Resources & Frequently Asked Questions

Though both roles provide mental health care, there are key differences. A psychiatrist is a medical doctor (MD or DO), whereas a psychiatric nurse practitioner is a nurse with a graduate degree such as a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) or a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP). Both can prescribe medication, perform mental health assessments, and manage mental health conditions, but the nurse practitioner's approach is often rooted in nursing principles, emphasizing health promotion, prevention, and whole-person care.

Nicole also brings 15 years of primary care experience to her psychiatric practice, which means she considers your full health picture, not just your mental health concerns in isolation.

No referral is needed. You can contact Apex Behavioral Health directly to schedule. If you're currently working with a therapist or primary care provider, it can be helpful to let them know you're seeking psychiatric support, but it isn't required to get started.

Your first visit is a 90-minute evaluation focused on getting to know you, not just your symptoms. We'll talk through what's been going on, how it's affecting your daily life, your medical and mental health history, any past treatment experiences, and what you're hoping will feel different. I'll share my initial impressions as we go, and by the end we'll have outlined an initial plan together. You don't need to prepare anything specific. Just come as you are.

Yes. Secure video visits are available for eligible patients when clinically appropriate and allowed by state regulations. Telehealth works well for many types of follow-up care and can make it easier to stay consistent with appointments. We'll talk about whether it's a good fit for your situation.

Apex Behavioral Health PLLC is located at 1600 Olive Chapel Road, Suite 124, Apex, NC 27502, within Olical Health PLLC in the 540 Flex and Business Park. Parking is available on site.

New patient evaluations are 90 minutes. Follow-up visits are typically 30 to 45 minutes, depending on your needs and the complexity of your care at that point.

The initial 90-minute evaluation is $275. Follow-up visits are $150. Payment is collected at the time of your appointment.

Yes. Apex Behavioral Health currently accepts Aetna, Aetna State Health Plan, Anthem, BCBS, Cigna, UMR, United Health Care, Optum, Medcost, and Medicare. Insurance panels and coverage details can change, so it's worth contacting your insurance provider directly to verify your benefits before your first appointment.

We accept most major credit and debit cards. HSA and FSA cards are also accepted.

Yes. Prescribing and managing psychiatric medications is a core part of this practice. That said, medication is never the automatic first step. We talk through your situation, what you've tried before, what you're comfortable with, and what the evidence supports before anything is prescribed. If you're uncertain about medication, that's a completely reasonable place to start the conversation.

The focus here is evaluation, diagnosis, medication management, and psychoeducation, along with brief supportive therapy during appointments.

As part of your medication management visits, Nicole provides a supportive space to talk through what's going on in your daily life, your stressors, and your goals. Research consistently shows that combining medication management with talk therapy yields the best outcomes, and brief supportive therapy is something Nicole is qualified to provide as part of your care.

This is not ongoing weekly psychotherapy. For patients who want more frequent or intensive talk therapy, Nicole works closely with therapists in the area and can provide referrals to help you find the right fit.

Yes, with standard legal exceptions. What you share in appointments is protected health information under HIPAA. Exceptions to confidentiality include situations involving risk of imminent harm to yourself or others, and certain legal requirements. These will be explained during your first visit.