Thomas Ball, MD is a Psychiatrist dedicated to providing comprehensive psychiatric care at Mindpath in Austin, TX. He is registered with The Texas Medical Board and practices under the Texas Occupations Code, Title 3, Subtitle B (Medical Practice Act). Psychiatrists are medical doctors specializing in diagnosing and treating mental health disorders, managing psychiatric medications, and performing advanced treatments like TMS and ECT, often working collaboratively with primary care physicians to provide comprehensive patient care. Dr. Ball serves all ages and is currently welcoming new patients. He believes that everyone has strengths that can be built upon, and it is important to remember this while working toward realizing one's full potential for a happy, healthy, meaningful life. During college, his team won a cricket championship. He earned his degree from the University of Virginia School of Medicine and is Board Certified in Child & Adolescent Psychiatry and Psychiatry by the American Board of Psychiatry & Neurology.
Dr. Ball's approach to care is rooted in collaborative, evidence-based medicine. He strives to create a supportive environment where patients and their families feel heard and empowered in their healthcare decisions. He understands the complexities of mental health and the importance of personalized treatment plans. Dr. Ball is committed to working with each patient to develop a plan that addresses their unique needs and goals. He is committed to fostering a trusting relationship with his patients and providing the highest quality of care. Dr. Ball provides consultations primarily in English. To schedule an appointment, please call (817) 415-1739.
A strong patient-provider partnership is the foundation of effective healthcare. Dr. Ball is committed to being a partner in your health journey, focusing on practical strategies to protect your health and well-being.
Dr. Ball's approach to care is centered on comprehensive psychiatric assessment and treatment. He meticulously evaluates each patient's unique needs, employing evidence-based therapies alongside medication management and advanced treatments like TMS and ECT. His collaborative approach, often working with primary care physicians, ensures a holistic and integrated plan of care tailored to each patient's individual journey toward improved mental well-being.
By working together, you and Dr. Ball can create a clear, actionable plan that respects your individual needs and healthcare goals.
Specific Plans Accepted
Commercial HMO
Commercial PPO
Employer Plan
Employers Health Network
Excellus BlueCross BlueShield
Humana
Medicare Advantage PPO
Oxford Health Plans
Premera Blue Cross
UnitedHealthCare
Also Accepts These Carriers
- AARP Medicare Advantage
- APWU Health Plan
- Aetna
- Aetna Choice (Aetna HealthFund) POS II
- Aexcel Choice POS II
- Affordable Health Choices limited benefits insurance plan (SRC only)
- All Savers
- Allegiance
- Allied Benefits System PPO
- Angle Health
- Anthem
- Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield
- Behavioral Health Systems
- BestChoice PPO
- Blue Access Choice
- Blue Alternative
- Blue Card High Performance Network HPN
- Blue Card PPO
- Blue Choice Advantage Family PPO
- Blue Choice Advantage Open Access
- Blue Choice Advantage PPO
- Blue Choice PPO
- Blue Cross Blue Shield
- Blue Cross Blue Shield of Texas
- Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Massachusetts
- Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Texas
- Blue Edge PPO
- Blue Essentials HMO
- Blue High Performance Network HPN
- Blue Open Access POS
- Blue Precision/Blue Options v.4 PPO
- Blue Premier HMO
- Blue Value
- BlueCard Traditional
- Blueprint Health
- CVS Health HMO
- Choice (Aetna HealthFund) POS
- Choice Care Network PPO
- Choice Care PPO
- Choice Care Plus PPO
- Choice POS
- Choice POS POS
- Choice Plus POS
- Choice Plus POS II
- Choice Plus PPO
- Cigna
- Cigna EPO
- Commercial Plans
- Commercial Plans HMO
- Community Blue
- Corpus Christi Medical Center HCA - AFA
- Curative
- Curative EPO
- Curative PPO
- Curative PPO Plus
- Dual Complete
- EMI Health
- EPO and Open Access Aetna Select Texas Health EPO
- El Paso - Option One EPO
- El Paso - Option One MC
- El Paso - Option One POSII
- Elect Choice (Open Access) EPO
- Empire POS
- Federal Employee Program
- First Health
- First Health (Coventry Health Care) PPO
- Freedom
- HMO Premier HMO
- Health Network Only (Open Access)
- Health Network Option Open Access
- Health Partners
- HealthFund Health Network Option (Open Access)
- HealthFund HealthNetworkOnly (Open Access)
- Humana Behavioral Health
- HumanaPreferred OpenAccess POS
- Individual ON/OFF Exchange HMO
- Individual and Family Plans
- Innovation Health POS
- Innovation Health PPO
- KelseyCare HMO
- Liberty - Amarillo
- Liberty - Austin
- Liberty - Corpus Christi
- Liberty - Houston
- Liberty - Longview
- Liberty - Loredo
- Liberty - Lubbock
- Liberty - Midland/Odessa
- Liberty - Rio Grande Valley
- Liberty - San Antonio
- LocalPlus
- Lucent Health Network
- MVP Insurance
- Managed Care Plans
- Managed Choice (Open Access) POS
