Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Below are answers to common questions about our psychiatric practice, treatment options, insurance/billing, prescriptions, and virtual care in Metro Atlanta and across Georgia.

General Care & Treatment Questions

What does a psychiatrist do?

A psychiatrist is a licensed medical doctor (MD or DO) specializing in mental health, including substance use disorders. Because psychiatrists complete medical school and psychiatric residency training, they are uniquely qualified to evaluate both the physical and biological components of mental health conditions. Psychiatrists can perform psychiatric evaluations, order diagnostic tests, prescribe and monitor medications, and provide psychotherapy.

While therapists and counselors offer essential talk therapy, seeing a psychiatrist is recommended when:

  • You feel you may benefit from medication to manage your symptoms.
  • You are experiencing complex, severe, or persistent symptoms (such as severe depression, bipolar disorder, panic attacks, or psychosis).
  • You have medical conditions that intersect with your emotional well-being.
  • Previous talk therapy alone has not provided sufficient relief.

Dr. Johns integrates both psychopharmacology (medication) and psychotherapy, allowing you to receive comprehensive, physician-led care under one roof.

Your initial visit is a comprehensive 60-to-90-minute psychiatric evaluation. Dr. Johns will take time to understand your current symptoms, medical history, family history, lifestyle factors, and previous treatments. By the end of your evaluation, Dr. Johns will present a personalized, clear treatment recommendation tailored to your goals.

Not necessarily. Every patient receives an individualized treatment plan. Depending on your needs, Dr. Johns may recommend psychotherapy, medication management, lifestyle modifications, or a combined approach. Decisions regarding medication are always made collaboratively with you.

Dr. Johns specializes in general adult psychiatry as well as adolescent psychiatry, treating individuals from teenage years through older adulthood.

Prescriptions & Treatment Collaboration

Yes, absolutely. If you already have a trusted therapist or counselor, Dr. Johns is happy to collaborate directly with them. Coordinated care between your therapist and psychiatrist ensures your medication management and psychotherapy are fully aligned.

Prescription refills are managed during your scheduled follow-up appointments to ensure safety and monitor progress. If you need a refill before your next visit, please submit a request through the secure Patient Portal or call our office at least 3 to 5 business days before running out.

When clinically appropriate and indicated by a diagnostic assessment, Dr. Johns prescribes controlled medications (such as certain anti-anxiety medications or ADHD treatments). Prescriptions are provided in strict compliance with federal, state, and medical board regulations.

Financial, Insurance & Practice Policies

Dr. Johns operates as an out-of-network provider. This model allows Dr. Johns to spend significantly more time with each patient and provide highly customized, uninterrupted care without the diagnostic and treatment restrictions imposed by insurance companies.

Many health insurance plans include out-of-network benefits. If your policy qualifies, our office can provide you with a detailed receipt (Superbill) following your appointment, which you can submit directly to your insurance provider for potential partial reimbursement.

We accept major credit cards, debit cards, and HSA (Health Savings Account) or FSA (Flexible Spending Account) cards at the time of service.

We reserve dedicated time specifically for your appointment. If you need to reschedule or cancel, we require at least 24 to 48 business hours’ advance notice to avoid being charged the full session fee.

Telepsychiatry & Virtual Appointments

Yes. Brad Johns, MD, offers secure, HIPAA-compliant telepsychiatry appointments for eligible patients located anywhere within the state of Georgia. Virtual visits offer the exact same high standard of care as an in-person office visit with maximum convenience.

Telehealth allows you to meet with Dr. Johns via a private, high-definition video connection (utilizing Google Meet). To join your telehealth session, you simply need:

  1. A quiet, private space where you feel comfortable speaking freely.
  2. A reliable internet or high-speed cellular connection.
  3. A smartphone, tablet, or computer with a working camera and microphone.

You can request a virtual consultation by calling our office directly at (404) 495-5006 or by submitting an appointment request through our secure website. Automated setup instructions and secure room links will be provided prior to your visit.

Location & Emergency Policies

Our physical office is located in Sandy Springs / North Atlanta at:
📍 6000 Lake Forrest Drive, Suite 400, Atlanta, GA 30328

We are conveniently situated to serve patients from Buckhead, Dunwoody, Roswell, Alpharetta, and throughout Metro Atlanta.

Please note that the practice of Brad Johns, MD, does not provide emergency, immediate crisis intervention, or same-day urgent care.

If you or a loved one are experiencing a life-threatening medical emergency or severe mental health crisis, please utilize the following resources immediately:
  • 📞 Call or Text 988 to reach the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline (Available 24/7, free, and confidential).
  • 🌐 Visit: 988lifeline.org
  • 🚨 Call 911 for local emergency medical services.
  • 🏥 Go directly to the nearest hospital emergency room.

Have Additional Questions? Contact Us Today

If you have questions about our practice, policies, or scheduling an initial evaluation, our staff is here to help.