2-1 Discussion: Approaches to Assessment
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Q: No doubt, assessment involves gathering a lot of client information in a short period of time. There are multiple approaches to gathering this information. What do you think of them? How do they compare?
You were introduced to three assessment structures in your reading: the biopsychosocial (BPS) assessment, ASAM's six dimensions, and the Addiction Severity Index (AsI). In this course you will be using the BPS assessment. Before you do, it will be helpful to compare the BPs with the other approaches. Take the following steps:
1. Create a discussion post containing your thoughts on the following question: What benefits and limitations do you see in using the biopsychosocial approach for gathering client data compared to the other methods you read about? 2. After you have posted (you will not see peer comments unti you have posted), review the posts of all others and respond to at least two, considering the following: : What new information or perspective does the writer provide for you? Let them know. : Are there misconceptions you see in others' responses? Identify them and diplomatically explain why you disagree. Remember that we are all in learning mode here and we need each other to gain an accurate understanding of the issues.
3. Return to the discussion and read the feedback you received from others.
Refer to the Discussion Rubric PDF for directions on completing this discussion.
A: Hey class,
I hope everyone is doing well and having an amazing week!
Q: What benefits and limitations do you see in using the biopsychosocial approach for gathering client data compared to the other methods you read about?
A: There are many benefits that I can see in using the biopsychosocial approach for gathering client data. One of the major benefits to using this approach are the number of questions asked and the large amount of information that is able to be gathered. The client is usually in with the assessor for a substantial length of time, this allows for the client and the professional to build a trusting relationship (Herdman, 2021) Another major benefit is the array of information pertaining to all different areas of the client's life is gathered. Areas such as family history, mental health history, and social history are all areas that information is gathered from. This particular assessment even
focuses on the client's strengths and weaknesses which is actually a really great way to get the client involved in their own treatment plan (Herdman, 2021). The limitation involved with this assessment is the length of the assessment. Because it takes a substantial amount of time you could lose a client's attention and interest.
Wanda
Resource
Herdman, J.W. (2021). Global Criteria: The 12 Core Functions of the Substance Abuse Counselor (8th Ed.). Parallels: Pathways to Change