- Managed Choice POS
- Medica Passport PPO
- Medical Neighborhood - Houston Choice POSII
- Medicare
- Medicare Advantage
- Medicare Advantage HMO
- Medicare Advantage PFFS
- Medicare Advantage POS
- Medicare Network Plans PFFS
- Memorial Hermann Health Plan Commercial
- Memorial Hermann Health Plan Medicare Advantage
- Methodist HCA San Antonio - AFA
- Methodist San Antonio EPO
- National Advantage
- National POS
- National POS - OpenAccess Plus POS
- National POS – Open Access POS
- Network Blue
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- Open Access Elect Choice (Aetna HealthFund) EPO
- Open Access HMO
- Open Access Managed Choice (Aetna HealthFund) POS
- Open Access Plus
- Open Access Select Texas Health EPO
- Open Choice (Aetna HealthFund) PPO
- Optum Medicare Advantage Complete Care PPO
- Preferred Care Blue
- Preferred PPO
- Premier Select BlueChoice
- QPOS
- S&S Healthcare
- Select
- Select PPO
- Self-Insured Employers
- Silver 1-Individual On Exchange
- Silver 2-Individual On Exchange HMO
- Silver C Advantage Plus Extra
- Slver-D Copay Focus
- South Texas Health System - AFA
- St Davids HCA Austin - AFA
- St. Davids Austin EPO
- Strategic Alliances
- Student Health Insurance
- SureFit
- Surest
- TX Whole Health - Seton Health Alliance OAMC
- Texas Health Care Plus Elect Choice Open Access (OAEPO) EPO
- Texas Health Care Plus HMO
- Texas Medical Neighborhood - Austin Select
- Texas Medical Neighborhood - Houston Select
- Trustmark
- Tyler Redbud EPO
- Tyler Yellow Rose EPO
- United Healthcare
- Voluntary Plans
As your primary healthcare provider, Dr. Ball offers expert diagnosis and management for a wide range of common health conditions. Common areas of focus include:
- Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD): A psychiatrist can diagnose and treat OCD, a disorder marked by persistent, upsetting thoughts and rituals, using medication, therapy, or a combination of both to help manage symptoms.
- ADHD and-or ADD: ADHD and ADD cause difficulties with attention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity, and a psychiatrist can prescribe medications and offer therapies to alleviate these symptoms.
- Nondependent Drug and Alcohol Abuse: Nondependent drug and alcohol abuse refers to using drugs or alcohol in a way that causes problems, but not to the level of full-blown addiction.
- Bipolar Disorder: Bipolar disorder is a mental illness causing extreme mood swings between high (mania) and low (depression) periods, and a psychiatrist can help manage these mood swings with medication and therapy.
- Conduct Disorder: Conduct disorder involves a persistent pattern of anti-social behaviors like lying, stealing, or bullying, and a psychiatrist can help create a treatment plan to improve behavior and address underlying issues.
- Binge Eating Disorder: If you struggle with binge eating, a psychiatrist can assess your situation, rule out underlying medical causes, and prescribe medication to help regulate appetite and mood.
- Mood Disorders (Dysthymia and Cyclothymia): Dysthymia and cyclothymia are mood disorders involving persistent low mood (dysthymia) or cycles of high and low mood (cyclothymia), and a psychiatrist can help manage these conditions with medication and therapy.
- Autism: A psychiatrist plays a vital role in the care of autistic individuals by diagnosing associated mental health issues and managing symptoms through medication, therapy or other interventions.
- Nondependent Alcohol Abuse: Someone with nondependent alcohol abuse drinks alcohol to excess, causing problems in their life, but hasn't developed a physical dependence on alcohol; a psychiatrist can help manage these issues through therapy and/or medication.
- Phobia: If you experience excessive fear and distress triggered by specific things, you might have a phobia, and a psychiatrist can help you understand and manage these intense feelings and reactions.
- Cyclothymia (Chronic Mood Disorder): Characterized by unpredictable swings in mood, cyclothymia is a long-term condition where you'll experience periods of mild ups and downs that interfere with daily life; psychiatrists offer various treatment options.
- Conduct and Other Emotional Adolescent Disorders: Conduct disorder in adolescents involves repeated behaviors that violate rules and the rights of others, and a psychiatrist can help diagnose and treat this using therapy and medication.
This list represents some of the common conditions treated. An accurate diagnosis and a personalized care plan can only be developed through a direct consultation with a qualified medical professional.
To provide comprehensive and patient-centered care, Dr. Ball offers a range of services designed to diagnose, manage, and treat various health concerns:
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): CBT is a type of talk therapy that teaches you coping skills to manage stress, anxiety, and depression.
- Psychiatric Evaluation: Expect to discuss your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors during a psychiatric evaluation so your doctor can properly diagnose and treat any mental health issues.
