Comprehensive “biopsychosocial” assessments are formulated at the beginning of therapy. The biopsychosocial approach to assessment considers biological (genetic, nutrition, sleep and exercise), psychological (emotions, thoughts and behavior) and social (peer, work, family and/or romantic relationships) aspects of how a person functions in the world. Health is best understood in a holistic context: one that considers the whole you. The mind/body connection is a powerful one, and assessments are made considering the inextricable link between all aspects of functioning.
I am a certified Massachusetts CANS (Child and Adolescent Strengths and Needs) Assessment provider. Strengths and needs are assessed in relation to the issue you would like to address in therapy. This is an important part of treatment planning, as your strengths are an important part of the tools which will help achieve your goals.
Some people might read this and say, “I don’t think I have many strengths to work with.” Just gently remind yourself that sometimes we’re in a place in our lives where we aren’t able to use them, acknowledge them or sometimes even see them. This is where therapy will help you find them and use them to move toward want you want in your life. Remember, like the firefly, sometimes our unique strengths show up when its dark.
Initial assessments may take up to 2 sessions to complete.
Erin M. Stathis, LMHC 