Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

At Mental Serenity Psychiatric Services, we provide compassionate, evidence-based, and integrative psychiatric care for individuals seeking clarity, healing, and sustainable wellness. Our mission is to support your mental health journey through a personalized, collaborative, and whole-person approach that addresses both symptoms and root causes.

We proudly serve individuals across Connecticut, New York, and Rhode Island, offering virtual and in-person services designed to meet your unique needs.

Our Core Services

Comprehensive Psychiatric Care

We offer thorough diagnostic evaluations, personalized medication management, and ADHD-specific assessments for teens (14+) and adults. Our structured and collaborative clinical process is tailored to help you find the right path forward.

Psychotherapy and Integrated Psychotherapy Approaches

Our talk therapy services incorporate Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT), and trauma-informed care to foster resilience, emotional insight, and lasting healing.

Lifestyle Psychiatry & Coaching

We address mental wellness through sleep, movement, nutrition, stress management, and social connection. Lifestyle coaching supports clients in managing burnout, building healthier routines, and creating sustainable change.

Specialty Services

Ketamine Therapy

• In-Person Ketamine Therapy (West Hartford, CT): 2-hour sessions with preparation, medical monitoring, and integration.
• Ketamine Medication Support Package (NY, CT, RI): For clients working with their own KAP therapist.
   

SPRAVATO® (Esketamine Nasal Spray)

• FDA-approved treatment for adults with treatment-resistant depression and MDD with suicidal thoughts or behavior.
• Delivered in-person at our REMS-certified West Hartford office with supervised dosing and monitoring.
   

ADHD Evaluations

• Comprehensive assessments and follow-up care, including personalized medication and lifestyle strategies.
   

Genetic Testing (GeneSight®)

• Optional pharmacogenomic testing to guide medication decisions and reduce trial and error.
   

Gut-Brain and Inflammation Testing

• Explore how gut health and inflammation impact mood, cognition, and mental well-being.
   

Supplement and Nutrient Guidance

• Clinically supported recommendations for nutrients like omega-3s, magnesium, and adaptogens to enhance your treatment plan.
   

Professional Mentorship and Precepting

• Support and guidance for mental health providers, PMHNP students, and therapists pursuing private practice, integrative psychiatry, or ketamine care.
   

Referrals to Trusted Providers

• Coordinated access to KAP therapists, neuropsychological testing, and other specialty services.

Personalized, Collaborative Care

Treatment plans are customized to reflect your goals, preferences, and whole-person wellness.

Integrative and Holistic Approach

We look beyond symptoms to address biological, emotional, lifestyle, and social factors that impact mental health.

Safe and Inclusive Environment

A welcoming space that respects all identities and fosters healing without judgment. We proudly serve BIPOC, LGBTQIA+, and underserved communities.

Science-Backed and Compassionate

We combine the best of clinical research with warmth and genuine connection — so you feel both cared for and empowered.

At Mental Serenity Psychiatric Services, we walk beside you as a partner in your healing. Whether you’re seeking support for anxiety, depression, ADHD, trauma, or complex mental health needs — we are here to help you move forward with clarity and confidence.

Telehealth Appointments (Video Visits)

Available for clients physically located in:

• New York
• Connecticut
• Rhode Island
   

Hours:
Monday – Friday | 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Flexible evening and weekend appointments available upon request.

Please note: To comply with telehealth and licensing regulations, you must be physically located in an approved state at the time of your appointment.

In-Person Appointments (By Appointment Only)

Connecticut Office
776 Farmington Avenue, Suite 1500, West Hartford, CT 06119

• Mondays, Tuesdays & Fridays (Ketamine & Spravato only) | 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
   

New York Office
370 Lexington Avenue #514, New York, NY 10017

• One Saturday per month | 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
   

In-person visits are recommended for clients prescribed controlled medications or those needing more comprehensive assessments.

We encourage all new clients to schedule a complimentary consultation before booking an appointment. This allows us to ensure we are the right fit for your needs and gives you space to ask questions and learn about our services in a supportive, no-pressure setting.

Available Consultation Types

10-Minute Introductory Consultation
For clients interested in medication management or psychiatric evaluation.

20-Minute Required Consultation
Mandatory for all clients exploring Ketamine Therapy or SPRAVATO® (Esketamine Nasal Spray) treatment.

Why Schedule a Free Consultation?

