Best Practices for Utilizing and Discussing Depression Screeners

Session Dates

Tuesday September 23, 2025 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM - Webinar

Closed

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Home visitors are essential in recognizing and supporting parental mental health. This session will prepare staff to confidently use depression screening tools during visits. Participants will explore common screeners like the EPDS, PHQ-9, and Beck Depression Inventory, learn respectful ways to introduce and administer them, and practice interpreting results. The session will also cover how to discuss findings with families compassionately and guide next steps, including referrals. Real-world examples and conversation tips will help staff feel more prepared for sensitive discussions.

Objectives

Participants will:

1. Identify at least two commonly used depression screening tools appropriate for use in home visiting settings.
2. Describe best practices for introducing and administering depression screeners in a supportive and respectful manner.
3. Interpret sample screener results to determine when follow-up or referral may be needed.
4. Demonstrate effective ways to discuss screener results with parents using nonjudgmental and empathetic language.

Target Audience

Home Visitors and Early intervention providers Reasonable efforts will be made to accommodate individuals who have special needs as addressed by the Americans with Disabilities Act and who need assistance at this event. Contact: Molly Martz, at 717-901-2151, or mmartz@pattan.net.