Which of the following is an example of a DSM-5-TR disorder category commonly addressed in counseling?

• A. Schizophreniform disorder
• B. Obsessive-compulsive disorder
• C. Antisocial personality disorder
• D. Major depressive disorder

Answer: (D)

In counseling, the most common presenting concerns are mood and functioning-related, so a depressive disorder category is a typical focal point. Major depressive disorder in DSM-5-TR is defined by a period of depressed mood or loss of interest plus additional symptoms (such as sleep or appetite changes, fatigue, feelings of worthlessness, or concentration problems) most days for at least two weeks, causing clinically significant distress or impairment. This pattern is frequently what brings clients into therapy, guiding how counselors assess, plan treatment, and choose evidence-based approaches like behavioral activation, cognitive-behavioral therapy, or interpersonal therapy.

Schizophreniform disorder involves psychotic symptoms and tends to present in settings requiring more specialized psychiatric evaluation or acute care, making it less typical as the main counseling focus. Obsessive-compulsive disorder does appear in counseling and is important to address, but it is one of several anxiety-related presentations that counselors manage, with depressive disorders being more broadly prevalent in routine practice. Antisocial personality disorder reflects a pervasive personality pattern and often involves different care pathways or longer-term, higher-intensity interventions, rather than the common, initial counseling entry point.