Expert psychiatry Care Specialist

Psychiatry Q & A

What is psychiatry?

Psychiatry is a medical specialty focused on the diagnosis and treatment of mental, emotional, and behavioral health disorders. 

The psychiatrists at Alpha Care Medical provide compassionate and comprehensive care for mental health conditions, as well as substance abuse disorders like opioid addiction. 

How do I know if I need psychiatry?

Your primary care provider at Alpha Care Medical can help you determine whether you would benefit from psychiatry services. You may benefit from a consultation with psychiatry if you’re experiencing:

• Symptoms of depression, anxiety, or any other mental illness
• Thoughts of suicide
• Panic attacks
• Hallucinations or hearing voices

You may also benefit from psychiatry if you’re struggling with a major life change or decision that’s affecting your emotional health or interfering with your daily life. 

The experienced team at Alpha Care Medical also specializes in opioid addiction and may refer you to psychiatry to assist in the treatment of your addiction. 

What can I expect during a psychiatric evaluation?

You can expect a comprehensive exam during your psychiatry evaluation at Alpha Care Medical. The team at the primary care practice takes a holistic and patient-centered approach to care and focuses on identifying the root cause of your mental, behavioral, or emotional health issue so you get the most effective treatment. 

During your evaluation, your psychiatrist asks detailed questions about your symptoms, mental and medical history, and your family history. 

Your psychiatrist may also conduct psychiatric testing to assess your mental health and request diagnostic tests, such as lab work, to rule out a physical cause for your mental health symptoms. 

Your psychiatrist at Alpha Care Medical uses the information gathered during your evaluation to provide an accurate diagnosis of your mental health condition, which helps direct your treatment plan. 

What are psychiatry treatments?

Your psychiatrist at Alpha Care Medical develops individualized treatment plans based on your diagnosis, the underlying cause, the severity of your symptoms, and your overall health. Your treatment plan may include medication, psychotherapy, and/or cognitive behavioral therapy. 

For opioid addiction, Alpha Care Medical offers the medication-assisted treatment (MAT) program, which combines medication with behavioral therapy to help you recover from your addiction and reduce your risk of a relapse.

Your mental health is as important as your physical health. For comprehensive care from a team that can manage all of your health needs, contact Alpha Care Medical by phone.