Select a client that you observed or
counseled this week. Then, address the following in your Practicum
Journal:
– Describe the client (without violating HIPAA regulations) and
identify any pertinent history or medical information, including
prescribed medications.
– Using the DSM-5, explain and justify your diagnosis for this client.
– Explain whether cognitive behavioral therapy would be effective
with this client. Include expected outcomes based on this therapeutic
approach. Support your approach with evidence-based literature.
– Explain any legal and/or ethical implications related to
counseling this client.
How to Solve
AMD Journal Entry Nursing Assignment Help
Introduction:
In this Practicum Journal entry, I will discuss a client that I observed or counseled this week. I will provide a description of the client, explain and justify the diagnosis using the DSM-5, evaluate the effectiveness of cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) for this client, and address any legal and ethical implications related to counseling this individual.
Answer:
Client Description:
The client I observed/counseled this week is a 35-year-old woman named Sarah. She has a history of chronic anxiety and depression. Sarah revealed that she has been experiencing intense feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and worthlessness for the past two months. She has difficulty sleeping, lacks energy, and possesses negative thoughts about herself and her future. Sarah has been using prescribed medication, specifically a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI), to manage her symptoms. She is currently taking 20mg of fluoxetine daily.
DSM-5 Diagnosis:
Based on the DSM-5 criteria, Sarah’s symptoms align with Major Depressive Disorder (MDD). She exhibits five of the nine criteria for a major depressive episode, including a depressed mood, diminished interest or pleasure in activities, significant weight loss, insomnia, psychomotor agitation, fatigue, feelings of worthlessness and excessive guilt, and recurrent thoughts of death or suicide. These symptoms have persisted for more than two weeks and they cause significant distress and impairment in her daily functioning.
Effectiveness of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT):
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is an evidence-based approach commonly used to treat depression and anxiety disorders. Given Sarah’s diagnosed MDD, CBT would likely be an effective therapeutic approach. CBT aims to identify and modify negative thought patterns and behaviors, promoting healthy coping strategies and improving overall well-being.
Expected Outcomes based on CBT:
Through CBT, Sarah can expect several positive outcomes. First, she may gain a greater awareness of her negative thoughts and their impact on her mood. CBT helps individuals to challenge and replace these negative thoughts with more realistic and positive ones. Secondly, Sarah can learn effective coping skills to manage her depression symptoms such as sleep disturbances, feelings of worthlessness, and lack of energy. CBT also focuses on behavioral activation, encouraging individuals to engage in activities they once found pleasurable and meaningful, thus improving their overall mood and sense of well-being.
Legal and Ethical Implications:
When counseling clients, it is crucial to adhere to legal and ethical guidelines. In Sarah’s case, there may be legal implications related to her suicidal ideation. As a counselor, I have a duty to ensure the safety and well-being of my client. Therefore, I would need to assess the level of risk and take appropriate action, such as collaborating with emergency services or informing her support system, if necessary. Additionally, I must maintain client confidentiality as required by HIPAA regulations, only disclosing information when mandated by law or when there is a duty to protect the client or others from harm.
Overall, Sarah’s diagnosed MDD and symptoms indicate the potential effectiveness of CBT in her treatment. By exploring and addressing her negative thought patterns and utilizing coping strategies, she can work towards achieving relief and an improved quality of life. It is vital to navigate any legal and ethical implications with sensitivity and prioritize the well-being and safety of the client throughout the counseling process.
