General Mental Health Assessments
Specialist psychiatric assessment for anxiety, depression, bipolar and other mood difficulties, OCD, psychosis, and more — with a detailed report and treatment recommendations for your GP.
Our general mental health assessments are thorough, conversational, and designed to build a clear understanding of your difficulties—not just assign a diagnosis. Your psychiatrist will take the time to understand your concerns, how they affect your life, and what support may be most helpful.
These assessments are designed for concerns other than ADHD or autism. This may include anxiety, depression, bipolar and other mood difficulties, OCD, psychosis, trauma-related symptoms, or a more complex presentation where specialist psychiatric input would be helpful.
Following the assessment, you'll receive a detailed clinical report and treatment plan—giving you and your GP a clearer understanding of the clinical picture and a practical path forward.
What to expect
The assessment itself is typically 60 minutes via telehealth. Your psychiatrist will explore your current concerns, relevant history, previous treatments, and the broader context of your mental health.
Depending on the reason for referral, the assessment may focus on clarifying a diagnosis, reviewing treatment that has not been working as expected, or providing advice about medication and ongoing management.
Within 7–14 days, you'll receive a detailed clinical report outlining the findings, diagnosis (where appropriate), and treatment recommendations. This report is also sent to your referring GP.
For a full breakdown of fees and Medicare rebates, see our fees page.
To arrange an appointment, visit our Contact page, or speak with your GP about a referral to Yarra Clinic.
This assessment may be suitable if
You want specialist advice about your mental health, but the picture does not fit neatly into one specific assessment pathway.
Your symptoms have become more complicated, your treatment has stalled, or your GP is seeking a psychiatrist's opinion on diagnosis, medication, or next steps.
If you are specifically seeking an ADHD assessment, an autism assessment, or a combined ADHD and autism assessment, we offer those pathways separately.
Our psychiatrists who offer general mental health assessments
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a referral?
Yes. You will need a referral from your GP to see a psychiatrist at Yarra Clinic for a general mental health assessment.
What concerns can be discussed in this assessment?
These assessments are designed for concerns other than ADHD or autism. They can be helpful for anxiety, depression, bipolar and other mood difficulties, OCD, psychosis, trauma-related difficulties, diagnostic clarification, and questions about medication or treatment planning.
How long is the wait for an appointment?
Our current wait time for general mental health assessments is typically 2–4 weeks from the date we receive your referral.
How long is the appointment?
A general mental health assessment is typically 60 minutes via telehealth.
Can the psychiatrist prescribe medication?
Your psychiatrist can make medication recommendations where appropriate. If your referral is for a 291 assessment, those recommendations are usually provided to your GP so they can continue your care.
Are appointments in-person or online?
General mental health assessments are currently offered by telehealth, using secure video consultations accessible from anywhere in Australia.
Will I receive a report?
Yes. Within 7–14 days of the assessment, your psychiatrist prepares a detailed report and treatment plan for your referring GP.