Genetic Testing

Genetic Testing services offered in Newburyport, MA

If you're a candidate for medications to better manage a mental health condition, it’s vital to take the most effective medications and doses based on your genetic makeup. At Safe Harbor Psychiatry in Newburyport, Massachusetts, the highly trained team use genetic testing to determine which psychiatric medications best suit you. Schedule an in-person or telehealth evaluation by calling the office or using the online booking feature today.

What is genetic testing?

Genetic testing at Safe Harbor Psychiatry utilizes Genomind® and Tempus genetic test kits that evaluate your DNA to determine which medications are likely the best for treating your condition. These test kits analyze a cheek swab or saliva sample.

You can complete genetic tests conveniently at the Safe Harbor Psychiatry office or from the comfort of your home.

What can genetic testing help address?

Safe Harbor Psychiatry provides genetic testing to better understand your genetic makeup and how it affects your body’s sensitivity to psychiatric medicines designed to treat:

Substance misuse disorder
Autism spectrum disorder
Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)
Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
Eating disorders
Schizophrenia
Phobias
Sleep disorders
Bipolar disorder
Depression
Other mood disorders
Anxiety
Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)

Genetic testing reduces the risk of trying medicines that aren’t as effective for your condition (based on your genes).

Am I a candidate for genetic testing?

Genetic testing is beneficial if you have signs or symptoms of a mental health condition. Examples include constant sadness, continuous anxiousness, fatigue, weight gain or loss, difficulty sleeping, and loss of interest in favorite activities.

You might also experience obsessions, compulsions, problems concentrating, or thoughts of suicide.

How does genetic testing work?

You first complete a psychiatric evaluation at Safe Harbor Psychiatry to diagnose any mental health disorders. They discuss your medical history, symptoms, medications, lifestyle, mood, emotions, thoughts, and more.

If your provider recommends genetic testing, simply collect a sample as directed by your provider. They send the sample to a lab for analysis and review the results, including information regarding how your genes likely impact drug responses to over 100 medications.

What happens after genetic testing?

After you receive the results of genetic testing at Safe Harbor Psychiatry, your specialist develops a treatment plan if necessary. It may include medication management, behavioral therapy, lifestyle changes, or combinations of treatments.

Your specialist follows up during your treatment to ensure it’s effective and changes your medication regimen if necessary.

It’s also important to minimize stress, get plenty of exercise and sleep, and maintain a strong social support network.

Schedule an in-person or telehealth evaluation at Safe Harbor Psychiatry by phone or request one online today to determine if you’re a candidate for genetic testing.