• Learn about our approach to mental wellness and integrative care
• Ask questions in a supportive, welcoming space
• Ensure our services align with your treatment goals
   

How It Works

1. Select a date and time that fits your schedule
2. Meet with a provider for a brief, focused conversation
3. Discuss your needs and determine next steps toward your wellness journey
    

Please note:
These consultations are not clinical evaluations or therapy sessions. They are brief conversations intended to help assess fit and answer your initial questions.

Consultation appointments are strictly time-limited to respect our team’s availability and ensure access for all clients. To make the most of your time, we recommend preparing specific questions or topics in advance.

You can easily schedule, cancel, or reschedule appointments through our secure online patient portal:

Book Now via SimplePractice

Next Steps After Scheduling

Once you book your appointment, please complete the following to ensure a smooth start:

1. Access Your Client Portal

You’ll receive an email from SimplePractice to access your portal. Log in, reset your password, and download the app for secure and convenient communication.

2. Complete Intake Forms

All intake forms, including clinical questionnaires and consents, must be completed at least 48 hours before your appointment. Appointments may be canceled if forms are incomplete without communication.

3. Upload Required Documents

Please upload the following directly to your portal:

• Government-issued photo ID (driver’s license or passport)
• Front and back of your insurance card (if applicable)
• Minor consent form (if applicable)
• Medical release form (if coordinating care)
• Relevant medical records (if requested)
   

What to Expect During Your Appointment

Initial Evaluation
Medications may not be prescribed during your first visit. Additional labs or assessments may be required before starting medication.

Follow-Up Visits
Follow-up appointments are typically scheduled weekly, biweekly, or monthly, based on your treatment plan.

Controlled Medications
These are only prescribed during scheduled visits and are limited to a 30-day supply.

Telehealth Guidelines

All virtual visits are conducted through SimplePractice or Doximity.
You must be physically located in New York, Connecticut, or Rhode Island during your session.

Billing & Payment Policies

• Clients using insurance may be enrolled with Alma or Headway. Instructions will be provided to activate your account and autopay prior to your first visit.
• Self-pay clients must submit payment within 48 hours of booking to confirm the appointment.
• For billing questions, please contact: billing@mentalserenitypsych.com
   

Cancellations, Lateness & No-Shows

• 48 hours’ notice is required to cancel or reschedule.
• Late cancellations or no-shows incur a $100 fee.
• Arriving more than 5 minutes late may result in cancellation and a no-show fee.
• Clients with 4 or more missed appointments in 6 months may be discharged from care.
   

Communication Guidelines

• Use the SimplePractice app for all routine communication. 
• Urgent but non-emergency matters may be addressed through Doximity from “Sana Kalra NP.”
• Emergencies: Call 911 or visit the nearest ER. Notify our office afterward as needed.
   

Need Assistance?

If you have any questions or need help completing your intake process:

📧 office@mentalserenitypsych.com
📞 646-719-0345

We look forward to supporting you on your journey toward mental wellness.

At Mental Serenity Psychiatric Services, we offer a structured and comprehensive approach to ADHD evaluation and management. Our process is designed to provide clarity, collaborative care, and ongoing support.

Session 1: Comprehensive Psychiatric Evaluation

60 minutes — $400 per visit
A full psychiatric assessment to review your medical history, current symptoms, and overall mental health.

Session 2: Comprehensive ADHD Evaluation

60 minutes — $400 per visit
A focused ADHD assessment using structured screening tools to evaluate attention, impulsivity, and executive functioning.

Session 3: ADHD Follow-Up & Results Discussion

30 minutes — $250 per visit

• Review of diagnostic findings and confirmation of ADHD diagnosis (if applicable) 
• Discussion of symptom patterns and their impact on daily life
   

Session 4: ADHD Treatment Planning & Next Steps

30 minutes — $250 per visit

• Development of a personalized ADHD treatment plan 
• Medication management (if appropriate)
• Behavioral strategies and lifestyle recommendations
   

Ongoing ADHD Follow-Up & Medication Management

30 minutes — $250 per visit

• Medication management and refills 
• Continued behavioral strategies
• Regular check-ins to assess effectiveness and make adjustments as needed
   

Our ADHD services are designed to provide clear answers, effective treatment options, and compassionate support every step of the way.

We offer transparent self-pay pricing for clients in New York, Connecticut, and Rhode Island. Below are our current rates for psychiatric evaluations, medication management, psychotherapy, lifestyle coaching, and specialty services.

