Using Client Assessments to Plan and Monitor Treatment

  • Entire intervention: 43 pages (Introduction, Table of Contents, Parts 1-4, and Resources and References)
COV-Using CEST

About the intervention

Using Client Assessments to Plan and Monitor Treatment is a guide for using the TCU Client Evaluations of Self and Treatment (TCU CEST) in individual or group counseling settings. This intervention is frequently called by a short title, Using CEST Guide.

Sections of this intervention include:

  • Introduction: Ingredients of Effective Treatment — The TCU treatment process framework is summarized, showing how client assessments and interventions “fit together” in adaptive treatment planning.
  • Part 1: TCU Client Assessment Scales — TCU assessments – especially the TCU CEST – are described, including how scales are defined, scored, and interpreted.
  • Part 2: Combining Scores for Program Comparisons — Averages of client scores are discussed as a basis for comparing clients between programs and evaluating changes over time.
  • Part 3: Assessment Alternatives and Methods — Different instruments and formats for conducting client assessments are reviewed, noting that choices depend on program technology and objectives.
  • Part 4: Clinical Applications of CEST Scores — Case study examples illustrate how CEST scores can be used for treatment planning and monitoring or as a group counseling activity.
  • Resources and References — Handouts and templates for applying client assessments discussed in Part 4 are included, along with a list of publication citations.

Recommended Citation: Simpson, D. D., & Bartholomew, N. G. (2008). Using client assessments to plan and monitor treatment. Fort Worth: Texas Christian University, Institute of Behavioral Research. Available for downloading: IBR Web site: www.ibr.tcu.edu

Selected References

Garner, B. R., Knight, K., Flynn, P. M., Morey, J. T., & Simpson, D. D. (2007). Measuring offender attributes and engagement in treatment using the Client Evaluation of Self and Treatment. Criminal Justice and Behavior, 34(9), 1113-1130.  [Abstract]

Greener, J. M., Joe, G. W., Simpson, D. D., Rowan-Szal, G. A., & Lehman, W. E. K. (2007). Influence of organizational functioning on client engagement in treatment. Journal of Substance Abuse Treatment, 33(2), 139-147.  PMCID: PMC1994649  [Abstract]

Joe, G. W., Broome, K. M., Rowan-Szal, G. A., & Simpson, D. D. (2002). Measuring patient attributes and engagement in treatment. Journal of Substance Abuse Treatment, 22(4), 183-196.  [Abstract]