What type of information must counselors include in a client’s assessment according to Maryland law?

In Maryland, counselors are required to include relevant history, mental status, and diagnosis in a client's assessment. This information is crucial as it provides a comprehensive understanding of the client's psychological state and background, informing treatment planning and therapeutic interventions.

Relevant history allows counselors to identify past experiences that may influence the client’s current issues, whereas the mental status evaluation offers insights into their cognitive functioning, emotional state, and overall psychological well-being. The diagnosis is essential not only for understanding the specific mental health concerns but also for aligning treatment approaches with established criteria.

While demographic information, therapy goals, client preferences, feedback about therapy, family history, and economic status are all important aspects of the therapeutic process, they do not encompass the fundamental components of a legally compliant assessment as outlined in Maryland law. The focus on history, mental status, and diagnosis aligns with the state's emphasis on ensuring that counselors create a well-informed and structured basis for their treatment methodologies.