Clinical assessment
Every course of counseling starts with a thorough look at what is actually going on.
Good counseling depends on a good beginning. The initial assessment is a full first session devoted to understanding you: your history, your current symptoms, your strengths, your safety, and what you want to be different. It is where the plan comes from.
Brett completed more than 3,500 psychiatric assessments in the emergency department at Cincinnati Children's Hospital before opening this practice. That experience shows in how quickly he gets to what matters and how clearly he explains what he sees.
Who this is for
- You want to know what is really going on before committing to a plan
- You have tried counseling before and it never seemed to target the right thing
- You are unsure whether what you feel is anxiety, depression, stress, or something else
- You want an honest read on whether counseling, medication, or another kind of care fits
- Your physician or partner has suggested an evaluation
How it works
The assessment is a structured conversation, not a test. Brett asks about what brought you in, how long it has been happening, what has helped, your medical and family history, sleep, substances, relationships, work, and safety. You can skip anything you are not ready to discuss.
By the end you will hear Brett's understanding of the pattern in plain language, whether a diagnosis applies and what it means, and a proposed plan: the approach, the likely arc, and the first step. If something outside counseling would help, such as a medical check or medication consult, he will say so.
The assessment also gives you a baseline. Progress is measured against it, so you can see change over time rather than guessing.
Three steps, and the first one is free
- 01
Free 10-minute call
A short conversation to make sure counseling is a fit and to schedule the assessment.
- 02
Secure intake form
You complete the consent and intake form online beforehand so the session can focus on conversation.
- 03
The assessment session
A longer first meeting, by video or in person, ending with a clear plan and your questions answered.
How long it takes
The assessment is a single session: $175 for an individual, $275 for a couple. Counseling continues from there if you choose, at $150 and $225 per session.
This is a good fit if
- You want clarity before committing to ongoing counseling
- You would like a professional opinion on what you are dealing with
- You want a plan with a beginning, middle, and end
- You value directness
Before the first call
Anything not answered here is a good question for the free call. All FAQs →
Is the assessment the same as a psychological evaluation?
No. A clinical assessment guides counseling. Formal psychological or neuropsychological testing is a separate service Brett does not provide; he will refer you if it is needed.
Will I get a diagnosis?
If one applies and is useful, yes, explained plainly. Not everyone who benefits from counseling meets criteria for a diagnosis, and that is fine.
Can the assessment be done by video?
Yes, on Carepatron from anywhere in Ohio or Kentucky, or in person at the Clifton Avenue office.
Do I have to continue after the assessment?
No. Some people come for the assessment alone to get clarity. Most continue, but it is your decision.
Related
All specialties →
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
CBT, DBT, attachment theory, the work of John Gottman, and person-centered counseling, chosen to fit you.
Learn more →
Anxiety and stress
Racing thoughts, worry that will not switch off, panic, and the toll it takes on sleep and work.
Learn more →
Depression
Low mood, loss of interest, and the heaviness that makes ordinary days hard.
Learn more →
