We emphasize a systematic, comprehensive approach to the diagnosis and treatment of schizophrenia and related disorders. In our view, each patient is a unique individual, with his or her own strengths and vulnerabilities. We recognize the critical role of family and friends in the life of each patient, and the potential contribution of personality traits, medical illnesses, and social network to the manifestation and treatment of the symptoms of schizophrenia and related disorders.
Step 1. Diagnosis: Is schizophrenia the correct diagnosis? What additional clinical information or laboratory tests are necessary to clarify the diagnosis?
Step 2. Individualized assessment: What are the unique strengths and vulnerabilities of each patient? What are the immediate and long-term goals of each patient, and the hopes and expectations of their family and friends?
Step 3. Treatment plan development: What types of support, treatment, services, and resources will be necessary to help each patient reach their goals? Does the patient need medicine, and if so, which one and at what dose?
Step 4. Treatment plan implementation. What are the responsibilities of the patient, the family, and the clinicians? What part of the plan needs to be implemented immediately, and what can be added more slowly?
Step 5. Reassessment and update of treatment plan. Are the goals being achieved? Do changes in symptoms, new life events, or a lack of response to treatment require a change in the plan?
CONSULATIVE, SECOND OPINION, AND EVALUATION SERVICES
Establishing a correct diagnosis and determining the unique strengths and vulnerabilities of each patient is central to the treatment of schizophrenia. We therefore offer two different consultative options, designed to give patients, families, and their treating clinicians a comprehensive and timely opinion and set of treatment options.
Comprehensive inpatient evaluation. We offer a three to seven day multidisciplinary evaluation, concluding with a detailed report for the patient, family, and referring clinicians. This full assessment is designed for patients who seek a complete assessment or second opinion regarding diagnosis and treatment, for patients with complicated or treatment-resistant symptoms, and for patients with multiple medical or psychiatric concerns.
Components of the diagnostic evaluation:
- Review of medical records
- Comprehensive psychiatric interview
- Interviews of family members
- Neuropsychological evaluation
- Assessment of function and symptoms during daily
activities- Assessment of social support system
- Occupational therapy functional assessment
- Diagnostic testing: laboratory studies, brain imaging,
Electroencephalography- Summary meeting with patient and family at discharge
- Preparation of a detailed written summary
Focused outpatient evaluation. We offer a three-hour psychiatric diagnostic examination, accompanied by a record review and an interview of family members. This more limited consultation is ideal for specific questions about diagnosis or medication management.
Components of the outpatient evaluation:
- Focused record review
- Comprehensive psychiatric interview
- Interview of family member
- Summary meeting with patient and family member
- Preparation of a detailed written summary
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