The PsyPack Blog

From Tetris to Trouble: The Rising Challenge of Gaming Disorder in Mental Health

From Hide-and-Seek to Homo Digitalis: The Changing Landscape of PlayIf you’re over 30, chances are your childhood was filled with outdoor games like hide-and-seek, hopscotch, or cricket—those carefree afternoons that seemed to stretch forever. Perhaps you also spent some time glued to a TV screen, playing classics like Mario, Contra, Tetris, or Snake. Remember the satisfying click of the game controller buttons—and the thumb cramps that came with it? Fun fact: that ache even has a name—Gamer’s Thumb (or De Quervain’s Tenosynovitis). Who knew, right?Back then, video games were a simple escape, a quick dose of joy before heading back to schoolwork or chores. We even embraced the wisdom of that old saying, “All work and no play makes Jack a dull boy.” Play was a balance, and life felt richer because of it.But times have changed. Gaming is no longer a fleeting pastime; it’s become immersive, serious, and—for some—a way of life. Think about the modern juggernauts: PUBG, Fortnite, or Call of Duty. These games aren’t just for fun anymore; they’re built for endless engagement. Combined with societal shifts—like the rise of social media and more isolated family structures—this constant connectivity has paved the way for addiction-like tendencies.The Internet’s global reach has fundamentally reshaped how we live, so much so that some sociologists and psychologists now call the digital-native generation Homo digitalis or Homo technologicus. Gaming Disorder, a byproduct of this transformation, is no longer an emerging concern; it’s a recognized global phenomenon that demands attention.Internet Gaming Disorder in DSM-5-TRThe American Psychiatric Association’s Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition, Text Revision (), serves as the gold standard for diagnosing mental health conditions. Within its pages, the phenomenon of gaming addiction is described under the term . While not yet classified as a formal diagnosis, IGD is listed in the section recommending conditions for further research, alongside others like caffeine use disorder.This inclusion highlights the growing concern surrounding excessive gaming, as it parallels patterns seen in other addictive behaviors. The DSM-5-TR primarily categorizes addictive disorders into two groups: (e.g., alcohol, opioids, and stimulants) and . Of these, remains the only officially recognized behavioral addiction, setting a precedent for IGD’s potential classification in the future.Only non-gambling Internet games are included in IGD. Use of the Internet for required activities in a business or profession is not included; nor is the disorder intended to include other recreational or social Internet use. Similarly, sexual Internet sites are excluded.Proposed Criteria for Internet Gaming Disorder in DSM-5-TRPersistent and recurrent use of the Internet to engage in games, often with other players, leading to clinically significant impairment or distress as indicated by of the following in a : Internet gaming disorder can be depending on the degree of disruption of normal activities. Individuals with less severe Internet gaming disorder may exhibit fewer symptoms and less disruption of their lives. Those with severe Internet gaming disorder will have more hours spent on the computer and more severe loss of relationships or career or school opportunities.Gaming disorder in ICD-11The International Classification of Diseases (ICD), developed by the World Health Organization (), is a globally recognized standard for recording and reporting health and health-related conditions. The ICD plays a pivotal role in ensuring interoperability and comparability of digital health data, encompassing diseases, disorders, health conditions, and more. The inclusion of any specific condition in the ICD requires sufficient evidence of its existence and utility across diverse global healthcare contexts.In the 11th Revision of the ICD (), Gaming Disorder is recognized under the code . It is defined as a pattern of gaming behavior, whether digital or video-based, that exhibits: impaired control over gaming, increasing priority given to gaming over other activities to the extent that it displaces other interests and daily responsibilities, and continuation or escalation of gaming despite negative consequences.For Gaming Disorder to be diagnosed, the pattern of behavior must cause significant impairment in personal, family, social, educational, occupational, or other critical areas of functioning. Furthermore, this behavior typically needs to persist for at least 12 months to warrant a diagnosis.Diagnostic Requirements for Gaming disorder in ICD-11Essential (Required) Features:A persistent pattern of gaming behaviour (‘digital gaming’ or ‘video-gaming’), which may be predominantly online (i.e., over the internet or similar electronic networks) or offline, manifested by all of the following: Specifiers for online or offline behaviour: Additional Clinical Features: Psychological Tests for Gaming DisorderAs a therapist or psychologist, staying equipped with effective tools is essential for diagnosing and addressing new and pervasive mental health challenges like Gaming Disorder. With the rise of digital and internet-related issues, having accurate, research-backed assessments at your disposal can make all the difference in identifying and understanding problematic behaviors.Problematic Online Gaming Questionnaire Short-FormThe Problematic Online Gaming Questionnaire Short-Form (POGQ-SF) is a concise yet robust tool designed to assess problematic gaming behaviors. This 12-item questionnaire evaluates issues across six key dimensions: PsyPack automatically generates detailed results for the Problematic Online Gaming Questionnaire Short-Form (POGQ-SF), with clear visualizations across its six subscales, as shown in the screenshot below. This allows practitioners to quickly interpret and act on the findings for effective intervention.Problematic Internet Use Questionnaire – Adult and Youth VersionThe Problematic Internet Use Questionnaire (PIUQ-18) is a comprehensive tool for evaluating challenges related to internet use. Comprising 18 items, it assesses three key subscales: The Problematic Internet Use Questionnaire (PIUQ) is available on PsyPack in both Adult and Youth Versions. It simplifies scoring across the three subscales—obsession, neglect, and control disorder—by automatically generating detailed results, as shown in the screenshot below, providing practitioners with clear and actionable insights to address problematic internet behaviors effectively.If you’re a psychologist, therapist, psychiatrist, social worker, or behavioral health professional, PsyPack is here to support your journey in providing better care. With tools designed to make assessments simpler and more insightful, you can and explore how PsyPack seamlessly integrates into your practice. Take the first step toward enhancing your client work—one meaningful assessment at a time.Recent Stories Highlighting Gaming ConcernsThe gaming industry, driven by the need to create engaging experiences that trigger repeated dopamine hits, faces increasing scrutiny as concerns over addiction grow. With gaming companies under legal and regulatory pressure, governments are experimenting with measures to address the issue. While the media may downplay these challenges, the issue is very real. We’ve compiled a few key stories to highlight the ongoing concerns and raise awareness about gaming’s impact. As the world evolves, the overuse of our once-innocent beloved games is becoming a growing health concern for the next generation. As behavioral health practitioners, it’s vital that we stay updated with the fast-changing landscape of psychology, equip ourselves with the , and spread awareness through our work to help those affected by gaming-related issues.Until next time, I’m off to responsibly play my favorite game of Sudoku. Let’s remember, moderation is key!

Team PsyPack

Mon Dec 02 2024

USPSTF Recommendations for Depression and Anxiety Screenings Across All Ages

Ever since the was created in , the stature and weight of this volunteer group of in the fields of preventive medicine and primary care, including internal medicine, pediatrics, geriatrics, , obstetrics/gynecology, and nursing, has grown significantly. So much so that the created a link between and insurance coverage requirements. And since it’s linked to insurance, it is quite influential in defining the national health policies and public discourse.So long story short, when the USPSTF publishes recommendations, the primary care professionals must pay attention!The Task Force has issued many evidence-based recommendations about preventive services such as screenings, behavioral counseling, and preventive medications. These recommendations are created for primary care professionals by primary care professionals.Today we will focus on 4 broad-based recommendations issued by the Task Force on anxiety, depression, and suicide risk for Adolescent, Pediatric, Adult and Senior population. Since the recommendations created for primary care professionals, it is pragmatic for all mental health therapists, social workers and counselors, to be aware of these. As these recommendations get implemented, they are bound to impact how you practice. If you are really short on time, jump to the last section on how therapists should comply with the USPSTF’s recommendations on depression and anxiety.Unbundling USPSTF’s recommendations on Depression and AnxietyThe first question that comes to mind when you look at the table is the last column about ““. The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force USPSTF assigns one of five letter grades (A, B, C, D, or I) when it issues any recommendations. Since the letters B and I are crucial to understand the recommendations, let me define the Grade B and Grade I here.So as a therapist, one the services recommended in Grade B recommendation without any disclaimers. And services recommended in Grade I with a disclaimer on efficacy.The other grades are not relevant for this blog, but if you are curious about the other Grades, you can explore .Now let’s deep dive into each of the four recommendations one by one.Depression and Suicide Risk in Children and Adolescents: ScreeningRecommendation SummaryClinician Summary and Practice ConsiderationsAnxiety in Children and Adolescents: ScreeningRecommendation SummaryClinician Summary and Practice ConsiderationsDepression and Suicide Risk in Adults: ScreeningRecommendation SummaryClinician Summary and Practice ConsiderationsAnxiety Disorders in Adults: ScreeningRecommendation SummaryClinician Summary and Practice ConsiderationsChecklist for Implementing the USPSTF’s Recommendations on Depression and Anxiety Screening1. Incorporate Assessments and Repeated Measurements using tools like Incorporate Adopt standardized assessments as part of your routine to support both initial screenings and ongoing monitoring. The USPSTF recommends regular screenings to track treatment progress and adjust approaches as necessary.Using PsyPack to Streamline Assessments in line with USPSTF’s recommendationsPsyPack can help you easily incorporate USPSTF’s recommended screening tools in your practice. PsyPack offers preloaded assessments tailored for various age groups and needs, including tools like the PHQ-9, GAD-7, CESD-R, GDS, and EPDS. These assessments, available for adolescents, adults, elders, and specialized groups like pregnant individuals, come with automatic report generation.PsyPack’s Scheduling feature allows you to set recurring assessments at regular intervals, making it easy to track changes over time.PsyPack’s progress tracking feature visualizes scores from various assessments on a single timeline graph, helping you assess treatment impact at a glance.To get started, you can create a free account on PsyPack at .2. Identify and Consider Risk Factors in Intake FormsStay Educated on Risk FactorsDifferent age groups have distinct risk factors that can contribute to depression and anxiety. Understanding these factors—such as family history, trauma, social stressors, and comorbid conditions—enables you to recognize at-risk individuals early on.Incorporate Risk Factors in Intake FormsAdding questions related to risk factors in intake forms helps identify individuals who may benefit from closer monitoring and proactive support.3. Foster Collaborative Care by involving CaregiversInvolve Parents or GuardiansFor pediatric and adolescent clients, collaboration with parents or guardians is crucial. Work together to determine the best treatment plan, ensuring all parties are informed and engaged in the therapeutic process.Encourage Open CommunicationEncourage regular updates and open channels with family members to support children and adolescents effectively.4. Involve GPs and Psychiatrists when medication is involvedRefer to Medical Experts When NecessaryIf medications are required, ensure treatment aligns with the US Food and Drug Administration (USFDA) guidelines. Build partnerships with general practitioners and psychiatrists to ensure a comprehensive approach to care.

