Expert guidance for tailored treatment.
A comprehensive psychiatric evaluation is the first step in creating a treatment plan that fits you. This evaluation helps identify your needs and explore if medication is right for your mental health goals. If medication is recommended, you'll receive clear guidance on how it can support your well-being.
At your first appointment, the provider will take the time to:
Review your medical and psychiatric history.
We'll carefully go through your health journey to ensure we have a complete picture of your wellbeing.
Understand your current concerns, symptoms, and goals.
You'll have the space to share what's troubling you and what positive changes you hope to achieve.
Discuss relevant social, family, and lifestyle factors.
Together, we'll explore how your relationships, daily routines, and environment may impact your mental health.
The result is a personalized diagnosis (if applicable) and tailored recommendations, which may include therapy, lifestyle adjustments, or medication options. This collaborative process ensures you feel supported every step of the way.
Our Providers
Justin Ray
Justin T. Ray, PMHNP-BC, is a highly experienced psychiatric nurse practitioner and founder of South Chesapeake Psychiatry and Transforming Minds Interventional Psychiatry in Chesapeake, Virginia. A retired Navy veteran, he is known for his innovative approach to mental health care and dedication to improving the lives of individuals with complex psychiatric needs.
Amanda Snow
Amanda is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Board Certified (PMHNP-BC). She has over eight years experience as a PMHMP-BC and twenty-five years experience in mental health. Amanda is a Retired Navy Nurse.
Alysha Cunningham
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Practitioner that provides comprehensive and holistic medication management and therapeutic interventions for clients experiencing psychiatric distress. My primary goal is to provide care that is specifically tailored to your needs and goals and create an environment where you feel understood and supported.
We’re here to help you through
A Collaborative Approach
We'll explore your needs together to develop a deeper understanding of how to best support you.
Getting a Diagnosis (If Applicable)
Based on the evaluation, a diagnosis may be provided to help explain your experiences.
Treatment Planning
You'll receive personalized recommendations, which may include therapy, lifestyle adjustments, or medication if appropriate.
Take the first step towards today.
We’re able to book psychiatric evaluations for new patients quickly, often in less than 1 week from reaching out. Schedule yours today!
Questions we hear often
Find answers to common questions about our psychiatric evaluation process and what to expect.
We’ll discuss your symptoms, medical history, and any concerns. The goal is to understand your experiences and provide a tailored plan for your mental health.
Initial evaluations typically last between 60-90 minutes, depending on the complexity of your concerns.
Bring any relevant medical records, a list of current medications, and any previous psychiatric or therapy records if available.
A diagnosis may be provided during the initial evaluation if the information is clear, but some cases may require additional visits for comprehensive assessment.
We will see patients as young as 6.
If you’re experiencing emotional, behavioral, or cognitive challenges that affect your daily life, a psychiatric evaluation can help provide clarity and support.
Spravato (esketamine) is a nasal spray medication derived from ketamine, used for treatment-resistant depression and acute suicidal ideation or behavior.
You can learn more on our SPRAVATO® treatment page.
