Psychoeducation and Case-formulation

Psychoeducation and case-formulation can be powerful clinical tools to engage a client in treatment by offering a destigmatizing and validating translation of current symptoms and problems into foci for treatment. This chapter will illustrate this translational process by offering a jargon-free reformulation of core features of the ICD-11 model for personality disorders. Using a case illustration, it will offer clinicians an experience-near translation of the general diagnostic requirements; the core impairments in self and interpersonal functioning; the emotional, cognitive, and behavioral manifestations of these impairments; and the trait domains. In addition, the chapter will illustrate how this diagnostic information can be used to identify treatment goals, and to reach consensus with a client on the goals and tasks of treatment, which we consider one of the main goals of an assessment.