ABSTRACT

What are case conceptualizations and why is there so much interest in them today? Basically, a case conceptualization is a method for understanding and explaining a client’s concerns and for guiding the treatment process. It functions like a “bridge” to connect assessment and treatment with clinical outcomes. In this era of accountability, it is not surprising that effective clinical practice presumes the competency to construct and utilize case conceptualizations. In fact, many consider case conceptualization to be the most important competency in counseling and psychotherapy, and one of the most challenging to master. This chapter introduces and overviews the competency of case conceptualization.