A psychiatric evaluation is a comprehensive health assessment that typically involves gathering any pertinent information about a client’s symptoms (both past and present), a full comprehensive medical and psychiatric history, family history, social history/background as well as information regarding a patient’s current daily functioning status. A psychiatric evaluation may also include the implementation of standardized screening tools or questionnaires.

The goal of a psychiatric assessment/evaluation is to establish a diagnosis (if applicable), determine the severity of symptoms (past and present), and develop a personalized comprehensive treatment and overall wellness plan. Psychiatric evaluations are often the first step in addressing mental health conditions such as anxiety, depression, attention deficit disorder, spectrum disorders, bipolar disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, obsessive compulsive disorder, psychotic disorders, and other mood and/or behavioral disorders and conditions.

Evaluations are conducted in a compassionate, judgment-free environment, and may include collaboration with other healthcare providers, schools, or family members if appropriate and with the proper consent. Time allotted for psychiatric evaluations can vary depending on the specific type of evaluation being conducted or requested and generally can be completed within one visit. Depending on the specific reason for a patient visit and the severity of a client’s presenting symptoms, medication management may be recommended following an initial psychiatric evaluation.

Our patient’s are also provided the opportunity to share any additional pertinent information with their provider prior to their initial visit, which can be done through the patient portal, emailing us at laura@lmcpsychiatric.com or using the contact us link which is provided here on our website as well.