What to Expect

The Process of Mental Health Treatments


Mental health interventions can vary widely based on the treatment type, involving multiple steps to achieve desired results. Beginning therapy with an understanding of the procedure of various stages of treatment can ease nerves and create a safe space to take charge in your mental health journey.


Here, we provide information on the critical stages of our treatment options to ensure you enter your appointments with confidence.

The Process of Mental Health Treatments


Mental health interventions can vary widely based on the treatment type, involving multiple steps to achieve desired results. Beginning therapy with an understanding of the procedure of various stages of treatment can ease nerves and create a safe space to take charge in your mental health journey.


Here, we provide information on the critical stages of our treatment options to ensure you enter your appointments with confidence.

The Process of Mental Health Treatments


Mental health interventions can vary widely based on the treatment type, involving multiple steps to achieve desired results. Beginning therapy with an understanding of the procedure of various stages of treatment can ease nerves and create a safe space to take charge in your mental health journey.


Here, we provide information on the critical stages of our treatment options to ensure you enter your appointments with confidence.

  • Before

    Consultation 


    During an initial appointment with a psychiatrist

  • During

    DNA collection


    A DNA sample is collected in the form of a cheek swab test in the clinic to be sent off to be processed by Castle Bioscience’s approved laboratory


    Analysis


    The relevant genes are extracted from the DNA sample to assess the patient’s unique drug metabolism.

  • After

    Interpreting results


    A follow-up session is scheduled 2 to 3 weeks after the previous appointment to discuss the test results.


    Identifying the compatible medication


    A medical management plan can be developed and personalized to their genetic traits. By prescribing the most genetically compatible medication, the risk and/or severity of side effects can be minimized while simultaneously enhancing the chance of symptom reduction and remission.

Genetic Testing

Genetic testing uses advanced technology and the latest scientific knowledge on the human genome to strengthen the effectiveness and safety of psychiatric medication. It provides psychiatrists with insight into an individual’s unique drug metabolism to identify specific medications that may result in greater success.

Genetic Testing

Genetic testing uses advanced technology and the latest scientific knowledge on the human genome to strengthen the effectiveness and safety of psychiatric medication. It provides psychiatrists with insight into an individual’s unique drug metabolism to identify specific medications that may result in greater success.

  • Before

    Consultation 


    During an initial appointment with a psychiatrist

  • During

    DNA collection


    A DNA sample is collected in the form of a cheek swab test in the clinic to be sent off to be processed by Castle Bioscience’s approved laboratory


    Analysis


    The relevant genes are extracted from the DNA sample to assess the patient’s unique drug metabolism.

  • After

    Interpreting results


    A follow-up session is scheduled 2 to 3 weeks after the previous appointment to discuss the test results.


    Identifying the compatible medication


    A medical management plan can be developed and personalized to their genetic traits. By prescribing the most genetically compatible medication, the risk and/or severity of side effects can be minimized while simultaneously enhancing the chance of symptom reduction and remission.

Medical Management

Psychiatric medication is a popular form of mental health treatment. Although it does not address the root of cognitive, behavioral, or emotional difficulties, it can allow mental health symptoms to be more easily managed.

  • Before

    Medical screening


    It is critical that clients are screened for medical conditions to eliminate possible medications that may worsen one’s physical health or interact with any drugs patients take regularly. It can also provide insight into how their physical health may be impacting their mental health.


    Genetic testing


    If genetic testing is requested by the patient, a DNA swab will be taken and results will be returned by Castle Bioscience within 2 to 3 weeks.


    Diagnosis


    Obtaining an accurate diagnosis that represents the symptoms an individual is experiencing is critical to finding the correct medication and achieving remission.

  • During

    Monitoring of symptoms and adjusting dosage


    Progress tracking of symptom relief and side effect occurrence helps to determine whether the dosage may need to be increased or decreased to optimize the effectiveness of the drug while minimizing negative reactions. 


    Changing medication


    In the case where adverse side effects occur and cause significant discomfort, the patient and psychiatrist may decide to change medications. Typically, before beginning a new medication, there is a 2 to 5 day washout period when no drugs are taken.

