Psychiatric Services

Psychiatric Assessment

Also called the biopsychosocial or psychiatric assessment, gathers information to diagnose any mental disorder that the person may have; it is the first step in treating a diagnosed disorder. The process typically starts with a chief complaint or presenting problem—this is usually what prompts the person to seek help. Once complete, the assessment will help establish either a tentative or definitive diagnosis.The psychological assessment is an effective and accepted diagnostic tool It is a structured interview that has several parts:

• identifying information
• chief complaint (presenting problem)
• history of present illness
• past medical and psychological history
• personal history
• family history
• substance abuse history
• mental status examination (MSE)

Medication Management

The decision to use medication in addressing behavioral and emotional issues is a family decision taking into account both risks and benefits, and made in consultation with a certified psychiatrist. A face-to-face assessment occurs between the child/family and a Board Certified Psychiatrist to evaluate the need for medication, prescribe as necessary, and provide ongoing medication management for children and adolescents.