When changes in mood, behavior, concentration, sleep, or emotional functioning begin to interfere with school, work, relationships, or everyday responsibilities, it can be difficult to know what type of mental health support is appropriate. Psychiatric evaluation and assessment provide a clinical starting point for understanding what a person is experiencing, identifying relevant symptoms and diagnostic considerations, and determining whether psychiatric treatment may be appropriate. This service may be used by children, adolescents, and adults in Maryland experiencing concerns such as depression, anxiety, ADHD symptoms, mood changes, trauma-related symptoms, or other behavioral health concerns.
How It Works
The evaluation focuses on understanding the person’s current concerns and the clinical factors that may be relevant to treatment:
- Review of the current symptoms and concerns that prompted the individual or family to seek psychiatric care
- Discussion of relevant mental health, medical, personal, and psychosocial history
- Assessment of how symptoms may be affecting school, work, relationships, behavior, sleep, or daily functioning
- Psychiatric diagnostic assessment to consider whether symptoms are consistent with a particular mental health condition
- Psychiatric medication evaluation when medication may be considered as part of treatment
- Discussion of appropriate treatment options based on the information gathered during the evaluation
What to Expect
A psychiatric evaluation is a clinical conversation in which the provider gathers information about what the client has been experiencing and considers the broader context surrounding those concerns. For a child or adolescent, relevant information may also involve concerns observed at home or school, while adults may discuss changes affecting work, relationships, or other areas of functioning. After reviewing the available information, the provider can discuss diagnostic considerations and appropriate next steps, which may include ongoing psychiatric care, therapy, medication management, or referral when appropriate.
Take A Step Toward Mental Health Care
Contact us to discuss the concerns you or your loved one may be experiencing. A conversation about your symptoms and circumstances can help clarify whether mental health services may be appropriate for your needs.