  • After

    Ongoing treatment: 


    Once an appropriate medication and dosage has been, patients may like to continue this treatment indefinitely. Depending on situational or medical factors, the dosage may vary throughout time.


    Discontinuing medication: 


    If the patient or psychiatrist feels psychiatric medication is not required to manage symptoms, the patient may discontinue treatment. 


    Examples of when this may occur includes:


    (1) A single or recurring life event that triggers mental health symptoms ceases to exist.


    (2) Alternative treatment has begun, which may make medication redundant

Medical Management

Psychiatric medication is a popular form of mental health treatment. Although it does not address the root of cognitive, behavioral, or emotional difficulties, it can allow mental health symptoms to be more easily managed.

  • Before

    Medical screening


    It is critical that clients are screened for medical conditions to eliminate possible medications that may worsen one’s physical health or interact with any drugs patients take regularly. It can also provide insight into how their physical health may be impacting their mental health.


    Genetic testing


    If genetic testing is requested by the patient, a DNA swab will be taken and results will be returned by Castle Bioscience within 2 to 3 weeks.


    Diagnosis


    Obtaining an accurate diagnosis that represents the symptoms an individual is experiencing is critical to finding the correct medication and achieving remission.

  • During

    Monitoring of symptoms and adjusting dosage


    Progress tracking of symptom relief and side effect occurrence helps to determine whether the dosage may need to be increased or decreased to optimize the effectiveness of the drug while minimizing negative reactions. 


    Changing medication


    In the case where adverse side effects occur and cause significant discomfort, the patient and psychiatrist may decide to change medications. Typically, before beginning a new medication, there is a 2 to 5 day washout period when no drugs are taken.

  • After

    Ongoing treatment: 


    Once an appropriate medication and dosage has been, patients may like to continue this treatment indefinitely. Depending on situational or medical factors, the dosage may vary throughout time.


    Discontinuing medication: 


    If the patient or psychiatrist feels psychiatric medication is not required to manage symptoms, the patient may discontinue treatment. 


    Examples of when this may occur includes:


    (1) A single or recurring life event that triggers mental health symptoms ceases to exist.


    (2) Alternative treatment has begun, which may make medication redundant

Counseling and Therapy

Counseling and psychotherapy look deeply into the connection between cognition, emotion, and behavior to understand the underlying cause of mental health symptoms or distress in response to life events. Through gaining a deeper understanding, patients can develop coping strategies to create lasting change in their mental health and wellness.

  • Before

    Understanding symptoms and situation


    Gaining insight into the client’s mental health symptoms and current life events informs the direction of therapy. Our clinicians approach this with sensitivity and compassion to establish good rapport and create a safe space for personal growth.


    Identifying treatment goals


    Together, the client and therapist will identify goals to enable the client to manage mental health symptoms and navigate challenging life events.


    Customizing a treatment plan


    With specific goals in mind, a specific counseling or psychotherapy approach can be adopted (eg. CBT, DBT) to provide a structure and embrace certain principles in their treatment that are appropriate for the individual and their needs.

  • During

    Learning about cognition, emotion, and behavior


    Exploring the connection between cognitive patterns, emotional responses, and behavioral reactions is important to understanding more about oneself and the root of mental health symptoms. 


    Coping strategies


    Increased self-awareness around cognition, emotion, and behavior helps to identify specific coping strategies that may be effective. Gradually, clients build skills in different areas to manage mental health symptoms or cope with daily life stressors. This may involve a mix of exercises in session and exercises to practice at home in order to learn what works for them.


    Revisit goals and track progress


    Checking in on goal progress is crucial to an effective treatment plan. It helps identify difficulties that may require additional work or determine when a client has made significant improvements and it is time to move on to different goals.

  • After

    Moving on


    Counseling and psychotherapy can continue for weeks or years, depending on the individual and their personal needs. Our clinicians are committed to working collaboratively with you and seeing you make big steps in your mental health journey. You may feel satisfied with stopping therapy sessions or you may like to reduce the frequency of appointments. This can be an open discussion with your clinicians.

