Mental health disorders are complex, and it can be difficult to diagnose them accurately without professional help. For this reason, it’s essential to seek a qualified mental health professional if you are experiencing symptoms of a mental health disorder. The professional will most likely conduct a diagnostic evaluation before offering a treatment plan.
Diagnostic evaluations aim to determine whether the person meets the criteria for a specific mental health disorder. The evaluation process helps to ensure that people receive an accurate diagnosis and get the treatment they need.
Let’s look at what the evaluation process entails:
First Steps: Initial Interview And Complete History
During your initial visit, the professional will likely ask questions about your medical history and current symptoms. In this meeting, you should let the mental health professional know about any chronic conditions you have and any medications or supplements you’re currently taking.
Sometimes, they may order tests or refer you to a specialist for further evaluation. No matter what, it is essential to be honest with your mental health professional and openly share any relevant information. Doing so can ensure that you receive the best possible care.
What Is Involved In A Formal Evaluation?
Formal evaluation usually consists of tests and measures administered by a qualified professional, such as a psychologist or psychiatrist. These tests can help to assess a person’s intellectual functioning, memory, attention, and other cognitive abilities.
In addition, formal evaluations often include interviews with the person being evaluated and with family members or others who know the individual well. These interviews aim to gather information about the person’s symptoms, their severity, and how they have affected the individual’s life.
Further Testing
After the formal evaluation, mental health professionals will use the information gathered during the assessment to make a diagnosis and develop a customized treatment plan.
The provider may refine the diagnosis based on new information if you have already been diagnosed with a mental health condition. In some cases, additional testing may be needed to rule out other conditions or to get a more accurate diagnosis.
For example, you may need to complete a psychological evaluation or undergo a brain scan. Although it can be frustrating to have to undergo more testing, it is essential to remember that the goal is to ensure that you receive the best possible care.
With the proper diagnosis, you can begin treatment and start feeling better.
Get In Touch With A Telehealth Service Provider In Dallas, TX!
ZIKS Health Services is a Dallas, TX-based mental health services provider. Our psychotherapy and lifestyle coaching services can help you develop healthy patterns to manage different mental illnesses. We also offer diagnostic, cognitive, and psychiatric evaluations and medication management services.
Contact us to learn more about our services.