MAC Co-Occurring Disorders 4

Question 1

The primary reason sequential treatment models (treating one disorder before the other) have fallen out of favor for co-occurring disorders is:

Accepted Answer

They fail to address the interaction between disorders and result in poorer outcomes

Answer

Sequential models are less effective because each disorder influences the other; integrated treatment addresses both simultaneously and produces superior outcomes.

Question 2

A client with major depressive disorder and cannabis use disorder reports that stopping cannabis made their depression worse. Clinically, this most likely reflects:

Accepted Answer

Cannabis withdrawal-related dysphoria, which often resolves within weeks

Answer

Cannabis withdrawal frequently includes dysphoria and irritability that can mimic or worsen depressive symptoms but typically resolves within 1–4 weeks of abstinence.

Question 3

Which of the following is a core competency identified by SAMHSA/CSAT for counselors working with co-occurring disorders?

Accepted Answer

Providing integrated screening, assessment, and treatment planning for both disorders

Answer

SAMHSA/CSAT's TAP 21-A outlines that counselors must be competent in integrated screening, assessment, and treatment planning for both substance use and mental health disorders.

Question 4

When a client with borderline personality disorder (BPD) and alcohol use disorder is in crisis, the counselor should first:

Accepted Answer

Validate the client's emotional experience and assess for safety

Answer

Dialectical validation and safety assessment are the immediate priorities for clients with BPD in crisis, consistent with DBT-informed approaches.

Question 5

Which factor most increases the risk of suicide in clients with co-occurring disorders compared to those with a single diagnosis?

Accepted Answer

Additive neurobiological and psychosocial risk factors from both disorders

Answer

Co-occurring disorders compound suicide risk because each condition independently increases risk, and their interaction creates additional neurobiological and psychosocial vulnerabilities.

Master Addiction Counselor Exam Practice Test

Master Addiction Counselor Exam Practice Test

MAC Co-Occurring Disorders 4