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Traditional mental health assessments often overlook brain function, despite the complexity and overlap of many mental health conditions. To gain a more comprehensive understanding, mental health clinicians can integrate additional assessments, such as IEPs, neuropsychological evaluations, and developmental evaluations (OT, PT, SLP), into their treatment approach. As we move toward becoming a brain-based informed clinician, we'll learn how to interpret these reports meaningfully and connect the results to supporting behavior. Additionally, for those without formal evaluations, we can explore alternative methods to assess brain function more effectively.
Handout
Handout
2. Evidence Based Assessments for Brain Based Mental Health Treatment Revised 3-9.pdfPlain language wording of handout
Plain language wording of handout
Using Brain-Based Assessments in Mental Health Therapy
Using Brain-Based Assessments in Mental Health Therapy
Why Assess Brain Function?
Traditional mental health assessments often miss key brain-based challenges that impact behavior and emotions. Mental health clinicians can gain a fuller picture by reviewing additional assessments like neuropsychological evaluations, school reports (IEPs), and therapy evaluations (occupational, speech, physical). Even if a client doesn’t have formal assessments, alternative methods can help identify brain function challenges.
Preparing for an Assessment
Before the first session, reviewing existing documents can provide helpful insights. These may include:
Neuropsychological and mental health evaluations
Occupational, speech, and school assessments
Individualized Education Plans (IEPs)
Medical and medication history
Client and caregiver interviews, including prenatal and birth history
Key Assessments to Consider
Clinicians should consider screening for prenatal alcohol exposure (PAE) and using language that reduces stigma. Resources like the Prenatal Alcohol Exposure Assessment and Language and Stigma Guide can help. A full neuropsychological evaluation is ideal for identifying strengths, weaknesses, co-occurring conditions, and trauma history. If one isn’t available, clinicians can use informal tools such as:
Vanessa Spiller’s Ability Wheel – a simple tool to assess cognitive and functional skills
FASCETS Neurobehavioral Exploration Tool – a structured assessment requiring specialized training
If informal assessments suggest additional needs, referrals to specialists should be made.
Common Brain-Based Assessments
Here are some key evidence-based assessments used to evaluate different brain functions:
Memory: Tests like the Children’s Memory Scale and NEPSY-II help assess memory challenges.
Developmental Skills: The Bayley Scale and Vineland Adaptive Behavior Scale evaluate overall development.
Sensory Processing: The Sensory Profile helps understand sensory sensitivities in children.
Processing Speed & Thinking: IQ tests like WISC and WAIS measure processing speed and cognitive function.
Speech & Language: The CASL-2 evaluates speech and language skills.
Auditory Processing: Tests like the SCAN assess how well a person processes sounds.
Additional Considerations
Clinicians should also assess:
The cognitive abilities of caregivers and their learning styles
Stress levels in the client’s environment
Available resources for both the client and their support system
By integrating brain-based assessments into mental health treatment, clinicians can provide more personalized, effective care, leading to better outcomes for clients and their families.
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