Psychiatric Evaluation Q&A
Why is psychiatric evaluation so important?
Just as a thorough physical exam is an essential part of getting care for health issues, a psychiatric evaluation provides the foundation for outstanding mental, emotional, or behavioral health services. You can’t chart a course toward relief without achieving a comprehensive understanding of your current needs.
This is a highly personalized process, one that happens in partnership with your psychiatric professional. The nurse practitioners at Revival Psychiatry take pride in taking the time to perform a thorough assessment, one that includes your input and goals.
You’re welcome to include your spouse or other loved ones in this process. Having a second set of ears can be helpful in remembering the information provided during your evaluation. Of course, the decision to include anyone else in your treatment process is yours alone.
What steps are included in a psychiatric evaluation?
The process begins with a thorough diagnostic interview. This might take the form of a self-administered questionnaire or psychiatric interview. The providers also review your past and present medical records to gain a deeper understanding of your overall health as well as your treatment needs.
Very often, patients turn to Revival Psychiatry for medication management while they’re working with a therapist they know and trust. The nurse practitioners at Revival Psychiatry are happy to include your entire care team in your treatment planning. If you don’t have a therapist, in-house therapy is also available at Revival Psychiatry.
What can I do to prepare for psychiatric evaluation?
Taking the time to think about what you hope to achieve through psychiatric treatment is a good way to make the most of your psychiatric evaluation. Setting clear goals not only helps you take the helm of your journey, it also gives you a way to measure and chart your progress.
Of course, you should also prepare a complete list of your current medications, as well as an overview of your health history. Share the details of what seemed to provide relief in the past as well as those efforts that failed to yield improvement.
No matter your starting point, there is always hope on the horizon. Working with caring and compassionate providers at Revival Psychiatry is a great place to begin. When you’re ready to book a visit, call the office to schedule an appointment or use the online booking tool to find a time that works for you.
What is the purpose of medication management?
Medication management focuses on ensuring that your medications meet your current needs. That goal sounds simple, but understanding, assessing, and evaluating the interplay of various medicines is a complex process — one that requires a careful and experienced approach.
Your nurse practitioner begins by reviewing all of your medication, not just those designed to meet your psychiatric needs. Many medications for issues like hypertension, diabetes, or other chronic health conditions can cause adverse effects when combined with other drugs.
Dosage is also important. The dose you need at one point may differ from what you need at another, so ongoing medication management is an important part of your overall treatment plan.
How can I make the most of medication management visits?
It’s important to share the full details of your personal and family health history with all of your practitioners. This includes information on any health issues you’re being treated for, as well as a complete run-down of all medications and supplements you’re taking.
You should also be prepared to discuss how your medications seem to be working. If you’ve noticed improvements since beginning a medication, let your provider know. You should also share any problems you’re having or concerns that arise concerning your medications.
How long does it take to see results after medication changes?
Medication management should be an ongoing process for anyone who relies on drug therapy to manage health conditions. But if you’re concerned that these needs haven’t been met, schedule a visit at Revival Psychiatry.
It takes time for your body to respond to changes in your drug therapy. Be patient as your system adjusts and make note of any changes you experience.
The nurse practitioners at Revival Psychiatry are passionate about the role of proper medication management in improving quality of life. They also understands the risks involved when medications are not prescribed or taken improperly. You’ll have their full support and guidance as you find the right path forward.
Booking a medication management appointment is as easy as a quick phone call or a few moments on the online scheduling page. You can set up an in-person visit or book a telemedicine appointment.