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During the initial visit, a board-certified psychiatric practitioner will conduct a comprehensive interview to help formulate diagnosis and create an individualized treatment plan to help the person reach their optimal well-being, which is the ultimate goal of Great Minds Psychiatry.
A psychiatric provider typically discusses with you your overall medical and family history. Understanding your overall health, level of functioning, quality of living, and background information provides insight into your needs and helps us develop a more tailored plan for you.
We want to learn more about any past psychiatric diagnoses and treatments you have had and how you responded to those interventions.
If you have engaged in any substance abuse or currently use substances, it is important to disclose that info so we can better assess your psychiatric situation.
During the evaluation, we assess your mood, anxiety levels, cognition, thought process, as well as perceptions. We conduct an overall mental status exam taking into consideration any biological, psychological, and social factors.
A part of your evaluation includes an assessment of any previous or current abuse (physical, sexual, or emotional), trauma or suicidal ideations. We also assess your risk for exhibiting aggressive and irritational behaviors.
Because every patient is different, every treatment plan is customized for that individual. After gathering all the pertinent information and conducting the evaluations, we create your individualized treatment plan.
At Great Minds Psychiatry, we strike a balance between psychotherapy and medication management based on your specific needs and circumstances. We also work collaboratively with your PCP and other specialists to ensure your care is exactly what you need.
Coming well prepared for your initial evaluation helps us better tailor your treatment plan. Here are some things to help you prepare:
We are sure you will have as many questions for us, as we will have for you. It would be helpful to start writing down questions you have about our approach to psychiatric care, treatment options, and expectations. We are here to answer those questions and happy to discuss any concerns you might have about your care.
Prior to your appointment, it will be very helpful if you track your symptoms, moods, and thoughts. Have a journal or app on your phone where you can log events that trigger behaviors or thoughts, track your emotions throughout the day, or any medications you take and how you react to them. Collecting this information beforehand only adds to our ability to better assess and create a treatment plan for you.
Taking note of your mental and emotional symptoms is important, but it is also good to recognize and report any stomach problems, appetite, sleep pattern, and other physical symptoms that might be associated with your mental health.
Now that you have taken steps to schedule a psychiatric evaluation, it means you are serious about prioritizing your mental health. Great Minds Psychiatry is committed to walking that journey with you, one day at a time.
