Therapeutic Assessment in the Wild- (Trying To) Put Theory Into Practice

Abstract

This round table discussion brings together a therapeutic assessment consultation group that formed during the early pandemic and has been running successfully for the last two years. The impetus for starting the group was to bring together early and mid career psychologists to support one another in our assessment practices. In the process, we have discovered and shared struggles, insights, and wisdom as each of us navigates the practice of Therapeutic Assessment. Our aim for this roundtable discussion is to share our collective reflections on topics likely relevant to all practicing “in the wild.” Together, we will explore four topics and provide examples of our attempts to navigate the following: (1) The joys of and growing pains of consultation and collaboration (2) Aspects of personal identity and whether and how to disclose that in practice (3) Balancing different identities/parts/life as we try to do this work in a sustainable way (4) Finding financial stability by managing the nuts and bolts: marketing, referrals, billing, developing more efficient report/feedback/ letter-writing strategies.

Speakers

Sarah Boilen | Sweetgrass Psychological Services

Ori Elis | Private practice

Caroline Lee |  Private practice

Anna Sapozhnikova | Private practice

Sarvenaz Sepehri | A Change Within Sight, Private practice

Katharine Thomas| Therapeutic Assessment Institute

Elizabeth Winston| Shorewood Psychology, Madison, WI, The University of Wisconsin-Madison

Goals & Objectives

1. Describe how to Enhance Collaborative Practices in Therapeutic Assessment Objective 1a: Discuss successful collaborations, highlighting key contributing factors. Objective 1b: Identify and address challenges in collaborative efforts.
2. Address the Intersection of Personal Identity and Professional Practice Objective 2a: Share experiences where personal identity impacted assessment practice. Objective 2b. Examine ethical and interpersonal considerations for identity disclosure.
3. Describe the Search for Sustainable Work-Life Balance in Assessment Practice Objective 3a: Promote acceptance and compassion around conflict among parts/family/life and work dynamic.
4. Describe how to optimize Administrative Aspects of Assessment Practice Objective 4a: Discuss effective administrative strategies, particularly assessment letter writing that increase efficiency.