Reference no: EM133667800
William is a 25-year-old male who has used drugs intravenously. He shared needles with his older brother, who died of AIDS about one year ago. William entered chemical dependency treatment because he was diagnosed one week earlier as being HIV-positive (he had seen a doctor at a public clinic because he felt ill). He decided to come to treatment because he wanted to die with more peace than his brother did. After three weeks in treatment, he told his counselor in an individual session that he saw no point in trying to stay drug free. He said he was going to die no matter what, and he wanted to die without any anxiety (e.g. being high on heroin). William shared that he had always felt down about life since his teenage years, and he did not know "what possessed me a few weeks ago" to think that life could be any different.
1. What tentative co-occurring diagnosis might you give William?
It is important to remember that the communication of a psychological diagnosis is a controlled act restricted to members of certain colleges/designations. Accordingly, be mindful of your wording in responding to this question so that it is clear you are practicing within your boundaries of competence.
2. What would be your first intervention strategy with him?
3. What overall plan would you develop for dealing with his issues?
4. Are there any portions of his story that would make it difficult for you to
work with him?
Please include apa references within the last 7 years to support your perspectives on these questions.