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Struggling or in crisis? Call or text 988 any time. In an emergency, call 911.

Psychiatric evaluation

A thorough first assessment that ends with a clear explanation and a plan.
  • In person in West Orange
  • Video visits across New Jersey
  • Insurance checked before your visit

What to expect

  1. We listen to your story

    What brought you in, how long it has been going on, what you have tried and what you want to change.

  2. We look at the whole picture

    Medical history, medicines, sleep, substance use, family history, school or work, and the people who support you.

  3. We use standard screening tools

    Short questionnaires such as the PHQ-9 for depression and the GAD-7 for anxiety give a baseline we can track over time.

  4. We agree on a plan

    You leave with an explanation in plain language, treatment options, and what happens next.

Good to know

More about psychiatric evaluation

Good treatment starts with understanding what is actually going on. A psychiatric evaluation brings together your symptoms, history, health and goals so we can explain what we think is happening and what can help.

Evaluations include screening questionnaires and, when needed, diagnostic testing or lab work to rule out medical causes such as thyroid problems, sleep disorders or medication side effects.

Bringing records helps

If you have seen other clinicians, bring a list of past diagnoses and medicines, including what did not work. Hospital discharge papers, school reports and therapy summaries are useful too. You can also ask those offices to fax records to us before your visit.

Common questions

How long is a first evaluation?

A first evaluation is longer than a follow-up visit so there is time to cover your history. We confirm the expected length when you book.

Will I get a diagnosis at the first visit?

Often, yes. Sometimes we need more information, such as rating forms from a teacher or lab results, before we are confident. We will tell you what we think and what we still need.

Can a family member come with me?

Yes. Many patients find it helpful, and for children a parent or guardian takes part. Adults decide what they want family to hear.

Conditions treated with this service

Questions about psychiatric evaluation?

Book online in a couple of minutes, or call the office and we will help you find a time. In-person and telehealth visits are available.

Need help right now? Call or text 988 for the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, free and available 24 hours a day.

988Crisis: call the Suicide and Crisis LifelineCall officeBook online