Complex Diagnsis or Dual DiagnosisA Complex Diagnosis (or Dual Diagnosis) means that a patient has one or more psychiatric diagnoses and, potentially, one or more addictions (drug and/or alcohol). Treating a patient with a complex diagnosis is more complicated than it would be if the patient had only one diagnosis. This type of patient requires a highly trained and experienced specialist to plan a treatment protocol that will be effective in treating all of the diagnoses in combination.
Dr. Askins has specialized in complex diagnosis for over 15 years, having overseen numerous complex cases as both an outpatient practitioner and the Chief of Staff of two psychiatric hospitals. After a thorough psychiatric assessment, Dr. Askins will identify each individual condition that the patient has and coordinate the patient’s combined treatment protocol. For a successful outcome, it is important that co-occurring substance use (or chemical dependency) diagnoses are treated alongside the psychiatric diagnoses with a detoxification program or other appropriate measures. While a psychiatric assessment is a mandatory first step for this type of patient, a psychological evaluation may also be required. Dr. Askins will work with his team of specialists to assess the patient’s present psychological condition. They will take into consideration the patient’s work and family life, environmental factors and legal/financial situation in order to gain a thorough understanding of his or her surrounding stress factors. The Askins team can then care for the patient both psychiatrically and psychologically with a comprehensive strategy and effective treatment plan. |
Contact UsDr. Askins diagnoses and treats patients with common diagnoses or severe mental illness.
To schedule an appointment Phone: 626-793-7792. Our office will verify your insurance prior to your appointment so that you know in advance what your plan covers and if there are any co-payments required. Askins Psychiatry
960 E. Green Street Suite 202 Pasadena, CA 91106 |