It is crucial to diagnose clients accurately in order to develop an appropriate treatment plan and address their concerns. To do this, a clinician must assess the client’s presenting symptoms and determine if they are indicative of any underlying mental health conditions. If a patient is showing signs of anxiety or depression, then the clinician will diagnose them as having an anxiety disorder or depressive disorder.
Motivational interviewing is a therapy that helps clients explore the ambivalence they feel about changing by helping to identify both benefits and disadvantages of taking action. This technique is highly effective at promoting positive behavior change, and this applies to clients with addictions or issues related to substance abuse. In addition to providing accurate diagnoses for clients receiving psychotherapy, clinicians can also use MI techniques as part of the treatment process in order to help facilitate positive change in their patients’ lives.