What is formulation, as used in clinical psychology practice, and how does it differ from diagnosis Free Essay Example, 1000 words

The approach is more effective since the mental development of an individual easily manifests in their behavior. Observing inconsistencies in the behaviors of a patient is easier and helps expedite the case formulation process (DeLamater & Myers, 2011). Rosenberg & Turner (1990) explain that during the consultative case formulation processes, the clinicians must understand that the patient may pose threat to them and must therefore exhibit caution while interacting with such characters. Additionally, the clinicians must understand the impact of others on self, personal prejudices and the importance of diversity (Engel, 1977). As discussed earlier, the patients exhibit a degree of difference depending on the nature of their psychological condition and the degree of infection. Using past experience may prove fundamental but thee clinician must desist from making similar decisions without analyzing the diversity presented by a different patient (Crisp & Turner, 2010). The training and experience should help practitioners develop consistent case formulation. The formulations may vary depending on the theory a clinician chooses in a particular case evaluation. This compels their use of particular theories that best befit the state of the patient. We will write a custom essay sample on What is formulation, as used in clinical psychology practice, and how does it differ from diagnosis or any topic specifically for you Only $17.96 $11.86/pageorder now Despite the difference in the theories, case formulation serves to unify patient’s information thereby eliminating any inconsistencies in the details used in the treatment of the patients (Grimm, Pianta & Konold, 2009). This way, case formulation will help improve the relationship between the patients and their doctors thereby facilitating the treatment processes. An effective case formulation should result in effective treatment since such identifies the psychological problems as exhibited in the patient’s behavioral patterns (Grisso & Steinberg, 2005). The two applicable approaches to case formulation include cognitive and cognitive-behavioral approaches both of which have particular relevance in the practice. Just as the name suggests, cognitive approach investigates the ability of a patient to remember occurrences. This makes the process extremely interactive as the doctor engages the patient in discussions with the view of determ ining both inconsistencies and contradictions. Flaherty (2008) explains that the doctor may begin with such simple questions as the name of the patient and the names of his or her family members. The process heightens thereafter as the doctor begins investigating and asking more serious questions that help test the mental alertness of the patents.