Question 1

How do I know if I or my child may need a psychiatrist or therapist?

Accepted Answer

Many children, teens, and adults benefit from mental health support when emotions, behavior, attention, or daily functioning begin to feel harder to manage. Common reasons people seek care include anxiety, depression, ADHD, mood changes, emotional regulation difficulties, school or work stress, sleep problems, or behavioral concerns. If you are looking for a psychiatrist or therapist in Pittsburgh or Pennsylvania for your child or yourself, our team can help determine the most appropriate next steps during an initial evaluation.

Question 2

What is the difference between a psychiatrist and a therapist?

Accepted Answer

A psychiatrist is a medical doctor (MD or DO) who specializes in diagnosing mental health conditions and can prescribe medication when appropriate. Psychiatrists may also provide therapy. Therapists (such as psychologists, counselors, or social workers) provide psychotherapy and behavioral interventions but do not prescribe medication. At The Via Center in Pittsburgh, we offer both psychiatric services and therapy and collaborate to provide comprehensive care for children, adolescents, and adults.

Question 3

Do you provide therapy, medication management, or both?

Accepted Answer

We provide both therapy and psychiatric medication management in Pittsburgh and surrounding areas. Some individuals benefit from therapy alone, some from medication support, and many from a combination of both. Our approach is individualized, collaborative, and developmentally informed. We do not take a one-size-fits-all approach to treatment.

Question 4

What conditions do you treat?

Accepted Answer

Our Pittsburgh mental health providers treat a wide range of concerns, including Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, Adjustment Disorders, Anger problems, Anxiety, Panic Disorder and Phobias, Behavioral Disturbances in Autism, Bipolar Disorder, Depressive Disorders, Developmental Disorders, Irritability, LGBTQAI+ Issues, Mood Disorders, Neurobehavioral Disorders, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, Posttraumatic stress disorder, Psychotic Disorders, Self-Injurious Behaviors, and Sleep Problems.

Question 5

Do you prescribe medication, including medication for ADHD?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Our psychiatrists prescribe medication when clinically appropriate, including medications for ADHD, anxiety, depression, and mood concerns. We take a careful and thoughtful approach to medication management, considering medical history, developmental factors, and patient and family preferences. Medication is only one possible part of treatment, and decisions are made collaboratively.

Question 6

What ages do you work with?

Accepted Answer

Our clinicians specialize in working with children, adolescents, young adults, and adults up to age 60 years. Some clinicians also work with adults and parents to support family systems and developmental transitions. Other clinicians also work with perinatal mental health concerns. Families seeking a child psychiatrist in Pittsburgh often contact us for support across developmental stages.

Question 7

What is the first appointment like?

Accepted Answer

The first appointment is a comprehensive psychiatric or therapy evaluation. We focus on understanding strengths, concerns, history, and goals in a supportive, non-judgmental environment. At the end of the visit, we discuss impressions and recommendations together, including therapy, medication, or other supports if appropriate.

Question 8

Do parents attend appointments for children or teens?

Accepted Answer

Parents must attend all initial evaluations for children and teens. For ongoing care, parents or caregivers are typically involved in appointments for all younger children. For adolescents, we balance family involvement with developmentally appropriate privacy and independence. Expectations are discussed collaboratively at the start of care.

Question 9

Do you coordinate care with therapists, schools, or pediatricians?

Accepted Answer

Yes. When helpful and with appropriate consent, we collaborate with therapists, schools, pediatricians, and other professionals to support continuity of care and the best outcomes for children and families.

Question 10

Do you offer virtual psychiatric or therapy appointments in Pennsylvania?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We offer secure telehealth appointments for many services when clinically appropriate, in addition to in-person care at our Pittsburgh area office. Patients must be located in Pennsylvania at the time of telehealth visits due to licensing regulations for psychiatric visits. Some of our therapists are licensed in other states and able to provide care outside of Pennsylvania.

Question 11

How long does it take to get an appointment with a psychiatrist or therapist in Pittsburgh?

Accepted Answer

Appointment availability varies depending on the provider and service requested. Our administrative team works to schedule new patients as promptly as possible and can discuss current timelines when you contact us.

Question 12

Do you accept insurance?

Accepted Answer

We accept BCBS/Highmark, UPMC, United/Optum and Aetna. We are regretfully unable to accept medical assistance (primary or secondary) or Medicare. If we are out-of-network with your insurance, we may provide documentation (such as a superbill) that you can submit for possible reimbursement depending on your plan.

Question 13

What are the costs for psychiatric or therapy services?

Accepted Answer

Fees vary depending on the provider and type of service. Our administrative team can review current rates and insurance information before scheduling so you have clear expectations.

Question 14

What is your cancellation policy?

Accepted Answer

We understand that unexpected situations arise. If you need to cancel or reschedule an appointment, we ask that you provide advance notice (typically at least 24–48 hours, depending on provider policy). Late cancellations or missed appointments may be subject to a fee. See our policies for details.

Question 15

How is The Via Center different from other Pittsburgh psychiatry and mental health practices?

Accepted Answer

The Via Center was founded to provide thoughtful, individualized psychiatric and therapy care for children, adolescents, and adults in a collaborative and respectful environment. Our clinicians integrate evidence-based treatment, developmental understanding, LGBTQAI+ and neurodivergent-affirming perspectives, family collaboration, and coordination with schools and professionals when helpful. We prioritize partnership, curiosity, and compassionate care. We are physician-led and all psychiatric care is provided only by physicians who have completed rigorous 4–5 year residency and fellowship programs at nationally recognized institutions. Our robust team of support staff and nurses means you will get a reply quickly when you need support.

Question 16

How do I get started with a psychiatrist or therapist at The Via Center?

Accepted Answer

Please complete our screening intake to get started.

Educational Counseling with Julie Sumper, M.S.Ed., NCC

The Via Center

Contact Us

Quick Links