Legal responsibilities and applicable ethical standards when planning counseling for children and adolescents.

Review the four case studies provided in the Assignment Case Studies media and select one child and one adolescent case study to use as the basis for your work. Use the Week 5 Assignment Template [DOCX] Download Week 5 Assignment Template [DOCX]to guide and complete your work. For each case study, you will complete the following:

Determine an appropriate DSM-5 diagnoses.
Develop a minimum of appropriate long-term goals.
Develop a minimum of two short-term goals for each identified long-term goal.
Identify a minimum of three current or potential legal issues that may impact the client's treatment in counseling.
Identify a minimum of three current or potential ethical issues that may impact the client's treatment in counseling.

Competency 3: Assess for legal responsibilities and applicable ethical standards when planning counseling for children and adolescents.
Identify current or potential legal issues that may impact the client's treatment in counseling.
Identify current or potential ethical issues that may impact the client's treatment in counseling.
Competency 6: Develop diagnoses and treatment plans for child and adolescent mental and emotional disorders.
Determine correct DSM-5 diagnoses.
Develop appropriate long-term goals for a client.
Develop appropriate short-term goals for each identified long-term client goal.
Competency 7: Communicate in a manner that is scholarly, professional, and consistent with expectations for members of the counseling professions.

Full Answer Section

         
  • For Long-Term Goal 2:
    • Develop effective communication skills
    • Learn appropriate social behaviors

Legal Issues:

  1. Child Protection: Ensure the child's safety and well-being, especially if there are concerns about neglect or abuse.  
  2. Informed Consent: Obtain informed consent from the child's legal guardian for treatment.
  3. Confidentiality: Maintain confidentiality of the child's information, but be aware of exceptions, such as child abuse or neglect.

Ethical Issues:

  1. Dual Relationships: Avoid dual relationships that could compromise the therapeutic relationship.
  2. Boundary Violations: Maintain professional boundaries and avoid exploiting the therapeutic relationship.
  3. Cultural Competence: Consider the child's cultural background and tailor interventions accordingly.

Case Study 2: Adolescent Client

Hypothetical Case Study: A 16-year-old adolescent presents with symptoms of depression, anxiety, and self-harm. The adolescent has a history of trauma and difficulty coping with stress.

DSM-5 Diagnosis: Major Depressive Disorder, Generalized Anxiety Disorder, and Non-Suicidal Self-Injury

Long-Term Goals:

  1. Reduce depressive symptoms
  2. Manage anxiety symptoms
  3. Develop healthy coping mechanisms

Short-Term Goals:

  • For Long-Term Goal 1:
    • Increase motivation and energy levels
    • Improve sleep quality
  • For Long-Term Goal 2:
    • Reduce worry and rumination
    • Develop relaxation techniques
  • For Long-Term Goal 3:
    • Identify and express emotions healthily
    • Develop alternative coping strategies

Legal Issues:

  1. Confidentiality and Privacy: Maintain confidentiality of the adolescent's information, but be aware of exceptions, such as imminent danger to self or others.
  2. Informed Consent: Obtain informed consent from the adolescent and/or their legal guardian.
  3. Mandatory Reporting: Report any suspected child abuse or neglect to the appropriate authorities.

Ethical Issues:

  1. Dual Relationships: Avoid dual relationships that could compromise the therapeutic relationship.
  2. Boundary Violations: Maintain professional boundaries and avoid exploiting the therapeutic relationship.
  3. Cultural Competence: Consider the adolescent's cultural background and tailor interventions accordingly.

Remember to tailor these examples to the specific details of the case studies you've been assigned. Use the DSM-5 criteria to accurately diagnose the clients and develop appropriate treatment plans.

Sample Answer

       

Case Study 1: Child Client

Hypothetical Case Study: A 10-year-old child presents with symptoms of inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity. The child struggles in school, has difficulty maintaining friendships, and often engages in risky behaviors.

DSM-5 Diagnosis: Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)

Long-Term Goals:

  1. Improve academic performance
  2. Enhance social skills and peer relationships

Short-Term Goals:

  • For Long-Term Goal 1:
    • Increase attention span during academic tasks
    • Improve organizational skills