Specialist psychiatry in Auckland

Specialist psychiatric assessment brings diagnosis and clinical evidence together with the person’s own account of their experience. The aim is to understand the problem well enough to make a useful, proportionate plan—not to assume a particular diagnosis or treatment at the outset.

An assessment may consider:

• what is happening now and what the person hopes will change
• psychiatric, medical and treatment history
• current medicines, substance use, sleep and physical health
• relationships, culture, work, daily life and available support
• risk, safety and any need for other investigations or specialist input

Braided Clinic plans to provide specialist assessment and treatment across a broad range of psychiatric presentations, including:

• mood disorders, including depression that has not responded to standard treatment
• anxiety and trauma-related conditions
• substance-use and addictive disorders
• other complex psychiatric presentations after specialist assessment

This list is not a statement that the clinic or a particular treatment will be suitable for any person. The referral information and individual assessment will determine the appropriate next step.

A plan may include psychotherapy, medication, practical changes, coordination with an existing care team, further assessment, or another specialist pathway. Recommendations are made with the person and reviewed as circumstances or evidence change.

Dr Tom Paterson is an Auckland psychiatrist and the founder and lead clinician of Braided Clinic. His work includes specialist psychiatry, addiction psychiatry and the careful development of psychedelic-assisted treatment in Aotearoa New Zealand.