What to Expect at Your First Psychiatric Evaluation

A first psychiatric visit can feel like a big step. Here's how a new-patient evaluation works at Still Waters Psychiatry, in person in Longwood and Clermont, FL, or by telehealth anywhere in Florida.

Book an Evaluation

90 min

Your first evaluation takes about 90 minutes, in person or by telehealth.

Root Cause

Our evaluation is helpful in figuring out the root cause of your symptoms.

You leave with a clear plan, made together with your provider.

Medication is one option, not a requirement

Before your visit

Paperwork: you'll receive your intake packet by email with a secure link. Please complete it before the visit.

Bring: Photo ID and insurance card are submitted in the intake packet. You can bring in any other collateral information you feel is important to you to share. Otherwise, not required.

Telehealth: be somewhere in Florida, in a private, quiet spot, on a phone or computer with a camera. Join a few minutes early to test your connection.

Write down your main concerns and questions so nothing gets missed.

During the evaluation (about 90 minutes)

Your provider will ask about:

• What brings you in, and how long it's been going on

• Mood, sleep, appetite, energy, focus and stress

• Past treatment and medications, including what helped and what didn't

• Medical history and current health

• Family history of mental health conditions

• Alcohol, cannabis and other substance use (asked of everyone, without judgment)

• Safety, work, school, relationships and your goals

You may also fill out short questionnaires, such as screening forms for depression, anxiety or ADHD.

At the end of the visit

Your provider will explain what they think is going on, including a diagnosis when there's enough information, and talk through options. A plan may include:

• Medication, with an explanation of benefits and side effects

• Lab work, if it's needed to choose or monitor a medication and to evaluate for any medical conditions.

• Therapy or other referrals

• A follow-up visit

You decide on the plan together. It's fine to ask for time to think.

After the first visit

Follow-up visits take 20 to 30 minutes. Early on, they're usually closer together so we can see how treatment is working. Later, they're spaced out as things stabilize.

Cost

With insurance: your usual specialist copay or coinsurance applies. We accept most major plans and Medicare, but not Medicaid.

Self-pay: $225 for the evaluation and $90 for each follow-up.

For children and teens

A parent or legal guardian attends the evaluation with any patient under 18. See our Child & Adolescent Psychiatry page for more about care for kids and teens.

Common questions

How long is the first appointment? About 90 minutes.

Will I get a prescription at the first visit? It depends on what the evaluation shows and what you decide together.

Can I bring someone with me? Yes. A family member or support person can join for part or all of the visit if you'd like.

Can the evaluation be by telehealth? Yes, anywhere in Florida.

Getting started

Book online or call (407) 974-6539. Se habla español.