Counseling and Therapy

Counseling and psychotherapy look deeply into the connection between cognition, emotion, and behavior to understand the underlying cause of mental health symptoms or distress in response to life events. Through gaining a deeper understanding, patients can develop coping strategies to create lasting change in their mental health and wellness.

  • Before

    Understanding symptoms and situation


    Gaining insight into the client’s mental health symptoms and current life events informs the direction of therapy. Our clinicians approach this with sensitivity and compassion to establish good rapport and create a safe space for personal growth.


    Identifying treatment goals


    Together, the client and therapist will identify goals to enable the client to manage mental health symptoms and navigate challenging life events.


    Customizing a treatment plan


    With specific goals in mind, a specific counseling or psychotherapy approach can be adopted (eg. CBT, DBT) to provide a structure and embrace certain principles in their treatment that are appropriate for the individual and their needs.

  • During

    Learning about cognition, emotion, and behavior


    Exploring the connection between cognitive patterns, emotional responses, and behavioral reactions is important to understanding more about oneself and the root of mental health symptoms. 


    Coping strategies


    Increased self-awareness around cognition, emotion, and behavior helps to identify specific coping strategies that may be effective. Gradually, clients build skills in different areas to manage mental health symptoms or cope with daily life stressors. This may involve a mix of exercises in session and exercises to practice at home in order to learn what works for them.


    Revisit goals and track progress


    Checking in on goal progress is crucial to an effective treatment plan. It helps identify difficulties that may require additional work or determine when a client has made significant improvements and it is time to move on to different goals.

  • After

    Moving on


    Counseling and psychotherapy can continue for weeks or years, depending on the individual and their personal needs. Our clinicians are committed to working collaboratively with you and seeing you make big steps in your mental health journey. You may feel satisfied with stopping therapy sessions or you may like to reduce the frequency of appointments. This can be an open discussion with your clinicians.

Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation

Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) is a non-invasive technique that allows neural activity-specific brain regions be to modulated. This can alter various cognitive, emotional, and/or behavioral processes and work to alleviate mental health symptoms.

  • Before

    Medical screening


    TMS is well-tolerated. However, some medical conditions can increase the risk of rare side effects (eg. seizures). It is important that a medical assessment is performed to ensure prospective patients do not have contraindications (eg. epilepsy).


    Determining the site of stimulation:


    Different symptom profiles require different brain areas to be stimulated. For instance, for depressive symptoms, the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex is targeted.


    Motor mapping


    Unique measurements of a patient’s head are taken to determine the appropriate and identify landmarks of the head to identify brain structures. This testing process also determines the appropriate intensity for stimulation to optimize effects and minimize discomfort.

  • During

    20-minute session


    A TMS appointment involves 15-20 minutes of painless brain stimulation in the clinic


    Muscle twitching


    Some patients report muscle twitching in the head and/or neck. This is explainable by TMS technology. While TMS aims to activate brain cells via an electromagnetic pulse, it can also activate muscles within the electromagnetic field. Although this may be unexpected at first, it is not painful or an adverse reaction to TMS.

  • After

    Scalp discomfort


    Some patients report that scalp discomfort or headaches may occur at the site of stimulation. However, this tends to dissipate after a few hours and can be alleviated with over-the-counter pain relief if necessary.


    Resuming your day


    TMS does not alter consciousness or awareness in any capacity. Patients are able to continue with their daily activities immediately and are safe to drive home.


    Symptom improvement


    Many patients report a reduction in symptoms 2 to 3 weeks into treatment, however, the most significant changes occur at the end of the treatment (4 to 6 weeks).


    Maintenance


    Some individuals achieve remission with one course of TMS, however over time, symptoms may return for others. In these cases, maintenance sessions are available to manage mental health symptoms.

Conclusion

At Creative Wellness, we understand how complex it can be to navigate the many therapies available to you. We aim to ease this process and guide you to finding the most suitable treatment plan. Our clinicians are committed to creating a safe space for you to explore your options - contact us today!

Request Appointment

Medications didn’t work. Therapy wasn’t enough.

