurance?
Yes. We send electronic prescriptions directly to your pharmacy, and you can use your insurance benefits to cover the cost of your medication.
How do I pay for my appointment?
After your visit, you will receive a link to pay electronically. A receipt can be provided on request.
What can I expect at my first appointment?
Your first appointment is a full evaluation focused on understanding your mental health in the context of your life. We will discuss what brings you in, your current symptoms, your history, and any treatments you have tried before. By the end, we may begin discussing options, though in some cases we need more time before making a recommendation.
How long are appointments?
Appointment length varies by clinician. Psychiatric intake evaluations are generally 60 to 90 minutes. Follow-up appointments are 30 minutes. Psychotherapy sessions are 50 minutes.
Do I have to take medication?
No. Medication is one option among several, and it is discussed rather than assumed. Some patients come for evaluation alone, and some are best served by therapy, lifestyle changes, or a combination. Any recommendation is made together with you.
What if I would benefit from therapy as well as medication?
That is a common and often effective combination. If you are not already working with a therapist, we can discuss whether therapy would help and explore options. In some cases we can offer both here, or coordinate with an outside therapist so that your care stays connected.
Can I be seen in Farsi?
Yes. Dr. Eslami is a Farsi speaker and sees patients in Farsi as well as English, including patients who are more comfortable describing what they are experiencing in their first language.