The MAP

(aka The Medical Attunement Process)

Step 1

Comprehensive Psychosocial Evaluation

  • We complete a medical, psychological, psychosocial, and family psychiatric history of our potential patients. 

  • We discuss the patient’s goals for psychiatric treatment. 

Step 2

Assess the problem/diagnosis(es) and provide treatment recommendation

  • We share our observations of belief and behavior patterns with an emphasis on the patients view of self as well as self-talk, relationships, and attachment style.

  • We provide diagnosis for our patients. 

  • We provide treatment recommendations while: 

    • Explaining anticipated effects and potential side/adverse effects of psychotropics; 

    • Prescribing psychiatric medications when recommended;

    • Providing specialized psychotherapy recommendations and referrals when available.

  • We work to ensure utmost acceptance and consent to beginning psychotropics.

Step 3

If ambiguous, ambivalent or fearful of medication (optional step)

  • If ambiguous/ambivalent/fearful of medication we DO NOT BEGIN MEDICATION until the following has occurred: 

    • We have a follow up appointment to allow all questions and concerns to be shared and addressed;

    • We conclude visits reminding patients they have control and autonomy of choice. They are not required to start something they feel even a little uncertain about. 

  • If a patient decides not to start medication after these two appointments, one final visit is scheduled to discuss further concerns. If meds are not started by that time potential patients may reach out to the practice if/when they feel ready to begin the recommended psychiatric medication regime. 

Step 4

Implementation of the recommended treatment(s)

  • When appropriate, new medications are started one at a time to better understand cause and effect.

  • When appropriate, start meds at lowest possible dose. 

Step 5

Continued Contact

  • We provide thorough, thoughtful, and involved assessment of intended and side/adverse effects.

  • We value true patient-provider collaboration. Medication decisions are based on our providers clinical judgment together with patient’s personal experiences and preferences.

Step 6

Be There®

  • Be There® means we are present and emotionally available in our visits. We attune to our patients pain and struggles and joys through deep listening and deep feeling.

  • We let ourselves be vulnerable so that we can sit with people however they come to us.

  • We consider patient needs and how we might be able to contribute to their wellbeing even beyond a patient’s lifecycle in the practice.

  • Be There® means meeting people where they are and facilitating their healing above and beyond what any medication can do.