In-Person vs. Telehealth: Why Your First Psychiatric Appointment Should Be Face-to-Face
Why I Prioritize In-Person Intakes for New Patients
At Moore Psychiatry, I believe that the first appointment is one of the most important steps in your mental health journey. That’s why I strongly encourage in-person intakes for new patients whenever possible. While telehealth is a convenient and effective option for ongoing care, there are key benefits to meeting face-to-face for the initial evaluation. Here’s why I prioritize in-person intakes and how they enhance the quality of care you receive.
Building a Strong Therapeutic Connection
A trusting provider-patient relationship is the foundation of effective mental health treatment. Meeting in person allows us to establish rapport more naturally, ensuring you feel comfortable and heard from the very beginning. Nonverbal cues, such as body language and facial expressions, play a vital role in communication and help me better understand your concerns.
Comprehensive Assessment and Personalized Care
An in-person intake provides a more thorough evaluation, allowing me to observe subtle physical and behavioral indicators that might be missed over a screen. This is particularly important when assessing conditions such as anxiety, depression, mood disorders, or ADHD. By seeing you in person, I can gather a more complete picture and tailor a treatment plan that truly fits your needs.
Minimizing Miscommunication and Enhancing Accuracy
Technology is a valuable tool, but virtual appointments sometimes come with limitations—connectivity issues, distractions, or difficulties in reading emotions. An in-person intake ensures that we have a smooth, distraction-free session where we can focus fully on your mental health goals without technical barriers.
Creating a Safe and Supportive Environment
A dedicated, private space for your intake helps set the tone for your mental health care. At Moore Psychiatry, I strive to provide a welcoming, calm, and professional environment where you can feel at ease discussing your concerns. This face-to-face setting allows for a deeper sense of connection and support.
When Telehealth May Still Be an Option
I understand that in-person visits may not always be feasible due to location, mobility, or other constraints. In certain cases, telehealth intakes may be an alternative. However, for those who can attend in person, I strongly recommend it to ensure the most comprehensive start to your care.
Final Thoughts
Your mental health journey deserves a strong foundation, and an in-person intake helps lay the groundwork for effective treatment. If you’re considering starting care at Moore Psychiatry, I encourage you to schedule an in-person appointment so we can begin with a thorough, personalized approach.
Ready to take the first step? Contact Moore Psychiatry today to schedule your intake appointment.
Disclaimer
This blog post is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical or mental health advice. If you are experiencing severe distress, thoughts of self-harm, or a mental health crisis, please seek immediate professional help at an emergency room, call 9-1-1 or contact a crisis hotline such as 9-8-8.