Practice Test Geeks(LMHC) Licensed Mental Health Counselor Certification Practice Test
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Psychopathology and Diagnosis Flashcards

6 cards from real LMHC practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.

Read the first 6 Psychopathology and Diagnosis flashcards as text

  1. According to the DSM-5, which criterion differentiates Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) from Persistent Depressive Disorder (Dysthymia)?

    Answer: MDD requires at least 5 symptoms for 2+ weeks; Persistent Depressive Disorder requires at least 2 symptoms for 2+ years

    MDD requires at least 5 depressive symptoms for at least 2 weeks. Persistent Depressive Disorder requires depressed mood for at least 2 years with at least 2 additional symptoms.

  2. A client presents with episodes of elevated mood, decreased need for sleep, grandiosity, and increased goal-directed activity lasting 4 days, without significant functional impairment. The MOST appropriate DSM-5 diagnosis to consider is:

    Answer: Bipolar II Disorder

    Bipolar II Disorder requires at least one hypomanic episode (4+ days, not causing marked impairment) and at least one major depressive episode.

  3. Which of the following is NOT a DSM-5 diagnostic criterion for Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD)?

    Answer: Presence of panic attacks with somatic symptoms

    Panic attacks are characteristic of Panic Disorder, not GAD. GAD is characterized by pervasive, uncontrollable worry with somatic symptoms like fatigue and muscle tension.

  4. The 'negative symptoms' of schizophrenia include all of the following EXCEPT:

    Answer: Auditory hallucinations

    Auditory hallucinations are a 'positive' symptom of schizophrenia — an addition to normal experience. Negative symptoms reflect diminutions in normal functioning.

  5. A client reports a persistent, irrational fear of spiders that causes them to avoid outdoor activities. They recognize the fear is excessive. The MOST appropriate DSM-5 diagnosis is:

    Answer: Specific Phobia, animal type

    Specific Phobia involves marked fear or anxiety about a specific object or situation — in this case, spiders (animal type) — leading to avoidance and distress.

  6. Which of the following best describes the 'diathesis-stress model' as it applies to mental health disorders?

    Answer: Disorders result from the interaction between a predisposition (vulnerability) and environmental stressors

    The diathesis-stress model proposes that mental disorders develop from the interaction of a biological or psychological predisposition (diathesis) and environmental stressors.