What Happens During Your First Session With a Psychiatrist?

My name is Dr. Mills and I am a psychiatrist in CA with my own private practice called Freedom Psychiatry, because Mental Health is FREEDOM! My practice focuses on achieving mental wellness using medication, nutrition, and lifestyle changes. I will be posting blogs/videos on a regular basis that answer common mental health questions.

People often wonder what goes on in your first session with a psychiatrist. With mental health stigma, many people do not even talk about mental illness, let alone tell their friends they recently went to a psychiatrist. So, what happens during your first session with a psychiatrist?

First, I want to note that it is common for people to have fear about going to the doctor, especially a psychiatrist due to some horrible history that our field carries. I want to assure you that a modern psychiatrist’s office should feel like a safe space to share your concerns and that we are here to listen and help.

The first appointment with a psychiatrist is generally longer than the subsequent appointments and is about one hour to 90 minutes long. The session will either be in person in an office or virtually via video call.

The psychiatrist will listen to your current concerns with your mental health and ask clarifying questions. The psychiatrist will also ask about your past psychiatric and medical history, illnesses in your family, tobacco/alcohol/drug use, your current stressors and living situation. The conversation will also include a safety check that includes the psychiatrist asking you if you are having thoughts of wanting to harm yourself or others.

All questions, including the safety check, are asked without judgment and are a basis to better understand you as a person and how to assist you.

After the assessment, the psychiatrist will share with you their thoughts of any diagnoses and their recommendations for treatment. Any complete treatment plan should include options for medication if recommended, laboratory tests if required, talk therapy if recommended, and behavioral modifications. My practice also includes nutrition recommendations if the patient is interested. The psychiatrist will also have time set aside for you to ask questions.

If you would like me to be your treating psychiatrist, please click on the “Contact” button and schedule your free 15min consultation with me, Dr. Mills. 

And, FYI, my practice has the advantage of longer appointments and shorter wait times for said appointments because I do not take as many patients as other psychiatrists. So, make sure you get your slot before they run out!

Thanks for listening and have a great week. Remember, Mental Health is FREEDOM!