On my forms, I also ask about your philosophy on medication. Some clients are cautious and prefer the lowest dose possible, while others are open to trying new options. Knowing this ahead of time helps me collaborate with you in building a treatment plan that feels right for you.
During the intake, I also cover key questions to provide a comprehensive evaluation, including:
Your medical and psychiatric history
Lifestyle factors like sleep, nutrition, exercise, and stress
Lab work (vitamin D, B12, magnesium, thyroid, and hormones can all affect mood)
DSM-5 diagnostic criteria for conditions such as depression, anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, OCD, and bipolar disorder
This thorough process helps us rule in the right diagnosis—and rule out others. For example, difficulty focusing could stem from depression, anxiety, PTSD, or ADHD. A proper diagnosis is essential to creating the right treatment plan.
