FAQs

What does treatment with Dr. Zisook look like?

New patients receive a diagnostic evaluation that takes approximately one and a half hours. At the end of the evaluation, Dr. Zisook will discuss a treatment and follow-up plan. Follow up appointments are typically twenty minutes. Often, follow-up visits become less frequent for patients with stable medication regimens.

Will Dr. Zisook be my therapist?

Dr. Zisook is a psychiatrist who provides psychopharmacology and medication management services. Patients who are already working with psychotherapists are encouraged to continue doing so. If patients would benefit from therapy but do not have therapists, Dr. Zisook make referrals based on individual needs.

What insurance plans do you accept?

Like many psychiatrists in Los Angeles, Dr. Zisook is not part of any insurance networks. Patients benefit from a unique relationship with mental health professionals where they are free to disclose anything and trust that private information is kept confidential. Insurance companies require doctors to report patients’ diagnoses and submit notes. Our conversations stay between us. Additionally, Dr. Zisook can focus on patient care, rather than negotiating with insurance companies.

Patients who want to use their PPO insurance plans are still welcome to do so, but patients are responsible for payment at the time of service. We can provide the necessary documents (superbills,) so patients can subsequently submit claims to insurers for reimbursement.

What is your cancellation policy?

Our cancellation policy requires patients to notify us within 48 business hours if they would like to cancel or reschedule. For example, if you have a 3pm appointment on Monday, we ask that you tell us by 3pm Thursday or pay for the cost of the appointment.

We understand that emergencies happen and are willing to work with you if you tell us as soon as possible.

What do I do if I need a refill?

We are always happy to respond to refill requests, but please understand that this can take up to two business days. Here are suggestions for avoiding running out of medications:

• Keep an eye on the dates on your prescription bottles and the number of refills remaining.
• When you are planning a trip, check to see if the dates coincide with refill dates. If so, discuss well in advance.
• Do not skip appointments. When you need to postpone an appointment, assess whether you have enough medication to last until your next visit.
• Never rely on pharmacies to call the doctor, even if they promise they will. If the pharmacy says they need something from the doctor, call us.
• Find a pharmacy that is dependable and trustworthy.
• If your insurance does not cover something, try going to the manufacturer’s website or GoodRx.com for coupons.
• If you are on auto-refill, remember that once your bottle says “no refills remaining,” you need to ask a new prescription.
• If you have left town and forgotten your medications, do not go without them. Call us, so we can work with a pharmacy wherever you are to get you a small supply.