Get Help
Knowing which door to knock on
Mental health care isn't one thing. Here's what each level of support is for, so you spend your energy in the right place.
If someone is in immediate danger
Call 911, or call or text 988 for the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline in the U.S. Do not wait for an appointment.
Levels of care
Primary care or pediatrics
You're unsure where to begin, or symptoms could have a medical cause.
Your existing doctor can screen, rule out medical contributors such as thyroid or iron issues, and refer onward. Usually the fastest appointment to get.
Therapy
Symptoms are affecting daily life but safety is not a concern.
Look for a clinician trained in a specific evidence-based approach — CBT for anxiety, exposure-based work for OCD, DBT skills for emotion regulation.
Psychiatric evaluation
Diagnosis is unclear, symptoms are severe, or medication is being considered.
A psychiatrist assesses the full picture and can prescribe. Many now offer telehealth, which shortens waits considerably.
Intensive or crisis care
There is a safety risk, or outpatient care has not been enough.
Intensive outpatient programs, partial hospitalization, and inpatient care exist between a weekly appointment and an emergency room.
One professional option
Our private practice
Nortivia is operated by Coastal Mind & Wellness and is affiliated with a small private psychiatry practice offering evaluation and ongoing care for children, adolescents, and adults. The practice is one option among many — the right choice depends on your situation, location, and insurance, and the levels of care above may serve you better.
- · Comprehensive diagnostic evaluation
- · Medication management with regular review
- · Parent and family consultation
- · Telehealth and in-person appointments
Request a consultation
Tell us briefly what's going on and we'll respond with availability and whether we're the right fit.
Please don't include sensitive clinical detail in an initial email, and never use email for urgent concerns.