What to Expect at Your First Visit
No surprises, no pressure. Just thorough, compassionate care.
We understand that taking the first step can feel intimidating. That is why we have designed our evaluation process to be welcoming, unhurried, and thorough. Here is exactly what will happen so you can walk in feeling prepared and confident.
You Are in Good Hands
Here is what makes us different
- 2-3 hour comprehensive evaluation
- No rushed 15-minute appointments
- Two professionals review your case
- Leave with a clear diagnosis and plan
What to Bring
Having these items ready will help us make the most of your evaluation time.
Valid photo ID (driver's license or state ID)
Insurance card (even though we are out-of-network, we submit claims to your insurance twice a month on your behalf)
Complete list of all current medications with dosages
Previous psychiatric or psychological records, if available
List of your concerns, symptoms, or questions you want to discuss
Names and contact information for other treating providers
Do not worry if you cannot gather everything. We can work with whatever you have. The most important thing is that you show up.
For Adults
Your evaluation includes about 2 hours of face-to-face time — a full hour with our therapist and a full hour with Dr. Shapiro. Here is exactly what happens, step by step.
Meet with Kari Gutzwiller, LPCC
Your visit begins with an in-depth conversation with our experienced counselor, Kari Gutzwiller, LPCC. She will take time to understand your history, current concerns, daily life, and what brought you in. This is a safe, judgment-free space to share at your own pace.
Kari Reviews with Dr. Shapiro
After your session with Kari, she meets privately with Dr. Shapiro to share her clinical impressions. This collaborative step ensures Dr. Shapiro has a complete picture before meeting with you.
One-on-One with Dr. Shapiro
Dr. Shapiro meets with you for a thorough psychiatric evaluation. He will ask targeted questions, review your history, and discuss his diagnostic impressions. He takes the time to explain everything clearly and answer all of your questions.
Diagnosis & Treatment Plan
Dr. Shapiro will discuss his diagnostic findings, explain what they mean in plain language, and present treatment options tailored to your unique situation. You will leave with a clear plan and next steps.
Schedule Follow-Up
Before you leave, we schedule your next appointment. Most patients are seen monthly. We want to make sure you always have your next visit on the calendar.
For Children & Adolescents
Child evaluations are even more thorough — about 3 hours across three sessions. We see the whole picture by talking with parents, the child, and gathering data from teachers.
Parents Meet with Kari Gutzwiller, LPCC
The evaluation begins with parents or guardians meeting privately with Kari Gutzwiller, LPCC. She will ask about your child's developmental history, behavior at home and school, family dynamics, and your specific concerns. Your perspective as a parent is invaluable.
Child Meets with Kari Gutzwiller, LPCC
Kari then spends time with your child in a warm, age-appropriate setting. Through conversation, activities, and observation, she gets to know your child as an individual and understands their perspective.
Rating Scales from Parents & Teachers
Standardized behavioral and symptom rating scales are collected from both parents and teachers. These validated tools give us objective data to complement the clinical interviews and support an accurate diagnosis.
Kari Reviews with Dr. Shapiro
Kari presents her complete findings to Dr. Shapiro, including observations from both parent and child sessions, along with rating scale results. Together they develop a preliminary clinical picture.
Family Meeting with Dr. Shapiro
Dr. Shapiro meets with the entire family to discuss his diagnostic impressions, answer questions, and collaboratively develop a treatment plan. He explains everything in terms you and your child can understand.
What Happens Next
Your first visit is just the beginning. Here is what ongoing care looks like.
Clear Treatment Plan
You will leave with a written summary of your diagnosis and a step-by-step treatment plan. No guessing, no confusion about next steps.
Monthly Follow-Up Appointments
Most patients are seen once a month for ongoing medication management and progress monitoring. We adjust the schedule based on your needs.
Same-Day Response to Questions
Have a question between visits? Call our office and we will get back to you the same business day. You are never left wondering.
Coordination with Other Providers
With your permission, we communicate with your therapist, primary care doctor, school counselors, or other professionals involved in your care.
Telehealth vs. In-Person
We offer both in-person and telehealth appointments. Here is how they compare.
In-Person Visits
- Required for initial evaluations
- Two convenient office locations
- Cincinnati (Montgomery Rd) and Fort Wright (Dixie Hwy)
- Free parking available at both locations
- Best for comprehensive evaluations and complex cases
Telehealth Visits
- Available for follow-up appointments
- Secure, HIPAA-compliant video platform
- Same quality care from the comfort of home
- Perfect for medication management check-ins
- Ideal when travel, weather, or schedules are challenging
Ready to Take the First Step?
You have read about the process. You know exactly what to expect. Now there is only one thing left to do.
If you're experiencing a psychiatric emergency, call 911 or go to your nearest emergency room.