How to Prepare for Your Psychiatric Intake Appointment

So you made an appointment with a psychiatric provider. That's huge.

Now you're probably wondering what happens next. What will they ask? Should you bring anything? How does one ready themselves for their visit?

Your first intake appointment doesn't have to be scary. Let us walk you through it.

What's an Intake Appointment Anyway?

It is basically your first real conversation with your PMHNP or psychiatric provider. They want to know what's going on with you – symptoms, history, and what brought you in.

These appointments usually take longer than follow-up appointments because there's more ground to cover.

How to Prepare for a Psychiatric Appointment

There's no need for elaborate arrangements.

Get Your Health Info Ready

If you've got these things, toss them in a bag:

●        Your current meds (write the names down if you forget easily)

●        Your other doctor or NP’s contact information

●        Any old records from therapy or previous psychiatric visits

●        Recent lab work or test results

●        Medical conditions you're dealing with

Don't stress if you're missing any of this information. Just bring what you can find.

Track What's Happening With You

For a few days before you go, notice the following:

●        When do you feel bad?

●        What's it like when this happens?

●        Does anything trigger you?

●        How are your experiences affecting your life?

Write this down somewhere. You'll blank when you get there otherwise.

Be Ready to Talk About Your Past

They're going to ask about your background:

●        Does anyone in your immediate or extended family have known mental health concerns?

●        What's really going on in your life right now?

●        How are you sleeping and eating?

●        Do you drink, smoke, or use any other substances?

●        What's your energy level on most days of the week?

Just answer honestly. They're asking because it matters.

Know What You Want

Why are you going? What needs to change? Less anxiety? Better sleep?

Having some idea of what you want helps your provider know where to start.

The Day You Go

Show Up a Little Early

Get there maybe 10 minutes before your start time.

If you have questions about any of the intake paperwork, feel free to ask your PMHNP.  That's what they're there for!

What the Appointment’s Actually Like

Your provider will ask you questions. You answer them. You can ask questions back. Be real about what's happening. They need to know the truth to help you.

What They'll Want to Know

Anticipate inquiries regarding your mood, sleep patterns, nutritional intake, and concentration ability. They might ask about hard things, too, such as past trauma, relationships, and how you cope when life gets tough.

Some of it might feel uncomfortable; however, they are not being nosy for fun.  This information can help create an appropriate treatment plan for you.

What Happens After

Once all matters are covered, your medical professional will present their evaluation. They might propose helpful methods, perhaps involving prescriptions or changes to your daily habits, based on what suits your situation most.

Next, you will arrange a follow-up appointment to examine how you are doing.

Post-Intake: What Happens Next? Telehealth, Follow-Ups, and Care Continuity

The Real Deal

Listen, your first psychiatry appointment is one appointment. That's all. Getting better takes longer than that. Sometimes the first medication you try doesn't work, so you try something else.

At Serenity Health, we don't just prescribe medications and call it a day. We actually want to help you feel better. And we'll stick with you while we figure out what works.

Ready to Start?

Don't delay further. We are located in Carmel, and we acknowledge that this process can feel daunting; however, we'll navigate this together.

FAQs

What is the appointment duration?

Typically between sixty and ninety minutes. Sufficient time is needed for a thorough conversation.

Will I receive a diagnosis immediately?

Perhaps. Determining the precise issue might require more than one session.

What items should I bring?

Your insurance details, identification, a current medication registry, and any prior medical documentation you possess.

May I bring company?

Certainly, if that provides comfort. Invite anyone who will make attending easier for you.