Navigating your mental health needs can be challenging. However, if you understand how a psychiatric evaluation works, you get some clarity and direction. At Apex Psychiatry, we offer a range of mental health evaluations to meet the various needs of children, adolescents, and adults. Our approach is evidence-based, holistic, and tailored to each individual.
Here is more on what our telehealth psychiatric evaluations involve.
What Is a Mental Evaluation
A mental evaluation is an assessment of a person’s mental health. It is conducted by a qualified and experienced healthcare provider, such as a psychiatrist or psychologist.
The mental health evaluation helps your provider diagnose and treat conditions such as:
- Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
- Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)
- Depression
- Anxiety disorders, such as Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD), Social Phobia, and Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD)
- Mood problems, such as Bipolar 1 and 2
The evaluation typically involves a combination of methods, including interviews, questionnaires, and psychological testing. Some patients also may undergo imaging assessments and lab work, such as blood tests, as the provider deems appropriate and necessary.
These mental evaluations give both the provider and the patient a clearer understanding of an individual’s concerns. The end result is an accurate diagnosis and a treatment plan to manage symptoms and to create ways to a happier, fulfilled life.
Types of Mental Evaluations
There are different types of mental evaluations depending on the specific needs and concerns of the individual. Some common types include the following.
Diagnostic Evaluation
This type of evaluation involves a comprehensive assessment of the individual’s symptoms, medical history and any other relevant information.
Neuropsychological Evaluation
This type of evaluation assesses cognitive function. In other words, how the person processes information, remembers, plans, and more. This evaluation reveals how thinking may be changed by mental health disorders or neurological differences.
Psychoeducational Evaluation
This type of evaluation is commonly used for children and adolescents to assess their academic abilities. It can identify any learning disabilities or developmental delays.
Other types of evaluations may focus on specific areas such as personality, experience of trauma, or substance abuse.
The Process of a Mental Evaluation
The process of a mental evaluation varies depending on the provider and the specific needs of the individual. However, in general, you can expect the following steps.
Initial Consultation
During your first consultation, you will meet with the mental healthcare provider for a discussion about your concerns and symptoms.
Assessment
The provider will conduct a comprehensive assessment, which may include interviews, questionnaires, and psychological testing.
Diagnosis
Based on the assessment, the provider will make a diagnosis of any mental health conditions which may be present.
Treatment Plan
After the diagnosis, the provider will work with you to create a treatment plan that best fits your unique needs and desired goals.
Follow-up
Regular follow-up appointments may be scheduled to monitor progress and make adjustments to the treatment plan as needed.
It’s important to note that the evaluation process can take time. It may require multiple appointments. This ensures a thorough and accurate understanding of an individual’s mental health needs.
Key Mental Evaluations
At Apex Psychiatry, we conduct a wide range of mental health evaluations. They are done confidentially, especially in a calm, non-judgmental way, which fosters trust and confidence. Here are just some of the evaluations we conduct through our telehealth services.
ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder)
ADHD evaluations focus on identifying patterns of poor focus, hyperactivity, and impulsivity, which interfere with daily function and relationships. The assessment involves a detailed personal interview and input from friends and family. We explore how these behaviors affect relationships and work or school performance.
Anxiety
Anxiety evaluations reveal the nature of an individual’s fears and worries. We discuss the frequency and intensity of anxiety symptoms, what may trigger them and how they impact daily activities. Understanding the patient’s coping mechanisms is very important as well.
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)
An ASD evaluation examines social interactions, communication skills and repetitive behaviors. Through interviews and behavioral observations, we assess how these characteristics influence the individual’s life.
Depression
Evaluations for depression explore mood changes, sleep patterns, appetite and daily function. By discussing feelings of sadness or hopelessness, we can identify depression’s impact on personal and professional life. Assessing risk factors, such as substance abuse and suicidal thoughts, is a part of the process.
Mood Disorders
Mood disorder evaluations examine episodes of mania or depression and mood swings. We investigate how they affect interpersonal relationships and day-to-day functioning. The goal is to determine the best approach for managing symptoms through medications, therapies, or optimally.
ADHD Evaluation in Virginia and North Carolina
At Apex Psychiatry, our telehealth practice offers mental health services to residents of Virginia and North Carolina. Led by Dr. Madhav Muppa, our compassionate team assists with medication management, therapy, and health and wellness coaching. Our approach focuses on the whole person–emotionally, physically, and mentally.
To learn more about our services or to schedule a consultation, call us today at (540) 906-2739 or complete our secure appointment request form.
Your mental health matters. Reach out to Apex Psychiatry today and start on the path of healing and understanding.
