Counselors assess and diagnose mental health disorders using a structured process that combines clinical judgment, standardized assessment tools, and diagnostic criteria from the DSM-5-TR (Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 5th Edition, Text Revision). A diagnosis is generally required when using insurance.

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1. Initial Intake and Clinical Interview

We begin with a comprehensive intake session to gather:

• Presenting concerns (e.g., symptoms, duration, severity)

• Psychosocial history (family, education, work, relationships)

• Medical and psychiatric history

• Risk factors (e.g., trauma, substance use, suicidal ideation)

This interview helps form a preliminary understanding of your mental health status.

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2. Assessment Tools

I often use evidence-based instruments to quantify symptoms and support diagnosis. These tools may include:

Screening Tools

• PHQ-9: Screens for depression

• GAD-7: Screens for generalized anxiety

• PCL-5: Measures PTSD symptoms

• OCI & Y-BOC- Screens for obsessive compulsive behaviors

 

3.  DSM-5-TR Criteria

Using the DSM-5-TR, I will:

• Reviews diagnostic criteria for clinical level disorders

• Assesses whether your symptoms meet the thresholds (e.g., number of symptoms, duration, functional impairment)

• Consider other possible conditions that are problems of life.

The DSM-5-TR also includes cultural considerations and developmental factors, which are crucial for accurate diagnosis.​

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4. Feedback and Treatment Planning

We discuss the tentative findings, ensuring transparency and understanding, collaborative goal-setting, and development of a treatment plan, with referrals as needed. 

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How Eating Disorders Are Assessed and Diagnosed.

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 ​​Many people struggle with disordered eating, body image concerns, and excessive exercise. Very few can escape the social and cultural pressure to achieve an "ideal look," whatever that may be. Your beliefs and behaviors may differ from "traditional symptoms," but that is perfectly normal and does not mean you are not struggling. When assessing the level of treatment needed, I begin by conducting a comprehensive interview using the Eating Disorder Questionnaire (EDQ), the Clinical Impairment Assessment (CIA), and the Cross-Cutting Symptom Questionnaire (CCSM). We then use a Cultural Formulation Interview (CFI) to ensure the cultural relevance of symptoms and behaviors, including all intersecting identities. Lastly, I review the DSM-5-TR diagnosis criteria with you to be sure you feel the diagnosis is correct. For those who do not meet the full criteria for a diagnosis, we still work together to create a personalized treatment plan and work toward the recovery and change you want to achieve. Note: As a Health at Every Size and Body Acceptance advocate, I do not focus on weight loss as a treatment goal.