Quote:
Originally Posted by googley
This may be true where you work, but everywhere that I have had work with clinicians the therapist diagnosis the client.
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Yes, this is the way it is in my state too (I live in the U.S.). The master's level therapist is trained in assessment and diagnosis and is usually the first to see a client at an intake appointment and so is the first to put a diagnosis in the chart. Later if the client sees a pdoc or NP for assessment and possible meds, that practitioner also makes a diagnosis. It may or may not agree with the therapist. As providers get to know the client better, the diagnosis may change. But in order for reimbursement, there has to be a diagnosis in the chart early. Where I have worked, one would rarely diagnose a personality disorder so soon. There would be a more symptoms-based diagnosis given, such as MDD, Anxiety disorder NOS, PTSD, etc. At most, "Axis II traits" might be mentioned in the write-up, in addition to the other diagnosis.
I am surprised this therapist would mention a personality disorder so soon, but since she did, I think she should explain.