- Hypnosis (Medical Hypnotherapy): Hypnosis, when used medically, can help patients relax and access their subconscious to address underlying issues contributing to mental health challenges.
- Alcohol or Substance Misuse Screening and Counseling: This screening helps determine if you have a problem with alcohol or drug use.
- Extended-Release Injectable Naltrexone: Extended-release injectable naltrexone is a medication given as a shot to help people struggling with opioid or alcohol addiction stay sober.
- Stress Management: Stress management involves identifying stressors and developing healthy ways to reduce their impact on your mental health.
- Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR): This therapy uses eye movements and other techniques to help you work through traumatic memories, lessening their hold on you and improving your mental health.
Service availability can change. To understand which services are appropriate for your specific health needs, please schedule a consultation to develop a personalized care plan.
All medical services are provided in accordance with the standard scope of practice for their professional license in Texas.
Dr. Ball is dedicated to partnering with patients to achieve their unique health objectives. The following examples illustrate how proactive care can make a tangible difference in a patient's life:
- After receiving a clear diagnosis and treatment plan, a patient successfully managed their obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) symptoms, leading to a significant improvement in their daily life.
- After receiving a clear diagnosis and treatment plan, a patient learned strategies to manage their ADHD symptoms, leading to improved focus and reduced impulsivity in daily life.
These scenarios are illustrative examples of positive health outcomes. Individual results vary and depend on many factors. He will work with you to define and achieve your personal health goals.
- Primary Location:
Mindpath
7000 N Mopac Expy Ste 210, Austin, TX, 78731
Phone: (817) 415-1739
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- University of Virginia School of Medicine (Medical School)
- American Board of Psychiatry & Neurology (Child & Adolescent Psychiatry)
- American Board of Psychiatry & Neurology (Psychiatry)
Here are answers to some common questions about receiving Psychiatric care with Dr. Ball:
- What is the main difference between a Psychiatrist and a Psychologist?
- Psychiatrists are medical doctors (MD or DO) who can prescribe medication, while psychologists (PhD or PsyD) specialize in psychotherapy and psychological testing. They often collaborate to provide comprehensive care.
- Do I need a referral to see a psychiatrist?
- While a referral from your primary care doctor can be helpful, many insurance plans do not require one. It's always best to check with your specific insurance plan to confirm coverage details and any referral requirements before scheduling an appointment.
- What is TMS therapy and who is it for?
- TMS is a non-invasive treatment that uses magnetic pulses to stimulate underactive nerve cells in the brain, often helpful for depression. It's an FDA-approved, medication-free option, typically for adults with major depression who haven't responded to antidepressant medications.
- What should I expect during my first psychiatric evaluation?
- Your first appointment with Dr. Ball will involve a comprehensive discussion of your symptoms, medical and family history, and life circumstances. This allows Dr. Ball to gain a complete picture and make an accurate diagnosis. It's a collaborative conversation, the first step toward a personalized treatment plan.
- Do all psychiatrists only prescribe medication? Do you also provide therapy?
- While psychiatrists are primarily trained in medication management, many, including Dr. Ball, also provide psychotherapy. Treatment plans are personalized and may include medication, therapy, or a combination of both, depending on the individual needs of each patient.
- What is the difference between anxiety and an anxiety disorder?
- Feeling anxious is a normal human response to stress. An anxiety disorder, however, involves excessive and persistent worry that's difficult to control and interferes significantly with daily life. Dr. Ball can help determine if your symptoms meet the criteria for a disorder and require treatment.
- Can a psychiatrist help with ADHD in adults?
- Yes, psychiatrists are experts in diagnosing and treating adult ADHD. Dr. Ball can perform a thorough evaluation, and manage both medication (stimulant and non-stimulant options) and therapeutic strategies to help improve focus and daily functioning.
- Can you help with addiction or substance use problems?
- Yes, substance use disorders are a key area of psychiatry. Dr. Ball is trained to treat these issues. He can provide a comprehensive diagnostic evaluation, manage withdrawal symptoms, and prescribe medications to help reduce cravings and support recovery.
Mindpath
7000 N Mopac Expy Ste 210
Austin TX 78731
Phone: (817) 415-1739
Thomas Ball, MD is regulated by the Texas Occupations Code, Title 3, Subtitle B (Medical Practice Act) in Texas and is licensed by The Texas Medical Board.
National Provider Identifier (NPI): 1083146989
Registration can typically be verified through The Texas Medical Board website or by direct inquiry.
The information on this profile, provided by kellysearch.com, is for informational purposes to help you connect with local healthcare providers. It does not constitute direct medical advice from the provider named. Healthcare providers like Dr. Thomas Ball are trained to manage a wide range of health concerns. For urgent or life-threatening emergencies, please call 911 or visit the nearest emergency department. Always consult with a qualified medical professional for any health concerns or before making any decisions related to your care plan.