Assessment: The First Step in Successful Psychotherapy
Receiving mental health treatment is a complex process. However, with proper evaluation, assessment, and diagnosis, creating an effective plan for psychotherapy becomes much easier.
How do I start?
Most psychotherapy begins with a consultation, during which a counselor will speak with you in order to identify the issues you may be struggling with. They will get to know you on a personal level, listening to the concerns prompting you to seek treatment. After consulting with you, a counselor may refer you to a specific evaluation or assessment based on your individual needs.
Why should I seek professional assessment?
Information on mental health is readily available on the internet, so self-diagnosis can be tempting. However, it’s best to leave assessments up to the professionals. Only a professional trained to use the DSM-V is equipped to diagnose mental illnesses. An official diagnosis can assist your clinician in outlining a treatment plan, along with opening up other options for treatment, such as medication.
What is the DSM-V?
The DSM-V is a manual used by mental health professionals in order to diagnose patients. It contains symptoms and descriptive diagnosis categories for a variety of mental illnesses. Clinicians utilize the DSM-V because it provides a universal diagnosis criteria—meaning there are clear and measurable standards for diagnosis, leading to a standardized evaluation process.
When should I seek psychological evaluation or assessment?
If you or someone you know is dealing with mental health issues, seeking assessment is a great first step to treatment. Here are some symptoms of disorders requiring professional evaluation and/or diagnosis:
- Attention Difficulties
- Lack of Motivation
- Feelings of Anxiety
- Sudden Mood Changes
- Paranoia
- Low Self-Esteem
- Issues with Body Image
- Obsessive Behavior
- Poor Impulse Control
- Problems Controlling Drug Use
- Social Difficulties
This list is not all-inclusive; however, if you’re suffering from any of these symptoms or have other concerns, know there are options for treatment. To get started, contact us here today.