What Is a Psychiatric Evaluation?
A psychiatric evaluation is a thorough assessment by a licensed psychiatric provider to understand your mental health, arrive at an accurate diagnosis, and build a treatment plan. It is different from a therapy session. We are looking at the clinical picture -- symptoms, history, family history, medications, and how your daily life is being affected.
Think of it as the starting point. You cannot treat what you have not diagnosed. And a lot of people have been dealing with symptoms for years without ever getting a clear answer about what is going on.
What We Evaluate
We assess for a wide range of psychiatric conditions including ADHD, generalized anxiety disorder, social anxiety, panic disorder, major depression, bipolar disorder, PTSD, OCD, PMDD, insomnia, and more. Many patients come in thinking they have one condition and leave with a clearer -- and sometimes different -- understanding of what is driving their symptoms.
We also review any medications you are currently taking, medical conditions that might be contributing to your symptoms, and previous treatment experiences.
What to Expect
Plan for 45-60 minutes for your first evaluation. We will ask a lot of questions -- not to judge, but to get the full picture. Bring your insurance card, a photo ID, and a list of current medications. Previous records from other providers are helpful but not required.
By the end of your visit, you will have a diagnosis (or a plan to confirm one), a treatment recommendation, and a clear next step. We do not make you wait weeks to start feeling better.
Insurance and Payment
Psychiatric evaluations are covered by most insurance plans. We accept Blue Cross Blue Shield of Arizona, Aetna, Cigna, UnitedHealthcare, and AHCCCS. Cash pay is available if you prefer.
When to Schedule an Evaluation
If your mood, focus, sleep, or daily function has been off and you do not know why -- get evaluated. If you have been prescribed medication by a primary care doctor and it is not working -- get evaluated by a psychiatry specialist. If your child is struggling and nobody can figure out why -- get them evaluated. Stop guessing. Get answers.