What Is Genetic Testing?

Genetic testing—also known as pharmacogenetic testing—analyzes your DNA to understand how your body processes certain medications. This allows us to tailor your mental health treatment with greater precision, helping reduce side effects and improve results.

It’s a simple, non-invasive test (usually a cheek swab), and results are used as part of your psychiatric care plan to inform safer, more effective prescribing.

Benefits of Genetic Testing for Psychiatric Care

Personalized Medication Plans

We use your genetic insights to recommend medications that are most likely to work for you—and avoid ones that aren’t.

Less Trial and Error

Get to the right treatment faster by minimizing unnecessary medication switches.

Fewer Side Effects

Your results help us steer clear of medications that may be poorly tolerated based on your metabolism or genetic sensitivity.

Better Treatment Outcomes

Some studies suggest patients experience faster symptom relief when treatment is guided by pharmacogenetic data.

When Is Genetic Testing Helpful?

Genetic testing may be especially valuable if:

• You’ve tried multiple medications without relief
  
• You’ve experienced side effects that made treatment hard to stick with
  
• You want to start treatment with more clarity
  
• You’re managing complex diagnoses or comorbid conditions
  
• You’re being prescribed medications for depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, ADHD, or PTSD
  

Learn more about psychiatric medication management at Vantage

Our Testing Options: GeneSight vs. OneOme

At Vantage, we offer two respected pharmacogenomic tests. Not sure which is best for you? Don’t worry, we’ll help you decide. 

GeneSight

  Focused on Mental Health

• Specializes in psychiatric medications
  
• Evaluates how your genes affect your response to antidepressants, antipsychotics, and ADHD medications
  
• Results include a simple, color-coded report (Green = use as directed, Yellow = use with caution, Red = avoid if possible)
  
• Ideal for clients whose main concern is optimizing mental health medications like SSRIs, SNRIs, mood stabilizers, and stimulants
   

OneOme RightMed

– Broad, Comprehensive Panel

• Developed in Minnesota
• Evaluates your genetic response to a wider range of medications, including treatments in cardiology, pain management, oncology, and psychiatry
• Offers detailed metabolic and interaction reports
• Ideal for clients with multiple health concerns or complex medication needs

Why Choose Vantage Mental Health?

We’re not just handing you a lab result—we’re walking with you through what it means, how it fits into your care plan, and what comes next.

• Expert Interpretation: Our psychiatric providers are trained in pharmacogenetics and will explain your results in clear, accessible language
• Integrated Care: We combine your genetic results with a full psychiatric evaluation to guide treatment
• Patient-Centered Approach: You’re always part of the conversation. No rushed visits. No guesswork.
• Convenient Access: In-person and telehealth options available

Start With More Clarity

You don’t have to keep guessing which medication will finally work. With genetic testing at Vantage, you can start your treatment journey with more precision—and more confidence.

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