A psychiatric evaluation, or psychiatric assessment, is a process of gathering information to diagnose any mental health condition a person may have. This evaluation is usually the first stage of a treatment process. The assessment includes a series of detailed interviews conducted by a psychiatric professional. These interviews are designed to obtain comprehensive information about the patient's symptoms, behavior, mood, mental state, lifestyle, personal background, and family history.
Based on the information gathered during the evaluation, the psychiatric provider can make a diagnosis and develop a treatment plan tailored to the patient's specific needs. This plan may include psychotherapy (talk therapy), medication, or a combination.
