This presentation will trace the evolution of diagnostic reasoning in psychiatry from the pre‑DSM‑III era to the present and examine the implications of current efforts to shift from categorical diagnoses toward more dimensional and transdiagnostic approaches. It will review contemporary conceptual models for assessing anxiety, depression, and trauma to illustrate how different diagnostic frameworks influence prevalence estimates, genetic findings, clinical trial outcomes, and, importantly, the ways we communicate with the public about mental health. Finally, the presentation will introduce a method of case formulation designed to address challenges in current assessment and treatment practices, including the all‑too‑common practice of accumulating comorbid diagnoses leading to ‘polytreatment’ approaches.
Target Audience
This activity is intended for physicians, nurses, psychologists, social workers, counselors and other mental health professionals.
Learning Objectives
At the conclusion of this activity, attendees will be able to:
- Describe the history of categorical diagnoses.
- Discuss the value of course of illness in categorical reasoning.
- Define post traumatic growth as part of trauma informed care.