Clinical Assessment, Diagnosis, and Case Formulation

This advanced practice course develops skills in biopsychosocial-spiritual assessment, the use of standardized tools, and the application of diagnostic criteria from the DSM-5 and ICD-11 within a Zambian cultural framework. Students learn to formulate comprehensive cases, differentiating between clinical disorders and problems in living, which is critical for treatment planning and interdisciplinary collaboration in healthcare settings. Proficiency is required for Social Workers in psychiatric units, private practice, or forensic settings conducting court-ordered evaluations. 25schools supports this technical subject with structured assessment interview guides, templates for biopsychosocial reports, and practice exercises in differential diagnosis, providing students at Apex and other universities with the tools needed for rigorous exams and competent, ethical clinical decision-making.