What if the way we've been writing psychological reports is fundamentally missing the mark? In this thought-provoking discussion, Dr. Stephanie challenges the traditional "DNA" approach to assessment—focusing on Diagnosis, Numbers, and Accommodations—and introduces a more meaningful framework that truly captures the complexity of human experience.
Instead of the traditional DNA approach, Dr. Stephanie proposes focusing on:
- Experiences: Understanding transdiagnostic patterns across homeostatic, social, and emotional layers
- Expectations: Exploring core beliefs, values, and cultural contexts
- Exceptions: Identifying when problems aren't present and conditions under which clients thrive
- Experiments: Testing real-time interventions and observing dynamic trade-offs
Rather than viewing clients through static categories, this approach recognizes that we are "dynamic, strange webs of if-then signatures."
This isn't about abandoning diagnosis, numbers, or accommodations entirely—it's about putting them in their proper place while expanding our focus to capture the full richness of human experience.
Interview published 6/2025
CE Content Category: Testing/Assessment; Clinical
Target audience: Psychologists, mental health counselors, marriage and family therapists, social workers, addiction counselors, nurses, case managers.
This CE course is designated as intermediate.
Conflict of interest or commercial support disclaimer: None to disclose
Format: Asynchronous, distance learning. Non-interactive. Recorded audio with transcript.
NAADAC Online CE Completion limits: There is a limit of 8 hours (8 CE) of credit for online courses within a 24-hour period.
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