Online Psychiatrist in Ames, IA
Care provided by Samuel Omolade, PMHNP-BC, a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner licensed in Iowa.
Ames is a college town of about 30,000 students on top of its permanent residents, and the demand for psychiatric care outstrips what’s available locally. Campus services and local practices often have waits, especially during the academic year. Samz Mental Health sees Ames adults by secure video, usually the same day or the next, for evaluation, diagnosis and medication management. No referral is needed.
Usually same day or next day
Secure video, anywhere in Iowa
$120 first visit, $90 follow-ups
Aetna, Cigna, UHC, Optum, Carelon
Who We See in Ames
Iowa State University defines Ames, and many of our patients here are undergraduates and graduate students managing anxiety, depression, sleep problems or a medication started back home. International graduate students, far from family and under heavy research pressure, are a meaningful share of who we see. Video visits work from a dorm, an apartment in Campustown or a quiet room in the library.
We also see university faculty and staff, scientists at the federal research labs, healthcare workers, and families in the smaller Story County towns around Ames. Follow-ups take 15 to 30 minutes, which fits around classes, lab hours and workdays.
What We Treat
Visits cover psychiatric evaluation, diagnosis and medication management for adults. Common reasons people book:
- Anxiety and panic attacks
- Depression, including postpartum depression
- PTSD and trauma and OCD
- Bipolar disorder and insomnia
- Medication management and prescriber transfers
- ESA letter evaluations in Iowa
Crisis and Mental Health Help in Story County
Your Life Iowa, the statewide crisis line, is available 24/7 at 855-581-8111 (text 855-895-8398). Iowa State students can also contact Student Counseling Services. Anyone can call or text 988 at any hour, and in an emergency, call 911. Telepsychiatry is for ongoing care and isn’t a substitute for emergency services.
Ames Neighborhoods and Nearby Communities
We see patients across Ames, including Campustown, Downtown Ames, the neighborhoods around Iowa State and the north and west sides of the city, and in Nevada, Boone, Gilbert, Huxley and Story City. Any location in Iowa works, as long as you’re in the state when the visit starts.
Cost and Insurance
Self-pay is $120 for the first visit and $90 for follow-ups, and HSA and FSA cards are accepted. We’re in-network with Aetna, Cigna, UnitedHealthcare, Optum and Carelon Behavioral Health, so insured patients usually pay their specialist copay. We don’t accept Medicaid or Medicare. See insurance and pricing details.
How a First Visit Works
- Book a time in the online portal, often for the same day. No referral is needed.
- Fill out a short intake form about your symptoms, history and medications.
- Meet by secure video from a private spot in Iowa.
- If medication fits your plan, it’s sent to your pharmacy. Follow-ups take 15 to 30 minutes.
Ames Patient Questions
Can Iowa State students book?
Yes, if you’re in Iowa during the visit, with an in-network plan, including a parent’s employer plan, or self-pay.
Can international graduate students book?
Yes, with an in-network plan or self-pay at $120 for the first visit and $90 for follow-ups. Check your student plan’s carrier first.
Do you prescribe ADHD stimulants?
Not at a first visit. Stimulants are controlled substances and need a fuller assessment over more than one appointment.
Do you see patients in Nevada, Boone and Story City?
Yes. Visits work anywhere in Iowa.
Who do I call in a crisis in Ames?
Call or text 988 any time, or call Your Life Iowa at 855-581-8111 (text 855-895-8398). Iowa State students can also contact Student Counseling Services. In an emergency, call 911.
Book a Video Visit from Ames
Same-day appointments are often available. No referral needed.