In the first stage of your treatment, you and your provider will sit down to complete an hour-long assessment. This initial review of your medical and psychosocial background is essential to understand how your mental health symptoms have affected you and what has or has not worked for you. You will be able to learn and discuss with your prescriber what treatment approach(es) may work best for you and develop a treatment plan you both can follow to track your progress. During the assessment, expect to answer questions about your medical conditions, current and past use of medication, and history of mental illness. Previous psychiatric assessments, treatments, and degree of adherence to past treatments are also reviewed, and records from the places that hold your records will be obtained. The assessment method depends on your presenting problem during a routine or crisis visit.

The goal in any multidimensional assessment is to evaluate the applicability of available treatment methods and resources and to ensure the benefits of your treatment outweigh the risk of engaging in such treatment. Your provider wants to certify that the most appropriate treatment course will be followed and that you understand and will be involved in the decision-making process to increase effectiveness and adherence. Your treatment plan is meant to be specific and personal. It should designed with your needs and goals in mind, and outline the plan to be followed moving forward.