What the first visit covers
The American Psychiatric Association describes a psychiatrist as a medical doctor who specializes in diagnosing, treating and preventing mental, emotional and behavioral disorders. At a first visit the psychiatrist gathers a history: what is bothering you, how long it has been going on, how it affects sleep, work, school and relationships, and what you have already tried.
Psychiatrists assess patients through conversation, and they may also use medical lab work and psychological tests. They weigh physical and mental health together and use the criteria in the DSM-5 to reach a diagnosis. The result is a treatment plan, which may include psychotherapy, medication, other treatments such as transcranial magnetic stimulation, or a combination.
What to bring
A short, complete list saves time. The National Institute of Mental Health advises telling your provider about all other medications, supplements and allergies, because some combinations carry risks that a prescriber has to know about.
- Every prescription and over-the-counter medication, with doses, plus vitamins and supplements.
- Allergies and past reactions to any medication.
- Your insurance card and a photo ID, and the name of your primary care provider.
- Records from earlier mental health care, if you have them, or the names of earlier providers.
- A written list of your questions and the changes you have noticed.
Questions worth asking
NIMH suggests writing questions down beforehand so you can judge whether a provider is a good fit. Useful ones include how much experience the provider has with your concern, the usual approach to treatment, how long treatment tends to last, whether the office accepts your insurance and what treatment costs.
Add the practical questions too: how long the first appointment lasts, whether follow-up visits are in person or by video, how refills are handled between visits, and who to contact after hours. The cost and insurance guide covers the money questions in more detail, and the directory lists offices around Austin with their phone numbers.
Before you book
A primary care provider is a sensible first stop for many people. NIMH notes that primary care can screen for mental health concerns, rule out medical causes for symptoms and refer you onward. If you already know you want a psychiatrist, the credentials guide shows how to confirm a Texas license and board certification, and the comparison guide explains when a psychologist or therapist may be the better first call.
If you are in crisis, do not wait for an appointment. Call or text 988, or call 911 for immediate danger. More options are on the crisis page.
After the visit
Before you leave, make sure you know the plan: what was decided, when the next visit is, what to track at home and what to do if something feels wrong. NIMH also advises staying in touch with your provider if treatment is not helping rather than stopping on your own. A treatment plan is something you and the psychiatrist adjust together over time.
Common questions
Do I need a referral to see a psychiatrist?
It depends on the office and on your insurance plan. A primary care provider can screen for mental health concerns and refer you to a specialist, and some plans ask for that step. Call the office and your plan before you book.
Should I stop my current medication before the visit?
No. Do not stop a prescribed medication on your own, even if you feel better. Stopping suddenly can cause unpleasant or harmful effects. Bring the list and let the psychiatrist decide what to change.
Can I bring someone with me?
Many people do. Ask the office about its policy when you book, and tell the psychiatrist at the start how much you want that person to be part of the conversation.
What if I do not feel comfortable with the first psychiatrist?
A good working relationship matters in care, and it is reasonable to see someone else. Raise your concerns with the provider first, then look at other offices in the directory if the fit still is not right.