What to Expect During Your First Appointment With Our Psychiatrists

Your first appointment with a psychiatrist can be intimidating. It is a step towards seeking help for yourself and confronting the unknown. You may feel out of control, scared, and nervous. However, you do not need to worry. Knowing what to expect can help reduce your anxiety. Here is a list of what to expect during your first appointment with our psychiatrists, located in Scottsdale, AZ.

Medical History

Preparation is always essential before an appointment. Hence, come prepared to talk to your psychiatrist about your medical and psychiatric history. It always helps to bring a complete list of your medications or psychiatric medications you tried taking in the past. Remember to tell the psychiatrist how long you took them for. It is also essential to talk to them about any diagnoses or medical concerns you have.

Talk to the psychiatrist about your family history and if you have had mental health concerns in the past. Carrying a copy of the previous records can be very helpful.

Questions

During the session, the psychiatrist will ask you how you are doing or how they can help you. They may frame the question in different ways in an attempt to understand your reason for seeing them. Open-ended questions may make you nervous if you are unsure how or where to begin. Remain calm and know that they will guide and understand you. There is no wrong way to go about it. An excellent psychiatrist will make you comfortable and guide you as they ask you questions.

But if you want to prepare thoroughly for this first appointment, you can try to communicate your experience. Talk about the goals you aim to achieve through seeking treatment.

Different Emotions

Do not worry if you feel different emotions during the appointment. You may feel awkward or even cry. It is okay and normal. Discussing concerns and venturing into something you are unsure about is never easy.

Sharing your story and opening up can take a lot of courage and strength. As a result, you may feel emotionally exhausted, especially if you have not been open about your concerns and emotions for a long time.

Diagnosis

New patients often fill out some assessments and paperwork to help determine their diagnosis. Your psychiatrist will spend most of their time talking to you and understanding why you are seeking treatment. The information they gather during the session will help them to better address your concerns and work towards a diagnosis.

Treatment Plan

Most psychiatrists provide medication management. Thus, expect them to discuss the necessary treatment at the end of the session. Based on their evaluation and expertise, they will work on a treatment plan comprising different things.

Your treatment may entail a combination of therapies suitable to your health needs and medication options. The psychiatrist may give you the treatment and care you need or recommend that you see another healthcare professional. They will discuss the level of care you need extensively.

Many factors, such as your symptoms, also determine if you begin medication. You may have specific symptoms that need a prescription. You may also have to go through labs or procedures before any medication. Tests are necessary to rule out medical conditions that may cause your symptoms.

Ask any questions you may have about the diagnosis and treatment recommended. If you have any concerns, do not refrain from sharing them at the end of your session.

To find out more about scheduling an appointment with one of our psychiatrists, visit Choulet Wellness at our office in Scottdale, Arizona. Our office is conveniently located on North Scottsdale Rd, at the border of Paradise Valley and Scottsdale. Call (480) 448-6571 to book an appointment today.