Understanding Subtle Changes
Psychosis Risk Assessment
A teen may mention an unfamiliar perception, or a parent may notice changes that are hard to describe. Psychosis risk assessment gives us a structured way to hear those details and discuss what else needs attention.
Who This Is For
The conversation may help a teen or young adult with subtle changes in experience, or a family wondering what to do next. You do not need to settle on an explanation before contacting us.
- Teens with subtle changes
- Young adults with questions
- Families noticing a difference
- Concerns about unusual perceptions
Focus of Care
What We Work On
Your Description
The experience itself, in the words you use for it.
Timing and Frequency
When changes began and how often they come up.
Everyday Impact
Effects on school, work, relationships and routines.
Further Care
Questions that may need psychiatric or medical evaluation.
How We Work
Joseph is trained in SIPS, the Structured Interview for Psychosis-Risk Syndromes. The interview asks about unusual experiences, their timing and their impact. We explain questions in plain language and make room for clarification; an answer does not need to sound polished to be useful.
- SIPS assessment training
- Plain-language discussion
- Family observations
- Referral planning
What Can Shift
Putting observations into words can help a family have a more specific conversation about care. We discuss what the assessment suggests, which questions remain and what kind of follow-up may fit. Uncertainty has a place in that discussion, rather than something you have to hide.
What Sessions Look Like
A 50-minute appointment can include discussion of the changes that brought you in and questions about assessment. We talk about the structured interview and family participation before deciding how to proceed. Your teen or young adult's account remains part of that conversation.
After assessment, we discuss findings and possible next steps. A full psychiatric or medical evaluation may also be recommended. Therapy, family support or a referral can be part of planning care, depending on the concerns that need attention.
Arranging an Assessment Conversation
We offer in-person care in San Diego and telehealth across California. A free 15-minute phone consultation can cover assessment questions, clinician availability, insurance and superbills.
Fees in Brief
Individual, couples and family sessions are 50 minutes. We are in network with many plans and provide superbills for out-of-network benefits. Contact us for rates.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Does SIPS Stand For?
SIPS means Structured Interview for Psychosis-Risk Syndromes, an assessment Joseph is trained to use.
Does a Subtle Change Mean Someone Has Psychosis?
No, a change is a reason for discussion and assessment, not a conclusion by itself.
Can a Relative Share Their Observations?
Yes, we can discuss family input alongside the young person's own account of their experiences.
Is This a Substitute for a Full Medical Evaluation?
No, a full psychiatric or medical evaluation may also be recommended to address questions beyond this assessment.
Related Support
You May Also Want to Explore
These pages explain treatment and family involvement after the questions that lead someone to seek assessment.
Your family's questions about a small but concerning change are enough to start an assessment conversation with us.
Start With a Conversation