Team PsyPack

Fri Nov 01 2024

A Guide to Adding Practitioner Seats to Your PsyPack Group Practice

Let’s be honest, at some point, nearly every therapist has entertained the idea of starting a . Are you guilty too?There’s something incredibly appealing about shaping your own work, setting your own hours, and creating a space that feels uniquely yours. It’s a path that promises freedom, a closer connection with clients, and the satisfaction of doing things your way.But what starts as a dream of is full of evolution and surprises. You might meet amazing colleagues who inspire you to think bigger, or perhaps your client base grows, and you realize that the best way to help more people is by building a team. Suddenly, what began as a solo venture starts to feel like something more—a community, a where you and other like-minded professionals can collaborate to make an even greater impact.And then of course, life brings its own shifts. There might be times when you want to take things easy—maybe even take a sabbatical to travel, focus on family, or prioritize your health. At those moments, you might need to scale back and shrink the size of your practice. Whatever the reason, having the ability to grow or downsize as needed keeps you in control, making sure your practice can adapt with you.As a business owner, preparing for these changes from the get-go is essential. In MBA terms, this is all part of . Selecting tools that don’t lock you in and that can support growth—or scaling back—becomes crucial for long-term success. At , we’ve taken a lifecycle approach to make sure that, whether you’re expanding or shrinking your practice, we’re here to support you at every stage.Let’s look at how you can adjust practitioner seats in your practice directly from your PsyPack dashboard.Managing Practitioner Seats in PsyPack: Step-by-Step GuidePsyPack makes it easy to adjust your practitioner seats as your needs evolve, whether you’re adding new team members or temporarily scaling back. Here’s how to do it right from your dashboard:Login to PsyPack and Navigate to the Plan SectionStart by logging into your PsyPack account and navigating to the “Plan” section. Make sure you’re on the , as the option to adjust practitioner seats is only available in this plan. If you’re currently using the Beginner plan, you’ll need to to unlock this feature.Navigate to the Practitioner Seats Section and Adjust the Number of SeatsIn the “Plan” section, go to to adjust the number of seats in your practice. Simply increase or decrease the seat count as needed, then confirm and proceed with payment. Navigate to Practitioner Invitations and Send Out InvitesNext, head to the section. Here, you can enter the email addresses of the practitioners you want to invite to your practice. After entering the addresses, click Invite to send out the invitations.Once you hit , you can click the arrow next to the text box to see the status of your invitations. Each invited practitioner will receive an email with a link to join your practice, making onboarding straightforward and efficient. After receiving the invitation, practitioners need to log in to their PsyPack dashboard and navigate to the Practitioner Invitations in the Plan section. There, they will see the incoming invitation from you and can click to join your practice.Once they have accepted, it will be reflected in your Practitioner Invitations section, confirming that they are now part of your group practice.Noteworthy Points About Group Practice with PsyPack

Team PsyPack

Mon Oct 28 2024

Understanding the Therapeutic Alliance: Key to Successful Client-Therapist Relationships

It’s a common question many clients ask before beginning their therapeutic journey.Research shows that many factors affect whether treatment is successful, including the severity of the problem(s) being treated, the patient’s belief that the counseling will work and the skill level of the therapist. However, research over the past fifty years has demonstrated that one factor – more than any other – is associated with successful treatment: the quality of .The Evolution and Meaning of the Therapeutic AllianceThe idea that the relationship between therapist and client plays a crucial role in therapy’s success is not new. The roots of this construct can be traced back to the work of when he talked about “unobjectionable or positive transference,” i.e., the endowment of the therapist with positive qualities and attributes by the patient, which in turn reflected upon the past good experiences of the patient with persons of power and authority. Freudfirst hypothesized that this connection was central to effective treatment. Over time, the concept evolved, and today, the is widely regarded as the most important predictor of therapeutic success. Often referred to as the “working alliance” or “treatment alliance,” this term describes the collaborative relationship between therapist and client. It refers to the development of an affective bond and agreement on tasks and goals (Bordin, 1979). More than just a simple connection, the therapeutic alliance encompasses multiple interpersonal and intrapersonal processes, which together lay the groundwork for meaningful change.Therapeutic alliance is a collaborative relationship between a patient and a therapist for the purpose of therapy or treatment. It is a relationship of working together for a common goal and is a key ingredient and a common factor for success across all therapies.The Impact of a Strong Therapeutic Alliance on Treatment SuccessThe impact of a strong therapeutic alliance cannot be overstated. Studies across various therapeutic approaches—whether individual, couple, or family therapy—consistently show that the quality of this relationship is a critical factor in determining treatment success. Remarkably, this holds true regardless of the type of therapy or the issue being treated, from depression and anxiety to addiction and interpersonal problems. In fact, research suggests that over half of therapy’s positive effects can be attributed to the strength of the alliance. What’s more, it’s often the client’s perception of the relationship, even in the early stages, that predicts their progress. A strong bond encourages client engagement, boosts their investment in the process, and significantly increases the likelihood of successful outcomes.Key Qualities of a Strong Therapeutic RelationshipGiven the critical role of the therapeutic alliance in treatment success, defining the qualities of a “good” therapeutic relationship has been a major focus of research. , a leading expert in this area, identified . Beyond these, a shared sense of ownership over the process is essential. Both therapist and client must trust that each is fully invested in working toward positive outcomes. Like any close relationship, challenges can arise, but the way these challenges are navigated is crucial. A healthy therapeutic alliance allows for open dialogue about any difficulties, fostering growth and collaboration.Qualities of a Good Therapeutic Relationship Measuring Therapeutic Alliance Theory in PracticeWhile all the theory and research on the therapeutic alliance provide valuable insights, the real question for therapists is: Tracking and measuring the strength of the therapeutic relationship is essential to ensuring successful outcomes. Thankfully, there are several well-established tools designed to assess the quality of the therapeutic alliance. Let us look at few of the leading tools; Streamlining Measurement-Based Care with PsyPack: Simplified Assessment and Progress TrackingWhile assessment tools like the ARM-5, BR-WAI, and SRS are invaluable for measuring the therapeutic alliance, therapists need a systematic way to integrate into their practice. That’s where comes in. PsyPack simplifies the process by offering a seamless platform for administering, scoring, and tracking assessments.For example, the ARM-5 comes preloaded within PsyPack, allowing therapists to quickly access and analyze results. Below is a screenshot of the results interface for the ARM-5:PsyPack also offers a built-in progress tracking feature, so therapists can monitor changes in the therapeutic alliance over time. This makes it easy to identify trends and make timely interventions when necessary:Beyond preloaded assessments, enables therapists to add their own tools, such as the BR-WAI, SRS, or any other preferred measure. Scoring and reporting are handled automatically, streamlining the workflow and ensuring accuracy. With PsyPack, adopting MBC becomes efficient and hassle-free, allowing therapists to focus on fostering the therapeutic relationship without being bogged down by administrative tasks.Conclusion: Enhancing Therapeutic Outcomes Through Strong AlliancesIn conclusion, the therapeutic alliance is a vital component of successful therapy, influencing treatment outcomes across various modalities. By understanding its importance and actively measuring its quality, therapists can enhance their practice and better support their clients. While tools like the ARM-5, BR-WAI, and SRS provide valuable insights into the therapeutic relationship, integrating these assessments into everyday practice can sometimes be a challenge. Platforms like PsyPack offer a way to streamline this process, allowing therapists to focus more on building strong alliances. Ultimately, prioritizing the quality of the therapeutic relationship can pave the way for lasting change and meaningful progress in clients’ lives.

Team PsyPack

Thu Oct 24 2024

Understanding Norms in Psychological Testing

As a therapist, you’ve likely encountered cut-offs in various psychological assessments, such as the widely-used Depression Severity scale. The PHQ-9 assigns scores of 0, 1, 2, and 3 to the response categories: “not at all,” “several days,” “more than half the days,” and “nearly every day,” respectively. This results in a total score ranging from 0 to 27. The score is then categorized using specific cut-points: scores of 5, 10, 15, and 20 represent mild, moderate, moderately severe, and severe depression, respectively.But have you ever wondered how these cut-offs are determined? Or how they ensure fairness in measuring the mental health status of individuals from different backgrounds? This is where the concept of norms becomes crucial. Norms allow us to understand where an individual’s score falls in comparison to a larger, representative population, offering a clearer picture of their mental health relative to others.In this blog, we’ll dive deep into norms—what they are, why they matter, and how they ensure the accuracy and fairness of psychological test interpretations.Diving Deeper into Norms: It’s All About Context!When we talk about norms in , there’s a common misconception that they act like a magic mirror, reflecting some absolute truth about a person’s traits or abilities. Imagine it like this: if you score high on the Agreeableness scale from the , does that mean you’re just super agreeable? Not quite!Here’s the thing—norms aren’t as straightforward as they might seem. As Lew Goldberg wisely pointed out, Norms should not be seen as an absolute interpretive framework. Instead, they’re more like a snapshot taken from a specific group of people, which is why they’re inherently comparative.To illustrate, imagine you’re using the Big Five Personality Assessment and your Agreeableness score lands you in the 70th percentile. This means you score higher in Agreeableness than 70% of individuals in the normative sample used to develop the assessment. However, this sample could be from a specific demographic or time period, like college students from the early 2000s. So, your percentile reflects how you compare to that particular group—not necessarily to today’s general population or a different group of adults.Similarly, let’s revisit the PHQ-9 Depression Severity scale. Scores of 5, 10, 15, and 20 represent different levels of depression severity based on a normative sample. If the norms used to set these cut-offs were derived from a specific population at a certain time, then these thresholds are relative to that group. Therefore, someone scoring a 15 might be categorized as moderately severe in one sample, but this could differ if the norms were based on a different group or era.Making Norms Work for YouSo, how do we make norms useful without getting tangled up in the nitty-gritty of outdated samples or irrelevant comparisons? PsyPack Analytics: Building Community Norms Made EasyBoth local norms and comparison samples are incredibly useful, but let’s be honest—they’re not always easy to build or maintain. Over time, datasets need revision, and accessing the right samples can be challenging. Wouldn’t it be magical to have your own up-to-date local norms that automatically reflect the community you’re serving? This is a problem we’ve been thinking about from the moment we started building PsyPack.With , that magic becomes reality.Every time you conduct an assessment, PsyPack Analytics automatically updates your norms based on the latest data—without the manual effort. This ensures that your comparisons stay relevant and accurate as your client base evolves. No more outdated canned datasets; just real-time, precise benchmarks tailored to your population.Too much talk? Let’s see how it looks in action. Let’s take a practical example: imagine you’re regularly administering the PHQ-9 Depression Severity scale.In the screenshot, you see three sections, let’s go over each one by one: Further, the PsyPack Analytics section allows you to easily toggle between different time frames—last 3 months, 6 months, or a full year. This flexibility helps you analyze data across different periods, depending on your requirement. The default is set to the last 3 months, but if you find thinner data for a particular assessment, you can expand to a larger time frame to get a broader view.Built with Therapists in MindAs a therapist practitioner, the ideal way to interpret psychological tests and make the most out of them is to have access to both published norms and community-specific norms. Published norms, recommended by the authors of assessments and based on extensive research, provide a solid reference for understanding your clients’ scores in a broader context.PsyPack takes care of both these needs seamlessly. Our reports include the published norms from assessment authors, giving you that essential broad perspective. At the same time, our PsyPack Analytics feature offers community-specific norms that are automatically updated with each assessment you conduct. This means you gain real-time insights that reflect the unique characteristics of the individuals you work with.With PsyPack, you get the comprehensive view you need: reliable benchmarks from published studies and tailored, up-to-date data from your own practice. This dual approach ensures that your interpretations are both well-informed and highly relevant to your clients.In SummaryPsyPack is designed with therapists in mind, blending to support your practice from the ground up. By integrating both published norms and community-specific norms, PsyPack ensures you have the most relevant and accurate insights for your clients. Our commitment to continuous improvement and real-time data updates reflects our dedication to meeting the unique needs of your practice.With these thoughtful features, PsyPack stands out in its field, providing tools that are tailored specifically for therapists and their clients. This approach helps you stay ahead and make informed decisions with confidence, allowing you to focus on what truly matters—your clients’ well-being.

