What is a Mental Health Evaluation?
A mental health evaluation is a structured clinical assessment designed to provide insight into an individual’s emotional well-being, behavioral patterns, and overall psychological functioning. These evaluations are often requested to clarify a diagnosis, guide treatment planning, or provide documentation for work, school, personal needs, and sometimes court cases. At Lakeside Counseling, our licensed therapists conduct these evaluations using evidence-based tools and thorough clinical interviews to help you understand what’s going on beneath the surface.
Who Might Benefit from a Mental Health Evaluation
You may want to consider a mental health evaluation if you are:
- Encountering a need for diagnostic elaboration or evidence
- Seeking documentation for accommodations (e.g., for school, employment, housing)
- Wanting to add supplemental data to a court case or legal situation
- Desiring a deeper, more structured understanding of your mental and emotional health
Evaluations can be a valuable first step toward meaningful growth, self-awareness, and tailored therapeutic support.
What’s Included in Our Mental Health Evaluation?
Each evaluation includes:
- A comprehensive clinical interview exploring your emotional, behavioral, relational, and life history
- Standardized screening tools (such as the PHQ-9, GAD-7, or BDI)
- A written summary of findings, diagnostic impressions (if applicable), and recommendations for treatment or next steps
- Optional follow-up session to discuss the results and explore your care options
Please note: These evaluations are not intended for forensic, custody, or court-mandated purposes. We do not conduct forensic psychological evaluations or assessments that require administration of tools such as the MMPI, which must be administered by a licensed psychologist. Mental Health Evaluations may be used as supplemental data to be included in court-cases related to the above under acknowledgment they make no legal recommendations or determinations of risk.
What To Expect
Evaluations typically take place during a 90–120 minute session, either in-person at our Seabrook office or via secure telehealth for Texas residents. Your therapist will take time to get to know you, ask meaningful questions, and help clarify what’s going on. Within approximately one week, you’ll receive a written summary of findings and recommendations. This process is collaborative and supportive—our goal is to empower and understand, not label.
Is This the Right Option for You?
If you’re unsure whether you need a mental health evaluation, we’re happy to help guide you. Reach out to us to schedule a consultation or ask questions. Our team can help you determine if an evaluation fits your needs—or if another service might be more appropriate.
Start with Confidence
Whether you’re seeking clarity for yourself, guidance for a loved one, or documentation for outside services, a mental health evaluation can be an empowering step forward.
Lakeside Counseling provides in person evaluations for adults and teens in Seabrook, TX and across Texas via virtual sessions. Let us support you on your path to deeper understanding and healing.
If you have questions or comments regarding mental health evaluations through Lakeside Counseling, please contact us.
