Admitting you need help with your mental health can be incredibly challenging—reaching out even more so. We hope you feel proud of yourself for doing so.
The idea of meeting with a psychiatrist can be intimidating and even anxiety-inducing. To help ease your fears, here’s what to expect on the first visit to a psychiatrist.
With virtual therapy becoming more accessible, people often decide whether they want in-person or telehealth psychiatry appointments. For some, being in the comfort of their home helps ease their nerves—especially for the first visit. For others, they prefer to be in person for a different environment.
Because both styles are equally effective, we’re proud to offer in-person and virtual appointments in Coconut Grove and Doral, FL. Our Brickell location offers virtual appointments.
Our telehealth system is secure and HIPAA compliant, so you don’t have to worry about your personal information being seen by the wrong people. Our offices offer a comfortable environment that offers a hospitable atmosphere—not a clinical one.
While it’s not necessary to bring anything with you, a little preparation can go a long way.
If you have access to your medical or psychiatric history (both for you and immediate family), that can help you fill out the paperwork involved in the first appointment.
You should also bring a list of medications you take, both past and present. You can include how long you took them and why you stopped taking them.
When you first meet with one of our psychiatrists, you’ll have an hour-long appointment to get to know each other. Typical questions asked include:
Please understand that there are no “wrong” answers to these questions. Your psychiatrist simply wants to understand your needs and determine a working diagnosis—a preliminary reason for your symptoms. This may change as they get to know you through more appointments.
This is meant to be the first step in working together to get you the treatment that suits you best.
If any questions are too triggering, you absolutely have the right to say that you aren’t ready to talk about that particular subject.
Do psychiatrists prescribe medication on the first visit? The answer depends on the practice, but we don’t.
When you come to Elevate Psychiatry, be assured we don’t simply treat your symptoms—we want to improve your overall health. Don’t be surprised if we ask for blood work or for you to get a physical.
We take a holistic view on mental health treatment, which includes your physical health.
This may mean we address some physical symptoms in addition to mental health symptoms. We may suggest medication and a lifestyle change, spend time talking with you as you untangle a variety of memories and feelings, and even suggest you work with other health professionals to ensure all aspects of your body are being cared for.
It’s whatever you need.
Together, the two of you will create a plan that works for you. As the treatment goes on, don’t hesitate to ask questions or for changes. Your treatment plan should be adaptable as your needs change. You are always part of decision-making.
We offer various treatment methods to ensure you receive a custom treatment plan to address your needs.
After your visit, you can schedule your follow-up appointments if you choose to. If you become a patient, you’ll gain access to our patient portal, which will make tracking and scheduling your appointments easier. You will also be able to send your psychiatrist messages if you have follow-up questions or medication concerns.
Our treatments are insurance-based, and we accept most insurances:
Please be aware that being listed here does not ensure coverage or confirm that the provider available will accept your insurance.
For payment, we accept:
Your first visit to a psychiatrist can be the first step in a life-changing journey, and we want to be part of that journey. We’ll work with you as a partner, allowing you to make decisions about your care from the first appointment.
Schedule an appointment to start your care and healing journey with Elevate Psychiatry today!
