Counseling Treatment Planning and Case Conceptualization 2 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: In the 4 P's model of case conceptualization, which factor refers to influences that maintain a client's problem over time?
- Predisposing
- Precipitating
- Perpetuating (Correct answer)
- Protective
Correct answer: Perpetuating
Perpetuating factors are the conditions that keep the problem going once it has started.
Question 2: A client's recent job loss triggered a depressive episode. In the 4 P's model, the job loss is best classified as a:
- Precipitating factor (Correct answer)
- Predisposing factor
- Perpetuating factor
- Protective factor
Correct answer: Precipitating factor
Precipitating factors are the immediate triggers that set off the current problem.
Question 3: Which treatment goal is written in the most measurable form?
- Client will feel less anxious
- Client will understand their anxiety better
- Client will report anxiety at or below 4/10 on a SUDS scale for three consecutive weeks (Correct answer)
- Client will work on coping with anxiety
Correct answer: Client will report anxiety at or below 4/10 on a SUDS scale for three consecutive weeks
A measurable goal names a specific behavior, a criterion, and a timeframe.
Question 4: What is the main function of a long-term goal in a treatment plan?
- To state the specific homework for each session
- To describe the overall desired outcome of counseling (Correct answer)
- To record billing codes for insurance
- To list the interventions the counselor will use
Correct answer: To describe the overall desired outcome of counseling
Long-term goals state the broad outcome, while objectives break it into measurable steps.
Question 5: A counselor sets treatment goals with the client instead of for the client mainly in order to:
- Shorten the intake interview
- Satisfy managed care requirements only
- Increase client motivation and strengthen the working alliance (Correct answer)
- Avoid documenting the plan
Correct answer: Increase client motivation and strengthen the working alliance
Collaborative goal setting builds ownership and the therapeutic alliance, both of which predict better outcomes.
Question 6: Which of the following is a protective factor in a case conceptualization?
- Family history of substance use
- A supportive extended family network (Correct answer)
- Recent divorce
- Chronic insomnia
Correct answer: A supportive extended family network
Protective factors are strengths and resources that buffer against the problem.
Question 7: When a client presents with both suicidal ideation and relationship conflict, which should a treatment plan address first?
- Relationship conflict, because it is the stated reason for referral
- Both equally from the start
- Whichever the client prefers
- Suicidal ideation and safety (Correct answer)
Correct answer: Suicidal ideation and safety
Safety concerns take priority over all other treatment goals.