Hope For Parents With Struggling Teens

The Diagnosis Dilemma

Brandon Joffe, LCSW

Brandon tackles the changing landscape of mental health care, emphasizing the crucial role that accurate diagnosis plays in effective treatment. He addresses the shift in how new therapists are trained, noting that many now enter the field without a solid foundation in theory or diagnostic skills. Brandon stresses the importance of establishing a baseline to distinguish between lifestyle factors and actual mental health disorders, explaining how misdiagnosis can hinder true healing. He examines the growing issues of over-diagnosis and the rise of self-diagnosis through online sources. He investigates the powerful influence insurance companies have on care. Brandon shares his insights on the importance of careful treatment planning, finding the right diagnosis, and returning to foundational, thoughtful care that prioritizes the client’s long-term well-being.