Team PsyPack

Mon Sep 16 2024

Create Custom Assessments with Multi-Scale Scoring in PsyPack: A Comprehensive Guide

With over , PsyPack boasts one of the largest libraries of psychological testing tools available today. This extensive collection has been meticulously curated with valuable feedback from the community of therapists using PsyPack. Now, we’re taking a step further by putting the power in the hands of our therapists through . 🎉As pioneers in introducing this innovative feature, we’re giving you the —all tailored to meet the needs of psychologists. While solutions like Google Forms or offer form-building options, they fall short when it comes to digitizing traditional pen-and-paper psychological tests. That’s why we partnered with expert designers and engineers to solve the intricate challenge of incorporating multi-subscale scoring into user-friendly forms. After a year of conceptualization and development, we are excited to bring this feature to life. We hope you find it as powerful and intuitive as we do!Enough said, let’s dive into how you can start using it.Step 1: Log In and Navigate to ‘Custom Assessments’To begin adding your custom assessment, first log in to your . Once logged in, head over to the . Step 2: Click the ‘Create Assessment’ ButtonOnce you’re in the ‘Custom Assessments’ section, you’ll see a at the top-right corner. Click on it to enter the editing mode, where you can start building your custom assessment from scratch.Step 3: Add the Assessment TitleIn the editing mode, the first step is to give your assessment a name. Simply enter the name of your assessment in the space provided for . This will help you identify the custom assessment in your PsyPack dashboard.Step 4: Add InstructionsNext, you’ll have the option to add instructions for the client. Click on to open the field where you can enter your custom instructions.Default instructions will automatically appear, which you can edit to better suit your needs or provide additional context. These instructions will be shown to clients before they start the assessment, helping them understand any relevant details. While this step is optional, customizing these instructions can enhance the client experience.If you prefer, you can skip this step entirely.Step 5: Add Scales and SubscalesIn this step, you’ll add the scales and subscales for scoring your assessment. Each scale or subscale will be scored independently.By default, a is included. If you don’t need this, you can remove it by clicking the cross mark next to it. To add your own scales or subscales, use the and click . This will allow you to define and add the specific scales and subscales you need for your assessment.Note that, if you do not intend to score the assessment and only want to collect responses, you can remove the default “Total” scale by clicking the cross mark next to it.Step 6: Add Questions, Options, and ScoringNow, it’s time to add your questions or items along with their options and scoring. Enter the question or item text in the space provided. To add more options for each question, click .To set up scoring for the question on each scale, first select the scale from the . Then, add scoring for each option under that scale. If a subscale does not include scoring from a particular question, you can leave the scoring at the default value of 0 for that option.To ensure accurate scoring, the name of the scale you’re adding scoring for will be displayed right below the Score input box.The scores you assign for each scale will be used to: If you need to add additional questions, you have two options: Step 7: Publish the AssessmentOnce you’ve added and finalized your assessment, you’re ready to make it available. Click the located at the top-right corner. Once published, you can assign the assessment to your clients as usual by going to the ‘Initiate’ section. PsyPack will handle the rest, including automatic scoring, generating graphs, reports, and updating the analytics section.Please note that once published, the assessment cannot be edited. If you need to make any changes before finalizing, click the button instead of publishing.PsyPack was born from a deep understanding of what therapists like you truly need — a way to conduct assessments online with your clients, without adding to your already heavy workload. We saw how much time private practitioners were spending on administrative tasks, and we knew there had to be a better way. This need became even more urgent during the pandemic when telehealth became the norm, but something was missing. There were plenty of tools for appointment scheduling and video calls, but nothing that made assessments feel effortless and integrated into the digital workflow. PsyPack was built to complete that missing piece of the puzzle.Our custom assessments feature is the first of its kind, designed specifically for therapists. Unlike other generic form-building tools, this is made with psychological assessments in mind, giving you the ability to score on multiple subscales, prepare graphs, and provide meaningful reports for your clients. is a feature we’re particularly excited about because it feels like we’ve given you more control. It might seem simple, but that’s exactly the point — we’ve worked hard to make it intuitive, so it feels natural to use. The countless hours we spent designing this tool were always with you in mind, aiming to ease your day-to-day. Our goal was to create something that feels like second nature, seamlessly fitting into your PsyPack journey.We hope all those brainstorming and product jamming sessions will pay off in helping you feel supported, empowered, and — most of all — relieved that your work just got a little easier. ❤️

Team PsyPack

Thu Sep 12 2024

Top Therapist Directories to List Your Practice and Boost Client Referrals

Therapists in private practice are NOT just therapists but also business owners. And let’s face it, the business side of things can often feel like a necessary evil. After all, as therapists, we’re trained to help, not to market or manage a practice. Among the many tasks that might feel overwhelming but is extremely crucial to the success of your practice – is to . This task can especially seem gargantuan when you are a newbie. Whether you are new or a pro, are here to help you drive traffic. These directories are the top search engine results when someone is looking for or . And having a profile on these directories can help re-direct this traffic to your practice.But there are just so many of these directories. So, which ones should you really list on? Our team has meticulously reviewed a wide range of directories to bring you a curated list of the most valuable ones. We will continue updating this blog as we find more worthy directories. So before we start, you might want to bookmark this article.Let’s go.Psychology Today – The OGThe first one to make to our list is the good old Psychology Today. It continues to be the directory for therapists. Based on our discussions with practitioners listed on PT, having a profile on PT can fetch you . One of the key factors to success on Psychology Today—and on other directories as well—is the quality and relevance of the content in your profile, including the perfect headshot. It’s crucial to include the right keywords that align with your specialties. One quick tip to succeed on PT is to . Be specific about your area of expertise, and avoid trying to present yourself as an expert in all domains. Further, once you sign up on PT, you also get to flaunt your ‘Verified by Psychology Today’ badge.On the negatives, there are some therapists who have complained about majority of referrals being fake, reduction in referrals as time goes by and poor user experience of website.Overall, with its current pricing at $29.95/month, is definitely worth a try!Open Path Collective – The Non-ProfitWhile some for-profit directories follow some shady practices, we find Open Path Collective a breath of fresh air. It is a unique directory that focuses on providing . It connects clients with therapists who offer for those in need.Open Path Collective is winning hearts on internet and has gained a lot of public support.To succeed on Open Path, your pricing strategy is the key. This platform is particularly effective in two scenarios: With a one-time, lifetime membership fee of US$65, and the joy of giving back to the community, I would definitely recommend .APA Psychologist Locator – The New & ReputableYes, the has its own official directory. They launched it during the pandemic years, to provide a trusted, practical tool for those searching for psychological telehealth services.APA licensed psychologists can create their profile for free. While the APA Psychologist Locator is free for APA members, it does require active , which costs a base rate of $247 annually. As of 2024, creating a profile is still in BETA, so perhaps APA is still ensuring their tech works right.We are not sure if you would get clients directly from them as of now but since APA’s website has massive credibility, it would definitely get authoritative backlinks to your own website. This would boost the of your own website. So if you already hold an active membership of the APA, there’s nothing to lose, so we recommend you list on .Mental Health Match – The Old but NewMental health Match has recently upgraded their website. Although there were a few glitches with this revamp, which led to drop in referrals for therapists, but that seems to have been corrected now. In their new website, instead of a direct search, they take clients through a series of questions and assessments to understand what they need. Based on this , they match the clients to the appropriate therapists.They offer first 60 days free and then charge $24.97 plus taxes per month.While their can be a few hiccups with technology upgrade, such upgrades are usually beneficial. Beyond that, their team is quite pro-active in addressing concerns on social media. So we do recommend trying out .Therapy Den – The one we can’t really decide on!This “was” one of the very well-intentioned directories which we loved. We resonated with their belief in at every level.TherapyDen emphasizes diversity and social justice, offering a space for therapists who focus on marginalized communities like LGBTQ+ issues, racial trauma, or other specific populations. With its 140+ filters, including specific issues, identities, and types of therapy, TherapyDen makes it easier for clients to find exactly what they’re looking for, and for therapists to connect with clients who need their unique expertise. This matching makes sure that referrals are more aligned to the services you offer.They have an interesting pricing. You can choose create a free profile or opt for their Premium Subscription. With their premium subscription, you’ll get twice the amount of views and twice the amount of client referrals. The premium subscription comes at $30 per month.But more recently, there has been about Therapy Den. From complaints about deleting the free profiles, spam, questions about Therapy Jeff, selling out the directory, questionable business practices and unreasonable push to sell merchandise.So given its reputable legacy and the current issues, we are quite undecided about listing on . They still have the free option on their website, so perhaps you can give it a try!Wrapping Up – Do Not Forget the Local DirectoriesIn addition to the directories we’ve covered— and —we’ve also explored others like  and etc However, we haven’t found these to perform as well in terms of generating referrals. That said, there are niche directories that cater to specific mental health issues, inclusivity, or regional focus, such as , which are definitely worth considering.While we didn’t include niche directories in our main list, we strongly recommend seeking out directories that align with your area of expertise or target a specific local audience. These niche or regional directories can offer a noteworthy boost to your practice, often at a relatively modest cost. Finding the right fit could be the key to expanding your reach and connecting with clients who truly need your services.As therapists, it’s essential to recognize that understanding business practices can have a significant impact on the success of your private practice. By educating yourself on topics like marketing, client acquisition, and directory optimization, you can expand your reach and grow your client base more effectively. At , our mission is to support your journey, not just in providing but also in offering valuable business insights through our blogs and newsletters. We’re committed to being a part of your growth every step of the way.