Initial Evaluations

Diagnostic Evaluation with Medication Management
$375 (60 minutes)

Medication Management

Follow-Up Medication Management Visit
$200 (30 minutes)

Psychotherapy Services

Psychotherapy Only
$250 (50 minutes)

Medication Management with Psychotherapy
$325 (50 minutes)

Ketamine Therapy

Please see rates under our Ketamine Therapy Section.

ADHD Evaluations

Please see rates under our ADHD Services Section.

Genetic Testing Services

Genetic Testing Coordination Visit
$150 (30 minutes, self-pay only)

Results Review Visit
$250 (60 minutes, self-pay only)

Lab Fee
$150–$330 (Billed separately by GeneSight and may be covered by insurance)

Note: For lab billing questions, contact GeneSight at 1-866-260-2394 or visit www.genesight.com.

Integrative Psychiatry & Psychotherapy

Included in your ongoing psychiatric care with Sana Kalra PMHNP-BC.

SPRAVATO® (Esketamine) Treatment — West Hartford, CT

Inquire within.

Ready to Begin?
Schedule your free consultation today:

📞 646-719-0345
📧 office@mentalserenitypsych.com

We offer a range of services to support your mental health and personal well-being. Whether you're seeking clinical therapy or structured coaching, we are here to help guide your next steps.

Psychotherapy (Talk Therapy)

Yes, we offer evidence-based psychotherapy tailored to your unique needs, provided by licensed mental health professionals.
Therapy may include:

• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
• Mindfulness-Based Therapy
• Stress and Anxiety Management
• Depression Support
• ADHD and Executive Function Coaching (for mental health clients)
• Trauma-Informed Therapy
   

Psychotherapy services may be covered by insurance, depending on your plan and provider network.

Lifestyle Coaching (Not Therapy or Psychiatric Treatment)

We also offer goal-oriented lifestyle coaching — a structured, collaborative process to help you improve focus, reduce stress, and support personal growth.

Coaching may help you:

• Improve time management and productivity
• Build healthy routines and self-care habits
• Strengthen motivation, mindset, and goal-setting
• Manage stress and avoid burnout
• Navigate life transitions with clarity and confidence
   

Coaching is a self-pay service and is not covered by insurance. Participation does not establish a provider-patient relationship or involve clinical diagnosis or medication management.

Not Sure Which Service Is Right for You?

We offer a complimentary 10-minute consultation to help you explore your options and choose the service that best fits your needs.

We are here to support you — whether you're looking to improve your mental health, manage life changes, or build a more balanced and fulfilling future.

We are currently in-network with the following insurance providers:

• Aetna
• Cigna
• Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield
• Husky (Medicaid)
• United Healthcare
• Oscar Health
• Oxford Health
  Pending Credentialing: ConnectiCare & Magellan
   

• Aetna
• Cigna
• Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield (Empire)
• United Healthcare
• Oscar Health
• Oxford Health
  Pending Credentialing: 1199 SEIU
   

• Aetna
• Cigna
• Point32Health
• Blue Cross Blue Shield of Massachusetts (Telehealth only)
• Pending Credentialing: BCBS RI
   

Important Insurance Note

While we are in-network with many insurance plans, it is the client’s responsibility to verify in-network status and mental health coverage directly with their insurance carrier.

Please call the Member Services number on the back of your insurance card before scheduling to confirm your eligibility and benefits.

Billing Process

• Aetna, Cigna, United Healthcare & Oxford (Optum), Husky (CT Medicaid),are billed directly through our practice.
• All other accepted insurance plans are processed through Alma or Headway while we await direct credentialing. 
• Clients using Alma or Headway are required to enroll in autopay for seamless billing.
   

Ketamine Insurance Billing

Ketamine Therapy is private pay only. 

Insurance does not cover ketamine-related services, including clinical visits, medication administration, monitoring, and integration.

Note: Clients with Husky (CT Medicaid) are not eligible for ketamine services at our practice, even on a private pay basis, due to Medicaid regulations.

SPRAVATO® (Esketamine) Billing

SPRAVATO® is covered by many commercial insurance plans. Our office will work with you to obtain prior authorization and verify your coverage. Any uncovered or out-of-pocket expenses will be discussed in advance.

Important Reminders

• Ketamine therapy is private pay only.
• All clients must complete a comprehensive psychiatric evaluation before beginning ketamine or SPRAVATO® treatment.
• A signed financial agreement will be reviewed before services start.
   

Need Help Verifying Your Coverage?

We are happy to help with general benefit verification, but clients are responsible for confirming in-network status and mental health benefits with their insurance provider.

