Assessment Perception: Delivery Matters

Authors

Nicole Marie Arcuri Sanders, Coastal Carolina UniversityFollow
Chelsey Simmons, Coastal Carolina UniversityFollow

Author ORCID Identifier

0000-0002-0643-1106

Author Biography

Dr. Nicole Arcuri Sanders, PhD, ACS, LPC-S, LCMHC-S, BC-TMH, NCC, SAC, is an Associate Professor of Counseling and Counselor Education Program Coordinator for both Clinical Mental Health and School Counseling concentrations. A licensed clinician, approved clinical supervisor, board-certified telemental health provider, and nationally certified counselor, she has served the counseling profession in numerous leadership roles, including field experience coordinator and core faculty member. Dr. Arcuri Sanders is actively engaged in research, publication, advocacy, and program development focused on best practices in counselor education and supervision. Deeply committed to evolving with the changing needs of the profession, she continuously advances ethical, accreditation, and pedagogical standards to prepare counselors-in-training for competent, client-centered, and socially responsive practice.

Dr. Chelsey Simmons, PhD, LPES-S, is currently an Assistant Professor of Counseling and Psychology. She has conducted research, presented, and advocated for topics on individuals with disabilities and student mental health. Dr. Simmons has developed curriculum and programming for counselor education programs and certificates in trauma-informed care and resilience. Dr. Simmons uses her experience as a School Psychologist to support students in being prepared to meet the mental health demands of both adults and school-aged children.

Document Type

Counselor Education Teaching Idea

Keywords

assessment feedback, counseling ethics, BRIEF Feedback Integration Framework, counselor education, perception

Subject Area

Addictions Counseling, Clinical Supervision, Counseling, Counselor Education, Higher Education Counseling, Mental Health Counseling, Rehabilitation Counseling, School Counseling

Abstract

Perception shapes how individuals experience the world and guides their actions toward personal goals. In counseling, clients’ accurate understanding of assessment results is essential for informed decision-making and effective treatment engagement. Mental health clinicians have an ethical responsibility to communicate findings in ways that safeguard client welfare and empower both clients and stakeholders to collaborate in care. This conceptual manuscript introduces the BRIEF (Brief, Relevant, Interpretive, Empathetic, and Factual) Feedback Integration Framework, a structured model for delivering assessment feedback ethically and accessibly. Integrating cognitive, developmental, and cultural considerations. BRIEF provides counselors, supervisors, and educators with a practical strategy for improving assessment interpretation, strengthening collaboration, and enhancing counselor preparation for client-centered, culturally responsive practice.

Public Significance Statement

This article introduces the BRIEF Feedback Integration Framework, a practical framework that helps mental health professionals communicate assessment results clearly and compassionately. By improving how clients and their support systems understand psychological findings, the model promotes accurate perception, informed decision-making, and collaborative treatment planning that enhances well-being.

Recommended Citation

Arcuri Sanders, N. M. & Simmons, C. (2026). Assessment perception: Delivery matters. Journal of Counselor Preparation and Supervision, 20(1), 1-20.