Second Opinion Specialist

Psychiatrist located in Fairfax, VA, Alexandria, VA, Washington, DC

If you’re unsure about a psychiatric diagnosis or treatment recommendation, Dr. Ifeanyi Olele at Genesis Psychiatric Solutions can help with an expert second opinion. At his offices in Fairfax, VA, Alexandria, VA, Washington, DC, Dr. Olele provides detailed psychiatric evaluations to help you receive the best possible treatment outcomes for your mental health condition. Call the Genesis Psychiatric Solutions office nearest you today to schedule a second opinion consultation or book an appointment online.

Second Opinion Q & A

What is a second opinion?

Asking for a second opinion involves consulting a second or third health care professional about a diagnosis you receive or treatment recommendations that are giving you cause for concern.

Your primary care provider or a specialist might diagnose a condition that seems unlikely or recommend treatments that don’t seem to match your expectations. Sometimes, you may be unable to get a clear diagnosis.

You might want more detailed answers or feel it’s worth investigating other treatment options. This is when you might ask for a second opinion.

Second opinions can also be useful if you need to make a choice between two types of treatment and don’t have a clear idea which one would suit you better.

Am I entitled to ask for a second opinion?

No reputable health care provider would object to you seeking a second opinion. Doctors often take different approaches when diagnosing and treating health problems, and this is especially true with mental health.

Psychiatric conditions don’t have such cut-and-dried diagnostic criteria as physical health problems that you can identify with a blood test or X-ray. Instead, your provider must use their training, experience, information from reliable sources, and research to formulate a diagnosis.

Likewise, there are numerous treatment approaches, including an array of medications and various types of talking therapies.

These varying approaches to diagnosis and treatment and the differences between patients mean there’s no definitive solution to mental health management.

What should I do if I want a second opinion?

If you don’t agree or are uncertain about your diagnosis and treatment plan, visit Dr. Olele for a second opinion. He can review your medical records and provide you with an unbiased psychiatric evaluation.

Having the right diagnosis means you’re more likely to receive the treatment you need and helps you avoid a failed treatment plan.

Dr. Olele can provide you with a written report, laboratory tests, and pharmacogenomic test results upon request. He can also share with you potential treatment options that you can discuss with your current provider.

If you’re considering asking for a second opinion, call Genesis Psychiatric Solutions today or book an appointment online.