Psychiatric Assessment
A thorough, compassionate psychiatric assessment is the vital first step in understanding your mental health and guiding effective, personalised care.
A Holistic Understanding
Our comprehensive psychiatric assessments are designed to look beyond just your current symptoms. Dr Rajcoomar takes a holistic approach, exploring your biological, psychological, and social history.
This process involves detailed clinical interviewing to understand your current challenges, past medical and psychiatric history, family background, and lifestyle factors. We aim to understand you as a whole person, not just a diagnosis.
Components of an Assessment
Depending on your specific needs, the assessment process may incorporate several elements to ensure diagnostic accuracy.
- Detailed clinical diagnostic interviews
- Mental state examinations
- Review of previous medical and psychiatric records
- Collaboration with other healthcare providers or family members (with your consent)
- Referral for psychometric testing or neurocognitive assessments if indicated
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does a full assessment take?
An initial comprehensive assessment typically takes 90 minutes. In some complex cases, a second assessment session may be required to gather all necessary information.
Will I receive a diagnosis at the first appointment?
Often, a working diagnosis can be formulated during the first consultation. However, sometimes further information, collateral history, or investigations are needed before confirming a specific diagnosis.
Is what I say during the assessment confidential?
Yes, absolute confidentiality is maintained in accordance with medical ethics and the law (POPIA). Information is only shared with your explicit consent, except in rare emergencies where safety is a concern.