Frequently Asked Questions:

How do I know if I need medication? 
At the end our comprehensive initial visit, we will decide whether medication is recommended for you. For some diagnoses, medication is prescribed at the first visit. For others, it will require more than one visit to collect the information necessary to provide medication.  It is likely individual therapy or other complementary treatments will also be recommended.  The path may not always be linear and sometimes there are setbacks along the way, but the goal is to be moving forward.  Everyone has the ability to live a happy and healthy life and our mission to help you get there.  

What is the intake process?

A psychiatric intake process is the initial consultation with a mental health professional where we gather comprehensive information about your current mental health status, including symptoms, medical history, family background, and life stressors, to determine an appropriate diagnosis and treatment plan. Essentially, it's the first step in establishing care by collecting detailed personal information to understand your needs. Your first visits will focus on a careful assessment of your current concerns, past experiences, and future goals.

Can I come into the office for visits?

Telepsychiatry and in office visits are available. Most visits at our practice are conducted in person. Virtual visits are available when appropriate.

What is pharmacogenomic testing?

Psychopharmacogenomic testing is a cutting-edge approach in personalized medicine. It involves testing an individual's genetic makeup to predict how they might respond to various psychiatric medications. This test can help identify which medications are more likely to be effective and safe for the individual, minimizing the trial-and-error approach often associated with psychiatric medication prescriptions. It aids in reducing the risk of adverse drug reactions and can increase the effectiveness of treatment, thereby improving the patient's quality of life. I routinely order and interpret these types of tests. If you are interested in learning more about this type of testing, I encourage you to contact me.