Psychiatric Evaluation & Diagnosis

What is a Psychiatric Evaluation?

A psychiatric evaluation is the first step in understanding what’s going on — and how to help. At The Psychiatric Center, evaluations are structured but conversational, designed to give us a full picture of your symptoms, strengths, and life story.

We’ll talk through:

• Current challenges and symptoms
• Medical, psychiatric, and family history
• Past diagnoses and treatments
• Personal and social factors
• Goals, values, and what matters to you

You’ll leave your first or second visit with a working diagnosis (if appropriate), a clear plan, and next steps tailored to your needs.

Who Performs the Evaluation?

Evaluations are performed by:

• A board-certified psychiatrist
• A psychiatric nurse practitioner
• Or a psychiatric resident, directly supervised by Dr. Sarah Graff

Conditions We Evaluate and Treat

We assess for and treat a wide range of psychiatric conditions. Each links to a dedicated page (or can be built soon for SEO):

• Depression →
• Anxiety Disorders →
• Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) →
• Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) →
• Bipolar Disorder →
• ADHD →
• Personality Disorders →
• Psychosis & Schizophrenia Spectrum →
• Insomnia & Sleep Disorders →
• Adjustment Disorders →
• Grief & Loss →
• Substance Use Concerns →
• Gender-Affirming Mental Health Evaluations →

If you’re not sure what you’re experiencing fits a diagnosis — that’s okay. We’re here to help figure it out, not label you.

What to Expect

1. Initial Intake — gathering history and goals
2. Clinical Interview — structured but supportive conversation with a licensed provider
3. Optional tools — psychological screeners, past records, or outside provider input
4. Feedback & Plan — diagnosis (if appropriate), treatment options, referrals if needed

Some patients are referred for therapy, some for medication, many for both — we’ll help guide you.

FAQs – Psychiatric Evaluation

• How long is the first appointment?
  Most initial evaluations are 60 minutes. Occasionally a second visit is needed for complex cases.
• Do I need to prepare anything?
  If you have past records, a med list, or testing summaries — bring them. But it’s okay if you don’t.
• Will I get a diagnosis right away?
  Often, yes — but only when it’s clinically appropriate. We prioritize accuracy over speed.
• Can you evaluate me for ADHD or trauma?
  Yes. Our team has experience with both simple and complex diagnostic needs.