📧 Email: office@mentalserenitypsych.com
📞 Phone: 646-719-0345

Lifestyle Coaching

Individual Session (60 minutes)
$175

4-Week Coaching Package
$600 (Includes weekly 50-minute sessions + email support)

Lifestyle coaching is a self-pay service and not covered by insurance.

Professional Mentoring & Consultation

Mentorship Session (60 minutes)
$150

For mental health providers seeking clinical guidance, practice development, or career support.

PMHNP Clinical Preceptorship

Fees vary based on school requirements and hourly needs.
Please contact billing@mentalserenitypsych.com to inquire about availability and customized pricing.

Have Questions or Ready to Book?

For more details or to receive booking and payment information, please contact us and include the service title in your subject line for faster service:

📧 Email: office@mentalserenitypsych.com
📞 Phone: 646-719-0345

At Mental Serenity Psychiatric Services, we are committed to making high-quality mental health care accessible to all — regardless of financial circumstances.

Sliding Scale Fees — Financial Assistance Program up to 50% of service rate.

We offer a need-based sliding scale for individuals experiencing financial hardship.

How It Works:

• Eligibility is determined based on income, financial need, or personal circumstances.
• Applicants may be asked to provide income documentation or participate in a brief, confidential financial discussion.
• Sliding scale rates are reviewed periodically for fairness and sustainability.
• All financial information is kept strictly confidential.
   

To Apply:
Email billing@mentalserenitypsych.com with the subject line “Financial Assistance for Service” or use our online contact form.

Special Discounts — 10% Off Eligible Services

We offer a 10% discount on out-of-pocket services for:

• Seniors (65+)
• Full-time students
• Educators and teachers
• First responders (EMTs, firefighters, police)
• Nurses and healthcare workers
• Ministers and clergy
• Yoga and wellness practitioners
• Therapists and psychiatric providers
• Active-duty military and veterans
   

Valid ID or verification is required. Please mention eligibility when scheduling.

At Mental Serenity Psychiatric Services, we strive to make billing simple, transparent, and convenient for all clients.

Credit Card on File Required

An active credit or debit card is required at the time of scheduling your first visit.
Payments will be processed prior to each appointment or according to an agreed-upon payment plan.

Accepted Payment Methods

• Credit & Debit Cards (MasterCard, Visa, Discover, American Express)
• Venmo
• Zelle
• PayPal
• Health Savings Accounts (HSA) & Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA) via IvyPay
   

Important Payment Policies

• Full payment is required within 48 hours of booking to confirm your appointment.
• For insurance clients, co-pays and deductibles are due prior to each session.
• Sliding scale or discount eligibility must be arranged and confirmed before payment.
• All payments are final — refunds are not available for completed or late-canceled sessions.
   

Questions About Payments?

📞 Phone: 646-719-0345
📧 Email: billing@mentalserenitypsych.com

We appreciate your cooperation in maintaining a smooth and professional billing process, so we can focus on delivering exceptional, compassionate care.

At Mental Serenity Psychiatric Services, we are committed to providing timely, high-quality care to every client. To ensure appointment availability and fairness to all clients and providers, we ask that you follow the policies below.

Standard Appointment Cancellation Policy

(Applies to psychotherapy, psychiatric evaluations, medication management, ADHD services, and mental health coaching)

• 48 hours’ notice is required to cancel or reschedule appointments.
• Appointments canceled within 48 hours will be charged a $100 cancellation fee to the card on file.
• Clients arriving more than 10 minutes late will be required to reschedule and will also be charged the $100 late cancellation fee.
• One cancellation fee waiver is offered per calendar year as a courtesy (not applicable to coaching services).
• This policy applies to all clients, including initial consultations and follow-up visits.
   

Ketamine Therapy Cancellation Policy

Cancellation policies for Ketamine Therapy are outlined in your treatment agreement and differ from the above. Please refer to your ketamine consent and financial agreement for specific terms.

Why This Policy Matters

• Fair Access to Care: Late cancellations limit appointment availability for others in need.
• Respect for Your Provider’s Time: Reserved appointment slots require advance preparation and coordination.
• Professional Commitment: While unforeseen circumstances arise, we provide one annual cancellation fee waiver to support flexibility when needed.

At Mental Serenity Psychiatric Services PLLC, your safety and well-being are our highest priorities. Controlled substances are prescribed sparingly, only when clinically appropriate, and in strict accordance with federal and state guidelines.

We review each patient’s records through the Prescription Drug Monitoring Program (PDMP) prior to prescribing any controlled medication.

