Common Questions


What is the initial psychiatric consultation like?

Every consultation is unique and caters to each individual and their specific goals. It is recommended that you download and complete the forms at home so you can give more thoughtful and accurate information. This will help you make efficient use of your time spent during the face-to-face interview. After reviewing the information, together we will develop a treatment plan. The initial psychiatric evaluation focuses on the reason for the visit, the history of present illness, review of past psychiatric and medical history and treatment, review of alcohol and drug use history, family history, and social history.

It is standard for the provider to discuss the primary issues and concerns in your life during the consultation which may last around fifty minutes. It is common to schedule a follow-up evaluation to determine effectiveness of treatment. Psychiatric treatment can be short-term, focusing on a specific issue, or longer-term, addressing more complex issues or ongoing personal growth. There may be times when you are asked to take certain actions outside of the psychiatric evaluation sessions, such as discussing your thoughts and feelings with a therapist or keeping records to track certain behaviors. Here are some things you can expect from the psychiatric evaluation:

Compassion, respect and understanding

  • Perspectives to illuminate persistent patterns and negative feelings
  • Real strategies for enacting positive change
  • Effective and proven techniques along with practical guidance


Is medication a substitute for therapy?

In some cases a combination of medication and therapy is the right course of action. Working with your therapist you can determine what's best for you. It is well established that the long-term solution to mental and emotional problems and the pain they cause cannot be solved solely by medication. You can best achieve sustainable growth and a greater sense of well-being with an integrative approach to wellness.


Do you accept insurance? How does insurance work?

To determine if you have mental health coverage, the first thing you should do is check with your insurance carrier. Check your coverage carefully and find the answers to the following questions:

  • What are my mental health benefits?
  • What is the coverage amount per psychiatric session?
  • How many psychiatric sessions does my plan cover?
  • How much does my insurance pay for an out-of-network provider?
  • Is approval required from my primary care physician?


Is psychiatric consultation confidential?

In general, the law protects the confidentiality of all communications between a client and psychiatric provider. No information is disclosed without prior written permission from the client.

However, there are some exceptions required by law to this rule. Exceptions include:

  • Suspected child abuse or dependant adult or elder abuse. The provider is required to report this to the appropriate authorities immediately.
  • If a client is threatening serious bodily harm to another person. The provider is required to notify the police.
  • If a client intends to harm himself or herself. The provider will make every effort to work with the individual to ensure their safety. However, if an individual does not cooperate, additional measures may need to be taken.