Team PsyPack

Thu Sep 05 2024

SHAPE Assessments: Enhancing School Mental Health Screening

What is School Mental Health Screening?School mental health screening employs systematic tools or processes to evaluate students’ strengths and needs comprehensively. This assessment isn’t limited to students showing signs of mental health issues; it encompasses all students. It may cover the entire student body or target specific groups, like certain grades.Using a multi-tiered approach, students are better positioned to develop essential social, emotional, and behavioral skills. Moreover, this approach facilitates early intervention, addressing mental health needs proactively to prevent escalation.Screening measures may also inquire about students’ well-being and positive mental health indicators. Key Considerations for Selecting a Screening ToolSelecting the appropriate screening tool is paramount in ensuring effective school mental health assessment. Consider the following key factors when evaluating potential options: Considering Additional Indicators of Students’ Mental HealthIn the process of selecting a screening tool, it’s valuable to broaden the scope beyond solely mental health symptoms. This entails incorporating measures that encompass social determinants of health, as well as indicators of academic success, well-being, and distress. Such an inclusive approach aids in identifying students in need of additional support. Examples to consider include: Enhance Sensitivity and Cultural ResponsivenessUtilize validated, culturally responsive screening measures that align with valued outcomes and are developmentally appropriate for the student population. Ensure that these measures are available in the students’ first language, catering to both students and their families.Additionally, prioritize tools and administration methods sensitive to students who have experienced trauma. This involves creating a safe environment for screening and transparent communication about the purpose and process of the assessment.The screening team should actively seek feedback from youth, families, and other stakeholders to ensure that the screening tools are culturally responsive, user-friendly, and relevant across diverse identities and backgrounds.Utilizing Technology for Efficient ImplementationIn the digital age, technology plays a crucial role in streamlining school mental health programs. Incorporating advanced tools simplifies assessment administration, scoring, report generation, and record-keeping, thereby saving time and ensuring comprehensive data collection.Technology, such as automated platforms, enables seamless implementation of standardized assessments. , for instance, offers a pre-loaded library of standardized assessments and automated scoring features. Its user-friendly interface further enhances efficiency in student well-being assessment.In summary, leveraging technology for efficient implementation enhances the effectiveness of school mental health programs. Platforms like contribute significantly to streamlining assessment processes, ultimately benefiting students and educators alike.Introducing the SHAPE System Screening and Assessment LibraryThe SHAPE System offers a comprehensive Screening and Assessment Library, housing a curated collection of free or low-cost screening tools pertinent to school mental health. These assessments cover academic, school climate, and social, emotional, and behavioral domains, carefully selected based on factors like purpose, student age, language accessibility, and source of reporting.Developed through rigorous review processes by the , this library serves as a valuable resource for educators and mental health professionals alike. Below, you’ll find a detailed list of assessments available in the SHAPE System Screening and Assessment Library.In conclusion, prioritizing the mental health and well-being of students is paramount for fostering a supportive and thriving educational environment. School mental health screening serves as a proactive tool in identifying and addressing the diverse needs of students, ensuring that every individual receives the necessary support to succeed academically, socially, and emotionally.By embracing the principles of school mental health screening and utilizing innovative tools like , we can create inclusive and nurturing school environments where every student has the opportunity to thrive. Together, let’s continue to prioritize the mental health and well-being of our students, laying the foundation for their success and happiness both inside and outside the classroom.

Team PsyPack

Mon Mar 25 2024

Unlocking Passive Income: A Guide to Top Referral Programs for Therapists

Building a passive income source for therapists is not a myth. As therapists, we often find ourselves navigating the complexities of running a private practice without formal training in business management. From marketing strategies to financial planning, these aspects of entrepreneurship can feel overwhelming, especially in the early stages. Compounding these challenges is the rise of predatory digital mental health companies, which often treat therapists as freelancers in the growing gig economy.However, there are numerous opportunities for therapists to diversify their income and thrive in their practice. Speaking engagements, training other therapists, and creating online courses are all viable options. One of the best opportunities, which offers a more passive income stream, is participating in referral programs offered by various mental health practice software.By participating in these programs, therapists not only have the opportunity to earn supplemental income but also establish themselves as influencers within their niche. Additionally, promoting these software solutions can provide therapists with the chance to earn money while becoming influential figures in their own space. Don’t miss out on these referral opportunities! We’ve compiled the best referral programs which you can join today to start building your income stream.Simple Practice Referral & Affiliate ProgramAbout Simple PracticeSimplePractice is a web-based electronic health record solution designed to streamline administrative tasks and clinical care for therapists. It offers a comprehensive platform for managing everything from scheduling appointments to billing and client notes.Referral ProcessTo participate in Simple Practice’s referral program, therapists can generate their unique referral link by signing in to their account and accessing the referrals page. They can then share this link with their colleagues. When a colleague signs up for a 30-day trial and sets up their account through the referral link, the referrer receives $150 in credit if the colleague upgrades to a paid account. Additionally, if the colleague signs up for their free trial by a specified date and later upgrades to a paid account, both the referrer and the colleague receive $200 in credit. Referees referred to Simple Practice through the referral link receive a 30-day free trial.Referrer BenefitsAs part of the referral program, referrers receive $150 in credit for each colleague who upgrades to a paid account after signing up for a 30-day trial through their referral link. If the colleague signs up by a specified date and upgrades to a paid account, both the referrer and the colleague receive $200 in credit.Referee BenefitsColleagues referred to Simple Practice through the referral link receive a 30-day free trial. If they later upgrade to a paid account, both the referee and the referrer receive $200 in credit if the referral was made by a specified date.Additionally, Simple Practice offers an affiliate program for therapists who refer multiple practitioners. Affiliates can earn a minimum of $100 commission on each paid account they refer, along with bonus incentives. They also have access to exclusive offers and extended free trials through their unique partner URL and can track their referrals using the partner dashboard.Power Diary Referral & Affiliate ProgramAbout Power DiaryPower Diary is a comprehensive practice management software designed to empower health practices. It offers tools for effortless scheduling, client care, notes, and administrative tasks, including calendar management, client management, online forms, and clinical notes.Referral ProcessTherapists can enroll in Power Diary’s referral program by registering and obtaining their unique referral link. They can then share this link with their friends through various channels like social media or email. When a friend signs up and converts their trial through the referral link, the referrer receives a $100 USD Gift Voucher, while the friend receives a $100 USD credit in their Power Diary account. The referral program is available to current Power Diary customers who have been a customer for at least 3 months.Referrer BenefitsAs part of the referral program, referrers receive a $100 USD Gift Voucher every time one of their friends signs up and converts their free trial through the referral link. The more friends referred, the more rewards the referrer earns.Referee BenefitsColleagues referred to Power Diary through the referral link receive a $100 USD credit in their Power Diary account when they sign up and convert their trial.Power Diary also has an affiliate program for therapists who refer multiple practitioners. Affiliates receive 30% of the referred customers’ subscription fees and can provide their customers with a one-off bonus of 500 SMS Credits.Alma Referral ProgramAbout AlmaAlma is a platform designed to support therapists in private practice, offering marketing support, insurance assistance, payment guarantees, digital tools, and a supportive community. Alma’s mission is to improve mental health care by providing therapists with the autonomy they need and ensuring high-quality care for clients through pillars such as client experience, learning and development, and diversity, equity & inclusion.Referral ProcessTherapists can refer colleagues to Alma by accessing their unique referral link through the Alma portal and sharing it with their network. Referrals must meet eligibility criteria, including being licensed in specific states and joining Alma within 90 days of being referred.Referrer BenefitsTherapists who successfully refer colleagues to Alma receive a referral bonus of $500. The bonus is paid two months after the referred provider’s start date, provided their profile is live in the Alma directory or they have submitted their first claim. Referrers must be active Alma members to participate in the referral program.Referee BenefitsProviders who join Alma through a referral link gain access to the platform’s features and benefits, including marketing support, insurance assistance, payment guarantees, digital tools, and a supportive community.Headway Referral & Affiliate ProgramAbout HeadwayHeadway is a mental health platform designed to support therapists in private practice. It offers features such as insurance flexibility, billing support, and administrative assistance. Headway’s mission is to make it easier for providers to accept insurance and provide affordable care to clients. Therapists can join Headway for free and become contracted providers, receiving payment on a regular schedule as 1099 contractors. This allows therapists to focus more on client care while Headway handles administrative tasks and ensures prompt payment.Referral ProcessTherapists can refer providers to Headway through a simple process. After creating an account or logging in, they can manage their provider referrals through Headway’s platform. Once a referral is made, Headway’s Practice Consultants assess the referred provider’s practice to determine compatibility. The referral then completes an online form to begin using Headway within 4-8 weeks.Referrer BenefitsReferrers receive $350 for each provider they refer who joins Headway. This direct financial incentive rewards therapists for referring colleagues to the platform.Referee BenefitsProviders who join Headway through a referral gain access to the platform’s features, including insurance flexibility, billing assistance, and administrative support. They also benefit from Headway’s guarantee of payment twice a month, eliminating concerns about rejected claims or delayed payments.Heard Referral ProgramAbout HeardHeard is a software-enabled company designed to assist therapists with their finances, specifically focusing on bookkeeping, taxes, and payroll. It aims to simplify financial record-keeping, saving therapists approximately 60 hours per year. Additionally, Heard offers support with business formation paperwork, tax preparation, estimating quarterly taxes, and quarterly meetings.Referral ProcessExisting users can refer colleagues to Heard by accessing the “Refer a Friend” button in the app or navigating to the “Overview” tab to share an email or referral link. There is no limit to the number of referrals one can make.Referrer BenefitsFor each successful referral who joins Heard, the referrer receives a $200 VISA gift card or charity donation once the referred member has been with Heard for 30 days. The gift card is sent via email to the referrer’s Heard account.Referee BenefitsNew members referred to Heard receive a $100 VISA gift card or charity donation upon joining the platform. Like referrers, referees must be active members for 30 days before receiving their gift.In conclusion, joining the right referral program can be a game-changer for therapists looking to build a passive stream of income. By carefully assessing the terms and benefits of each program, therapists can make informed decisions that align with their goals and values. Once you’ve identified the ideal program for you, don’t hesitate to start sharing your referral links with colleagues and across various platforms. Whether it’s through blogs, social media posts, TikToks, or reels, spreading the word can lead to valuable connections and opportunities. Remember, by leveraging referral programs effectively, therapists can not only enhance their financial well-being but also contribute to the growth and success of their professional community. Here’s to building a thriving practice and a rewarding journey ahead!

