Mental Health

Seeing the Whole Student: Data-Driven ADHD Assessment

Key Takeaways:   School psychologists are leaders in data-based ADHD identification. The next era of evaluation will refine how multiple data sources can be intentionally integrated to strengthen decision making.  As student needs become more complex and concerns related to ADHD symptomology and impairment increase, schools must rely on robust, standardized tools that integrate multiple types...

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Scaling Quality Behavioral Health through Tech-Enabled Science

As behavioral health technology scales, what happens when the data behind it is less reliable than we presume—and the technology meant to expand access to care quietly outpaces the science it depends on?  Behavioral health technology has advanced rapidly in recent years. Virtual care, digital intake, AI‑enabled workflows, and automation have reshaped...

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Hiding in Plain Sight: Camouflaging in Adult Autism

Key takeaways: Many autistic adults work hard to “blend in,” using camouflaging strategies that can hide their true experiences, often at a personal cost.  Because camouflaging can make autistic traits less visible, autism in adults is frequently missed or misunderstood by people who know them well.  New research using the ASRS® Adult shows that camouflaging...

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Introducing the ASRS® Adult: A New Standard for Understanding ASD in Adults

Presentations of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) are complex, blended, and recognized more often in adults today. With a growing awareness of ASD—its likely prevalence, presentation, and pattern of diagnosis among adults1,2—detection has become an important clinical focus. To support a healthcare pathway for adult diagnosis, MHS is excited to announce the launch of the Autism Spectrum Rating Scales™ Adult (ASRS® Adult). The ASRS Adult is a scientifically validated, adult-centered, multi-informant rating scale designed to assess symptoms and behaviors associated...

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Unmasking Autism: The Rising Awareness of Autism Spectrum Disorder in Adults and Across Genders

Over the years, there has been greater awareness (in research, practice, and the general population) of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and its detection across a person’s lifespan. This growing recognition and heightened understanding are reflected in the surge in ASD diagnoses among adults1. In addition, the clinical community and the...

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Beyond the First Session: Therapy Retention

The rates of client dropout, arguably a stigmatizing term in and of itself, have been a topic of interest in the literature for over 50 years. Despite interest, there remains a lack of consensus on its definition and why clients discontinue therapy. Study results also vary in terms of dropout...

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Choosing the right tools: Broadband vs. Narrowband Assessments

Key Takeaways: Broadband and narrowband assessments serve distinct purposes in evaluating students' needs, strengths, and challenges. When selecting assessment tools, school psychologists should consider the purpose of the evaluation, the student's presenting challenges and strengths, and other contextual factors. Integrating both broadband and narrowband assessments provides a more thorough...

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A person-centric approach to modernizing correctional facilities and probation

There has been a paradigm shift towards a person-centric approach to rehabilitating and reintegrating individuals within correctional facilities and probation. This approach focuses on recognizing the intrinsic value of every individual involved in the criminal justice process. The foundation of this perspective lies in acknowledging a person’s dignity and potential...

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Assessing Youth Functioning, Strengths, and Goals: CAFAS and PECFAS

Key takeaways: The CAFAS and PECFAS are vital tools for mental health professionals to assess youth functioning, strengths, and goals, aiding in treatment planning and outcome evaluation across various domains. Developed by Dr. Kay Hodges, these assessments streamline decision-making processes by informing treatment type and intensity, level of care,...

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Clicks, Views, and Evaluations: Understanding the Rise of ADHD Diagnoses

Key takeaways: The diagnostic process for ADHD is complex due to the varying degrees and presentation of symptoms and impairments, leading to challenges when defining the lower threshold for diagnosis and leaving many in a "gray zone" of uncertainty. Social media platforms like TikTok have significantly influenced perceptions and...

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