Frequently Asked Questions

What COVID-19 policies are in place?

We value the safety of our patients and our office staff. We screen all patients for COVID-19 symptoms and ask patients who exhibit symptoms to utilize telehealth appointments or reschedule. At this time, we ask that only the patient be present for in person appointments.

Is Cantera Psychiatry in network with my insurance?

Please check the WHAT WE TREAT page for a list of our most commonly accepted insurances. If you do not see your insurance in the list, we recommend calling your insurance to check if Cantera Psychiatry is in your contracted network. We care about the well-being of our patients deeply; if Cantera Psychiatry is not in your insurance network, we have individualized treatment plans that we strive to make as affordable as possible.

Can I take my kids or spouse to my appointment?

At Cantera Psychiatry, we understand the wish to take a loved one with you to an appointment. During a mental health appointment, you and your provider may discuss sensitive topics. In order to respect your privacy, we ask you do not bring your children to appointments, as having a dependent with you during an appointment may affect the level of openness you can have between you and your provider. For the health and safety of patients and staff, only the patient is allowed in the office during in-person appointments. We appreciate your patience and understanding as we try to protect the health and safety of patients and staff during these trying times.

How do I request my records?

In compliance with HIPAA, a records request form must be completed prior to release of medical information. Records released to another physician’s office are free of charge. If you are requesting your records for personal use, there will be a fee. To get a copy of the records request form, please call the office.

Does Cantera Psychiatry have weekend or evening appointments?

Our providers are available for appointments Monday through Thursday. Our clinic is open from 8:00 AM to 5:30 PM. We offer telehealth only appointments from 5:30 PM – 6:30 PM. We recommend calling the office, as availability varies by each provider.

What if I can’t make my appointment?

Please call our office to reschedule or cancel your appointment. Please cancel at least 48 hours in advance to avoid a cancellation fee. Please do your best to keep any appointments and contact our office as soon as you are aware of any conflicts.

How do I know if I need to see a psychiatrist?

Some common signs that someone should seek mental healthcare are: persistent feelings of sadness, anxiety, or low mood; persistent thoughts about a past traumatic experience; consistent emotional outbursts or mood swings; or seeing/hearing things other people can’t hear or see. If you find you are having thoughts of hurting yourself or others, it is important to seek immediate help. Moments such as these are time sensitive, so we recommend calling 911 or going to a hospital right away.

What is the difference between a psychiatrist and a psychologist?

Both psychiatrists and psychologists must have specialized licenses to practice in their area, however the two are different in several ways. A psychiatrist must complete medical school and residency, then specialize in psychiatry. Psychiatrists may treat patients using medical knowledge and techniques, as well as prescribe medication. Psychologists complete graduate school, and obtain either a doctorate of psychology or philosophy, but typically do not have a medical degree and cannot prescribe medications in Texas. Psychologists use a variety of psychotherapy techniques to address maladaptive human thoughts and behaviors.

How do I make an appointment?

New patients can schedule an appointment with Cantera Psychiatry by calling our office and selecting the new patient extension.

Established patients can schedule via phone call, the patient portal, or the Book Online button.