Get Started!
Take the next step with us
So, how do I get myself or my child started?
Getting started is just a mouse click (or phone call) away! Simply click HERE to fill out and submit an “intake” form, which is a request for services.
Or you can call our Intake Manager at 215-735-9379, extension 302 and give us your name, phone number, zip code, child’s date of birth and the reason why you are requesting an evaluation. If this is a true emergency and you need immediate attention please dial 911 or go to your nearest emergency room.
Regardless of how you reach us, your concerns are very important to us and we thank you for contacting us and for your patience while awaiting the next step. This next step involves an initial phone interview which typically occurs within one and two business days.
During this initial phone interview, we will ask you for your child’s Social Security Number and insurance information (for both your child and the primary policy holder), which includes Medical Assistance and/or private insurance, if applicable. At this time we will also schedule an initial in-person visit. In preparation for this office visit, please bring copies of all previous assessments (e.g., school records, medical reports, psychological or psychiatric evaluations) and contact information for your current family doctor.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What will my first appointment be like?
At your first appointment, you will meet with a clinician who specializes in assessing children, who will complete a comprehensive evaluation to determine your or your child’s needs and explain how we can help.
Does PMHC accept my insurance?
PMHC accepts many types of insurance. If you are not sure, please call and ask for our finance department, where one of our reimbursement specialists can answer your questions about coverage, copays, coinsurance, out-of-network payments, and flat-fee payments. Below are some of the insurances we accept.
Philadelphia and Bucks County Medicaid
Medicare
Blue Cross/Blue Shield
Highmark
What if I don’t have insurance? How do I get health insurance?
How do I find what services are for me?
What is a Comprehensive Autism Assessment (CAA)?
The Comprehensive Autism Assessment (CAA) at Philadelphia Mental Health Center is a unique evaluation designed to assist and support children and families coping with Autism. Our center takes a holistic approach to Autism which is reflected in our evaluation process. We begin by taking an extensive history, reviewing medical records, and talking with family members. We observe the child at play, including his or her interactions with family. We also look for physical and behavioral issues that need to be addressed. The CAA also includes comprehensive testing and evaluation.
After the CAA, which usually encompasses several sessions with both a child psychologist and psychiatrist, we will develop an intervention plan for your diagnosed child. We will ask you to participate in a feedback and treatment planning session. This plan may include treatment services for your child at our center, as well as supportive outpatient therapy and programming for family members. Our services also include support in your home or in school and referrals to specialist physicians and allied therapies such as Occupational and Speech Therapy.
Services are tailored to each client’s needs and are available for individuals, children ages one to 21, as well as adults and their families. The CAA generates a detailed developmental profile and intervention plan for each child and family. Group, parent/sibling, and family therapies can provide support and networking and socialization opportunities, and community outreach programs provide training, guidance, and education.
What is a Comprehensive Biopsychosocial Evaluation?
Through this evaluation, our psychologists are able to determine an individual’s diagnosis and will discuss what this means for your child and your family. The family will participate with the psychologist in developing an intervention plan and will receive a diagnosis along with the appropriate recommendations. This plan may include not only treatment for your child at our center, but also supportive outpatient therapy and programming for family members, support in your home or in school, and referrals to specialist physicians and other agencies.
Admissions, the provision of services, and referrals of clients shall be made with careful consideration given one’s race, color, religious creed, disability, ancestry, national origin (included limited English proficiency), age, or sex. Program services shall be made accessible to eligible persons with disabilities through the most practical and economically feasible methods available. These methods include, but are not limited to, equipment redesign, the provision of aides, and the use of alternative service delivery locations. Structural modifications shall be considered only as a last resort among available methods.
Book a Self-Pay Online Appointment
Self-pay services are available and require that you book an online appointment (link is forthcoming) and make a small deposit of $50 to confirm your telehealth appointment for your Assessment. Please give Thelma, your Intake Manager, a call at 215-735-9379, extension 123, to schedule a time today, and mention that you are interested in self-pay services, meaning it won’t be covered by your insurance.
Intake Form - Request Services
Fill out this intake form and our Intake Manager will get back to you within 3 business days. Three ways you can contact us for service. (1) Call 215-735-9379, extension 302 (2) Fill out this Word Document Form and email it to intake@pmhccares.org.