Optimizing Your Mental Health Treatment with GeneSight® Testing

Megan K. Ramirez, PMHNP
Aug 24
2 min read

Illustration of a DNA double helix, symbolizing genetic testing and personalized medicine.

Have you ever tried a psychotropic medication only to experience frustrating side effects—or discovered it didn’t work as expected? You’re not alone. Many people struggle to find the right medication for their unique body chemistry. But what if there were a way to understand how your body is likely to respond before you even start?

Enter GeneSight ^®, a cutting-edge genetic test that helps tailor your mental health treatment to your unique genetic makeup.

What Is GeneSight®?

GeneSight^® analyzes your DNA to determine how your body metabolizes psychotropic medications. These medications—commonly prescribed for depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia—can vary widely in effectiveness from person to person.

The way your body processes medication affects whether it works as intended or causes side effects. Some people metabolize drugs too quickly, making them less effective. Others metabolize them too slowly, leading to higher drug levels and unwanted effects. GeneSight^® identifies which scenario is more likely for you, helping guide medication decisions.

How Does GeneSight® Work?

The test categorizes over 60 psychotropic medications into three color-coded groups:

Green: Generally well-metabolized and likely to be effective with minimal side effects.
Yellow: May require dosage adjustments, as your body may metabolize them at a slower rate.
Red: May be ineffective or cause side effects due to how your body processes them.

It’s important to note that GeneSight^® doesn’t dictate exactly what to prescribe. Instead, it provides valuable guidelines, giving us a clearer starting point and helping reduce trial-and-error prescribing.

What Medications Are Tested?

GeneSight^® covers a wide range of psychotropic medications, including:

Antidepressants
Antipsychotics
Mood stabilizers
Anxiolytics
Hypnotics

Whether you’re managing depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, or another mental health condition, GeneSight^® offers insights into how your body may respond to treatment.

What Happens After the Test?

Results are typically available in less than a week. Once they arrive, we’ll schedule an appointment to review the findings together. During this session, we’ll discuss how the results can refine your treatment plan. If appropriate, we’ll adjust your medication regimen based on your symptoms and genetic profile.

GeneSight^® helps personalize your treatment and reduce guesswork. Plus, if the test is updated in the future, you can repeat it at no additional cost.

Affordable Options and Payment Plans

Cost should never stand in the way of care. GeneSight^® offers flexible payment plans, and you can determine the exact cost on their website by entering your financial information. This makes accessing this powerful tool more affordable.

Why Consider GeneSight®?

Tailored Treatment: Reduce trial-and-error prescribing.
Speed: Results in under a week.
No Extra Cost for Updates: Retest if updates are made.
Affordability: Flexible payment options available.

Schedule a Consultation Today

If you’re ready to take control of your mental health treatment and ensure you’re on the right path forward, GeneSight^® may be the tool you’ve been waiting for.