What is the Cost of a Mental Health Evaluation in Los Angeles CA

At Blue Ocean Mental Health, an initial mental health evaluation with one of our clinicians typically ranges from $1000 to $5000. Evaluations conducted by our psychiatrists may be at the higher end of this range, while assessments with our licensed therapists or clinical social workers may be more affordable.

If you have health insurance, your out-of-pocket cost may be much lower—often limited to a copay (usually between $20 and $60, depending on your plan and whether we are in-network with your insurer). We are happy to verify your benefits and help you understand your financial responsibility before your first visit.

For those without insurance, we strive to make our services accessible. In some cases, we may offer sliding scale rates based on your income, potentially reducing the cost of an evaluation to as low as $50 for qualifying individuals.

Please note that specialized evaluations—such as those required for legal proceedings, school accommodations, or workplace documentation—may involve more extensive testing and documentation, and fees for these services can range from $1000 or more, depending on complexity.

The cost of a mental health evaluation is an important consideration for our patients. The price of an evaluation at our practice can vary based on several factors:

1. Provider Expertise:
Evaluations conducted by our highly trained psychiatrists may be priced higher than those conducted by therapists or counselors, reflecting their advanced expertise and specialized training.

2. Type and Length of Evaluation:
Blue Ocean Mental Health offers a range of evaluation services, from brief screenings to comprehensive assessments. More extensive evaluations—which may include psychological testing, detailed interviews, and review of medical history—typically involve higher fees due to the time and resources involved. The purpose of the evaluation, whether for diagnostic clarification, academic accommodations, or legal reasons, can also impact the overall cost.

3. Location and Accessibility:
As a practice serving the Los Angeles, CA area, our fees reflect the local cost of living and the value of high-quality mental health care. We strive to keep our services accessible while maintaining the highest standards of care.

4. Insurance and Payment Options:
We accept a variety of insurance plans and will verify your coverage prior to your appointment. If we are in-network with your insurance, your out-of-pocket costs may be significantly reduced. For those without insurance, or with out-of-network benefits, we can discuss self-pay rates and payment plans. We also offer sliding scale fees for eligible patients to help ensure affordability.

5. Additional Fees:
Administrative processes, such as detailed report writing or follow-up sessions, may incur additional charges. We are committed to transparency and will provide a clear breakdown of all potential costs before your evaluation, so you know exactly what to expect.

Mental health evaluations typically take between 30 minutes and two hours, depending on your unique needs and the complexity of your concerns. During your evaluation, one of our experienced mental health professionals will conduct a supportive interview to discuss your symptoms, medical and family history, and any significant life events that may impact your health. We may also use standardized questionnaires or psychological tests to gain a deeper understanding of your experiences.

For most of our clients, the initial evaluation lasts about an hour in our comfortable outpatient setting. If your situation requires a legal assessment or more in-depth evaluation (such as for disability claims or academic accommodations), the process may take longer and could involve multiple appointments. This thorough approach allows to gather all the information needed to provide an accurate diagnosis and create a personalized treatment plan tailored to you.

A mental health evaluation is a comprehensive, compassionate assessment designed to help us understand your unique experiences and challenges. Our skilled clinicians use these evaluations to accurately diagnose a wide range of mental health conditions, ensuring you receive the personalized care you deserve.

Common conditions we identify through our evaluations include mood disorders, such as depression and bipolar disorder, both of which can cause significant changes in mood, energy, and daily functioning. Anxiety disorders—including generalized anxiety disorder, panic disorder, and social anxiety disorder—are also frequently diagnosed at Blue Ocean Mental Health, allowing us to tailor effective treatment plans for our clients.

Our evaluations can help identify attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and other neurodevelopmental disorders. We also assess for trauma- and stressor-related disorders, including post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), as well as obsessive-compulsive and related disorders.

We recognize the importance of identifying eating disorders—such as anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, and binge-eating disorder—and substance use disorders, which can significantly impact mood, behavior, and overall well-being.

Taking the first step toward mental wellness can feel overwhelming, especially when cost is a concern. At Blue Ocean Mental Health, we believe everyone deserves accessible and affordable mental health care. Led by Esder Shin, a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC), our practice is dedicated to removing financial barriers so you can prioritize your well-being.

A mental health evaluation is a compassionate and comprehensive process. Esder Shin takes the time to listen to your story, exploring your symptoms, history, and current challenges. This may include discussing your emotions, thought patterns, sleep habits, and any physical symptoms that might relate to your mental health. Our goal is to provide an accurate diagnosis and create a personalized treatment plan that fits your unique needs.

Blue Ocean Mental Health is transparent about fees and offers flexible payment options. Sliding scale rates and payment plans are available for those experiencing financial hardship, ensuring that high-quality mental health care is within reach for our community.

If you’re noticing persistent sadness, anxiety, changes in sleep or appetite, difficulty focusing, or overwhelming stress, a mental health evaluation can offer the clarity and support you need. Esder Shin approaches every client with empathy, respect, and a commitment to collaborative care—so you always feel heard and supported.

Don’t let financial concerns hold you back from getting the help you deserve. Blue Ocean Mental Health is here to make your first step toward mental wellness as easy and accessible as possible. For more information, contact us or request an appointment online. We are conveniently located at 11850 Wilshire Blvd, Suite 200A, Los Angeles, CA 90025. We serve patients from Los Angeles CA, Pasadena CA, Beverly Hills CA, Glendale CA, Huntington Park CA, East Los Angeles CA, and surrounding areas.