Values-Based Assessment in Mental Health

This chapter describes philosophical and empirical work underpinning recent developments in values-based mental health assessment culminating in the 3 Keys to a Shared Approach, a UK-based project co-produced between service users and providers. Three aspects of values-based mental health assessment are described: person-centered, multidisciplinary, or strengths-based assessment. The central role of values in person-centered assessment is shown through the story of a real (biographically disguised) person and the interpretation of his story drawing on diagnostic manuals such as the DSM. Philosophical value theory suggests that values in psychiatric diagnosis reflect the diversity of our values as unique individuals. This diversity is addressed by values-based practice. The contribution of multidisciplinary teamwork to values-based assessment is then outlined as derived from the Models Project. Finally, the 3 Keys Project is described, concluding by pointing to the wider significance of the Project for mental health practice as a whole.