IN-PERSON APPOINTMENTS IN ST. PETERSBURG & VIRTUAL APPOINTMENTS THROUGHOUT FLORIDA
Psychiatric Evaluations
Psychiatric Evaluation: A Goals-First Partnership
Seeking a psychiatric evaluation is a courageous step toward reclaiming control over your mental well-being. At our practice, we don't view this as a daunting clinical process, but as the foundational partnership where your expertise on your life meets our clinical expertise as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP).
Our commitment is simple: We listen first. The evaluation isn't just about a diagnosis; it's about crafting a personalized roadmap driven by your vision for wellness.
The Power of Your Goals
Mental health treatment is most effective when it is driven by what you hope to achieve. When we ask about your goals, we are defining the tangible outcomes recovery will bring.
What does "better" look like for you?
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Is your goal to read a book again without racing thoughts?
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Is it to attend social events without crippling anxiety?
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Is it to sleep soundly through the night?
Your answers become the north star of your treatment plan. Every recommendation, whether it’s medication management, therapy, or a lifestyle change, is mapped back to helping you safely achieve your defined objectives.
What to Expect in Your 60-Minute Evaluation
The initial evaluation is our longest appointment, lasting about 60 minutes, to ensure you feel truly heard. This thorough session is broken down into three main areas:
1. Preparation: Sharing Your Story
To make the most of our time, please prepare a brief overview of:
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The Timeline of Your Concern: When did your challenges begin, and how have they changed over time?
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Medication History: A complete list of all current and past prescriptions, including any supplements.
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Medical Context: Current medical conditions, recent lab work, and relevant family mental health history.
2. Inside the Session: The Detailed Conversation
We will move from your immediate distress to your broader life context. We discuss symptoms (your Chief Complaint), conduct a Mental Status Examination (MSE), and perform a non-judgmental Safety and Risk Assessment to ensure you are safe and supported.
3. The Treatment Blueprint: Your Personalized Plan
In this final phase, we use the clinical information to formulate a working diagnosis—a tool, not a label—and create your multi-modal treatment plan. This may include:
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Pharmacological Recommendations: A detailed discussion of any medication, its rationale, and a clear monitoring plan.
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Psychotherapy & Non-Pharmacological Strategies: Specific referrals for therapy (like CBT or DBT) and actionable lifestyle interventions (e.g., sleep hygiene).
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Follow-Up: Scheduling routine check-ins to monitor progress against your original, personal wellness goals.
