The Initial Consultation

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Before your appointment

  • All referrals and appointment requests are reviewed before scheduling.

  • If your referral is accepted for an initial consultation with Dr. Westbrook, Southern Psychiatry office staff will contact you with instructions for completing and submitting the new patient intake forms and help schedule your appointment.

  • Please wait to complete the intake forms until your referral has been approved.

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During your appointment

Your initial evaluation is designed to provide diagnostic clarity and establish an individualized treatment approach and can expect the following.

  • Detailed review of your medical, psychiatric, and treatment history

  • Discussion of current symptoms and concerns

  • Initial diagnostic impression

  • Collaborative discussion of treatment goals & plan which may include:

    • Determination of appropriateness for outpatient psychiatric care or referral to a higher or alternative level of care if indicated

    • Medication when clinically appropriate.

    • Consideration of additional labs or imaging

    • Initial recommendations regarding therapy, sleep, and lifestyle factors

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After your appointment

  • Follow-up visit to be scheduled

  • Telehealth visits may be offered at provider’s discretion

  • For non-urgent clinical questions, you can contact Southern Psychiatry office staff at 803‑764‑3555 to leave a message for Dr. Westbrook. Please allow 24–48 hours for a response.

  • In the event of an emergency or crisis, call 911/988, South Carolina Mobile Crisis at 833‑364‑2274, or go to your nearest emergency department.

Schedule an Appointment