Diagnostic Assessment for Mental Health Diagnoses in NYC

Our highly trained clinicians use gold-standard measures such as the Structured Clinical Interview for DSM-5 (SCID), which is a thorough diagnostic tool used by clinicians to assess and diagnose major mental health disorders in individuals aged 18 and older. This clinician-administered interview covers a wide range of psychiatric conditions, helping individuals and their providers understand the presence, nature, and extent of mental health challenges. Our clinicians may also give you surveys to fill out that ask about how you have been feeling, sleeping, eating and thinking. A clinician who meets with you will also ask questions about your life history as well as your dreams and goals. 

At Clarity Therapy NYC, diagnostic assessment helps clients gain an accurate diagnosis and valuable insights into their mental health. Whether you’re seeking confirmation of symptoms, clarity on a current diagnosis, or guidance for treatment, knowing your unique situation is a critical step in building a foundation for effective care.

Many people know they’re struggling with something but can’t quite pinpoint what it is. It’s common to hear people say, “I have OCD” or “that situation gave me PTSD,” without a full understanding of what those terms really mean. For example, OCD isn’t only about cleanliness or organization—there are many different forms, some of which have nothing to do with tidiness.

Similarly, most people are familiar with the uncomfortable sensations we associate with anxiety—worry, restlessness, or tension in the body. Yet anxiety can arise for many different reasons: after a traumatic event, as part of obsessive or compulsive thoughts, or in response to everyday stressors. The same emotion can look very different depending on its cause.

Understanding the true nature of your struggles is an important first step toward knowing how to address them. You might find yourself asking questions like:

• Have I been grieving for too long, or is my grief becoming complicated?

• Are my superstitions or rituals taking up too much time?

• Why do I keep putting myself down or believing I’m a bad person?

• Do people truly dislike me, or am I overthinking it?

• Am I eating in a healthy way, or have I become overly preoccupied with food?

• Is there any way to calm down? Why do I always feel on edge?

• My partner says I’m too disorganized and forgetful—is there something I can do about it?

Diagnostic assessment, particularly using the SCID, provides a structured, in-depth approach to diagnosing mental health conditions. It helps clinicians identify issues that could be impacting your well-being. If you’re experiencing complex symptoms, the SCID can clarify diagnoses and ensure that treatment plans are both appropriate and targeted.

In a city like New York, where access to personalized mental health care is essential, the diagnostic testing offers an objective and comprehensive evaluation of mental health. These test results can help individuals and clinicians collaborate on treatment with confidence.

A SCID assessment may be beneficial to you if:

• You are experiencing complex or overlapping mental health symptoms that need further clarification.
• You want an accurate, structured diagnosis to guide treatment and therapy plans.
• Your therapist or psychiatrist has recommended a diagnostic evaluation as part of your mental health journey.
• You’re considering specific interventions like medication or specialized therapy and need a clear understanding of your mental health needs.

Diagnostic assessment is especially useful for anyone looking for a precise, professional evaluation, particularly when navigating complicated symptoms or seeking a second opinion.

What Do we Assess?

At Clarity Therapy, our skilled NYC therapists evaluate a broad range of psychiatric disorders and symptom clusters to provide a complete picture of an individual’s mental health profile:

Mood Disorders

This covers symptoms related to depression and bipolar disorder, providing clarity on the presence and severity of mood-related challenges. Mood disorders affect energy, motivation, and overall outlook, making accurate diagnosis crucial for effective treatment.

Anxiety Disorders

We also examine various anxiety-related symptoms, including generalized anxiety, panic, and phobias. Understanding anxiety symptoms can guide targeted interventions that reduce stress and improve daily functioning.

Psychotic Disorders

The assessment explores symptoms associated with psychotic disorders, such as schizophrenia and delusional disorders, helping to identify or rule out these conditions with precision.

Substance Use Disorders

We conduct a comprehensive evaluation of substance use, misuse, and dependence, providing essential insights for those seeking recovery or support with addiction.

A licensed clinician will provide a detailed, structured interview, usually taking 1-3 hours depending on the complexity of symptoms. At Clarity Therapy NYC, we ensure that each assessment is conducted in a respectful and supportive environment, encouraging open communication and comfort throughout the process.

Here’s what to expect during the assessment:

Initial Consultation

Before the interview, we meet with individuals to discuss their mental health history, current concerns, and goals for the assessment. This initial consultation helps us tailor the interview to your specific needs.

Structured Interview

During the SCID interview, the clinician will ask a series of questions covering different symptom areas. These questions help identify the presence, severity, and duration of symptoms, providing a clear diagnostic profile.

Collaborative Dialogue

The assessment encourages a collaborative approach, allowing you to share experiences and clarify responses as needed. This dynamic process ensures that the assessment reflects your unique experiences accurately.

Post-Assessment Feedback and Report

Following the assessment, we provide a comprehensive report that includes diagnoses, explanations, and recommendations for treatment. This report is a valuable tool for planning therapy, medication, or other interventions.