Assessment of Client Core Issues

Core client issues are often difficult to determine and may cause problematic life patterns that are resistant to change. Halstead proposes that the currently accepted diagnostic system, which focus on the client s presenting symptoms alone, is limited because it does not deal directly with the core issues that perpetuate the client s problematic life patterns. The model presented in this book helps uncover the origin of these core concerns, provides a means to address them by deconstructing the client s living story, and challenges counselors to move beyond the diagnostic limitations of the DSM-IV-TR to better conceptualize and treat clients. This framework for revealing and categorizing core issues will assist counselors in providing more targeted treatment plans to help clients establish lasting, meaningful change. A detailed case study illustrating the model in action is provided.