The Expert Second Opinion
Diagnostic Clarification, Medication Optimization, and Deprescribing
A focused, in-depth expert consultation for people who are stuck — whether the diagnosis has never been clear, the medication regimen has grown complicated, or you feel over-medicated and want a careful, physician-supervised plan to simplify what you're taking.
This is a consultation, not ongoing care. Many people come referred by their own psychiatrist, primary care physician, or therapist, or while under another provider's care, for an expert reassessment of a complex situation. I conduct a thorough, integrative evaluation, clarify the diagnosis, and build a rationalized medication or deprescribing plan. You then return to your treating provider with a clear formulation and plan in hand.
The diagnostic clarification and medication optimization can be completed in as little as ten days. When safe deprescribing is involved, the work may extend over two to three months, because tapering medications thoughtfully takes time. Delivered as a structured, self-pay package.
Diagnostic Clarification
For people whose diagnosis has never been clear, who have been told their case is complicated, or who have not improved despite trying.
Some people move through years of treatment without ever getting a clear answer. Diagnostic clarity is the foundation of good treatment. I bring rigorous diagnostic reasoning, a thorough review of history, careful attention to medical and neurological contributors, and the time that complex cases require. This often takes more than one visit, because a genuine formulation cannot be rushed.
“It takes quite a bit of skill to navigate bipolar disorder. For seven years, Dr. Cartwright has been my guide. She knows me, not just my disease.”
— C
Medication Optimization and Deprescribing
Physician-led, carefully supervised medication review for people who feel over-medicated, are struggling with side effects, or have a regimen that has grown too complicated.
Many people arrive on more medications than they can make sense of. I take a careful, physician-supervised approach to reviewing and rationalizing psychiatric medication, and where appropriate, develop a safe, gradual plan to streamline and simplify.
“My experience with Dr. Cartwright has been very pleasant... following her expertise and guidance I can now say that I am doing a lot better. I have not felt like this in years.”
— G
For Referring Providers
I work alongside therapists, primary care physicians, and psychiatrists regularly. My role is psychiatric evaluation, diagnostic clarity, and medication management — your patient's relationship with you stays intact.
I communicate clearly, I'm reachable, and I don't take patients into long-term therapy without discussion.
To refer a patient or discuss a case, call or email directly.