Our services
Psychiatric Evaluation & Diagnosis
Thoughtful evaluation. Clear diagnosis. A real plan, not a label.
What a psychiatric evaluation actually is
An evaluation is the first step in understanding what’s going on — and what to do about it. At The Psychiatric Center, evaluations are structured but conversational. We’re not just checking boxes; we’re building a full picture of your symptoms, strengths, history, and what matters to you.
Most evaluations are 60 minutes. Occasionally a complex case needs a second visit. You’ll leave with a working diagnosis (when one is appropriate), a clear plan, and concrete next steps — whether that’s medication, therapy, both, or further assessment.
If you’re not sure what you’re experiencing fits a diagnosis, that’s okay. We’re here to help you figure it out, not to label you.
Common questions before an evaluation
An initial evaluation is a big step. Here’s what people most often want to know before they come in.
How long is the first appointment?
Most initial evaluations are 60 minutes. Complex cases may need a second visit, which we’ll schedule together if needed.
Do I need to prepare anything?
If you have past records, a current medication list, or prior testing summaries, bring them — they help us move faster. But if you don’t, that’s fine; we’ll work from where we are.
Will I leave with a diagnosis?
Often yes — when it’s clinically appropriate. But we prioritize accuracy over speed. Some pictures take a couple of visits and screening tools to clarify, and rushing a diagnosis isn’t in your interest.
Can you evaluate me for ADHD or trauma?
Yes. Our team has experience with both straightforward and complex diagnostic questions, including conditions that often overlap or get misdiagnosed.
What happens after the evaluation?
Some patients leave with a prescription and a follow-up. Others get a therapy referral. Many do both. We’ll explain what we recommend and why, and you’ll have time to ask questions.
Who performs the evaluation
- Board-certified psychiatrists
- Psychiatric nurse practitioners
- Psychiatric residents, supervised by Dr. Sarah Graff
Related services
Our approach
What to expect, step by step
01
Initial intake
Before your visit we’ll gather basic history and goals so the appointment time is spent on what matters most.
02
Clinical interview
A structured but supportive conversation with a licensed provider, covering symptoms, history, family, medical context, and what you’re hoping to address.
03
Optional tools
When useful, we use psychological screeners, request past records, or coordinate with outside providers to fill in the picture.
04
Feedback & plan
We talk through what we’re seeing, share a working diagnosis if appropriate, and outline treatment options — medication, therapy, referrals, or some combination.
Conditions we evaluate
We evaluate and treat a wide range of conditions, including depression, anxiety disorders, ADHD, bipolar disorder, PTSD, OCD, postpartum mood disorders, grief and complicated bereavement, and more.
For the full list, see Conditions We Treat. If you’re not sure where your situation fits, call us — we’ll help you figure out whether we’re the right starting point.
Insurance & coverage
We accept most major insurances and are in-network with the Emory Healthcare Network. When you call to schedule, we’ll verify your specific benefits and walk you through what to expect.
For a detailed list of accepted plans, see our FAQ page.
Ready to schedule an evaluation?
Call us to get started. New evaluations are typically available within one to two weeks. Existing patients can manage appointments through the patient portal.