What Is the Cost of Seeing a Geriatric Psychiatrist in Columbia, MO?

The most common psychiatric disorders in geriatrics include:

1. Depression: This is one of the most prevalent mental health conditions among older adults, often linked to life changes such as retirement, loss of loved ones, or chronic illness. Symptoms include persistent sadness, loss of interest in activities, and feelings of hopelessness.

2. Anxiety Disorders: These include generalized anxiety disorder, panic disorder, and social anxiety. Older adults may experience increased anxiety related to health issues, financial concerns, or changes in living arrangements.

3. Dementia: Dementia, including Alzheimer’s disease, affects cognitive function, leading to memory loss, confusion, and difficulties with daily tasks. It is one of the most significant concerns for elderly patients and often requires a combination of psychiatric and medical care.

4. Bipolar Disorder: Although more common in younger individuals, bipolar disorder can also develop in older adults, characterized by extreme mood swings, including manic episodes and depressive episodes.

5. Psychosis: Older adults, particularly those with dementia, may experience psychosis, which includes hallucinations and delusions. This can sometimes be a result of medical conditions or medication side effects.

6. Sleep Disorders: Conditions like insomnia, sleep apnea, and restless leg syndrome are common in older adults, contributing to mental health challenges like depression and anxiety.

Psychiatrists specializing in geriatrics focus on managing these disorders through a combination of medication, therapy, and support for both patients and their families.

At Success Health System, we understand that it can be challenging to determine when to seek the help of a geriatric psychiatrist for yourself or a loved one. Our team specializes in diagnosing and treating mental health conditions unique to older adults. We recommend scheduling a consultation if you notice any significant changes in mood, behavior, memory, or cognitive function that interfere with daily life or overall well-being.

Here are some signs that it may be time to consult with a geriatric psychiatrist at Success Health System:

Persistent emotional changes: Feeling sad, anxious, irritable, or experiencing mood swings that are out of character or don’t improve over time.

Memory concerns: Memory loss that goes beyond typical aging, such as forgetting familiar names, getting lost in familiar places, or difficulty following conversations.

Unusual experiences: Hallucinations, delusions, or major personality shifts that impact daily functioning.

Sudden changes in behavior: Significant shifts in sleep patterns, appetite, personal hygiene, or withdrawal from social activities, which may signal depression or other underlying issues.

We also encourage families and caregivers to reach out when caregiving becomes overwhelming or when behavioral symptoms—such as agitation, aggression, or paranoia—create safety concerns. Our geriatric psychiatry specialists at Success Health System are highly experienced in working with older adults and their families to identify the root causes of symptoms, whether they stem from medical conditions, medication side effects, or psychiatric conditions.

Early assessment and intervention are crucial, as many mental health conditions in older adults respond well to treatment. At Success Health System, we are committed to providing compassionate, timely care to help improve the quality of life for both patients and their loved ones. If you’re uncertain whether a geriatric psychiatric consultation is necessary, please contact us—we are here to guide you through the next steps in your loved one’s care.

The cost of seeing a psychiatrist can vary based on several factors, including the type of service, the session length, the psychiatrist’s experience, and your insurance coverage. Generally, an initial evaluation with psychiatrists ranges from $200 to $500. Follow-up appointments, which are typically shorter in duration, generally cost between $100 and $300 per session.

For patients with health insurance that covers mental health services, your out-of-pocket expenses may be significantly lower. Many insured patients only pay a copay, which typically ranges from $10 to $50 per session, depending on their specific plan.

We also offer telepsychiatry (online appointments), which may have different pricing compared to in-person visits, offering added convenience and flexibility for our patients.

For the most accurate information about session costs, insurance coverage, or payment options, please contact our office directly. Our friendly and knowledgeable staff will be happy to verify your benefits and provide answers to any questions you may have before scheduling your appointment.

At Success Health System, we offer comprehensive geriatric assessments to support the unique needs of our older adult patients. Our geriatric assessment is a thorough evaluation designed to understand each patient’s medical, psychological, and functional abilities. Typically, this assessment takes between one to two hours, allowing our experienced healthcare team to carefully review your medical history, perform physical and cognitive examinations, and assess your ability to manage daily activities. We also consider important social and environmental factors that may impact your well-being.

Depending on your individual health status and the complexity of your needs, additional diagnostic tests or consultations with our network of specialists may be recommended, which could extend the assessment over several visits. At Success Health System, our goal is to provide a detailed understanding of your health and to develop a personalized care plan that promotes independence, safety, and quality of life.

Dr. Moses Tabe Ambilichu, M.D., is a board-certified psychiatrist at Success Health System specializing in geriatric psychiatric care, offering personalized treatment for older adults in Columbia, MO. With a compassionate approach, Dr. Ambilichu expertly addresses age-related mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety, memory loss, and dementia. His experience in managing both the medical and emotional aspects of aging allows him to provide well-rounded, effective care. Through a combination of medication management and therapeutic interventions, Dr. Ambilichu ensures that patients receive comprehensive support to enhance their mental well-being and quality of life.

What sets Dr. Ambilichu apart is his commitment to accessibility and patient-centered care. Offering both in-person and telehealth appointments, he ensures that patients in Columbia, MO, and surrounding areas have convenient access to expert care without unnecessary travel. His approach integrates the latest research with personalized treatment plans, fostering trust and long-term mental wellness. Whether you’re seeking help with mood changes, cognitive concerns, or overall emotional well-being, Dr. Ambilichu’s expertise makes him the ideal choice for geriatric psychiatric care in the area. For more information, contact us today or schedule an appointment online. We are conveniently located at 3600 I-70 Dr SE- Ste C, Columbia, MO, 65201. We serve patients from Columbia MO, Shaw MO, Harg MO, Deer Park MO, Midway MO, Thornbrook MO and surrounding areas.