About

We accept referrals from local and regional providers across the southeastern U.S. We believe the best outcomes come from a team approach centered on the patient and child. Better Beginnings is active in the national perinatal mental health community.

We understand that first call can often be difficult.  We are here to answer any questions you may have and care for your unique needs as an individual or couple with your goals in mind.  The therapeutic process is a partnership; clients invite us to partner with them to learn about their needs and work together towards achieving goals of wellness.  

Fees for services/insurance We are “in-network” with many insurances.  We find the best way to learn whether we are what is considered an “in-network” provider with your insurance policy is to call us.  We will then do a free verification of your benefits and let you know before any appointment. We also offer self pay rates and sliding scale.  We strive to work with each individual/family to meet their needs.

Psychiatry out of pocket (self pay) rates:

Initial evaluation $175

Follow-up $110-150

Psychotherapy/counseling out of pocket (self pay) rates:

Initial evaluation $125

Follow-up $110

**We try our best to offer discounted rates if you have extenuating financial circumstances.  Please inquire further.

Other fees: We have additional fees related to document preparation, filling out forms, court involvement, etc.  You or your attorney can call the office to speak with CEO Lauren DePaola further. **With respect to request for court involvement:  You should also be fully aware that testimony given in court or via deposition cannot be solely guaranteed to be in your favor; Better Beginnings can only testify to the facts of the case and professional observation and opinion.

Office Policies- Late cancellations/no show and rescheduling:

Please provide us with at least 48 hours notice to cancel or reschedule (outside of unforeseen emergencies).  This allows us to offer your spot to someone on the wait list.  You will be financially responsible for appointments not cancelled or rescheduled with advance notice, although consideration can sometimes be given for circumstances beyond your control. Cancelling in less than 48 hours before your appointment without an unforeseen emergency/circumstance and missing your appointment will result in the patient being charged a $50 fee.  

Arriving for your session on time:

We try our very best to stay on schedule to respect both your time and the next patient’s time.  If your appointment begins late because you arrived late, please understand that the session will still end at the time it would have normally ended.  

Prescription refills:

During each appointment, you will be given enough refills to last until your next appointment.  We require you attend your next appointment to have medications reviewed and to receive refills as applicable.  It is the PATIENT’S responsibility to keep up with their appointment scheduling in order to obtain timely refills. Discussing a change in medication or requesting a new medication must be done in an appointment with your provider, this CANNOT be done by email or by calling the office and requesting to speak with your provider.