Comprehensive Mental Health Assessment

Overview

If you’re feeling emotionally overwhelmed, stuck, or uncertain about what’s going on for you, a comprehensive mental health assessment can provide clarity and direction.

This adult assessment is designed to offer a thoughtful, trauma-informed understanding of your mental health. It combines an in-depth clinical interview with validated screening tools where appropriate, supporting clear formulation and practical recommendations tailored to you. Booking an assessment is also usually the first step before starting ongoing therapy.

Who this assessment is for

A comprehensive mental health assessment may be helpful if you are an adult experiencing:

• Persistent low mood, anxiety, or emotional distress

• Panic attacks, chronic stress, burnout, or overwhelm

• Trauma-related symptoms or the impact of past experiences

• Difficulties with sleep, motivation, concentration, or emotional regulation

• Relationship or work-related emotional difficulties

• Uncertainty about what type of therapeutic support would be most helpful

• A need for professional clarity before beginning therapy or an intensive
  
  

What the assessment includes

Each assessment is tailored to the individual, but typically includes:

• Exploration of current emotional and psychological difficulties

• Mood, anxiety, and stress-related symptoms

• Trauma-informed exploration of relevant life experiences (at your pace)

• Risk and safety screening, including protective factors

• Sleep, appetite, energy, and concentration

• Physical health, medication, and lifestyle factors

• Substance use where clinically relevant

• Personal history, strengths, coping strategies, and support systems

Where relevant, neurodiversity-informed screening discussions may be included, with signposting to specialist diagnostic pathways if indicated.

What you will receive

Following the assessment, you will receive:

• Clear verbal feedback and shared understanding of your difficulties

• A psychological formulation outlining key maintaining factors

• Personalised recommendations for next steps

• Guidance on appropriate therapeutic approaches, including EMDR or trauma-focused work where indicated

• A written summary or report if agreed (for personal use, GP liaison, or workplace support)
  

How the process works

1. Initial discussion
   We clarify what you’re looking for and whether a comprehensive assessment is the right fit.

2. Assessment session(s)
   Typically 1–2 sessions, depending on complexity and presentation.

3. Feedback and planning
   You leave with clarity, professional insight, and a plan moving forward.
   
   

Important information

• This is an adult service (18+)

• This assessment is not an emergency or crisis service

• If you are at immediate risk, please contact 999, attend A&E, or call NHS 111 for urgent mental health support

• A comprehensive mental health assessment is not a specialist diagnostic assessment (e.g., formal ADHD or autism diagnosis), though screening and signposting may be included where appropriate