What to expect

As a Psychiatrist, Dr Pearse is a fully trained medical doctor who has chosen to specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of mental health disorders.  During her psychiatric training she spent many years seeing a wide variety of patients with different psychiatric and medical issues.

At your first appointment, Dr Pearse will spend time getting to know you and what difficulties you have been experiencing and how they are affecting your life. It is also useful to know about any medical conditions you may have and any past visits with mental health professionals.  Many medical and psychiatric conditions may run in families and so if you know of any family history of mental health issues, please discuss this with Dr Pearse during your appointmemt.

Diagnosis and treatment options will be discussed at the end of your assessment. Individual treatment plans are formulated in collaboration with you, allowing plenty of time for explanation and questions. Treatments may consist of medication, referral for psychological therapy and or lifestyle advice.

Worries and concerns

Psychiatrists learn to diagnose, treat and understand complex mental illnesses.  It is understood that some issues can be quite difficult for people to talk about, but Dr Pearse has many years of experience working with patients who may feel emotional or anxious during consultations.  It is completely normal and expected for patients to be anxious when meeting a psychiatrist for the first time.

What to bring

Bring along any medical or mental health records that you believe are important, including a list of your medications (for both physical and mental health problems).

You can ask a friend or family member to come to your appointment if you feel that they can provide a unique perspective or make you feel less anxious.
I accept referrals from GPs, mental healthcare professionals and therapists. This can be discussed once you have made contact.

After your appointment

After your appointment a summary letter will be written to your GP to keep them up-to-date with your care.  This letter will also outline diagnoses and any agreed treatment plan.  If follow up appointments are required, this can be arranged at a mutually convenient time.

Fees

Dr Pearse is recognised by the majority of private medical insurance companies including BUPA, AXA PPP, Standard Life and  Aviva. It is recommended that you contact your insurance company to check the level of your cover before commencing treatment.  Self funding patients are also welcome.

Initial out-patient assessment (1 hour) £360
Long follow up (1 hour) £300
Normal follow up (30 mins) £150

Appointments are to be settled by BACs transfer. Fees can be prepaid and cancellations of less than 2 working days will be charged at full rate.