Welcome to Lumecore Psychiatry: What to Expect From Your First Visit

Starting psychiatric care can feel overwhelming. Whether you’re seeking help for the first time or returning after a break, uncertainty about the process often adds to anxiety. At Lumecore Psychiatry, we believe transparency and preparation reduce stress and set the stage for meaningful care.

 

This guide walks you through what to expect at your first telepsychiatry visit, from scheduling to follow-up.

 

Why Patients Choose Lumecore Psychiatry

Our practice is built for today’s busy, diverse patients in Arizona. Here’s what sets us apart:

• Telepsychiatry only: Convenient, secure, HIPAA-compliant care from your own space.

• Adults only (18–65): Focused expertise on working-age and older adult mental health.

• Comprehensive scope: Anxiety, depression, ADHD, OCD, trauma-related disorders, sleep issues, and stable psychotic disorders.

• Collaborative approach: We integrate lifestyle strategies, therapy referrals, and—when appropriate—medications.

We also set clear boundaries: no Schedule II or IV controlled substances are prescribed. Patients needing those medications are referred appropriately.

 

Step 1: Scheduling Your Appointment

Patients begin by completing our secure online intake form. You’ll provide:

• Basic demographic details (name, DOB, contact).

• Insurance information (if applicable).

• A brief description of your symptoms and treatment history.

This helps us prepare for your evaluation and reduces repetitive paperwork during the visit.

 

Step 2: Preparing for Your Telepsychiatry Session

Before your appointment:

• Ensure you have a stable internet connection and private space.

• Test your video and audio setup.

• Gather recent medication lists, past psychiatric records, or lab results if available.

Patients often find it helpful to jot down their top 2–3 concerns so they don’t forget to bring them up during the session.

 

Step 3: The Initial Evaluation

Your first appointment lasts 60–75 minutes. It’s structured but conversational, covering:

• History: Medical, psychiatric, family, and social background.

• Current symptoms: Sleep, appetite, energy, mood, attention, anxiety.

• Functioning: Work, school, relationships, daily responsibilities.

• Goals: What you want to achieve with treatment (better focus, fewer panic attacks, improved sleep, etc.).

We use evidence-based screening tools (e.g., PHQ-9 for depression, GAD-7 for anxiety, ADHD scales) to track progress from the start.

 

Step 4: Collaborative Treatment Planning

At the end of the evaluation, you’ll receive a tailored treatment plan. This may include:

• Lifestyle strategies: Sleep hygiene, nutrition, activity, mindfulness practices.

• Therapy referrals: Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), trauma therapy, or supportive counseling.

• Medication options: If appropriate, medication may be started. We explain risks, benefits, and alternatives before prescribing.

Our philosophy is “start low, go slow” — cautious dosing, clear monitoring, and shared decision-making.

 

Step 5: Follow-Up Care

Most patients schedule follow-ups every 4–6 weeks initially, then less frequently once stable. Visits are typically 20–30 minutes.

Between appointments, patients can:

• Use the secure patient portal to request refills.

• Send non-urgent messages.

• Access appointment summaries and billing information.

 

Common Questions From First-Time Patients

1. 1. What if I’ve had bad experiences with meds before?
      We take this into account. Alternative strategies and slow titration are always options.
   2. Can you coordinate with my therapist or primary care provider?
      Yes, with your written consent. Integrated care improves outcomes.
   3. Do you treat severe mental illness?
      We manage stable psychotic disorders but refer out if a higher level of care is needed (e.g., inpatient or intensive outpatient).

 

What We Don’t Do

Clarity is key in psychiatry. To avoid misunderstandings, Lumecore Psychiatry does not:

• Prescribe Schedule II (e.g., stimulants) or Schedule IV (e.g., benzodiazepines) controlled substances.

• Provide emergency or crisis stabilization.

• Treat actively suicidal or homicidal patients via telehealth.

Patients requiring these services are referred to ERs, crisis hotlines, or specialized programs.

 

Why Patients Appreciate Our Approach

• Convenience: No commutes or waiting rooms.

• Privacy: Sessions from the comfort of home.

• Respect: We view treatment as a partnership, not a lecture.

• Efficiency: Direct communication and focused visits mean quicker access to care.

 

Next Steps

If you’re considering treatment, the first step is often the hardest. But you don’t have to face it alone.

At Lumecore Psychiatry, we make the process simple, supportive, and transparent from the very first visit.

Request an Appointment Today to take control of your mental health and build a personalized care plan.