Counselling and psychotherapy
Assessment, formulation, and diagnosis guidelines (adults)
This document outlines the society’s guidance on Assessment, Formulation, and Diagnosis as these elements pertain to adults.
20 June 2025
Because Practitioner Psychologists are employed in a wide variety of roles from psychological therapy and community engagement to formal legal assessments it will be necessary for different psychologists to utilise this guidance according to their role and qualifications.
In addition, different psychologists take different views as to the utility of different elements of assessment, formulation, and diagnosis.
This guidance does not seek to resolve this ongoing discussion, but instead to offer guidance on the best application of these elements at a high level.