Frequently Asked Questions About Psychiatric Care
What is psychiatric care?
Psychiatric care is medical support for mental health challenges. It can include evaluation, diagnosis, medication, and ongoing treatment for conditions like depression, anxiety, PTSD, and more. It is often used alongside therapy to help people manage symptoms and improve daily functioning.
How is psychiatric care different from therapy?
Therapists focus on talk-based support to help you process emotions and life experiences. Psychiatrists and psychiatric nurse practitioners are medical providers who can evaluate mental health conditions and prescribe medication when needed. Many people benefit from having both.
What happens during a psychiatric appointment?
The first session is usually an evaluation where the provider will ask about your mental health history, current challenges, and goals. They may recommend medication, therapy, or both. Follow-up visits are used to check in, adjust your treatment plan, and answer questions.
What should I expect during a psychiatric evaluation?
Adults complete one 60-minute evaluation with a licensed psychiatric provider.
Youth complete two 45-minute evaluations, typically spaced one week apart.
Your provider will ask about your current symptoms, mental health history, and what kind of support may be helpful.
What is medication management?
If medication is recommended, your provider will schedule 30-minute follow-up visits to monitor progress, address side effects, and adjust medication if needed.
Will I be prescribed medication at the first appointment?
Not always. Your provider will complete a full evaluation and discuss options with you. Medication may be recommended if it seems helpful, but it is not automatically prescribed.
Are psychiatric medications safe to use?
Most psychiatric medications have been widely researched and are considered safe when prescribed and monitored by a licensed provider. Medication is not a cure-all; it is one tool that may help reduce symptoms so that healing becomes more possible.
Do I have to take medication if I’m referred to psychiatric care?
No. Psychiatric care should always involve shared decision-making. You will talk with your provider about options, and together you’ll decide what feels right for you. Medication is never required.
Does psychiatric care help people with trauma?
Yes. Trauma can affect how the brain and body respond to stress. Psychiatric support can help reduce symptoms like hypervigilance, emotional numbness, or sleep issues. Medication is one option that may be used alongside trauma-focused therapy like EMDR or neurofeedback.
What kinds of concerns can psychiatric care help with?
- Ongoing sadness or mood swings
- Anxiety or panic attacks
- Trouble sleeping or eating
- Reactions to trauma
- Feeling overwhelmed or disconnected
- Thoughts of self-harm
Can youth or teens receive psychiatric care?
Yes. Children and adolescents can benefit from psychiatric care, especially when emotional or behavioral challenges are impacting school, home life, or peer relationships. Parental or guardian consent is typically required for minors.
How does consent work for youth clients?
For clients under 18, a parent or legal guardian must complete and sign electronic consent forms via DocuSign. A release of information form may also be required if coordination with other providers or caregivers is needed.
Is psychiatric care private and confidential?
Yes. Psychiatric care is protected by strict privacy laws. Your information will not be shared without your consent, except in situations where there is a risk of harm to yourself or others, as required by law.
Are services in-person or virtual?
All psychiatric services are provided virtually through Zoom. You’ll receive a secure video link before your appointment. Your therapist or case manager may join the session to support your care.
How do I get referred for psychiatric services?
If you are an active client at GRO, your therapist or case manager will begin the referral process for you. If you’re not yet connected to GRO services, you can start by completing our intake form. Once you’re matched with a GRO therapist or case manager, psychiatric services may become available to you as part of your care plan.
What happens after a referral is made?
After your provider makes a referral, our scheduling team will contact you (or your guardian, if applicable) to verify insurance, review the process, and send electronic consent forms. All forms must be completed before an appointment is scheduled.
What if I don’t have insurance or I’m not sure what I’m eligible for?
People with Medicaid in Illinois can usually access psychiatric care at no cost. GRO also accepts most major private insurance plans. If you’re unsure about your eligibility, a case manager or intake specialist can help walk you through your options.
Is there a cost for psychiatric services?
GRO accepts Illinois Medicaid and most private insurance plans. Many clients do not have out-of-pocket costs. Our team will verify your coverage and explain any steps required by your insurance provider.
How soon can I be seen?
Once we receive the referral and completed consent forms, we aim to schedule appointments within 1 to 2 business days.
Can I receive psychiatric services if I’m not in therapy at GRO?
No. Psychiatric services at GRO are only available to individuals who are actively working with a GRO therapist or case manager. If you’re not yet connected to GRO services, we encourage you to complete the intake form to begin that process.