Take a look at what we can do for you.
Diagnostic Assessments
A diagnostic assessment is a comprehensive evaluation that can determine a client’s mental health status, diagnose potential disorders, and create a treatment plan to address the client’s needs. This is done through a clinical interview, which is a conversation between the mental health professional and the client. During the clinical interview, the client will be asked a series of questions and this may take up to 45 minutes to 2 hours. Assessments are usually completed prior to starting mental health and/or substance use disorder treatment. For instance, if you are looking for counseling services, your first session would be an assessment so your counselor can get a better understanding of what brought you to treatment and how to address your needs.
What Happens During an Assessment?
You might wonder what to expect during a mental health assessment. The good news is that it’s a gentle, supportive process designed to make you feel comfortable and heard.
- 1) Initial conversation. The evaluator will ask about your current feelings, thoughts, and behaviors. This is your chance to share openly. They typically ask the question, “What brings you in today?” During this initial phase, you will be asked to sign informed consent forms and a release of information (if appropriate).
- 2) Gathering background information. You’ll discuss your personal history, including significant family medical history, relationships, work experiences, and any past mental health experiences such as past psychiatric hospitalizations or outpatient counseling services.
- 3) Symptom check. You will be asked about the specific symptoms you are having such as anxiety, sadness, or difficulty concentrating.
- 4) Standardized questionnaires. Sometimes, you’ll complete forms that help measure the severity of your symptoms.
- 5) Goal setting and creation of your treatment plan. If you are seeking counseling services, a treatment plan will be created. Together, you and the evaluator will talk about what you hope to achieve during the course of treatment.
Court- Ordered Assessments
If you have received a legal charge of disorderly conduct or domestic violence, or been involved in an altercation that resulted in investigation by law enforcement or an arrest, you may be asked to complete an assessment for court. We can assist you with that.
MH Assessments and Counseling, LLC provides assessments to individuals involved in the court system. Our mental health and substance abuse providers possess specific credentials and training to accurate results and reports. A report will be created by the one doing the evaluation and sent out to the appropriate contacts (i.e. probation officer, attorney, and/or judge).
Features of the Court Ordered Assessment Report:
- The report contains the diagnostic assessment itself
- Screenings completed such as GAD-7, PHQ-9, Brief Addiction Monitor, and CSSR
- The American Psychiatric Association DSM-5 criteria for all diagnostic impressions or determinations
- Recommendations for education and treatment as appropriate
- Rationale for the diagnose(s) and/or treatment recommendations
Court and legal professionals only see your document if and when you choose to provide it to them. During your appointment, you will sign a release of information for each entity that needs to see the report. You may revoke the release of information at any time.
Case Management Services
Case management is a collaborative process between you and your provider in which there is continual assessment, planning, facilitation, care coordination, evaluation and advocacy. MH Assessments and Counseling has trained social workers that provide a spectrum of support services to clients including:
- Assistance with basic food needs
- Help finding clothing
- Help with learning new basic life skills (i.e. cleaning, cooking, parenting advice, etc.)
- Assistance applying for benefits such as Medicare, Medicaid, Social Security Income (SSI), SNAP (food stamps), etc.
- Help with scheduling a medical or dental visit or finding a provider that fits your preferences and needs
- Symptom monitoring
- Connecting you with local resources
Individual Counseling Services
Individual counseling involves one-on-one sessions between you and the counselor. It’s the most common type of counseling and can help address a wide range of personal issues, from anxiety and depression to self-esteem and personal growth.
Key Elements of Our Counseling Services:
- Confidentiality and privacy: What you share in a counseling session is private and confidential, fostering a safe environment for open discussion.
- A non-judgmental space: Our counselors provide a non-judgmental space where you can express your thoughts and feelings without fear of criticism.
- Goal-oriented: Counseling often focuses on specific goals, such as managing stress, overcoming a fear, or improving relationships.
When Should You Seek Counseling?
Counseling can be beneficial in many situations, whether you’re dealing with a specific problem, going through a challenging time, or simply seeking personal growth. Here are some signs that you might benefit from counseling:
- You’re experiencing persistent feelings of sadness, anger, anxiety, or stress and you don’t know how to manage it on your own. Nothing you’re doing on your own is working.
- You need an unbiased person to talk to and give you an objective perspective on the situation.
- You’re facing difficulties in relationships, work, or school.
- You’re dealing with a significant life change, such as a loss, divorce, or career transition.
- You feel stuck or unsure about your life direction.
If any of these resonate with you, you may benefit from seeking counseling services. You may reach out to us to schedule an appointment or we can assist you in finding a place that suits your needs better.