Person-centered diagnosis and treatment in mental health. A Model for empowering clients

Abstract

Clients with mental health conditions are often diagnosed and treated using a strictly medical model of diagnosis, with little input from the client themselves. This reference manual takes a person-centered, holistic approach to diagnosis and treatment, seeing the client as the unrecognized expert on their condition and encouraging their collaboration. This qualitative approach aims to find meaning in the experiences of the client, exploring the reasons behind their feelings and behaviour and taking the whole person into account. Designed to complement DSM assessments, the manual covers several different conditions including ADHD, depression, bulimia, and OCD, as well as mental health 'patterns' such as abuse, bullying, violence and loss. In each case, the client is involved in the diagnosis and treatment plan. The book features extended case studies, sample questions and treatment plans throughout. This will be an essential reference book for all those involved in mental health diagnosis and treatment, including psychologists, psychiatrists, mental health counselors, clinical social workers, school counselors and therapists.