Depression is a neurobiological condition that changes how you think, feel, sleep, eat, and move. It's not a sign of weakness — and pushing through it usually makes it worse. A modern psychiatric evaluation can sort out what kind of depression you have and which treatment is most likely to work for you.
Episodes of low mood or loss of interest lasting two weeks or more, with cognitive, physical, and motivational changes.
A lower-intensity but chronic depression (2+ years) that often feels like "this is just who I am."
MDD that hasn't responded to at least two adequate medication trials. Often needs reassessment of diagnosis and approach.
You'll complete the PHQ-9, GAD-7, MDQ (bipolar screen), AUDIT, and a sleep and trauma history before your visit.
A psychiatric provider explores current symptoms, prior episodes, family history of mood disorders, medical history, medications, substance use, and any history of mania or hypomania.
We carefully screen for bipolar spectrum disorders, because antidepressants alone can worsen bipolar depression. The MDQ and a structured interview are the standard.
Hypothyroidism, anemia, vitamin D and B12 deficiency, sleep apnea, and certain medications can mimic depression. When indicated we recommend labs.
Every depression evaluation includes a direct, compassionate safety assessment using the C-SSRS framework, with a clear plan if risk is elevated.
You leave with a written plan — typically including an SSRI/SNRI or atypical antidepressant, therapy referrals, sleep and movement interventions, and a follow-up cadence.
Standard 9-item depression severity scale; used at intake and at every follow-up to track response.
Screens for lifetime hypomanic or manic symptoms — critical before starting an antidepressant.
Anxiety is comorbid in over 50% of depression cases and changes the medication choice.
Brief alcohol and drug screens — substances both cause and worsen depression.
The gold-standard safety assessment used in psychiatric care.
Measures the daily-life impact of depression so progress is visible across treatment.
Evidence-based use of SSRIs, SNRIs, bupropion, mirtazapine, and augmentation strategies. Careful titration with measurement-based follow-up.
Referrals to CBT, behavioral activation, and IPT — the modalities with the strongest evidence for depression.
PHQ-9 at every visit. We track scores together so improvement is visible and treatment can adapt early.
Start with our 10-minute assessment. You'll get an instant clinical snapshot and the ability to book a comprehensive evaluation with a psychiatric provider.
This page is educational and does not constitute medical advice. If you're in crisis, call or text 988.
