How long does it take?
A new patient evaluation typically lasts 45 to 60 minutes. Follow-up appointments are shorter, usually 20 to 30 minutes, or as clinically appropriate.
What we talk about
Your provider wants to understand you as a whole person, not just a list of symptoms. Expect to talk about:
- What brings you in, and how long it has been going on
- Your mood, sleep, energy, focus and daily routine
- Your health history and any current medications or supplements
- Treatments you have tried before, and what did or didn’t help
- Your goals: what you would like to feel or do differently
There are no wrong answers, and you can share at your own pace. If something feels hard to talk about, it is okay to say so.
What happens at the end
Your provider explains what they are seeing and your options, including the benefits and possible side effects of any medication. You decide on a personalized treatment plan together. That might include medication, therapy, testing such as ADHD testing (T.O.V.A.) or psychotropic genetic testing, or a combination.
What to bring
- A list of your current medications and supplements, with doses
- The names of medications you have tried before, and how they worked
- Your insurance card and photo ID
- Your completed new patient forms
In person or telehealth?
Both initial and follow-up visits can be done in person at our Federal Way clinic or by telehealth. We highly encourage an in-person appointment for your first evaluation. Some services, such as Spravato® treatment and ADHD computerized testing, are done in the clinic.
A few tips
- Jot down your main concerns beforehand so nothing gets forgotten
- Bring questions. Asking about side effects, timelines or costs is always welcome
- If you are paying without insurance, ask us about cash pay or our sliding scale
- Plan to arrive a few minutes early. Our clinic policies explain late arrivals and cancellations
Quick answers
How long is a first psychiatric appointment?
New patient evaluations at CloverHope typically last 45 to 60 minutes. Follow-up appointments usually last 20 to 30 minutes, or as clinically appropriate.
Can my first visit be by telehealth?
Yes. Initial and follow-up visits can be in person or by telehealth, though we highly encourage an in-person appointment for your first evaluation.
Will I get medication at my first visit?
Not necessarily. Your provider explains your options, including the benefits and possible side effects of any medication, and you decide on a treatment plan together.
Ready to talk with someone?
CloverHope is accepting new patients in Federal Way and by telehealth. We accept Medicare, Medicaid (Apple Health) and most major insurance.
Need help right now? If you are in crisis, call or text 988 (Suicide & Crisis Lifeline), any time. For a medical emergency, call 911.
This article is general information, not medical advice. Please talk with a qualified provider about your own care.