Crossed Off Your Options? There’s Still Hope

If traditional treatments haven’t worked, it’s time to explore a proven alternative. Safe, effective and medication-free. See if TMS is the right option for you.

Take the Quiz →

Medications didn’t work. Therapy wasn’t enough.

Crossed Off Your Options? There’s Still Hope

If traditional treatments haven’t worked, it’s time to explore a proven alternative. Safe, effective and medication-free. See if TMS is the right option for you.

Take the Quiz →

"Dr. Simonsen and his staff were great! They were patient and accommodating during my TMS journey. I always felt comfortable during my appointments. Highly recommend!"


Brittney M.

Not Sure Where to Start? We Can Help

With so many treatment options, finding the right one can be overwhelming. Let’s make it easier. Answer a few quick questions, and we’ll help you discover what might work best for you

Take the Quiz →

Not Sure Where to Start? We Can Help

With so many treatment options, finding the right one can be overwhelming. Let’s make it easier. Answer a few quick questions, and we’ll help you discover what might work best for you

Take the Quiz →

Tailored Care, Built Around You

Featured Resources

Is TMS Right For Me?


Valuable questions to ask yourself while making your decision about what treatment pathway to pursue!


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Benefits & Side Effects


TMS is a brain stimulation technique that aims to manage mental health symptoms


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TMS Conditions Treated


Including but not limited to autism, dementia, stroke treatment, and dystonia. 


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Why Choose

 Creative Wellness?

Choosing the right mental health provider is important, and you deserve compassionate, expert care. At Creative Wellness, we provide personalized, evidence-based treatments that help patients take control of their mental health. Here's why so many trust us:

Insurance & Flexible Payment Options

Comprehensive, Holistic Mental Health Solutions

Experienced, Compassionate Care Team

Advanced Genetic Testing for Precision Medicine

Minimally Invasive & Side Effect-Free Alternatives

Proven Success & High Efficacy

Faces of Humanity

Portraits of people from around the globe
Button

Sands of Time

Stark beauty of desolate dunes
Button

Beyond Boundaries

Visual odyssey across continents
Button

Nature's Symphony

Breathtaking colors of our planet
Button

Why Choose

 Creative Wellness?

Choosing the right mental health provider is important, and you deserve compassionate, expert care. At Creative Wellness, we provide personalized, evidence-based treatments that help patients take control of their mental health. Here's why so many trust us:

Insurance & Flexible Payment Options

Comprehensive, Holistic Mental Health Solutions

Experienced, Compassionate Care Team

Advanced Genetic Testing for Precision Medicine

Minimally Invasive & Side Effect-Free Alternatives

Proven Success & High Efficacy

83%

of patients experienced symptom improvement, with 62% achieving full remission after completing TMS.

Elizabeth Wolkin

a year ago

"was a really supportive and trauma informed place to receive TMS, and I felt much better after treatment. If you are considering TMS I recommend talking to them, they are accessible and easy to connect to, and do a good job explaining the process in a clear way. Thanks to Dr. Simonsen and team!"

Marci Ballou

a year ago

"I cannot say enough about Creative Solutions, Dr. Simonsen, his staff, and TMS. I was skeptical but decided to give it a try. They were very thorough in explaining the what's/why's/how's and extremely professional every step of the way. I feel better than I have in YEARS."

Charlena Priebe

2 years ago

"TMS therapy was super helpful, I came to him with severe depression and taking meds that helped very minimally! I was impressed with how quickly I noticed changes with my mental health and my desire to actually want to get up and do things where as before I had zero desire for anything! "

Request Appointment

For more details or to schedule a consultation, give us a call at 253-900-1605 or fill out our online form.

What Happens Next?

Personalized recommendations based on your needs

Guidance on insurance & payment options

Get answers to your questions about our treatments

1800 Cooper Point Road SW, Olympia, WA 98502

Contact Us

Locations

8404 27th st w. University place, Wa. 98466

1800 Cooper Point Road SW, Olympia, WA 98502

211 Yelm ave W. Yelm, Wa. 98597