Volume_4_Issue_3_Digest

38 TPC D igest Full article and references: Kress, V. E., Barrio Minton, C. A., Adamson, N. A., Paylo, M. J., & Pope, V. (2014). The removal of the multiaxial system in the DSM-5 : Implications and practice suggestions for counselors. The Professional Counselor , 4 , 191–201. doi:10.15241/vek.4.3.191 acknowledging contextual factors, which many counselors argue is critically important in fully understanding clients’ situations. Without the multiaxial diagnostic system, counselors’ thoroughness relative to context may suffer. The authors of this article encourage counselors to continue to emphasize contextual factors and complete thorough assessments despite the removal of the multiaxial system. Counselors should be aware that the DSM diagnostic process is only one part of a comprehensive assessment, and any thorough assessment must consider all relevant factors. The DSM-5 also provides additional assessment measures, such as the WHODAS 2.0 to assess overall functioning and the CFI to assess for cultural and contextual factors. While the removal of the multiaxial system may present paradigm shifts in case conceptualization, it provides an opportunity for counselors to reaffirm a holistic and integrated view of clients and to provide leadership to the other mental health professions and professionals on how to incorporate this perspective into diagnostic practices. The Professional Counselor DIGEST Volume 4, Issue 3 http://tpcjournal.nbcc.org © 2014 NBCC, Inc. and Affiliates Nonaxial System Axis I Axis II Axis III Axis IV Axis V