W2 Diagnosis and Assessment Flashcards
What are the five steps in the therapeutic process?
- Intake assessment
- Case formulation and goal setting
- Intervention/treatment planning
- Implement intervention(s) and monitor
- Review and case closure
What is the purpose of the initial interview (intake assessment)?
To gather information about the client’s background, presenting problems, and history, forming a foundation for therapy.
What types of information are collected during the intake assessment?
Client identification, presenting problem, history, coping strategies, treatments, educational and employment history, health history, social history, family history, and risk assessment.
How should sensitive topics be approached during an intake interview?
Start with less threatening topics to build rapport before addressing sensitive issues.
What are Cormier et al.’s 11 categories for the intake interview?
- Purpose of assessment
- Range of concerns
- Prioritizing issues
- Identification of behaviors
- Antecedents and consequences
- Previous solutions tried
- Client resources and strengths
- Client perception of issues
- Intensity of issues
What does the Mental Status Examination (MSE) assess?
Emotional, intellectual, and neurological functioning, including appearance, behavior, mood, thought content, perception, cognition, and insight.
What is the difference between structured and semi-structured interviews?
Structured interviews follow a strict protocol, while semi-structured interviews allow some flexibility in questioning while adhering to guidelines.
What are self-report measures used for in clinical psychology?
To support diagnoses, assess symptom severity, intensity, and frequency, and monitor symptoms throughout treatment.
What is the role of collateral reports in assessment?
To gather additional information from significant others, family members, or other professionals involved in the client’s care.
What is the aim of diagnosis in clinical psychology?
To classify disorders by signs and symptoms, identify syndromes, and inform treatment.
What are some advantages and disadvantages of diagnosis?
Advantages: facilitates communication, helps clients understand their issues, informs treatment.
Disadvantages: may not fit all individuals, stigma, potential distress from labeling.
How does culture influence mental health assessment and diagnosis?
Culture affects risk factors, symptom expression, willingness to seek help, and the relevance of assessment tools.
What are the key considerations in psychometrics for assessment?
Reliability, validity, and normative samples.
What are the main diagnostic manuals used in clinical psychology?
DSM-5 (Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders) and ICD (International Classification of Diseases).
What is the difference between categorical and dimensional systems of diagnosis?
Categorical systems classify disorders into distinct categories, while dimensional systems assess symptoms on a spectrum.
