Genetic Testing: Stitching Together Custom Care
If you’ve ever felt like finding the right medication is trial, error, and a lot of waiting, you’re not alone. At Mending Mental Health, we believe care should be crafted, not guessed. Genetic testing is one of the tools we use to personalize treatment so you spend less time waiting and more time healing.
We partner with Tempus for pharmacogenomic (PGx) testing. In plain English, PGx examines how your unique genes may affect the way your body processes certain psychiatric medications. Your results help your clinician choose options that fit you better, sooner. Tempus performs the test in a CLIA/CAP-certified lab, and results are delivered to your provider to guide decisions about medication selection and dosing.
What is pharmacogenomic (PGx) testing?
PGx testing uses a small saliva sample to analyze specific genes involved in how your body metabolizes medications. Tempus focuses on genes that influence medication response and side-effect risk, then turns those findings into a clinical report your provider can use. Their nP test assesses 13 genes relevant to psychiatric prescribing and includes references to clinical guidelines and peer-reviewed literature.
Why we use Tempus at Mending
Actionable guidance. PGx results help us select or adjust medications and doses with more confidence, especially for depression, anxiety, ADHD, and related conditions.
Ease and speed. A saliva or cheek swab can be done in clinic or shipped to your home. Once Tempus receives the sample, reports are typically ready in about 1–2 weeks.
Quality and compliance. Tempus operates a CLIA/CAP-certified lab. Results go to your ordering provider, who integrates them with your history and goals before any treatment changes. PGx informs care; it does not replace clinical judgment.
Cost transparency. Tempus accepts many insurance plans, offers a $295 self-pay option, and provides financial assistance with benefits checks so there are no surprises.
Beyond the test. Tempus PRO™ can track patient-reported outcomes between visits so we see how changes feel in real life, not just on paper.
What PGx can help with
Fewer side effects. If your genes suggest slower or faster metabolism, we can avoid doses your body may not tolerate well.
Faster fit. Skipping options your genes are unlikely to handle well can shorten the path to a better match.
Clarity after multiple trials. If you’ve tried several medications without relief, PGx may explain why and point to alternatives that fit better.
Note: Studies suggest PGx-guided care can improve outcomes in depression. Evidence continues to grow, and like any single test, PGx is one piece of a complete evaluation. We use it alongside your history, preferences, and goals.
Are you a good candidate?
You might be a great candidate if:
You’ve had limited benefit or difficult side effects from past medications.
You’re starting treatment and want to reduce guesswork from the beginning.
You’re living with depression, anxiety, or ADHD, where response varies widely person to person.
What to expect at Mending
Conversation first. We review your history, goals, and whether PGx makes sense for you.
Order the test. Your clinician orders Tempus nP. Tests must be ordered by a licensed provider.
Simple sample. Provide a saliva or cheek swab in clinic or at home.
Results in about 1–2 weeks. We receive your report, interpret it with you, and align on next steps.
Follow-through. If we make a medication change, we pair it with close follow-up. When helpful, we use Tempus PRO™ to track how you’re feeling between visits.
How this fits our Sewing Room philosophy
Our blog is where we reflect, repair, and reimagine what mental health care can look like. Genetic testing helps us tailor treatment to the person in front of us, not to a template. It’s one more way we stitch care to your unique story.
Common questions
Is PGx testing covered by insurance?
Often. Tempus accepts many plans, offers a $295 self-pay option, performs a benefits check, and has financial assistance for eligible patients.
Which genes are included?
Tempus nP analyzes 13 genes related to how the body metabolizes psychiatric medications.
How long does it take?
Reports are typically ready about one to two weeks after Tempus receives your sample.
Can I order it myself?
In most cases, your clinician must order the test. Select patient-initiated pathways may exist depending on state. We can guide you.
Will results automatically change my medication?
Not necessarily. PGx is a decision-support tool. Your provider considers the full picture before recommending any change.
Ready to explore PGx with Mending?
If you’re curious whether genetic testing could help you feel better, faster, let’s talk. We offer telehealth across Minnesota and keep the process simple from start to finish. See the Genetic Testing section on our Services page or request an appointment to get started.