Our Approach

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?   

Consultative, 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. Most physicians and therapist sgreatly appreciate second opinions and will not be offended by your request for an evaluation at Johns Hopkins.

When You Call

Information that can help us help you includes:

• What concern let you to contact us

• The diagnosis, if any

• Name, address, phone and fax numbers of the treating psychiatrist of therapist

• Age, contact information, living situation, current medicines, and major medical problems of the patient

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. For some patients it is possible to follow a short inpatient evaluation admission with a stay in our day hospital to initiate treatment.

Components of the diagnostic evaluation:

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: