Frequently Asked Questions

Is BHSI doing anything differently because of COVID-19?

Yes, we offer telehealth (video) appointments with all of our providers, so you can meet with your provider from your home, car, or other private location using your smart phone, laptop, tablet, or other device with a camera.  It is easy to use, secure, and HIPAA compliant.

All you have to do is schedule appointments as you normally would. At your appointment time go to this website, click on the telehealth tab, and click on your provider's name on the page. Then just follow the prompts.  Instructions and an informed consent sheet are also on the telehealth page.

If you don't have internet connection or a device with a camera, you can also attend your appointment over the phone.   Just let us know ahead of time and your provider will call you at your appointment time.

How do I pay my copay if I am doing a telehealth visit?

If you normally have a copay for each visit, it also applies to telehealth visits.  You can pay by clicking below, or on the telehealth page.

What can I expect to happen at my first appointment?

  • First, you will complete some paperwork. You can actually do this part ahead of time at home by printing out the forms. Click here to go to the forms page.
  • If you are already prescribed medications for mental health or other medical conditions, please bring to your appointment a list of your medications or the actual pill bottles.
  • Then you will meet with a therapist for about 50-60 minutes who will get to know you, learn about the problems you've been encountering, and make a plan to help. If the plan includes returning for more appointments -- therapy appointments, or a medication evaluation, or both -- those will be scheduled after your first appointment.

What should I do if I'm in crisis?

  • If you are in a life threatening situation, call 911 or go to a hospital Emergency Room.
  • If your situation is not emergent, and if you would like to meet with your BHSI therapist soon, call for an appointment. We can often find a time in the next few days.
Other contacts:
  • Crisis Connection: 612-379-6363.
  • Hennepin County Crisis Intervention Center: 612-873-3161
  • Ramsey, Dakota, and Washington Counties Mental Health Crisis: 651-266-7900
  • Anoka County: Riverwind Crisis Services 763-755-3801
  • For non-emergencies, United Way's First Call for Help: 211.

How do I request a medication refill?

  • If the label on your medication container shows that you have refills available: Call your pharmacy for refill.
  • If the container indicates zero refills: Your first step will be to call your pharmacy. Your pharmacy will then communicate the request to us. This way our reply will be communicated directly back to the pharmacy. Depending on the volume of requests we are receiving, this may take 1-4 business days. If we have questions regarding your request, we will call you at the phone number(s) you have provided. Your pharmacy will let you know when the process is completed.
  • If the container indicates zero refills, and if it is for a stimulant medication (e.g. Ritalin, Adderall, Dexadrine, Concerta): For these medications you must call the clinic directly instead of the pharmacy.
  • There are times when your psychiatrist will want to meet with you before renewing or continuing a medication. We will contact you if that is the case.
  • "Tips on Refilling Your Prescriptions" handout

Are you a provider for my insurance?

We are providers for Aetna, BHP, Blue Cross/Blue Shield, Cigna, Health Partners, Humana, Medica, Medicaid, Medicare, MinnesotaCare, Preferred One, TEAM, Tricare/Triwest, United Health Care, UBH, UCare, and Value Options.
Call 651-769-6565 to check on other insurance we accept.

How long are appointments?

The most common therapy appointment is 45-60 minutes. Some are 20-30 minutes. If you meet with a psychiatrist, your first appointment will typically be 40-60 minutes; 60-90 minutes if meeting with a child psychiatrist. Return visits with a psychiatrist are usually 15, 20, or 30 minutes.

What if I have to cancel an appointment?

We ask that you call us at least 24 hours in advance if you need to cancel an appointment. If your appointment is on a Monday, we ask that you call by Friday. This gives us time to offer the appointment to others. If less than 24 hours notice is given, a late cancel/no-show fee is charged.

Is there a co-pay?

Most insurance policies require co-payment at each visit. The amount you will pay is probably listed on the front of your insurance card. Co-pays are paid when you check in for your appointment.

What if I have a high deductable plan?

If you haven't yet met your deductible for the year, we can take payment when you check in for your appointment, or if you need it billed to your insurance company first, we will do that. If you have an HSA (Health Savings Account), you can pay with the debit card associated with that account.

Can I pay my bill online?

Yes.  You will need the patient's account number, found on your statement.

My teen has a first appointment scheduled.  Should a parent attend the appointment too?

Yes.  At least one parent should arrive with the teen to authorize treatment and assist with paperwork.  The clinician will typically want to meet the parent(s) during the first visit.

What's the difference between a psychologist, psychiatrist, psychotherapist and therapist?

  • "Psychotherapist" and "therapist" are often used interchangeably, and are generic descriptors for professionals who help individuals, couples, and/or families to solve problems through dialogue or "talk therapy." At BHSI our therapists all hold masters or doctoral degrees (or both) in their field, and are licensed by the State of Minnesota as either psychologists, clinical social workers, professional counselors, or marriage/family therapists.
  • Psychologists are also licensed to perform psychological testing.
  • Psychiatrists are physicians (MDs). They have graduated from medical school and specialize in treating people with mental/emotional disorders. BHSI psychiatrists recommend, prescribe and monitor medications, and sometimes provide therapy.

Who should I talk to about billing questions?

  • Billing Department phones are answered Mon-Fri, 8:30-4:00. Please leave a detailed message if we are unable to answer at the time, and we will return your call within 24 hours.
  • Phone: 651-769-6445
  • Fax: 651-769-6426
  • Or click here to send an email message.