Beyond Diagnosis, Numbers, and Accommodations

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:

  1. Experiences: Understanding transdiagnostic patterns across homeostatic, social, and emotional layers
  2. Expectations: Exploring core beliefs, values, and cultural contexts
  3. Exceptions: Identifying when problems aren't present and conditions under which clients thrive
  4. 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.

Do you have questions about this course? Please Contact Us and we'll be happy to help.

Using Technology-Based Therapeutic Tools in Behavioral Health Services 2024 Update

Using Technology-Based Therapeutic Tools in Behavioral Health Services 2024 Update examines the rapidly evolving landscape of technology-assisted care (TAC) in behavioral health services. Course participants will explore how digital technologies, from artificial intelligence-powered screening tools to virtual reality therapy platforms, are transforming healthcare delivery. The curriculum covers critical aspects of modern TAC implementation, including privacy regulations, clinical integration strategies, and cultural competency in digital spaces. Special attention is given to emerging trends in digital therapeutics, mobile health technologies, and electronic health records integration. Participants will analyze the evidence base for various digital interventions, study implementation frameworks, and examine ethical considerations in virtual care delivery. The course addresses key challenges in healthcare equity, including the digital divide and access disparities among different populations. Current regulatory frameworks, reimbursement policies, and interstate practice requirements are also covered. Through examination of contemporary research and case studies, students will develop a comprehensive understanding of how technology is reshaping behavioral healthcare while maintaining high standards of clinical care. This advanced course is designed for doctoral students interested in the intersection of behavioral health, technology, and healthcare delivery systems.

Target audience: Psychologists, mental health counselors, marriage and family therapists, social workers, addiction counselors, and nurses.

This CE program is designated as intermediate.

CE Content Category: Counseling Theory/Practice and the Counseling Relationship; Counseling Services

This course is provided in both Audio and Text-based formats.

Asynchronous, distance learning. Non-interactive.

Potential conflict of interest: No known conflicts of interest

Do you have questions about this course? Please Contact Us and we'll be happy to help.