FAQ

Q: What are your session fees?

Our session fees vary depending on which provider you are seeing. All new patients are required to have an evaluation with their provider prior to follow-up visits. Please see below for fees

Psychiatry Fees:

Initial Evaluation- $595 Psychiatrist, or $650 with  Lead Psychiatrist and practice owner Dr. Nicolas Sikaczowski

25 Minute Medication Management Visit- $290

45 Minute Therapy Session- $425 with Dr. Nicolas Sikaczowski

 

Forensic:

Forensic work including report writing, records review,depositions, court appearances etc, objective evaluations, court ordered mental health and substance use evaluations.

Subject to prior approval by Dr.Sikaczowski
$3000 initial retainer
$600/hr fee for approved work
$900/hr for depositions and testimony

Forensic Services are done exclusively by
Dr. Nicolas Sikaczowski & Dr. Vince Kennedy

 

Dr. Ashley Shaw’s Fees:

Initial Evaluation – $425
45 Minute Psychotherapy- $275
Legal: Preparation and Testifying- $450/hr

 

Psychologist Fees:

Initial Evaluation- $425
45 Minute Therapy Session- $275
Legal: Preparation and Testifying- $450/hr

 

Psychological Testing: 

Please reach out to the office for pricing

 

LCSW Fees:

Initial Evaluation- $333
45 Minute Therapy Session- $190
Legal: Preparation and Testifying- $300/hr

 

Dialectical Behavior Therapy for Adolescents Program:

Non-refundable Intake fee- See Clincans Rate
Deposit- $500

Self-Pay Group Module Fee
Fee is due every 6 weeks,
with 4 Modules in total
$4,500 (note: The intake and Depoist will be credited towards the the first $4500 module)

Total Program Cost (24 weeks): $18,000

Single Case Agreements Available:
A single case agreement (SCA) or Exception is a temporary contract between an insurance company and an out-of-network healthcare provider like Peace Behavioral Health for a specific patient and/or services. This agreement allows the patient to use their in-network benefits with that provider for a set period, which is common when the necessary specialist or service isn’t available within the insurance company’s network. This is the case with our DBT-A program. Any self pay fees for services ultimately covered by a SCA will be refunded if we are able to reach a single case agreement and receive payment from your insurance company.
CPT Codes:
New Patient Intake: 90791
Individual Therapy: 90837
Weekly Multifamily Group: 90849

 

Peace Behavioral Health is here to help you every step of the way. Single Case Agreements can take substantial time to organize and negotiate so the sooner the process is begun the better. Please reach out for more information

 

We are out of network with insurances, however as a courtesy to our patients we work with a company called “reimbursify.” Reimbursify works with us to submit our patients out of network claims on their behalf. There are many factors for reimbursment rates, some factors include type of plan, and deductible. Typically patients are able to recieve a reimbursment between 60-80%. Please reach out to the office for more information.

Q: Are you currently accepting new patients?

Yes. We have availability for new intakes within a month and often within 1-2 weeks.

Q: Who do you treat?

We treat patients going through a large variety of psychiatric and emotional difficulties. We have experience in treating both adults and children.

Presenting problems we treat include but are not limited to:

  • Anxiety Disorders (e.g., panic disorder)
  • Mood Disorders (e.g., Depression, Bipolar Disorder)
  • ADHD
  • Schizophrenia
  • Borderline Personality Disorder
  • Obsessive Compulsive Disorder
  • Sleep-Wake Disorders
  • Oppositional Defiant Disorder

Q: Do you take insurance?

We are Out-of-Network with all insurance networks at this time. However, you can file for reimbursement with your insurance company that provides out of network coverage. We’ll be glad to provide access to a superbill or records that you may need.

Q: What does Out-Of-Network mean?

In the context of health insurance, there are two methods of insurance reimbursement: in-network and out-of-network. “Out of network” refers to healthcare providers or facilities that do not have a contract or agreement with a particular health insurance plan. As an Out-of-Network facility, payment is accepted by our office for your visit, we can then automatically submit a superbill to your insurance for reimbursement at their out-of-network rates or give you a superbill that you can submit to your insurance manually if you wish. Many insurances have historically reimbursed their clients about 2/3rds of our fee once their out of network deductible has been met, however please check with your insurance for their specific policies and reimbursements or our office for assistance with checking your insurance benefits. In-network means clinicians or facilities that have agreed to accept an insurance company’s in-network rates. We are out-of-network as we find in-network contracts often produce rushed visits or visits that quickly “check the boxes” the insurance has for reimbursement rather than focusing on patient care and how to best improve a patient’s presenting problem(s) and our mission of unrushed, evidence based, and high-quality psychiatric care.

Q: Do you see patients over telehealth?

Yes, telehealth has revolutionized mental health care and has proven to be just as effective as in person visits in addressing most psychiatric problems. We offer a secure patient portal as well as secure telehealth visits through doxy.me. In cases where in-person evaluations are indicated, we offer offices in Saco and Portland, ME.

