Asking for a Mental Health Assessment

Hi, my name is [Your Name]. I’m looking to schedule a mental health assessment or speak with someone about starting services. I live in Dundalk and I saw that your clinic offers outpatient mental health services. I’d like to know: What is the process to get started? Do you accept [your insurance] or offer sliding-scale fees? How soon could I schedule an appointment?

If you're not sure about insurance or have none:

“I don’t currently have insurance / I have Medicaid — are there options for low or no cost?”

You can also ask:

“Will I meet with a therapist or a psychiatrist for the first visit?”“Do you offer virtual or in-person appointments?”

📝 Checklist: What to Prepare for the Call or Appointment

✅ Item	Description
Photo ID	For registration (e.g., driver’s license or state ID)
Insurance card	If you have insurance (Medicaid, private, etc.)
List of symptoms	Anxiety, sadness, sleep issues, anger, stress, trauma, etc.
Medical history	Any past diagnoses, medications, hospitalizations
Current medications	List any prescriptions (especially mental health or pain meds)
Goals	What you want help with — e.g., “I want to feel less anxious,” “I’m struggling with addiction,” “I need help with depression.”

Sample Symptom & Goal Summary (You Can Use or Modify)

Your Name: [Insert your name]Date of Birth: [Insert DOB]Contact Info: [Phone/email if needed]

🧠 What I’m Struggling With:

I’ve been having a really hard time with my mental health. I feel overwhelmed and stuck, and I think I might be dealing with [anxiety, depression, trauma, or addiction — use the ones that apply]. I’ve also had problems with [prescription drug use / painkillers / opioids] and I want help stopping and finding a better way to cope. Some days are really hard — I feel [tired, anxious, hopeless, unmotivated, irritable — pick what fits], and it’s affecting my sleep, energy, and relationships.

🎯 What I Need Help With:

A full mental health assessment Someone to talk to regularly (therapist or counselor) Help managing cravings or substance use Medication support (if recommended) A safe plan to start healing — mentally, emotionally, and physically

⏰ Availability / Insurance Info:

I’m available [weekday mornings / evenings / flexible — say what works] I have [Medicaid / no insurance / private insurance — or unsure]

📄 How to Use This:

• Read it during your first phone call or intake

• Bring a printout or screenshot to your appointment

• Let them know your top priority (e.g., “I need help with addiction and depression”)