Team PsyPack

Mon Mar 18 2024

Streamlining Mental Health Practice: A Guide to AI Note-Taking Apps for Therapists

In the busy world of a therapist, where time is precious and every interaction counts, the idea of using AI-powered note-taking apps to automate progress notes is like a breath of fresh air. Therapists and psychologists often find themselves bogged down by documentation and note-taking, making the promise of AI solutions incredibly enticing.However, amidst this excitement, there’s a need to pause and consider some important questions. While AI can undoubtedly make our lives easier, are these apps really as trustworthy and reliable as they seem? Recent events have raised concerns about biases in AI systems and the privacy of patient data, highlighting the need for caution.In this blog, we’re going to take a closer look at various AI note-taking apps. Our goal is to help mental health practitioners understand the pros and cons of these tools so they can make informed decisions. From ease of use to ethical considerations, we’ll explore it all. So, let’s dive in and see what the future holds for .Eleos Scribe Strengths Weaknesses VerdictEleos Scribe is a useful tool for larger group practices and health systems, particularly those focused on supervision. While it excels in streamlining progress note documentation, its cost limitations may be barriers for private practices and smaller group practices.Mentalyc Strengths Weaknesses VerdictMentalyc emerges as an ideal solution, particularly for independent therapists and private practitioners, owing to its affordability starting at just $39.99 per month per seat. Its user-friendly interface, comprehensive documentation support, and affordability make it an accessible and valuable tool for mental health providers seeking effortless automated note-taking.Nabla Copilot Strengths Weaknesses VerdictNabla Copilot offers promising features such as personalized note formats and effectiveness in transcription. However, its lack of focus on behavioral health practitioners and relatively high cost make it better suited for larger health systems rather than individual therapists or private practitioners.Blueprint-Health Strengths Weaknesses VerdictBlueprint Health offers an extensive array of features including a therapeutic toolkit and configurable care protocols. However, the platform’s feature overload and high pricing may pose challenges for practitioners seeking streamlined functionality and cost-effective solutions. Prospective users should carefully evaluate their needs and weigh the platform’s strengths against its weaknesses before making a decision.Freed Strengths Weaknesses VerdictFreed offers a convenient solution for healthcare professionals seeking efficient documentation through its transcription and organization features. However, its general healthcare focus and higher pricing may limit its suitability for mental health practitioners, especially independent therapists and private practices. Prospective users should weigh the platform’s strengths against its limitations to determine its compatibility with their specific practice needs and budget constraints.Upheal Strengths Weaknesses VerdictUpheal presents a robust solution for mental health professionals with its comprehensive session documentation capabilities and seamless integration with Google Calendar and Zoom. However, its expanding scope into practice management functionalities and pricing structure may raise concerns regarding its core AI capabilities and affordability. Prospective users should carefully assess their needs and evaluate whether Upheal aligns with their practice requirements.ConclusionFinal ThoughtsIn today’s digital age, embracing technology is imperative for independent therapists to stay relevant and effectively serve their clients. However, the selection process for adopting new software should be approached with caution and discernment. It’s essential to prioritize excellence in meeting specific needs over opting for comprehensive solutions that may dilute functionality.For example, while platforms like Simple Practice excel in practice management, they may not offer the same level of excellence for creating your website or psychological testing. You are better off using specialised solutions for or . Therefore, therapists should focus on selecting software that excels in their desired purpose, ensuring optimal efficiency and effectiveness in their practice workflows.You might want to go through our blog on to make an informed choice.Now, for our top pick…Our Top Pick for AI-Based Note-Taking Apps in Mental Health PracticeIn summary, after a thorough comparison of various AI-based note-taking apps, our top pick for independent therapy practices is Mentalyc. With its specialized focus on behavioral health, affordability, and versatility in supporting various note formats, Mentalyc offers a comprehensive solution tailored specifically for mental health practitioners. A close second is Upheal, which impresses with its comprehensive insights and adaptive note-taking capabilities. These two platforms stand out for their potential to streamline documentation processes, enhance clinical efficiency, and improve patient care in independent therapy practices.

Team PsyPack

Mon Mar 11 2024

Kennedy Forum Recommended Outcome Measures

At the forefront of reshaping mental health and addiction care in the United States stands , a driving force in fostering collaboration among mental health advocates, corporate leaders, and governmental bodies. Together, they champion a shared vision that includes the comprehensive implementation of the Federal Parity Law.In 2017, the Kennedy Forum released a crucial Issue Brief titled “” This comprehensive document highlights the pivotal role of patient-reported symptom rating scales in advancing measurement-based care, essential for optimizing treatment outcomes in mental health and substance use disorders.Within this Issue Brief, the Kennedy Forum underscored a vital policy recommendation: the widespread adoption of measurement-based care systems by primary care and behavioral health providers. This approach involves the routine use of validated symptom rating scales completed by patients and reviewed by clinicians during treatment encounters. By systematically tracking patient progress, providers can make informed decisions about treatment efficacy, leading to timely adjustments, consultations, or referrals when necessary.Despite the evident benefits outlined in the Issue Brief, the prevailing standard of care often fails to incorporate the regular utilization of validated and quantifiable symptom rating scales. To address this gap, the Kennedy Forum offers a curated list of commonly used and validated rating scales. These instruments serve as invaluable aids for clinicians, payers, and quality improvement agencies, facilitating evidence-based decision-making and enhancing the overall quality of care.In this blog post, we aim to present the Kennedy Forum’s list of commonly used and validated symptom rating scales in a manner that’s both informative and accessible to healthcare professionals, ensuring that they have the resources needed to implement measurement-based care effectively.Adult Symptom Rating Scales for Core Outcome MeasuresAdult Multi-Diagnostic Substance Abuse Outcomes MeasurementAdditional Adult Functional Status Rating Scales for Core Outcome Measures**Note: These measures need to be administered on a frequent basis to assure their usefulness as a clinical support tool.Child & Adolescent Rating Scales for Core Outcome MeasuresProprietary Rating Scales for Assessing Multiple DomainsPsyPack Assessment Solution for Measurement Based Care serves as a cornerstone of measurement-based care, offering a covering a broad spectrum of mental health domains. With PsyPack, clinicians have access to a versatile platform that not only meets the requirements set forth by organizations like the Kennedy Forum and but also surpasses expectations by offering alternatives for proprietary assessments not covered in its extensive library.With its , clinicians can seamlessly administer assessments to patients, whether in-person or remotely, ensuring flexibility and accessibility in care delivery. Automated scoring and reporting features streamline the analysis process, providing clinicians with timely insights into patient progress. PsyPack’s intuitive graphing tools further enhance understanding by presenting assessment outcomes in visually appealing formats. Moreover, PsyPack prioritizes the security of patient data, employing robust measures for secure data storage that align with HIPAA compliance standards. By combining advanced technology with an extensive library of assessments, PsyPack empowers clinicians to make informed treatment decisions, promote early intervention, and optimize patient outcomes in a manner that respects patient privacy and confidentiality.

Team PsyPack

Mon Feb 26 2024

Precision in Mental Health: The Impact of Measurement-Based Care (MBC)

Measurement-Based Care (MBC) stands as a pivotal approach in mental health, aiming for enhanced precision and consistency in disease assessment, tracking, and treatment to achieve optimal outcomes. According to , MBC involves the systematic use of symptom rating scales to guide clinical decision-making, seeking to optimize accuracy and efficiency in symptom assessment.Clinical Actionability and Symptom Rating ScalesFor symptom rating scale data to be clinically actionable, it must be current, accurate, interpretable, and readily available during clinical encounters. Outdated symptom severity data, outside the context of the clinical encounter, lacks clinical actionability and is not considered effective MBC. The interpretability of symptom rating scale scores is crucial, with changes categorized to facilitate treatment guidelines and medication prescribing algorithms.MBC and Depression Treatment GuidelinesDepression treatment guidelines recommend systematic reevaluation of symptoms at specified intervals. MBC greatly facilitates adherence to guidelines and algorithms by operationalizing and quantifying treatment responses. This approach supports the treat-to-target philosophy, emphasizing the revision of treatment plans until remission is achieved.Residual Symptoms and Relapse PreventionMBC plays a vital role in detecting residual symptoms, prompting clinicians to consider intensifying the treatment plan until complete remission. Residual symptoms, although not meeting diagnostic criteria, are linked to an increased risk of relapse. MBC aligns with collaborative care models, where self-reported depression severity scores are shared among care providers for team-based care.Enhanced Therapeutic Relationships and Patient Empowerment:MBC contributes to more favorable patient outcomes by fostering enhanced and facilitating timely revisions of treatment plans. Patients regularly completing self-reported rating scales become more knowledgeable about their disorders, attuned to symptoms, and better equipped to self-manage their illness. Standardized symptom rating scales empower patients by involving them in clinical decision-making and validating their experiences.Clinical Actionability and SustainabilityFor MBC to be effective and sustainable, symptom severity feedback must be perceived as clinically actionable. The instruments used should be reliable and sensitive to change, ensuring consistent and meaningful measurements. Patient-reported outcomes serve as a starting point in evaluating the clinical effectiveness of current treatments.ConclusionIn conclusion, MBC emerges as a transformative approach in mental health, not as a replacement for clinical judgment but as a tool to optimize the accuracy of assessments. By focusing on clinical actionability, interpretability, and sustainability, MBC stands as a powerful ally in the journey toward optimal mental health outcomes.

Team PsyPack

Fri Dec 15 2023

APA Recommended Adult Rating Scales

In the evolving landscape of mental health care, Measurement-Based Care (MBC) stands as a crucial tool for optimizing treatment outcomes. The American Psychiatric Association (APA) emphasizes the significance of routine MBC, backed by evidence of improved quality of care and patient-centered outcomes. This blog explores the recent recommended Adult Rating Scales.In conclusion, selecting the right measure is pivotal for successful MBC implementation. The table serves as a comprehensive guide, but the journey doesn’t end here. Most of these are conveniently available on PsyPack, providing clinicians with a to seamlessly integrate these tools into their practice. Empower your mental health practice with PsyPack and stay at the forefront of delivering patient-centered care.

