If you've never seen a psychiatrist before, you might wonder what exactly we do. Do we primarily prescribe medication? How is seeing a psychiatrist different from seeing a therapist? What happens during a psychiatric evaluation?
While medication management is one aspect of psychiatry, our training and role extend well beyond prescribing medications.
Psychiatrists Are Medical Doctors
Psychiatrists are physicians who complete medical school followed by specialized residency training in the evaluation, diagnosis, and treatment of mental health conditions.
Psychiatric conditions are medical conditions. The brain is a complex physical organ, and its functioning is influenced by biological, psychological, social, and environmental factors.
Our medical training allows us to evaluate psychiatric symptoms, establish diagnoses, consider other medical conditions that may be contributing to symptoms, and develop individualized treatment plans.
Can Other Medical Conditions Contribute to Psychiatric Symptoms?
Absolutely. Symptoms such as anxiety, low mood, fatigue, irritability, and difficulty concentrating can sometimes be related to another medical condition, a psychiatric disorder, or a combination of factors.
Some examples include:
Sleep disorders: Obstructive sleep apnea can contribute to fatigue, mood changes, and difficulties with attention and concentration.
Thyroid disorders: Changes in thyroid function can affect energy, mood, anxiety, and cognitive functioning.
Nutritional deficiencies: Deficiencies in vitamin B12, iron, and other nutrients can contribute to fatigue and cognitive or mood symptoms.
Hormonal changes: The menstrual cycle, perimenopause, and postpartum hormonal changes can influence mood and emotional functioning.
Autoimmune and inflammatory conditions: Certain conditions can affect neurological functioning, energy, mood, and cognition.
Medication effects: Prescription medications, over-the-counter products, and supplements can sometimes contribute to psychiatric symptoms.
Blood sugar fluctuations: Changes in blood glucose can affect energy, irritability, and concentration.
This doesn't mean everyone experiencing psychiatric symptoms needs extensive medical testing. Rather, a comprehensive psychiatric evaluation helps determine whether additional laboratory testing, sleep studies, imaging, or coordination with another medical professional may be appropriate.
What Happens During a Comprehensive Psychiatric Evaluation?
A psychiatric evaluation involves much more than reviewing a list of symptoms.
Depending on your individual circumstances, your psychiatrist may explore:
Your current symptoms and concerns
Psychiatric history, including previous diagnoses and treatments
Medical history and current health conditions
Current medications, supplements, and previous medication trials
Family psychiatric and medical history
Substance use history
Sleep, nutrition, and lifestyle patterns
Reproductive history and future plans, when relevant
Relationships, work, daily functioning, and sources of stress
Personal experiences, strengths, and treatment goals
These conversations help us develop a more complete understanding of your experiences, clarify potential diagnoses, and identify treatment options that align with your needs.
Do Psychiatrists Provide Psychotherapy?
Yes. Psychiatrists receive psychotherapy training during residency, although the specific approaches emphasized and the extent of experience vary.
Psychotherapy is not limited to one technique. Different approaches may focus on understanding patterns of thinking and behavior, processing emotions, improving coping strategies, strengthening relationships, or developing greater psychological flexibility.
Some psychiatrists primarily provide medication management, others offer psychotherapy, and some integrate both into their practice.
Psychiatrists may also collaborate with therapists, primary care physicians, and other healthcare professionals to support comprehensive treatment.
Finding the Right Psychiatrist
Just as psychiatrists differ in their clinical interests and expertise, they also differ in their treatment philosophies and approaches.
Some provide general psychiatric care, while others focus on particular conditions, life stages, or patient populations.
When choosing a psychiatrist, consider not only their experience but also whether their communication style, treatment approach, and philosophy align with your preferences.
A meaningful therapeutic relationship should allow room for questions, collaboration, and shared decision-making.
Psychiatric Care at Origins Psychiatry
At Origins Psychiatry, I believe meaningful psychiatric care begins with taking the time to understand the person behind the symptoms.
My approach emphasizes comprehensive evaluation, thoughtful medication management, patient education, and collaborative treatment planning.
I work with adults experiencing a range of mental health concerns, with particular interests in anxiety, mood disorders, women's mental health, and life transitions.
Initial psychiatric evaluations are 90 minutes, allowing time to explore your history, current concerns, and treatment goals without feeling rushed.
Origins Psychiatry offers in-person appointments in Grand Rapids, Michigan, and telehealth throughout Michigan.
