Using the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Health Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5), explain and justify your diagnosis for each client.

Assignment: practicum – week 2 journal entry (due in week 4)

When diagnosing clients using the DSM-5, it is important to evaluate each individual based on their unique set of symptoms. For instance – Client A exhibits difficulty managing emotions, chronic feelings of guilt and depression, as well as intrusive thoughts and flashbacks from a traumatic event. Based on this information – a diagnosis of Major Depressive Disorder could be appropriate due to the presence of several depressive symptoms.

Alternatively – Client B has been exhibiting signs of insomnia, poor concentration, loss of appetite and feelings of hopelessness for an extended period. As such – these criteria meet the diagnostic criteria for Persistent Depressive Disorder (Dysthymia). Finally – Client C displays difficulty forming relationships with others as well as intense bouts of paranoia regarding their safety. This can indicate that they may be suffering from Paranoid Personality Disorder; which is characterized by persistent distrustful behavior towards other people.

Ultimately – by utilizing evidence-based methods such as DSM-5 when assessing patients – clinicians can ensure they are diagnosing accurately while also providing suitable treatment plans tailored to each individual’s needs.