Q: What areas do you serve?

We serve all of Maine, Florida and Massachusetts via telehealth as well as in-person offices in Saco and Portland Maine.  

Q: Do you see patients in-person?

Yes, in addition to telehealth, we have an office in Saco and Portland Maine

Q: What is a Psychiatrist?

A psychiatrist is a medical doctor who specializes in the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of mental illnesses and emotional disorders. Psychiatrists are trained to approach mental health issues from a medical perspective, considering both biological and psychological factors that may contribute to a person’s mental well-being. Psychiatrists complete 4 years of medical school and at least 4-5 years of residency training. Peace Behavioral Health offers four board-certified psychiatrists including three board certified child and adolescent psychiatrists. 

Q: How do I know I need a psychiatrist?

Deciding whether you need to see a psychiatrist is a personal decision, and there are various factors to consider. If you’re experiencing challenges that significantly impact your mental health and well-being, consulting with a mental health professional like on at Peace Behavioral Health might be beneficial. At Peace Behavioral health we can assess, diagnose, and provide treatment for various mental health conditions all within a safe space. Reach out today to learn more. 

Q: Should I get a psychiatric evaluation?

I would encourage you to consider seeking a psychiatric evaluation if you are experiencing any of the following:

Persistent Emotional Distress: If you find yourself constantly overwhelmed by feelings of sadness, anxiety, or other intense emotions that affect your daily life.

Changes in Behavior: Sudden and significant changes in behavior, such as social withdrawal, disruptions in sleep patterns, or engaging in risky behaviors.

Difficulty Coping: If you are struggling to cope with stress, manage relationships, or navigate life’s challenges.

Thought Disturbances: If you are experiencing disturbances in your thoughts, such as racing thoughts, difficulty concentrating, or hearing voices.

History of Mental Health Issues: If you have a history of mental health concerns or a family history of psychiatric disorders, and you are concerned about your psychiatric wellness.

Concerns Raised by Others: If friends, family, or colleagues have expressed concerns about your well-being, it may be worth exploring these concerns with a mental health professional.

At Peace Behavioral Health, we are committed to providing compassionate and comprehensive care. A psychiatric evaluation can help assess your mental health, identify any underlying issues, and develop a personalized treatment plan tailored to your needs. Seeking help is a proactive step toward mental well-being, and our team is here to support you on your journey to peace and recovery.

If you have immediate concerns or are in crisis, please call 911 or go to your nearest emergency room.

Q: What will our first meeting be like?

The first meeting is an initial evaluation. We allot 90 minutes which includes a comprehensive diagnostic evaluation as well as prescriptions if warranted in the case of a psychiatric appointment. 

Q: Will my treatment be confidential?

Confidentiality is a fundamental principle in the field of psychiatry and mental health treatment. Peace Behavioral Health is bound by ethical and legal standards to maintain the confidentiality of the information you share during your sessions. If you have specific questions or concerns about confidentiality, it’s important to discuss them openly with your psychiatrist. This ensures that you have a clear understanding of the privacy protections in place and can actively participate in your treatment with confidence.

Q. How do I book an initial evaluation?

Call us directly at 207-200-4789. We strive to return all phone calls within 24 hours.  You can also book online using the “Book Now” button on the top right corner of this site, fill out the “Contact Us” form, or email Office@PeaceBH.com.

Q: What is a Collaborative Care Model?

The Collaborative Care Model is an integrated and team-based approach to healthcare that aims to improve the management of mental health conditions, particularly in primary care settings. It involves collaboration between primary care providers, mental health specialists, and other healthcare professionals to deliver comprehensive and coordinated care.

Q: What if I have an emergency?

If you are in a psychiatric emergency please call 911 or go to your nearest emergency room. If this is not a psychiatric emergency and is during regular business hours please call (207) 200-4789 or send a confidential email to your IntakeQ portal. 

Q: What is a super bill?

A superbill is an itemized statement or invoice that healthcare providers use to provide detailed information about the services rendered to a patient. Superbills are commonly used in Out of Network healthcare models, such as when patients pay for services out-of-pocket or when submitting claims to insurance for reimbursement. Patients can submit superbill information to their insurance company to request reimbursement for covered services.

Q: How can you submit claims on my behalf?

Peace Behavioral Health is happy to submit out-of-network claims for you via “Reimbursify” if you would like us to do so. In order for us to submit your claim, we will need a copy of your insurance card, front and back. As well as, the name and DOB for the policyholder. Once you have met with one of our providers a care coordinator will submit a claim on your behalf. 

Q: Is there a no-show policy?

Yes 24 hours notice must be given prior to any cancellation.

Q: Should I stop reading this and contact you?

Yes! On many people suffer for years before getting help with psychiatric distress. If you are struggling with any sort of psychiatric or emotional difficulties we work as a team and take the time necessary to provide the highest quality diagnosis and care. We will fully answer your questions and concerns as well as provide transparent, evidence based, and personalized treatment options to help you live your best life!