DSM IV for Social Workers

Level: Advanced Practice – Lineworkers, Supervisors

Credits: 6

Intended Audience: Lineworkers and Supervisors who want a better understanding of DSM IV diagnoses as they relate to mental health issues with clients

Intended Objectives:

• Increase comfort level and understanding of the DSM IV five axis diagnostic model
• Understand the benefit of using the DSM IV
• Increase familiarity with common diagnoses seen in clients
• Increase knowledge of current therapeutic treatment planning
• Increase comfort level speaking with therapists about clients diagnosis

Topics Include:

• Reviewing the DSM IV
• Review of Major Childhood Disorders
• Understanding the five-axis diagnosis
• Review of Substance Disorders- dependency vs. abuse
• Review of Schizophrenia
• Therapeutic treatment planning, initial and ongoing

CalSWEC Competencies Addressed:

1.1 Student demonstrates respect, fairness, and cultural competence in assessing, working with, and making service decisions regarding clients of diverse backgrounds.

1.2 Student demonstrates self-awareness and the ability to address and overcome personal bias in assessing and working with clients of diverse backgrounds.

1.3 Student demonstrates the ability to conduct an ethnically and culturally competent assessment of a child and family and to develop an effective intervention plan.

1.4 Student recognizes personal knowledge limitations regarding specific groups and seeks consultation and expertise as needed to assess and work effectively with clients.

2.2 Student is able to critically evaluate the relevance of commonly utilized assessment criteria and intervention models in terms of their usefulness with diverse ethnic and cultural populations.

6.3 Student demonstrates the ability to recognize, assess, and devise case plans and referrals to address potential for violence, suicide, and complex psychological difficulties.