A psychiatric evaluation is where good care starts. It's a focused conversation with a board-certified psychiatric provider about what you've been experiencing, how long it's been going on, and how it's affecting your life. You leave with a clear diagnosis when one fits, an explanation in plain language, and a plan.
At Mind & Metabolism, evaluations are done by our board-certified psychiatric providers, including Elizabeth Calfos, DNP, PMHNP-BC, by secure video anywhere in Washington State or in person at our Lakewood office when appointments are available.
Who a psychiatric evaluation is for
Adults who are dealing with depression, anxiety or panic, ADHD symptoms, mood swings, trauma, trouble sleeping, obsessive thoughts, or symptoms that just don't add up. It's also a good fit if you've been on medication that isn't working and want a fresh, thorough look. We see teens and adults, ages 13 and up.
What happens during the evaluation
- Your story. Current symptoms, when they started, and what makes them better or worse.
- Your history. Past mental health care, medications you've tried, medical conditions, family history, sleep, substance use, and stressors.
- Whole-person factors. Physical and metabolic health can affect mood, focus, and energy, so we look at those too.
- Screening tools. Standard, validated questionnaires when they help clarify the picture.
- Diagnosis and plan. What's going on, your treatment options, and what happens next.
Plan on about an hour. Follow-up visits are shorter.
After your evaluation
If medication is a good option, we'll talk through choices, benefits, and side effects before anything is prescribed, and you'll move into ongoing medication management. If something else would serve you better, like labs through your primary care provider or a referral for therapy elsewhere, we'll tell you directly.
If you are in crisis or thinking about harming yourself, call or text 988 (Suicide and Crisis Lifeline) or call 911. We are an outpatient practice and can't provide emergency care.
How to prepare
- A list of current medications and doses, plus past medications you've tried
- Your insurance card
- A private, quiet space with a good connection if you're joining by video
- Any notes on what you want help with most
Frequently asked questions
How long is a psychiatric evaluation?
Most first evaluations take about an hour. Follow-up visits are shorter.
Can a psychiatric evaluation be done by telehealth in Washington?
Yes. We do evaluations by secure video for patients located anywhere in Washington State at the time of the visit.
Do I need a referral?
Usually not. Some insurance plans require one, so check your plan or call us and we'll help verify.
Is a psychiatric evaluation covered by insurance?
Most major plans cover psychiatric evaluations. See our accepted insurance and we'll verify your benefits before your visit.
Ready to get started?
Fill out a short online intake and our team will reach out to schedule. Telehealth anywhere in Washington State. Most major insurance accepted.
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