National Certified Addiction Counselor, Level 2 (NCAC II) Practice Exam Exam

Which diagnosis appears first in a client's life?

1. Secondary diagnosis

2. Primary diagnosis

3. Concurrent diagnosis

4. Co-occurring diagnosis

The correct answer is: Primary diagnosis

The primary diagnosis is the condition that is established as the principal focus of treatment and care in a client. It is typically the diagnosis that is identified first based on the most pressing issues affecting the individual’s functioning and well-being. In the context of addiction counseling, this diagnosis is crucial because it guides the treatment plan and the interventions that will be most effective for that particular client. When a client presents for treatment, healthcare professionals assess the situation, symptoms, and history to determine what the most significant issues are. The primary diagnosis will generally reflect the most severe or life-impacting condition that requires immediate attention. This might be an addiction, a mental health disorder, or another chronic disease that fundamentally affects the client's overall health and quality of life. Subsequent diagnoses, such as secondary or co-occurring diagnoses, arise later in the assessment process. They include additional issues that must be addressed but may not be the main focus for treatment at that moment. Concurrent diagnoses could refer to disorders that exist simultaneously but do not necessarily have a direct relationship with the primary issue. Understanding the sequence of these diagnoses is vital in the treatment planning process, as addressing the priority issue first can help lead to more effective care and improve the chances of successful outcomes for the client.