


Initial Evaluation (60–75 minutes)
Purpose
The intake lays the foundation for all medication decisions. It is a detailed conversation that allows us to understand your history, current challenges, and goals before any prescription is written.
What to Expect
Orientation & Consent – Overview of process, confidentiality, and patient rights.
Presenting Concerns – A full discussion of your current symptoms, priorities, and what brings you to treatment.
Psychiatric & Medical History – Previous diagnoses, medication trials, side effects, hospitalizations, medical conditions, allergies.
Family & Social Background – Genetic risks, support systems, stressors, and protective factors.
Substance Use Review – Alcohol, nicotine, cannabis, prescription or other substances.
Mental Status Examination – Structured observation of mood, thought process, cognition, and insight.
Risk & Safety Assessment – Evaluation of suicide or self-harm risk, paired with safety planning if needed.
Diagnostic Formulation – Integrating findings into a working diagnosis, consistent with DSM-5.
Medication Planning – Discussion of appropriate options, risks, benefits, and alternatives.
Lab Orders (if indicated) – Thyroid, metabolic, or other relevant labs ordered; you may use insurance or self-pay directly through the lab.
Outcome
By the end of your evaluation, you will have a clear diagnostic impression, an initial medication plan (if appropriate), and a roadmap for follow-up care.
Purpose
The intake lays the foundation for all medication decisions. It is a detailed conversation that allows us to understand your history, current challenges, and goals before any prescription is written.
What to Expect
Orientation & Consent – Overview of process, confidentiality, and patient rights.
Presenting Concerns – A full discussion of your current symptoms, priorities, and what brings you to treatment.
Psychiatric & Medical History – Previous diagnoses, medication trials, side effects, hospitalizations, medical conditions, allergies.
Family & Social Background – Genetic risks, support systems, stressors, and protective factors.
Substance Use Review – Alcohol, nicotine, cannabis, prescription or other substances.
Mental Status Examination – Structured observation of mood, thought process, cognition, and insight.
Risk & Safety Assessment – Evaluation of suicide or self-harm risk, paired with safety planning if needed.
Diagnostic Formulation – Integrating findings into a working diagnosis, consistent with DSM-5.
Medication Planning – Discussion of appropriate options, risks, benefits, and alternatives.
Lab Orders (if indicated) – Thyroid, metabolic, or other relevant labs ordered; you may use insurance or self-pay directly through the lab.
Outcome
By the end of your evaluation, you will have a clear diagnostic impression, an initial medication plan (if appropriate), and a roadmap for follow-up care.