NCMHCE Questions and Answers 5

Question 1

A counselor working with a grieving client who lost her spouse 18 months ago notices the client continues to avoid reminders of the deceased and has withdrawn from all social activities. Which diagnosis should the counselor consider?

Accepted Answer

Prolonged Grief Disorder

Answer

Prolonged Grief Disorder is characterized by intense grief lasting more than 12 months with functional impairment, avoidance, and difficulty accepting the loss.

Question 2

In an NCMHCE simulation, a client with schizophrenia is stable on antipsychotics but resistant to attending group therapy. The counselor's BEST approach is:

Accepted Answer

Explore the client's specific concerns about group therapy before problem-solving

Answer

Exploring the client's specific barriers to group therapy respects autonomy while identifying what might make group participation more acceptable.

Question 3

A counselor receives a subpoena for a client's therapy records in a custody dispute. What is the MOST appropriate initial action?

Accepted Answer

Notify the client and consult with a legal professional before releasing records

Answer

A subpoena requires counselors to notify the client and seek legal guidance, as a subpoena alone does not override privilege without a court order.

Question 4

Which of the following NCMHCE simulation responses reflects accurate application of the DSM-5 criterion for Substance Use Disorder severity?

Accepted Answer

Mild = 1-2 criteria, Moderate = 3-5 criteria, Severe = 6+ criteria

Answer

DSM-5 specifies Substance Use Disorder severity as mild (2-3), moderate (4-5), and severe (6+) based on count of 11 diagnostic criteria.

Question 5

A counselor is planning termination with a client who has met all treatment goals but is anxious about ending. What is the MOST therapeutically appropriate response?

Accepted Answer

Explore the client's anxiety about termination as part of the therapeutic work

Answer

Exploring termination anxiety therapeutically leverages the ending itself as an opportunity to practice coping with loss and transitions.

NCMHCE - National Clinical Mental Health Counseling Examination Practice Test

NCMHCE - National Clinical Mental Health Counseling Examination Practice Test

NCMHCE Questions and Answers 5