Training in Structured Diagnostic Assessment Using DSM-IV Criteria

Abstract

Objectives: Determining a patient’s psychiatric diagnosis is an important first step for the selection of empirically supported treatments and a critical component of evidence-based practice. Structured diagnostic assessment covers the range of psychiatric diagnoses and is usually more complete and accurate than unstructured assessment. Method: We conducted a national survey of training in empirically supported psychotherapy in which information on teaching of structured diagnostic assessment using Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 4th edition (DSM-IV) criteria was collected from a probability sample of accredited social work, psychiatry residency, and clinical psychology programs in the United States. Results: A minority of programs required both a didactic and clinical supervision in structured diagnostic assessment. Conclusions: Gaps in the training of clinicians have implications for the appropriate care of patients.