Team PsyPack

Fri Dec 15 2023

Sustainable Reimbursement: A Guide to CPT Codes in Mental Health

Introduction: Navigating Reimbursement with CPT Codes in Mental Health CareIn the dynamic landscape of mental health care, the widespread adoption of Measurement-Based Care (MBC) is intrinsically tied to sustainable reimbursement channels. Currently, clinicians navigate two primary pathways for reimbursement: the direct billing codes route and the transformative realm of value-based contracting with payers, all anchored by the essential . This blog delves into these avenues, unraveling the opportunities they present for mental health practitioners to not only thrive but reshape the future of clinical practice.The Essential Role of CPT Codes: Billing for Mental Health Screening and Follow-Up AssessmentsIn the realm of Measurement-Based Care (MBC), understanding the coding landscape is pivotal for clinicians seeking reimbursement. The Common Procedural Terminology (CPT®) codes take center stage in this domain. The following codes serve as a compass for billing mental health screening and follow-up assessments. Each code is accompanied by a description and key notes on billing and utilization.However, it’s crucial to note that coding stipulations can vary by payer and region. To ensure accurate navigation through this coding maze, every physician is encouraged to consult with their health system, payer, or local authority for specific details. Let’s delve into the codes that form the backbone of CPT Code-based reimbursement for MBC.Beyond Direct Billing: Unlocking Value-Based Opportunities with CPT CodesWhile direct billing for Measurement-Based Care (MBC) services is a common avenue, clinicians can explore additional opportunities through value-based payment arrangements with payers. These arrangements may operate at both the health system and individual clinician levels, ushering in a new era of reimbursement dynamics, all anchored by the essential CPT Codes.In structures like Accountable Care Organizations (ACOs) or pay-for-performance arrangements, mental health screening and MBC may form integral components of the contract, driven by specific CPT Code benchmarks. The administration of evidence-based instruments may not directly translate into reimbursement, but consistent performance in MBC processes could indirectly secure financing through capitation or incentive payments, guided by CPT Code stipulations.At the individual clinician level, a rising trend among payers involves implementing financial strategies to incentivize MBC with evidence-based instruments, often tied to specific CPT Code targets. Payers may offer enhanced reimbursement for mental health visits when clinicians commit to using MBC and treatment targeting specific benchmarks. These arrangements typically carry upside risk only, meaning clinicians gain reimbursement for MBC use, without financial losses if patients don’t reach outcome benchmarks within a defined period, all under the umbrella of CPT Codes.While some payers directly offer such arrangements to their in-network clinicians, others leverage third-party technology services to define clear outcome benchmarks, implement enhanced reimbursement, and broadly incentivize MBC, framed by the guidance of CPT Codes.Unlocking Enhanced Value with PsyPack in the MBC JourneyAs clinicians navigate the intricate landscape of Measurement-Based Care (MBC) and CPT Codes, a powerful ally emerges in the form of . This innovative tool seamlessly integrates with MBC processes, offering features that extend beyond conventional practice. PsyPack boasts an impressive repertoire of about , including well-known assessments like , , , , , , and .PsyPack goes beyond mere test availability. It transforms the MBC experience with online administration, automatic scoring, and comprehensive reporting. Clinicians can leverage PsyPack to streamline their assessment processes, saving valuable time and ensuring accuracy in scoring. The platform’s tracking capabilities facilitate a seamless journey in monitoring treatment progress over time.In the realm of value-based care, PsyPack becomes a strategic partner, facilitating a comprehensive understanding of the practice’s performance. By harnessing the aggregate data, clinicians can uncover patterns, identify areas for improvement, and showcase the efficacy of MBC in achieving clinical outcomes. This holistic view not only aligns with value-based care principles but positions the practice for success in an evolving healthcare landscape.As you navigate the complexities of MBC and reimbursement strategies, consider as more than a tool—it’s a catalyst for elevating the standard of mental health care.

Team PsyPack

Fri Nov 10 2023

Unlocking the Power of Measurement-Based Care (MBC) in Mental Health

In the world of mental health, where clinicians work diligently to support their clients, a transformative approach is emerging. Traditionally, diagnosis and assessment relied heavily on clinician expertise and client-reported symptoms. However, there’s a powerful shift happening – structured symptom measurement, often facilitated by tools like the PHQ-9 and GAD-7 scales, is redefining mental health care. is akin to monitoring blood pressure for hypertension or regularly checking blood sugar levels for diabetes management – it’s a fundamental change in approach. The American Psychiatric Association (APA) recognizes this shift and recommends the integration of quantitative measures in psychiatric evaluations.The compelling part? Research shows that patients undergoing experience significantly improved mental health outcomes. In fact, this can lead to a remarkable increase in remission rates.But is more than just data collection. It strengthens the connection between clinicians and clients, enabling more precise interventions and continuous progress tracking. It’s not just about individual care; it’s a tool for enhancing care quality at all levels, from individual treatment plans to entire healthcare systems, utilizing established symptom rating scales.However, despite its potential, is not yet a standard practice in routine mental health care. The challenges vary, from time constraints to clinician skepticism and the need for system adjustments. Yet, when you consider the compelling evidence, offers a transformation that’s hard to ignore. It’s not merely about elevating clinical care; it also lays the groundwork for measuring care quality, which is crucial for health plan accreditation and value-based reimbursement.In essence, isn’t just about improving symptoms and clinician performance; it’s a gateway to a new era in mental health care. So why not embrace this transformative path?Why Measurement-Based Care?MBC’s Impact on Patient Engagement and Adherence is not just a buzzword in mental health; it’s a game-changer. Research suggests that it enhances patient engagement and overall treatment outcomes. How? By introducing routine symptom monitoring, ensures timely feedback and empowers clinicians to better understand their patients’ needs. This paves the way for more personalized care and improved treatment outcomes.The magic of doesn’t stop there. It’s also a catalyst for improved communication, shared decision-making, and a stronger physician-patient alliance. This is the kind of alliance that matters, and it’s a critical predictor of treatment adherence and engagement.Furthermore, , when integrated with symptom rating scales, provides patients with a common language to express their symptoms. This not only helps them better understand their condition but also reduces the stigma surrounding mental health disorders. The use of standard scales creates a level playing field, where everyone uses the same tools to describe their experiences. Over time, these scales help clinicians make informed, data-driven decisions about treatment continuation or adjustments.In the ever-evolving world of health technology, offers the potential for seamless data sharing among stakeholders in mental health care, including clinicians, patient peer communities, and digital therapeutics. This collective data can paint a more holistic clinical picture, providing clarity on what treatments work best for individual patients.Psychoeducation and Efficient Clinical Practice with MBCPicture this: routine helps clinicians ascertain a patient’s clinical status asynchronously, saving valuable time during clinical appointments. This not only shortens visit durations but also improves efficiency. With less time spent on gathering factual data, clinical discussions can focus on psychoeducation, motivation, goal setting, and shared decision-making.Using standard assessments with evidence-based scales, clinicians can align with patients on treatment targets for different therapeutic approaches. Worried about “cookie-cutter” clinical care? Periodically reconciling standardized assessments with a patient’s values and goals ensures individual treatment preferences are honored.One fascinating benefit is the reduction of hindsight and observer bias in clinical therapies. For instance, when regularly employing a score to assess responsiveness to depressive symptoms, both the patient and clinician can closely monitor symptom progression over time. Visualizing the numerical composite of core depression symptoms clarifies a patient’s historical treatment progress. This data-driven approach enables discussions about potential adjustments or modifications based on concrete evidence, rather than solely relying on subjective reports.Advancing Population Health and Resource Allocation with MBC doesn’t stop at individual care; it has a broader impact. By quantifying patient symptomatology, clinical teams can strategically allocate resources to those who need them the most. This means intensifying outreach and treatment for patients not achieving symptom recovery and quickly identifying those at risk for relapse. Symptom measurement acts as an early warning system, highlighting potential issues. also ensures that patient and clinician treatment goals are in sync, promoting timely patient discharge once recovery is achieved and sustained. This not only benefits the individual but also enhances mental health access for others in need.The Future of Mental Health Care with MBC and PsyPackIn the evolving landscape of mental health care, the time for is now. Fueled by increasing demand, reduced stigma surrounding mental health treatment, and substantial investments in mental health startups, has emerged as a potent tool to enhance care efficiency, standardization, and outcome orientation. Its ability to identify patients with clinical remission or significant responses enables clinicians to meet the growing demand for mental health services.As practitioners adapt to this shift, technology integration, patient-reported outcome measures, and third-party software solutions are streamlining the implementation of in clinical workflows. It’s a low-cost strategy that aligns seamlessly with the triple aim of U.S. healthcare, focusing on cost reduction, improved patient health outcomes, and a better overall patient experience.In this transformative journey, tools like , an innovative telemedicine solution, are leading the way. empowers behavioral health professionals to seamlessly integrate into their practice, saving time and enhancing the quality of care. With , clinicians can efficiently gather and analyze patient data using tools like the PHQ-9 and GAD-7, paving the way for personalized care and better treatment outcomes.The convergence of increased demand, innovative technology like , and a shift towards value-based care makes a critical component of modern mental health services. The future of mental health care is now, and is the compass guiding the way.

