1. Introduction
- Topic: Screening in Behavioral Health
- Presenter: Dr. Dawn-Elise Snipes
- Focus: Understanding the purpose, instrument selection, and information gathering in the screening process.
2. Definition and Purpose of Screening
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Screening Defined: A process to review current situations, symptoms, and collateral information to assess the probability of a problem.
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Key Points:
- Screening is not a diagnosis.
- Can be performed by various professionals, including HR officers, pastors, nurses, doctors, and pharmacists.
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Purpose:
- Determine eligibility and appropriateness for services.
- Assess immediacy of need (e.g., detoxification for substance abuse).
3. Transparency and Informed Consent
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Importance of Transparency: Clients must understand the screening process.
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Informed Consent: Verbal consent is required before conducting a screening.
4. Screening Process
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Engagement: Screening is the first opportunity to engage the person in the therapeutic process.
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Types of Screening:
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Physical and Mental Health: Screening for issues like diabetes, skin cancer, depression, etc.
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Risk and Safety: Assessing the risk of harm to self or others.
5. Screening Tools and Techniques
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Screening Instruments: Various tools available, such as CAGE for alcohol use, and others for mental health and substance abuse.
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Observation: Non-verbal cues and physical signs (e.g., intoxication, withdrawal) are crucial.
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Interviewing: Direct questions to the client or significant others for additional context.
6. Importance of Multi-Disciplinary Collaboration
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Collaboration Across Professions: Ensures comprehensive care by involving multiple professionals (e.g., doctors, counselors).
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Referral to Specialists: If screening indicates a need for further evaluation, referrals are made to appropriate specialists.
7. Cultural and Socioeconomic Sensitivity
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Considerations: Screenings should be sensitive to cultural, socioeconomic, gender, and other personal factors.
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Customizing the Approach: Tailor the screening environment and process to the individual's background and needs.
8. Addressing Stigma
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Stigma Awareness: Acknowledge and address any stigma associated with mental health, substance use, or seeking help.
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Cultural Beliefs: Work within the client's cultural context to reduce stigma and promote engagement.
9. Screening as an Ongoing Process
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Continuous Engagement: Screening is not a one-time event but part of ongoing assessment and engagement.
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Use of Ancillary Information: Gathering additional information from multiple sources to support screening conclusions.
10. Practical Considerations in Screening
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First Impressions: Professional presentation, punctuality, and courtesy are essential in the initial screening.
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Environmental Factors: Ensure the screening environment is welcoming, calm, and sensitive to the client’s needs.
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Client Empowerment: Involve the client in decision-making and ensure they feel respected and heard.
11. Screening Outcomes and Next Steps
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Interpreting Results: After screening, determine the appropriate next steps, whether it involves further assessment or immediate intervention.
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Client Follow-Up: Engage with the client to ensure they follow through on referrals and recommendations.
Chapters:
00:00:00 - Purpose and Process of Screening
00:07:12 - The Importance of Wellness Screenings
00:14:50 - Importance of Screening
00:21:55 - Screening and Engagement
00:28:51 - Building Rapport and Providing Support
00:36:05 - Creating a Welcoming and Accepting Environment
00:43:07 - Factors impacting client engagement
00:50:13 - Establishing Trust and Developing Rapport
00:56:54 - Screening for Mental Health
01:03:34 - Addressing Underlying Issues
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