Learn about the PHQ-9 and GAD-7 assessments and why they matter
ReachLink uses clinical assessments to track your progress and ensure your therapy is effective. These tools provide objective insights into your mental health and help guide your provider’s approach.
The Main Assessments
PHQ-9 (Patient Health Questionnaire)
- What it measures: Symptoms of depression
- Number of questions: 9
- Purpose: Tracks changes in mood and depression over time
GAD-7 (Generalized Anxiety Disorder Scale)
- What it measures: Symptoms of anxiety
- Number of questions: 7
- Purpose: Monitors anxiety levels between sessions
When You’ll Complete Assessments
Initial Baseline
- Completed after onboarding
- Includes both PHQ-9 and GAD-7
- Establishes your starting point for care
- Helps your provider understand your needs
After Each Session
- Following every therapy appointment
- You will receive an SMS request to complete both assessments
- Tracks progress over time and guides treatment adjustments
Special Assessments
Provider Review Assessment
- Completed after your first session only
- Rate your provider on a 1–10 scale
- Indicate if you’d like to switch providers
- Scores of 6 or below automatically alert the care team
- Provides confidential feedback to improve provider matches
Technical Feedback Assessment
- Completed after sessions
- Reports video or audio issues
- Helps ReachLink improve platform performance
Why Assessments Matter
For You
- See objective progress over time
- Identify patterns in symptoms
- Guide treatment discussions with your provider
- Celebrate improvements
For Your Provider
- Monitor treatment effectiveness
- Adjust therapeutic approaches as needed
- Track medication impacts (if applicable)
- Ensure you are receiving optimal care
Completing Assessments
How to Access
- Click the link in your SMS notification
- Log into your ReachLink account or app
- Complete the assessment through the mobile app
Time Required
- PHQ-9: Approximately 2–3 minutes
- GAD-7: Approximately 2 minutes
- Best completed soon after your session
Important Notes
Privacy
- Results are shared only with your provider
- Used to improve your care
- Part of your confidential medical record
Consistency
- Complete assessments after every session when possible
- Honest answers provide the most accurate results
- There are no “right” or “wrong” answers
Tracking Your Progress
- Your provider will review your scores and trends
- Discuss results during sessions
- Adjust treatment as needed
- Help you understand your progress
Need Help?
For questions or assistance with assessments:
- In the app: Click Get Help in the sidebar
- Email: support@reachlink.com
Remember: Completing assessments regularly helps you and your provider work together effectively, ensuring your therapy is as beneficial as possible.