The MSE is used to determine the level of functioning and is typically completed in the initial session with a client. Many counselors use this in practice settings to note a client’s general appearance, mood or affect, speech, thoughts, cognition, and judgment. This test can provide a report of the client’s overall mental status.
Review the MSE. Consider and discuss the importance of using this in conjunction with the SBQ-R or other suicide ideation assessment instrument. How might the MSE inform utilizing suicide ideation assessments with a client?