All psychological treatment  begins with a diagnostic evaluation to determine the appropriate clinical diagnosis.  This assessment includes:  questions about the circumstances and issues that brought you into psychotherapeutic services; a mental status exam; your personal and family histories; substance use/abuse history; spiritual beliefs; a review of your current life stressors. and strategies you have used to cope with your difficulties. 

A treatment plan is then developed in relation to the diagnosis and the information developed form this and subsequent sessions.  All treatment starts with a diagnostic evaluation as accurate identification of what’s wrong and what’s right informs treatment leading to improved outcomes.

For individuals entering  the CANE and Batterer’s programs the diagnostic evaluation has a somewhat different approach and is billed differently based on the criteria of the specific program.  (see CANE & Batterer’s programs)