Do We Prescribe Controlled Medications?

Yes — but only under strict clinical guidelines and when medically necessary.

• Controlled substances are not first-line treatments. They are considered only after safer, evidence-based options have been explored.
• If prescribed, these medications require ongoing monitoring, regular follow-ups, and strict adherence to an individualized treatment plan.
   

Benzodiazepine Policy

(Applies to medications such as Xanax, Ativan, Klonopin, Valium, etc.)

While short-term benzodiazepine use may help manage acute anxiety or insomnia, research shows that long-term use carries significant risks including:

• Physical dependence and withdrawal
• Cognitive decline
• Potential links to dementia and neurodegeneration
   

Our Benzodiazepine Policy:

• We do not prescribe benzodiazepines for long-term use.
• Short-term prescriptions may be considered for acute needs while initiating safer treatments (such as SSRIs/SNRIs or therapy).
• Short-term use is only at the provider’s discretion.
• Clients on long-term benzodiazepines seeking care with us will be placed on a supervised taper plan, requiring a signed medication agreement to ensure safe discontinuation.
   

Note: Our practice may not be the best fit for those seeking ongoing benzodiazepine prescriptions as part of long-term care.

Clinical Guidance Sources:
Our policy reflects recommendations from the American Psychiatric Association (APA), American Geriatrics Society (AGS), and published research in BMJ and Addiction journals.

Other Controlled Substances

Stimulants (e.g., Adderall, Ritalin, Vyvanse)

• Prescribed only after a comprehensive ADHD evaluation and/or verified records from prior providers.
• Ongoing monitoring and reassessment are required.
   

Sleep Medications (e.g., Ambien, Lunesta)

• Prescribed in limited quantities and for short durations.
• Non-controlled and behavioral sleep interventions are prioritized.
   

Ketamine Therapy

• Offered only after thorough assessment and informed consent.
• Administered in-person unless otherwise approved for home use as part of a structured protocol.
• Regular follow-ups and monitoring are mandatory.
• Not available for unsupervised or indefinite use.
   

Prescribing Requirements for All Controlled Substances

• Regular follow-up appointments
• Urine drug screening (as clinically indicated)
• Signed medication agreements to ensure safety, compliance, and shared responsibility
   

Your partnership is essential.
We appreciate your understanding and cooperation in maintaining a safe, responsible, and ethical approach to medication management.

At Mental Serenity Psychiatric Services PLLC, we understand that taking the first step in your mental health journey can feel uncertain. Whether you're seeking treatment, exploring your options, or unsure where to begin — we are here to guide you with care and clarity.

Start with an Intake

If you’re uncertain about which type of support is right for you — whether it's therapy, medication, evaluation, or something more specialized — we recommend beginning with a psychiatric intake session.

This initial visit allows us to:

• Understand your concerns, goals, and personal history
• Identify the level and type of care that best fits your needs
• Recommend appropriate next steps — whether with us or a trusted provider
   

Even if we don’t offer the exact service you need, our priority is to help you find the right path forward.

When We Recommend Referrals

We may suggest a referral when:

• You need services outside our scope (e.g., ongoing weekly therapy or neuropsychological testing)
• A different level of care may better meet your needs
• You are receiving specialized treatments, such as ketamine therapy, that require adjunct support
• You would benefit from a therapy modality or specialist not currently offered through our practice
   

Referral Options May Include:

• Therapists & Psychologists: For psychotherapy, trauma recovery, and specialty therapy modalities
• Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy (KAP) Providers: For integration therapy during ketamine treatment
• Neuropsychological Testing Services: For ADHD, autism, cognitive assessments, and learning challenges
• Specialty Providers: For complex cases or second opinions
• Higher Levels of Care: Including IOPs (Intensive Outpatient Programs), residential care, or substance use treatment programs
   

We maintain a vetted list of trusted professionals and programs to ensure you are connected with quality, ethical providers aligned with your needs.

How to Request a Referral

Requesting a referral is easy:

1. Schedule an intake session or discuss your needs during any visit.
2. We’ll assess your situation and explore options with you.
3. If needed, we’ll provide personalized referral recommendations and assist in the connection process.
    

Have Questions?

We’re here to help you take the next best step.

📞 Call: 646-719-0345
📧 Email: office@mentalserenitypsych.com

Your mental wellness matters. Whether we walk alongside you through treatment or help you connect with the right provider, our commitment remains the same — compassionate, personalized support at every step.