What to Expect at the First Appointment with a Psychiatrist

The decision to seek professional help for mental health concerns can be difficult and taking the first step towards seeing a psychiatrist can be daunting. Many people are unsure of what to expect during their initial visit with a new psychiatrist. This can add to their anxiety, apprehension and can delay them getting the help that they need. 

In this article, we will discuss what the first visit to a psychiatrist at Mental Health and Wellness Associates is typically like, what you can expect, and what you should keep in mind to make the most of your appointment.

The first visit with your psychiatrist is a comprehensive psychiatric evaluation. This appointment is an opportunity for the psychiatrist to gather information about your current and past mental health, your medical history, development and social histories, family history, substance use and any medications you may be taking. This is also an opportunity for you to discuss your symptoms, concerns, and goals for treatment. Typically, this first appointment is an hour long. 

Before the appointment, you will be asked to complete a new patient questionnaire to provide information about your symptoms and medical history. This information will help the psychiatrist to get a better understanding of your concerns and will help to optimize the time during your appointment to be focused on helping you to best reach your treatment goals.

During the appointment, the psychiatrist will ask you questions about your symptoms, such as when they started, how they impact your daily life, and whether they have gotten worse over time. The psychiatrist may also ask about any past experiences with mental health treatment, including therapy or medication. The psychiatrist will ask about your personal and family medical history, as certain mental health conditions may have a genetic component and this understanding can help to individualize and optimize your care.

It is important to be open and honest with your psychiatrist during this evaluation. This means discussing even the uncomfortable or embarrassing symptoms, as well as any concerns you may have about treatment. It is also important to remember that the psychiatrist is there to help you and provide you with the best possible care, so the more information you can provide, the better equipped they will be to develop an appropriate treatment plan.

At the end of the evaluation, the psychiatrist will discuss their initial impressions with you, which may include a diagnosis and treatment recommendations. Treatment recommendations could include a combination of therapy and/or medication. We encourage you to ask any questions you may have about the diagnosis and treatment plan to ensure that you have a clear understanding of what to expect moving forward.

In some cases, your psychiatrist may order additional testing or evaluations before making a final diagnosis or treatment plan. This may include blood work, imaging tests, or referrals to other healthcare professionals.

It is important to keep in mind that the first visit to a psychiatrist is just the beginning of a collaborative treatment process. Mental health treatment often involves a combination of therapy and/or medication, and it may take some time to fine tune the right treatment plan for you. It's important to follow the treatment plan recommended by the psychiatrist and to attend any follow-up appointments to monitor progress and make adjustments as needed.

We know that the first visit to a psychiatrist can be a bit nerve-wracking, but it's an important step towards getting the help you need. Remember to be open and honest with the psychiatrist, ask any questions you may have, and keep an open mind about the treatment recommendations. With the right care and support, you can take control of your mental health and start feeling better.

If you live in the state of California and are looking for help, we would be happy to speak with you. If you are interested in becoming a new patient, please schedule a time to speak with our practice manager (using the "book online" button above) or call our office today.