The DSM-5 Diagnostic Codes

3. The DSM codes are noted as medical or billing codes from ICD-9-CM. The BCACC declares the RCC’s scope of practice is to “assess, evaluate, diagnose and treat behavioural, cognitive, social, mental or emotional issues, problems or disorders” (Board of Directors, 2003). This quote suggests that the RCC is qualified to read and understand the DSM-5 diagnostic codes. According to the letter from the clothing company Ms. Smith was diagnosed while hospitalized with code 295.10. This code indicates Ms. Smith has Disorganized Type Schizophrenia (4th ed., text rev.; DSM–IV–TR; American Psychiatric Association, 2000) and is being treated with Risperidone an antipsychotic drug for schizophrenia symptoms (U.S. National Library of Medicine, 2012).

Smith’s second diagnostic code 305.00, which indicates she is diagnosed with Mild Alcohol Use in DSM-5 (American Psychiatric Association, 2013) or Alcohol Abuse in DSM-IV-TR (4th ed., text rev.; DSM–IV–TR; American Psychiatric Association, 2000). Since the dilemma was not clear on mine and my supervisor’s areas of competence, I would have to look into our competencies before treating clients with clinical addiction and substance abuse disorders. According to the BCACC codes of ethics (2014) the RCC will “limit practice and supervision to areas of competence in which proficiency has been gained through education, training, or experience” (p. 6). Therefore my supervisor and I would have to determine whether we are competent to counsel Ms.

The certification is called a Certified Employee Assistance Professional (CEAP). However, according to the BCACC website (2011) the RCC can provide EAP services with a master of counselling education, clinical experience, and supervision. In this situation, the local standards of practice for EAP clients do not apply. Therefore, I would have to adhere to the American EAP standards of practice, which I am not qualified and trained to do. I would need to consult with my supervisor, agency, my association, and my lawyer to determine if I can legally produce diagnostic codes and written reports for this client. As well, I will talk to my supervisor or agency to see if they know the procedure and the Standards of Practice of Chicago EAP. The BCACC code of ethics (2014) state that I should terminate an activity when it is clear it carries more harm than benefits, (p. 6) it also reminds me that I should limit my practice to my area of competence from my education, training, and experience (p. 6). My supervisor and I will have to inform the American EAP company about the “nature of my training” (Board of Directors, 2014, p. 7) and that I am qualified by the laws and regulation of British Columbia. Since the needs of the American EAP company may exceed my ability, I can provide them with an appropriate referral (Board of