I tailor your depression evaluation based on age, clinical setting, and symptom severity. Screening tools may include the Geriatric Depression Scale (for older adults), the Zung Self-Rating Depression Scale, or the Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scale. For young adults or primary care settings, I often use the PHQ-9—one of the most effective depression screening tools supported by evidence-based guidelines. I also review your physical health, lifestyle habits, health care provider history, and any previously accessed health services to ensure nothing is missed.
Once your depression evaluation is complete, I create a personalized treatment plan built around your diagnosis and clinical needs. This may involve cognitive behavioral therapy, antidepressant medications, support group referrals, or additional diagnostic steps. I collaborate with healthcare providers, including specialists in psychiatry and behavioral health, to deliver mental health care that aligns with your personal goals and daily life. My approach is always focused on delivering accurate diagnosis, effective treatment, and lasting recovery—ensuring you’re supported from your first screening through every step of treatment.
A depression evaluation is the critical first step in identifying major depressive disorder, mood disorders, and related psychiatric conditions. I provide a confidential, structured assessment using industry-standard tools such as the Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9), Hamilton Rating Scale for Depression, and the Beck Depression Inventory. This process helps evaluate symptoms of depression including persistent sadness, loss of interest, trouble falling asleep, and low self-esteem. Whether you’re dealing with mild depression, severe depression, or treatment-resistant depression, this evaluation helps determine an accurate diagnosis and next steps.
If you’re experiencing signs such as little interest in activities, suicidal thoughts, fatigue, or changes in appetite, it may be time for a depression screening. These symptoms, often linked to major depression or seasonal affective disorder, are more than temporary feelings. I also assess risk factors like family history, drug use, medical conditions, or recent life events. Early screening improves treatment response, reduces suicide risk, and helps prevent worsening mental health problems.
Your depression evaluation includes an in-depth interview covering your health information, depressive symptoms, and overall mental health conditions. I may also conduct a physical exam, lab tests, and review of your psychiatric and family history to rule out related conditions like bipolar disorder, perinatal depression, postpartum depression, or anxiety disorders. Using DSM-5 Criteria from the American Psychiatric Association and resources like the National Institute of Mental Health, I determine if symptoms align with clinical depression or another mental illness.
I met Michael Feldman after years of search and trial and error. If you look for a professional who is invested in his patient’s progress, research-oriented, with a deep understanding of the body-mind connection and a wholistic approach to treatment, look no further.
Dr Michael Feldman is an amazing doctor. He prescribed the proper medication in the right dosage for me. He did this because he listens and asks very good questions. I highly recommend him and his practice at Gimle Health.
Michael Feldman is a wonderful and caring P.A. He always gives 100%. He listens attentively and provides many insights I would never thought of by myself . I find having him in my corner invaluable and I could not recommend him more highly. He’s the best!
Michael is an amazing professional! He truly invests in his patients and provides care and feedback even during off hours. Although we have only been using his services for a short time, he already stands out as caring, knowledgeable, and confident in his approach. We plan to continue using his services and would absolutely recommend him to anyone!
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(201) 815-4351
440 West Str, Ste 307, Fort Lee Bergen County NJ 07024
A depression evaluation helps identify symptoms of depression, such as persistent sadness, fatigue, and suicidal thoughts. It distinguishes between mental health conditions like major depression, bipolar disorder, and seasonal affective disorder using DSM-5 Criteria and standardized screening tools. It also helps your mental health professional determine the best treatment options.
Depression screening tools like the PHQ-9, Beck Depression Inventory, and Hamilton Depression Rating Scale are backed by clinical trials and systematic review data. They’re widely used in both clinical practice and primary care settings. These tools ensure an accurate diagnosis and help guide effective treatment.
Yes, many medical conditions such as heart disease, chronic pain, or hormonal imbalances can contribute to symptoms of depression. That’s why I conduct physical exams and may recommend lab tests to rule out other causes during your depression evaluation. I consider all mental and physical risk factors in your treatment plan.
Absolutely. Older adults often face unique challenges like grief, physical illness, or social isolation that may lead to depression. Tools like the Geriatric Depression Scale are designed for this population. Accurate diagnosis ensures appropriate treatment without overlooking age-related medical care concerns.
After your depression screening, I review the results with you and build a custom treatment plan. This may include therapy, medication, or health services like support groups or referrals to specialists. My goal is to create a plan that supports long-term mental health care, addresses mental health problems holistically, and lowers suicide risk.
Yes, depression in young adults can sometimes appear as irritability, academic decline, or withdrawal from social activities rather than classic signs like persistent sadness. I use age-appropriate screening tools and consider life events, substance use disorder risks, and emerging mental health problems. Tailored treatment options for young adults may include talk therapy, medication, or structured support groups to promote resilience and recovery.
During your depression evaluation, I assess for major depressive disorder, bipolar disorder, and other mood disorders using the Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5) and evidence-backed screening tools. Symptoms like low energy, depressed mood, or loss of interest are reviewed alongside risk factors and medical history. This process ensures an accurate diagnosis and helps avoid misdiagnosis of overlapping psychiatric disorders.
Comprehensive services designed for each individual.
Treatment of Anxiety, Depression, ADHD, Eating Disorders,
Psychosis, Schizophrenia and other psychiatric conditions.
Comprehensive services are designed for each individual. Treatment of Anxiety, Depression, ADHD, Eating Disorders,
Psychosis, schizophrenia, and other psychiatric conditions.
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