Team PsyPack

Fri Nov 10 2023

CPT Codes for Behavioral Health Practices

A CPT code, or Current Procedural Terminology code, is a standardized code set used in the United States to identify a service or procedure by qualified healthcare professionals. CPT codes were developed and are maintained by the .CPT codes are five digit numerical codes and are organized into three main categories: Reimbursement and CPT CodesPayments from insurance companies for different CPT codes drastically vary. To understand the earning potential, therapists – particularly the ones running their own private practices, must understand the state of insurance within the mental health industry.Most used CPT Codes by TherapistsCPT Code 90837 – Psychotherapy, 60 minutes with a patientCPT code 90837 is used to describe an extended psychotherapy session. Here are some key details about CPT code 90837: The insurance reimbursement amount for CPT code 90837 may be higher compared to shorter therapy sessions (e.g., 90834 for 45 minutes). It’s important for therapists to meet the necessary criteria and documentation requirements to justify billing for an extended session using CPT code 90837.CPT Code 90834 – Psychotherapy, 45 minutes with a patientCPT code 90834 is used to describe a standard psychotherapy session. Here are some important details about CPT code 90834: The insurance reimbursement amount for CPT code 90834 may be different from other therapy session codes, such as shorter sessions (e.g., 90832 for 30 minutes) or extended sessions (e.g., 90837 for 60 minutes).CPT Code 90791 – Psychiatric diagnostic evaluation, without medical servicesCPT code 90791 is used to describe an initial psychiatric diagnostic evaluation. Here are some important details about CPT code 90791: The evaluation typically involves a comprehensive of the patient including psychiatric history, current symptoms, social and developmental history, and relevant clinical information. It includes a detailed interview with the patient, potentially involving family members or collateral sources, to gather information necessary for an accurate diagnosis and .Many clinicians often overlook the use of CPT code 90791, which is . Instead, they jump straight to billing 90837 or 90834. This is a common error made by practitioners, causing them to miss out on the advantages and benefits associated with properly utilizing code 90791. The most significant advantage being the reimbursement rate for 90791 which is almost always higher than 90837 and 90834.Billing 90834 v/s 90837?Insurance companies typically consider the CPT code 90834 as the standard for outpatient routine care, unless there are unique circumstances involved. Many therapists bill this code for sessions lasting around 50 minutes. However, if the session extends beyond 53 minutes of actual clinical time (excluding scheduling and administrative tasks), the CPT code 90837 is used.Pushback from insurance companiesIf a contracted therapist frequently bills the CPT code 90837, there is a greater likelihood of undergoing a review or audit by the insurance company. This is especially true if the insurance company is providing a higher reimbursement for the 90837 code.In recent years, insurance companies have raised concerns regarding the use of CPT code 90837. Back in 2015, EquiClaim, acting on behalf of Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield, sent letters targeting certain clinicians who frequently billed 90837. While the intention of these letters was to provide information, they carried an implication that therapists would need to provide extensive medical records if they continued to use 90837, and could potentially face audits.Although Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield apologized for the tone of these letters, providers across the country have received similar communications from Blue Cross and other health plans. These letters inform providers that they are using 90837 more frequently compared to their colleagues and sometimes suggest contacting the Education Team for further discussion.Tips for billing 90837Here are key things to keep in mind while billing 90837; Underutilized CPT Codes by TherapistsCPT Code 90846 – Family psychotherapy (without the patient present)CPT code 90846 is used to describe a family psychotherapy session without the patient present. Here are some important details about CPT code 90846: Something to be aware of when billing 90846 is that even though the identified client isn’t present, the session still needs to be centered around the identified client’s illness or condition—not the couple or family.CPT Code 90839CPT code 90839 is used for appointments that require urgent assessments and examination of the client’s mental state. Here are some important details about CPT code 90839: Note that the definition of a crisis is really left to the therapist’s clinical judgement. However, examples of this may include clients displaying suicidal behavior or other extreme distress or psychological symptoms where the therapist may need to mobilize resources to reduce potential trauma. Two assessments available on PsyPack Assessments are particularly helpful to screen and assess for self-harm – and . Conducting psychological tests can be helpful in strengthening your documentation and justifying the use of a particular billing code.Closing notesAs a therapist accepting insurance, it’s a good idea to get empaneled with multiple insurance companies. Using the correct CPT code can make a significant difference in your earnings. You must always be prepared to defend the CPT Code you use. So documentation becomes very important. Using can help you build a defensible justification for the use of a particular CPT Code.

Team PsyPack

Tue Jun 06 2023

Mental Health Softwares for Therapists in Private Practice

First of all, let me congratulate you If you are a therapist in private practice. From my experience of speaking with over hundred psychologists in private practice, it is incredibly difficult decision for many to take the leap of faith and leave the comfort of a “job” and follow their entrepreneurial instincts to starting their own “business”. Starting your own business means branding – naming your practice and getting that right logo with the perfect color scheme, getting out of your comfort zone and advertising your practice, getting yourself listed on various therapy listing websites, managing your practice – appointments and billing and invoices, filing taxes and maintaining books and filing for insurance claims. 😮‍💨For the brave ones, we have compiled a list of our favourite mental health softwares, EMRs and EHRs. Lets dive in;Best mental health software for a therapist websiteMarketing as a private practitioner is fun for a few therapists like the one’s who pop-up frequently on your TikTok and Instagram feeds, while it can be hard for the ones who are more introvert like me. The most critical element in marketing is getting the right website. The right website can be instrumental in getting you more inquiries from your prospective clients. A few things you must look at while selecting a software for your website are ease of building and maintaining a website, SEO, HIPAA compliant inquiry form, and last but not the least the design. I have seen many therapists spend thousands of dollars to make their websites fancy. I would say, don’t be so fixated on design and animations because really it’s the performance that matters. Here are two of our favourite website softwares,PracticeID Websites – Modern and HIPAA compliantPracticeID has just launched in 2023. And we are very excited to see a website builder solely focussed on therapists in private practice. They swear by the performance of their websites and we were happy to see that they are best in SEO by far. Another beneficial feature is the HIPAA compliant inquiry form. We love the modern approach. And they also have a free forever plan. Check them out at – .Brighter Vision Websites – The OGBrighter Vision has been around since over a decade and they really started pushing the quality of websites for therapists ever since their launch in 2011. They have tried their hands at other things like social media automation etc. but their star product has been websites. In 2020 EverCommerce acquired BrighterVision and there has been limited innovation since then. But we still love their websites and hope that they innovate more often. Check them out at – .A word of caution, we would suggest you stay away from your mental health EMR’s free website (like Simple Practice or Therapy Sites) because really they are not optimised for performance. Don’t get me wrong, but these softwares are better at practice management than at websites. Websites these days are highly sophisticated and you should use a specialised software for that.Best mental health software for practice managementOnce you have your web presence sorted and you are getting a steady stream of clients, you will face challenges with managing your practice. Think about calendar management, appointment booking, billing and invoicing etc. There are plenty of EMR and EHR available on the market but a few stand out. Most of these EMRs are quite generic and can be used for a private practice, a group practice or a behavioral health clinic.Simple Practice – The omnipresent getting expensiveI won’t believe you if you tell me that if you have never heard of Simple Practice before. They have been pioneers in EHR software for behavioral health. While they have a comprehensive solution – calendar, scheduling, appointment booking, client portal, telehealth and video calls, documentation, invoices and billing, payments, insurance and claim filing; BUT they have been constantly increasing prices. And as a private practitioner these abrupt increases might not be sustainable! Check them out at – .Sessions Health – The people’s choice giving SP a run for its moneySessions Health is the EMR giving SP a run for its money. It has managed to win the therapist community’s hearts! Dare I say more. Must check them out at .Power Diary – Built in Australia & APA’s darling!I generally admire products made in Australia (Think Canva). And well Power Diary does not disappoint. You might have seen it’s full page ads on American Psychological Association’s website or their Monitor magazine. And it’s advanced features make it a worthy contender! They are at .TherapyNotes – The Inflexible OGTherapyNotes has been there forever as well. And the good thing is that it seems less technical and it works. I have found it fast and responsive. The CC fees are also among the lowest. And yes, this one is decently priced.You will find TherapyNotes rigid though – less features, limited and non-customisable progress note, intake and treatment plan paperwork formats. Further, the schedule view is pretty old school and almost hurts looking at. They are at – .Between Simple Practice and TherapyNotes, here is the verdict from one of the Reddit threads;Best mental health software for psychological testingIt has been established that more evidence leads to better clinical outcomes. Using psychological testing routinely in your practice can help you diagnose the underlying illness better, base your treatment to the progress the client is making, and improve client’s confidence in the therapeutic process. While this space was dominated by the large corporations, like Pearson and PARInc, whose solutions are prohibitively expensive for therapists in private practice, new age startups are not only challenging these companies but also modernising the entire psychological testing journey.PsyPack Outcome Tools – Intuitive and HIPAA compliant NovoPsych – The OGNovoPsych is the OG software for psychological testing from Australia. While the library of assessment is large, the software itself is dated and lacks modern features. It is also unclear if it is HIPAA compliant or not. If you are not in the US and you have a limited usage, NovoPsych will not disappoint. Here you go – .Innovative mental health softwaresHeard – Mental Health Software for FinancesHeard is a software-enabled company that helps therapists with their finances, more specifically bookkeeping, taxes, and payroll. Heard states they can save you 60 hours per year in financial record keeping, which means you can use that extra hour or so per week finishing your notes or making money in sessions.With tonnes of VC funding, Heard is sure making some heads turn. They are at – .Upheal – AI Progress NotesTaking notes can be daunting. Well, AI is here to rescue. Upheal securely records the therapy session, automatically generates a transcript, and then use it as a basis for AI models to create progress notes and insights.Their early access program is live, go check them out at – .In our recent 2024 analysis Upheal was the second best AI Progress Notes Solutions. To find out who won the face-off, check out our blog .Delegating mechanical work to a software can really help you make time for the more important parts of your work. If you are a therapist in private practice, I will highly encourage you to adopt technology in this day-and-age of telehealth to stay ahead of the curve.If you found our list of behavioral health softwares useful, do share it with your therapist friends. 🫶

Team PsyPack

Wed Apr 26 2023

The story of the incredible PHQ (Patient Health Questionnaire)

There’s no other assessment as popular as the PHQ-9 (Patient Health Questionnaire 9) and the GAD-7 (Generalized Anxiety Disorder 7). These are not just popular among psychologists and therapists but even the general population are familiar with these assessments. And I know, for a fact, that many doctors just know ONLY about the PHQ-9 and GAD-7 when it comes to psychological tests. Let me just provide you some interesting facts to establish the omnipresence of these two assessments; History of the PHQThe PHQ is a self-administered version of the PRIME-MD. So what is PRIME-MD? In the mid 1990s, researchers ( Robert L. Spitzer, MD, Janet B.W. Williams, DSW, and Kurt Kroenke, MD, and colleagues) at the Columbia University realised that recognizing signs of mental health disorders is not always easy. And to solve this, they went on to build the PRIME-MD, a diagnostic tool containing modules on 12 different mental health disorders. And the pharmaceutical giant Pfizer Inc. funded this project. Although the copyright of the PHQ-9 is with Pfizer, it has kept the access open to all to stay true to the original intent to enable clinicians easily recognize signs of mental illness stays intact.The PHQ, a self-administered version of the PRIME-MD, contains the mood (PHQ-9), anxiety, alcohol, eating, and somatoform modules as covered in the original PRIME-MD. The GAD-7 was subsequently developed as a brief scale for anxiety. The PHQ-9, a tool specific to depression, simply scores each of the 9 DSM-IV criteria based on the mood module from the original PRIME-MD. The GAD-7 scores 7 common anxiety symptoms.Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ) Family of MeasuresLet us have a quick look at the most commonly used versions of the PHQ scales and their scoring;More detailed information – scoring, interpretation, printable PDF etc. about the popular assessments in the PHQ is available at; Who is the PHQ for?Age rangeMost of the PHQ scales have been validated for ages 13 years and above.TranslationsDue to it’s popularity and demand by clinicians, researchers, social workers and therapists, the PHQ has been widely translated into numerous languages; Please note the above list of languages is not exhaustive.Criticism of the PHQWhile the PHQ assessments are insanely popular. But this does not come without any criticism. In the defence of the questionnaire, all such tools serve the purpose of screening and must be followed up with a clinical interview with a professional to establish diagnosis.PHQ with PsyPack AssessmentsIf you are a therapist, social worker, GP, you can easily conduct the PHQ-9, GAD-7 and PHQ-15 online with PsyPack online assessments. PsyPack can help you conduct psychological assessments via tele-health easily. PsyPack is an online software to help psychologists, therapists, social workers and counselors, administer psychological tests online to their clients, score tests automatically, and prepare detailed reports in a fraction of second. It helps you store your clinical records of your testing in a HIPAA compliant manner.PsyPack comes pre-loaded with numerous standardised psychological tests. Staying true to the spirit of the PHQ, we have included PHQ-9 and the GAD-7 in the free forever Beginner Plan of PsyPack. Try PsyPack now; References

