The first step to gaining control of addiction and improving your quality of life is obtaining a proper diagnosis. Whether the struggle is with an alcohol or substance use disorder or a behavioral addiction, a proper diagnosis should always come before starting any treatment plan. A comprehensive substance use disorder (Addiction) evaluation helps to uncover what diagnosis (or diagnoses) explain the symptoms, struggles and negative consequences you have experienced. Dr. Matthew Goldenberg is a board-certified addiction psychiatrist, and a Distinguished Fellow of the American Psychiatric Association, who helps patients from the states of California, Alaska, Hawaii and Utah obtain both an objective and evidence-based diagnosis and addiction treatment that they need and deserve.
What is the Visit with Dr. Goldenberg Like?
Dr. Goldenberg is a board certified and experienced addiction psychiatrist based in Santa Monica, CA. He sees patients in California, Alaska, Hawaii and Utah via secure telehealth. The first visit is likely a similar experience to other medical professionals that you may have seen in the past. Dr. Goldenberg begins the substance use disorder evaluation by first discussing why you sought out support, in other words, “what we will be working on together?” Next, Dr. Goldenberg asks the patient a series of questions, much like an individualized clinical interview, that helps him to get up to speed regarding his patient’s mental health, general health and family history etc. The initial appointment lasts between 60 and 75 minutes. The goals are to determine things like, underlying causes, triggers and risk factors for addiction, co-occurring mental health symptoms, appropriate levels of care and other factors and aspects of care that can improve prognosis and outcomes.
Can You Diagnose Me in One Appointment?
Every patient is unique and comes with a history of different symptoms, life experiences, treatment failures, treatment successes and treatment options that have not been tried in the past. As a well trained and experienced addiction psychiatrist, Dr. Goldenberg uses his knowledge of mental health symptoms and behavioral addictions and substance use disorders to help determine an accurate diagnosis or diagnoses. Even if a diagnosis or the “problem” seems obvious, Dr. Goldenberg always rules out other conditions like depression, bipolar disorder, ADHD, anxiety, psychosis, addiction and certain medical conditions, as these conditions influence which medications, and/or non-medication treatment options, levels of care and other forms of support that would be most suitable for his patient. In most cases, Dr. Goldenberg will have a good working diagnosis by the end of the initial session. Although, it can take several follow up sessions in some cases to further clarify the diagnosis.
How Does My Diagnosis Affect My Treatment Plan?
A patient’s treatment plan is based on many factors, including the severity of the symptoms, how much their condition is impacting their ability to function at work and/or home and their history of previous treatments. Additionally, every patient has preferences about taking medication, engaging in individual therapy, participating in detox or higher levels of care and other aspects of treatment they would prefer and these are used to individualize their treatment plan. Dr. Goldenberg uses a holistic, biological, psychological and social approach to customize his recommendations to each individual patient and their unique needs and goals.
What if I want to be Diagnosed but I do Not want Medication?
Dr. Goldenberg’s goal as a mental health expert and addiction specialist is to first establish an accurate diagnosis (or diagnoses). Only then, can the patient understand all of their treatment options. Dr. Goldenberg always discusses both the medication and non-medication treatment options and specific level of care options with his patients. If Dr. Goldenberg is unable to provide the recommended treatment, he always provides referrals to highly qualified local colleagues, programs or groups that can. So even if you have no intention of taking medication, or need a higher level of care than Dr. Goldenberg can provide as an outpatient addiction psychiatrist, Dr. Goldenberg recommends having an initial substance use disorder evaluation for the opportunity to have a single consultation, to establish a diagnosis and treatment recommendations. At the least, you will leave with more information that you can use to make future decisions.
Articles by Dr. Goldenberg for those considering seeing a psychiatrist for the first time:
Common Questions About Your Initial Evaluation
What should I bring to my first appointment?
Please share any prior evaluations, lab results, medication lists, or treatment notes. This information helps Dr. Goldenberg provide a comprehensive and accurate assessment.
How long does the initial evaluation take?
The first appointment usually lasts 60 to 75 minutes, giving enough time for a full unrushed substance use disorder (addiction) assessment.
Can I be diagnosed in a single visit?
Dr. Goldenberg works to establish an accurate working diagnosis during the initial evaluation. Depending on your history and complexity, follow-up sessions may be required for full clarification.
What happens after the evaluation?
Dr. Goldenberg will review your diagnosis and discuss personalized treatment options, including therapy, medication, and lifestyle interventions tailored to your needs.
Is telepsychiatry available for the initial evaluation?
Yes. Telepsychiatry and Dr. Goldenberg’s Medical Licensure allows Dr. Goldenberg to work with patients who live in the states of California, Alaska, Hawaii and Utah. Patients are able to complete the full substance use disorder (addiction) evaluation remotely via HIPAA-compliant video conferencing from the comfort of their home, office or any other quiet location that has reliable internet access.