There are many signs and symptoms that indicate when a psychiatric evaluation should be performed, and although these can vary from one person to the next, they typically include:

– Unexplained physical symptoms like stomachaches or headaches
– Suicidal thoughts
– Trouble with memory
– New or worsening mental health symptoms
– Others have expressed concern
– Current treatment is not working
– Mental confusion or hallucinations
– Trouble taking care of basic needs
– Social withdrawal
– Loss of desire to participate in activities
– Disconnected feelings
– Increased sensitivity
– Mood changes
– Unusual behavior
– Changes in sleep or appetite
– Irrational thinking
– Anxiety or paranoia

Psychiatric evaluations vary from person to person as well as from practice to practice, however they often include formal questionnaires, interviews, checklists, and observations to assess a person’s mental status. The type of psychiatric evaluation will depend on the patient’s individual needs and what the psychiatrist deems necessary. When determining the appropriate test, the psychiatrist will take into consideration an individual’s current symptoms, cognitive functioning, attitudes, and abilities. Common tests performed include:

Psychological Personality Test — Personality tests are used to diagnose a personality disorder by evaluating the attitudes, emotions, thoughts, and behavioral traits that contribute to one’s personality. These tests may include:
– Millon Pre-Adolescent Clinical Inventory (M-PACI)
– Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI)

Projective Test — A projective test involves having the patient share their interpretation after looking at ambiguous stimuli such as inkblots, pictures, or incomplete sentences. Their interpretation will provide insight into conscious or subconscious projections based on their thoughts, feelings, and themes. These tests may include:
– Rorschach (inkblot) Test
– Thematic Apperception Test (TAT)
– Sentence Completion Test
– House-Tree-Person Test

Neuropsychological Tests — Neuropsychological tests are used to determine an individual’s level of functioning that has suffered from a traumatic brain injury, brain damage, or organic neurological problems. These tests may include:
– Behavioral Assessment of Dysexecutive Syndrome (BADS)
– Rivermead Behavioral Memory Test
– Boston Diagnostic Aphasia Examination
– Kaplan Baycrest Neurocognitive Assessment (KBNA)
– Dean-Woodcock Neuropsychology Assessment System (DWNAS)

Each psychiatric evaluation is different, therefore the questions asked during the session will vary from patient to patient. However, psychiatric evaluations will address several different topics, including medical history, family history, lifestyle, mental status, and emotional disposition. The questions often involve:

– Introductory questions about the patient, including basic information such as their name, age, marital status, names of family contacts, and the reason for the appointment.
– Patient history questions, like medical history, current or past medications, childhood, school, and employment.
– Personal questions regarding social relationships, cultural background, formal religious beliefs, and any current or former use of drugs or alcohol.

Many insurance plans cover psychiatric evaluations, as these are considered essential healthcare services. However, not all plans, especially basic ones, provide coverage for mental health visits, so it is important to check with your insurance provider before scheduling an appointment.

Come to Psychiatry Unplugged today for a professional psychiatric evaluation. Our team of mental health professionals can help you understand your mental health, including your risk of developing a disorder and what you can do to improve your mental health. Call us today or book an appointment for a psychiatric evaluation, or visit our clinic conveniently located in Los Angeles CA, and Glendale CA. We serve patients from Los Angeles CA, Glendale CA, Beverly Hills CA, Santa Monica CA, Hollywood CA, Burbank CA, and Pasadena CA.