LifeNet Psychiatry Services

Psychiatric Evaluations

A psychiatric evaluation is a comprehensive assessment of a person's mental and emotional health. The goal of a psychiatric evaluation is to gather information about a person's current and past psychological symptoms, medical history, social support system, and other relevant factors to help diagnose mental health disorders or conditions and develop an appropriate treatment plan.

During a psychiatric evaluation, the mental health professional will typically conduct a detailed interview with the individual to gather information about their personal and medical history, including their family history of mental illness, substance abuse, and other relevant factors. The mental health professional may also administer standardized psychological tests to assess the persons cognitive abilities, emotional functioning, and symptoms of mental illness.

The evaluation may include a physical exam to assess the individuals overall health and to rule out any underlying medical conditions that may be contributing to their symptoms. The mental health professional may also consult with other healthcare professionals, such as primary care physicians or specialists, to gather additional information about the persons medical history.

The results of the evaluation are used to develop a diagnosis and treatment plan tailored to the individuals specific needs. This may include medication management, psychotherapy, and other supportive services.

Overall, a psychiatric evaluation is an important tool in identifying and treating mental health conditions, helping individuals to improve their overall well-being and quality of life.

Psychiatric Medication Management

Patients do not respond to psychiatric medications the same way as they might to other medications. The time it takes for the patient to experience results may vary from patient to patient. Most patients begin to see results after several weeks of treatment. Due to this variation, LifeNet Psychiatry closely monitors your treatment and provides you with the education needed to know what to expect.

At LifeNet Psychiatry, our approach to psychiatric medication management features a balance of the following:

• Ongoing conversations about your mental health care needs, goals, and treatment options.
• The selection of medication, based on both potential benefits and possible side effects.
• Patient education focusing on the specific medication, alternative options, and what to expect.
• A personalized plan for an ideal starting dose and medication schedule.
• The development of a specific treatment plan that features a trial period to determine the efficacy.
• A plan for monitoring the medication dose as needed or tapering off the dosage if needed.
• Follow up visits for ongoing monitoring.

Tele-Medicine

LifeNet Psychiatry brings mental health treatment to your home using a HIPPA secure video conferencing platform for our established patients. Tele-medicine sessions allow you to see our mental health care professionals via a video connection, using your computer or smartphone. Our Practitioners use e-prescribing, which allows us to seamlessly send prescriptions to your local pharmacy.

Genetic Testing

Genetic Testing is a pharmacogenomic test that analyzes how your genes may affect medication outcomes and performed by GeneSight. The GeneSight test analyzes clinically important genetic variations in your DNA. Results can inform your doctor about how you may break down or respond to certain medications commonly prescribed to treat mental health disorders. The test is a simple cheek swab taken in your practitioner’s office.

For more information on GeneSight genetic testing, visit www.genesight.com