Services
Risk Assessment
At the Center for Attachment & Trauma, our Risk Assessment process is designed to ensure the safety and well-being of both the child and parent during services. This thorough evaluation reviews the child’s and parent’s history, behaviors, and potential risks to determine if services can be provided safely and effectively. In cases where significant risks are identified, decisions may include denying or suspending services, with the safety of the child and parent as the top priority.
Situations where Risk Assessments may be needed:
- When court-ordered services follow or anticipate a Termination of Parental Rights (TPR) petition.
- When a child has been a victim of physical or sexual abuse by the visiting party.
- When a child is reluctant to visit with a parent.
- When a child exhibits significant trauma-related symptoms during or surrounding visits.
Psychological Evaluations for Children & Adolescents
Our Psychological Evaluations for children and adolescents follow a trauma-informed, attachment-based approach, focusing on each child’s developmental needs. Conducted by a skilled psychologist, these evaluations consider the effects of trauma and attachment on development, uncovering the child’s specific needs. Insights from the evaluation are used to recommend appropriate services, ensuring that care aligns with the child’s unique developmental stage and experiences.
Bonding & Attachment Assessments
Bonding and Attachment Assessments evaluate the security a child experiences with their caregiver and the caregiver’s ability to meet the child’s emotional, social, and developmental needs. These assessments are frequently used in dependency cases to assist with decisions regarding:
- Best placement for the child
- Adoption Applicant Review Committee recommendations
- Therapeutic interventions
- Foster placement changes
- Reunification considerations
The assessment process typically involves 10-12 hours, including record review, collateral interviews, developmental history compilation, and dyadic observations. When assessing two families, the timeframe may extend to 18 hours.
Key Components:
- Record Review: Review of all available documentation, including healthcare and therapy reports.
- Collateral Interviews: Input from family members, case managers, therapists, and others involved in the child’s care.
- Developmental History: A comprehensive history provided by the caregivers, offering insights into the child’s growth, development, and behavior.
- Dyadic Observations: Observations of parent-child interactions in natural settings to assess bonding and attachment behaviors.
Biopsychosocial/Mental Health Assessments
The Biopsychosocial Evaluation at the Center for Attachment & Trauma explores the biological, psychological, and social factors affecting a child’s development and well-being. This trauma-informed, attachment-based assessment helps us gain a thorough understanding of a child’s life experiences and their impact on mental and physical health. The information gathered is used to create a personalized care plan that addresses all areas of the child’s life, promoting healing and resilience.
Intake Assessments
Our Intake Assessment process is the first step in creating a personalized care plan for each client. It includes a thorough review of the child’s records, such as the Comprehensive Behavioral Health Assessment (CBHA), Family Functioning Assessment (FFA), and therapy progress reports. Collaboration with case managers, Guardians ad Litem, caregivers, and biological parents provides a full picture of the child’s history and needs, ensuring a well-rounded approach to care.