Team PsyPack

Wed Jan 04 2023

SOAP Notes – Example, Template and Format

What is a SOAP note?The Subjective, Objective, Assessment and Plan (SOAP) note is an acronym represents a cognitive framework to help healthcare professionals organise treatment information of a client in a highly structured format.SOAP Notes template with exampleA SOAP note is structured into four parts;SubjectiveThis section focusses on the subjective experience of the patient or their caretaker. It includes the symptoms they are experiencing, feelings w.r.t. the illness, medical history, previous diagnosis (if any), and their personal views. Simply put, this is what the patient says about their problem.Example: 37-year old female presenting chest pain, decreased appetite and shortness of breath. Diagnosed with mild depression 1 year ago. Underwent psychotherapy for 3 months. Recent physical manifestations concurrent with family feuds.ObjectiveThe focus of this section is on objective data. This includes vital signs and symptoms, findings of the clinician, laboratory diagnostic data and objective reports from other clinicians. Unlike the “Subjective” section which gives a description of patient’s own account, the “Objective” section is backed by evidence. An example of this is a patient stating they have “stomach pain,” which is documented under the subjective heading. Versus “abdominal tenderness to palpation,” an objective sign documented under the objective heading.Psychological tests like , , etc. are particularly useful at this stage since they are objective in nature.Example: The client's results on the signals moderate depression, extremely severe anxiety and mild stress.It is recommended that you store the data in the client’s file securely in accordance with HIPAA . is a HIPAA compliant software you can use to conduct with your clients. It can help you maintain client notes automatically and save you tons of time.AssessmentThis section is the clinician’s analysis of the subjective and objective evidence to arrive at a diagnosis.For behavioral health practitioners, one would generally expect a differential diagnosis where they would list various problems in order of importance. At this stage, therapists could mention ICD-10 or DSM5 classification of the illness. This can be particularly helpful for therapists who are empanelled and accept insurance plans like United Healthcare, Aetna, BlueCross and BlueShield etc.Example: Client is most like suffering from Generalized Anxiety Disorder (ICD-10 code F41.1)PlanThis section details the treatment approach – interventions, goals/objectives of the intervention, expected time frame, and follow-up and next steps.Therapists could weigh various psychotherapy approaches like CBT, EMDR etc. at this stage to plan. Additionally referrals to psychiatrists can be considered to pharmacotherapy.In case, further information is required for planning the treatment, this section will include plan (additional testing, consultation with other clinician etc.) to obtain the required information.Example: Immediate initiation of pharmacotherapy and, if severe impairment or poor response to therapy, expedited referral to a mental health specialist for psychotherapy and/or collaborative management.DAP Notes and BIRP NotesSOAP notes are not the only format available for charting treatment. The other popular approaches include DAP (Data, Assessment, and Plan) and BIRP (Behavior, Intervention, Response, Plan). Among all these formats, SOAP notes format is most widely used.You should choose the format of documentation based on what’s best suited to your practice. But having a framework can be really helpful.  “One of the biggest problems I see with new therapists,” says  “is a lot of anxiety about how to write adequate professional notes. So many new therapists haven’t been adequately trained and carry a lot of anxiety about having their records audited. Following an official framework, like SOAP notes, can really help relieve that anxiety.” Additionally, you must be wary to not adjust your treatment to fit any particular format. Always remember, treatment notes follow the treatment and not vice versa.With the advent of AI, idea of using AI-powered note-taking apps to automate progress notes is like a breath of fresh air. Checkout our blog on know more.PsyPack Practitioner’s NotesAt , we are constantly working to ensure that therapists are empowered with technology to streamline their practice. Apart from helping you embrace evidence based approach by digitising a , we now allow you to add your own therapy notes to the assessment reports. You can now add notes in any format in the “Practitioner’s notes” section of reports. .Today the world is increasingly moving towards mandatorily maintaining treatment documentation. A part of this shift is to ensure best practices, choice of patient to switch their clinician, insurance empanelment and claim settlement etc. To stay competitive, it is critical to embrace best practices and technology in your therapy practice.

Team PsyPack

Mon Apr 11 2022

Psychological assessments

Diversity is beautiful. But why does nature create each one of us so unique? We look different, we feel differently, we think differently, we behave differently and so on. In fact, no two of us have the same fingerprints!Why wouldn’t nature create all of us the same – something of “a standardised homo-sapien”?The challenge with such a high level of predictability is vulnerability. One adverse predator, one adverse virus, one adverse event could destroy the entire species. Diversity is not just beautiful but it is the essence of survival. Individual differences make us stronger as a species.One could imagine that since individual differences are so intrinsically linked to survival and nature, it makes studying them of immense value.Individuals vary in terms of physical characteristics, such as height, weight, strength, hair colour, and so on. They also vary along psychological dimensions. They may be intelligent or dull, dominant or submissive, creative or not so creative, outgoing or withdrawn, etc. The list of variations can be endless. Different traits can exist in varying degrees in an individual. In this sense, each one of us is unique as s/he exemplifies a typical combination of various traits.Behavioral health professionals and social scientists have devised multiple instruments over the years to study these differences scientifically. Psychological assessments help us study the amazing diversity in human beings and give us sneak peek into the mysterious ways of nature.What is a psychological assessment?All sciences are built on systems of constructs and their interrelations. The natural sciences use constructs such as temperature, gravity, and global warming. Likewise, the behavioral sciences use a variety of constructs or attributes. These can be very simple phenomena like time taken to react to a stimulus, i.e. reaction time, and also in highly global concepts like happiness. Behavioral health professionals study both non-psychiatric attributes, like intelligence, aptitude, interest, personality and values etc., and psychiatric constructs like depression, anxiety, somatoform disorders, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) etc. , a strong proponent of deliberate practice, recommends using outcome measures to improve clinical outcomes.Psychological attributes are not linear or unidimensional. They are complex and expressed in terms of dimensions. They are usually multi-dimensional. For example, if a child is having trouble in school, they might not fit strictly into a categorical diagnosis of a reading problem such as dyslexia, or an attention problem such as attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), or difficulty with impulse control? They might have different se­verity levels of the constituent symptoms of each of those. If you want to have a complete assessment of a person, you will need to assess how s/he functions in various domains or areas, such as cognitive, emotional, social, etc. With regards to diagnosis of mental disorders, the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5) favours the dimensional approach over the categorical approach.Assessment is the first step in understanding a psychological attribute. Assessment refers to the measurement of psychological attributes of individuals and their evaluation, often using multiple methods in terms of certain standards of comparison. Once assessment is done, we can use this information to predict future behavior of an individual. If the predicted consequence is not what we want, we may want to intervene to effect a change.The American Psychological Association defines psychological assessment as “the gathering and integration of data to evaluate a person’s behavior, abilities, and other characteristics, particularly for the purposes of making a diagnosis or treatment recommendation. Psychologists assess diverse psychiatric problems (e.g., anxiety, substance abuse) and non-psychiatric concerns (e.g., intelligence, career interests) in a range of clinical, educational, organizational, forensic, and other settings. Assessment data may be gathered through interviews, observation, standardized tests, self-report measures, physiological or psychophysiological measurement devices, or other specialized procedures and apparatuses.”Assessment MethodsPsychologists use several techniques for assessment; Characteristics of a good testAll measuring instruments, be it a measuring tape, a bathroom scale, medical tests like  X-rays or blood tests, or a psychological test must follow certain basic scientific principles to be any useful.ValidityA psychological test is useful only to the extent to which it actually measures what it purports to measure. For example, a test measuring a stable personality trait should not be measuring transitory emotions generated by situational conditions.There are multiple statistical methods of establishing validity; ReliabilityThe extent to which any measuring device (including a psychological test) yields the same result each time it is applied to the same quantity. For example, the measuring tape should not measure your height differently when measured by two different people. It must be consistent. Several different methods exist for assessing a psychological test’s reliability; NormsYou would never compare scores of two students from, say grade 5 and grade 10, on a mathematics test. Clearly, that would be unfair. Similarly, psychological constructs are also relative in nature. For example, constructs like intelligence are not absolute, but measure standing of an individual relative to a group. Test consist of data that make it possible to determine the relative standing of an individual who has taken a test. By itself, a subject’s raw score (e.g., the number of answers that agree with the scoring key) has little meaning. Almost always, a test score must be interpreted as indicating the subject’s position relative to others in some group. Norms provide a basis for comparing the individual with a group.To ensure fairness, it is essential that the norms used to assess an individual are based on a population which is representative of that particular individual.Ethics of assessmentsPsychological tests serve many useful purposes such as selection, counselling, guidance, self-analysis, and diagnosis. Unless used by a trained practitioner, they may be misused either intentionally or unintentionally. A practitioner is expected to follow certain ethics (or moral principles) while conducting the tests. The future of psychological testingWhile telemedicine and digital tools have become increasingly common over the past few years, the COVID-19 pandemic has super-charged and accelerated the adoption of telepsychology. Practice management tools like help psychologists, therapists, social workers and counselors to conduct not just likert scale assessments like , , etc. but also digital tasks based assessments like and .Startups like and are beginning to provide game-based psychometric evaluations to assess attention, decision making, risk tolerance etc., for the hiring process. ‘Gamified’ assessments are more engaging than traditional psychometric tests.Further the use of artificial intelligence (AI), including facial recognition and text analysis software, in psychometric assessments are promising in supplementing a clinicians’ efforts to spot mental illnesses earlier and improve treatments for patients. Computers could be trained to analyse a variety of data – mobility, physical activity, facial expressions, sleep patterns, typing behavior, body language and more. Apple is already working on iPhone features to help detect depression and cognitive decline. Although promising, these technologies first need to be shown to be effective. Additionally, some experts are wary of bias and other ethical issues as well.

Team PsyPack

Mon Oct 04 2021