Navigating the First Psychiatric Appointment: What to Expect and How to Prepare

Author – Megan Cornillie, PA-C

Starting your journey toward better mental health can feel overwhelming, especially if it’s your first time seeing a psychiatrist. At Principium Psychiatry, we understand that taking the first step can be both empowering and intimidating. This blog aims to demystify the experience of your initial psychiatric appointment by explaining what to expect and offering practical tips to help you prepare. Whether you’re seeking care for yourself or a loved one, our goal is to provide compassionate, expert guidance to ensure your transition into treatment is as smooth and stress-free as possible.

Why See a Psychiatrist? 

Psychiatrists are medical doctors specializing in mental health. They are trained to diagnose, treat, and prevent mental illnesses. Unlike psychologists or counselors, psychiatrists can prescribe medications, making them a crucial part of treatment plans that involve medication management. They also work closely with therapists and primary care providers to ensure a holistic approach to mental health care. You might be referred to a psychiatrist by your primary care provider, or you may have sought one out on your own because you feel that medication or specialized treatment is necessary. 

What to Expect at Your First Psychiatric Appointment 

Your first appointment will likely be longer than future visits. This initial evaluation, known as a psychiatric intake or assessment, typically lasts between 60 to 90 minutes. The goal is for the psychiatrist to gather a comprehensive understanding of your mental and physical health, life history, and any symptoms you are experiencing. 

Here’s a breakdown of what usually happens: 

1. Initial Intake Process: Before meeting with the psychiatrist, you may need to fill out paperwork or questionnaires. These might ask about your personal and family medical history, current medications, and mental health concerns. Be as thorough and honest as possible; this information helps the psychiatrist get a complete picture of your overall health. Some psychiatric practices may send this paperwork in advance so that you can complete it before your appointment. Others may use online platforms for data entry. Be sure to set aside time to fill these forms out carefully. 
2. Discussion of Symptoms and History: Once you’re with the psychiatrist, they will likely start by asking why you’ve decided to seek treatment. 

Be prepared to discuss: 

• Current symptoms: Describe your symptoms in as much detail as possible. How long have you been feeling this way? Are the symptoms constant, or do they come and go? What triggers them? You can discuss mental and physical symptoms (such as difficulty concentrating, sleeping, or changes in appetite). 
• Mental health history: Your psychiatrist will want to know if you’ve ever experienced similar symptoms in the past and how they were treated. If you’ve previously been diagnosed with a mental health condition, this information will be especially important. 
• Medical history: Mental health is closely linked to physical health, so your psychiatrist may ask about any chronic illnesses, surgeries, or current medications.
• Family history: Many mental health conditions have genetic components. If your family members have struggled with mental health issues, be sure to mention it. Even if you don’t know specific diagnoses, it’s helpful to share any concerns.
• Lifestyle factors: Your psychiatrist may ask about your daily routine, work or school life, social support network, and any substance use (alcohol, drugs, or nicotine). These can all influence mental health and treatment options. 

1. Mental Health Screening Tools: In addition to asking you about your symptoms, your psychiatrist may use screening tools to assess for specific conditions. These could include questionnaires or scales for conditions such as depression, anxiety, PTSD, or ADHD. Some of these tests may be conducted during the appointment, while others might be sent home for completion. 
2. Diagnosis and Treatment Discussion: After reviewing your history, symptoms, and any screening results, the psychiatrist may offer a preliminary diagnosis. Keep in mind that mental health conditions can be complex, and diagnoses may evolve over time as your treatment progresses. 

Once a diagnosis is discussed, your psychiatrist will present treatment options, which may include:

• Medications: If medication is part of your treatment plan, the psychiatrist will explain the options, including potential side effects and how long it might take to notice improvements. 
• Therapy referrals: Depending on your diagnosis, your psychiatrist might suggest psychotherapy (talk therapy) alongside medication. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), and trauma-focused therapy are common approaches. 
• Lifestyle changes: Your psychiatrist may recommend changes in diet, exercise, sleep, or stress management techniques that can positively impact your mental health. 
• Alternative treatments: If appropriate, other treatments such as Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) or ketamine therapy may be discussed for conditions like depression that have not responded to traditional medications. 

How to Prepare for Your First Appointment 

Being well-prepared for your first psychiatric appointment can help both you and your psychiatrist make the most of your time together. Here are some ways to prepare: 

1. Gather Medical Records and a Medication List: If you’ve been treated for mental health conditions in the past or have a complicated medical history, try to gather any relevant records. This can include past diagnoses, medications you’ve taken, and any past psychotherapy treatments. A detailed list of medications and dosages (both current and past) is helpful as well. 
2. Prepare a Symptom Diary: Leading up to your appointment, consider keeping a journal of your symptoms. Note when they occur, how intense they are, what seems to trigger them, and how long they last. This detailed information can provide valuable insights for your psychiatrist. 
3. Bring Questions: It’s common to have questions or concerns about your diagnosis, medications, or treatment options. Write them down beforehand so you don’t forget to ask during the appointment. 

Common questions might include: 

• What are the potential side effects of the medication? 
• How long will it take to feel better? 
• What are the alternatives if this treatment doesn’t work? 

1. Mental Health Support System: It can be helpful to have a trusted friend or family member accompany you to the appointment for support. They can help remember information, provide insights into your symptoms, and offer emotional support during the process. 

Final Thoughts 

Taking the first step toward mental wellness is a courageous and important decision, and understanding what to expect can make the process smoother and more empowering. At Principium Psychiatry, we are dedicated to providing a welcoming, supportive environment tailored to your individual needs. Whether you’re exploring innovative treatments like TMS or ketamine, or seeking expert medication management, we’re here to guide you every step of the way. With convenient locations in Midtown Manhattan/Grand Central (110 E 42nd St, NY, NY 10017), Downtown Manhattan/Financial District (26 Broadway, NY, NY 10004), Greenwich, Connecticut (4 Dearfield Drive) and Santa Monica, CA (2222 Santa Monica Blvd), Principium Psychiatry makes quality mental health care accessible. Let us help you take the first step with confidence.