What to expect on my first visit with the psychiatrist?

Evaluation: A comprehensive psyche evaluation usually includes vital signs, interview & any necessary labs. The psychiatrist may palpate the thyroid gland or do a neurological examination. Some psychiatric evaluations will not include a physical examination. The interview will touch on what brought you in, past psychiatric hx, family hx, social hx to include substance use, as well as screening questions.

Lot of questions: It seems like each psychiatrist has developed his or her own method. I spend one and one half hours with each new patient. I ask them what brought them into my office, go over all medical illnesses and treatments, previous psychological and psychiatric treatments, family history, social, educational and work history. Then i develop a diagnosis and treatment plan and ask for questions.