DSM Practice Applications

This introductory course focuses on clarifying the strengths and limitations of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders IV TR.  The historical development and philosophies will be elucidated to help put the mechanisms of diagnosis and the direction of the field into perspective. Discussion of the content, role and interaction of the five axes in developing diagnoses is undertaken. Understanding, recognizing, categorizing and weighing signs and symptoms for differential diagnosis with subsequent intervention development is central to this course. Specific diagnoses will be explored with emphasis on interaction with co-occurring disorders. Small group exercises and clinical case descriptions are incorporated. Exploration of common language concepts including normal, average and typical in understanding pathology and deviation is highlighted. Understanding the GAF and using the GAF tree is shared and practiced.

Level: General Audience                                 Hours: 12 Hours