Additional Services
State-of-the-art genomic testing
More often than not, it isn't just one member of a family who experiences mental health issues. Children, parents, grandparents, siblings - quite often, mental health issues affect multiple members of a family tree. For almost all of human history, understanding which actual genes were contributing to a person's psychiatric condition was an out-of-reach goal.
However, there have been huge advancements in the last 20 years, such that patients are now able to undergo genetic/genomic testing, to better understand what specific genes may be contributing to their symptoms of mental illness. Deciding to undergo genetic testing from a psychiatric perspective is a weighty decision. However, undergoing genomic testing can help us:
- better understand potential health risks and benefits based on your unique genes.
- formulate personalized plans, that include tailored dietary and lifestyle changes, as well as specific vitamins and supplements.
- reduce the need for medications and avoiding as much of a trial-and-error approach to treatment.
Dr Knox offers genomic testing through multiple companies, including IntellxxDNA.
For patients on the autism spectrum - did you know that Autism Speaks and many other leading organizations and researchers recommend genetic testing?
I do usually recommend patients on the ASD spectrum undergo genetic testing through GeneDX (which is often covered by insurance and includes pre-test and post-test genetic counseling.)
Comprehensive lab testing
Lab testing is an important component of integrative psychiatry, as it allows us to ensure you have the appropriate levels of "building blocks" for optimal mental health. However, insurance companies can create barriers to lab-testing.
If you have a high deductible and prefer to pay out of pocket for labs, or you are part of a health care sharing program, Dr Knox is able to offer competitive out-of-pocket prices for labs.