Applying Differential Diagnosis

Psychopathology and Diagnosis for Social Work Practice

Applying Differential Diagnosis

Post by Day 3 a 300- to 500-word response in which you address the following:

•             Provide a full DSM-5 diagnosis for the client. Remember, a full diagnosis should include the name of the disorder, ICD-10-CM code, specifiers, severity, and the Z codes (other conditions that may be a focus of clinical attention). Keep in mind a diagnosis covers the most recent 12 months.

•             Explain the diagnosis by matching the symptoms identified in the case to the specific criteria for the diagnosis.

•             Identify which four diagnoses you initially considered in the case, using the DSM-5 diagnostic criteria to explain why you selected these four items. In one or two sentences each, explain why three of these diagnoses were excluded.

•             Explain any obvious eliminations that could be made from within the neurodevelopmental spectrum.

•             Describe in detail how the client’s symptoms match up with the specific diagnostic criteria for the primary disorder that you finally selected for them. Note two other relevant DSM-5 criteria for that illness from the sections on “diagnostic features” and “development and course” that fit their case.

•             Compare the diagnosis you provided and the process in which you reached the diagnosis with those of your colleague.

•             Explain how the Z codes (other conditions that may be a focus of clinical attention) that your colleague identified may influence the client’s upcoming treatment.