Which statement describes the purpose of assessment?

• A. To diagnose the client independently
• B. To identify problems, plan interventions, and inform clients
• C. To replace counseling sessions
• D. To assign grades

Answer: (B)

Assessment in counseling is a process that helps you identify the client's problems, plan effective interventions, and inform the client about what has been found so they can participate in decisions about their care. It pulls together information from interviews, questionnaires, observations, and possibly input from others to build a clear picture of what the client is dealing with, how it affects functioning, and what strengths and resources can be leveraged. This information creates a baseline that guides a collaborative treatment plan—setting goals, choosing appropriate interventions, and scheduling follow-up to track progress and make adjustments as needed. It also supports informed consent by communicating findings and implications to the client so they can weigh options and actively engage in their own care. The purpose isn’t to diagnose independently or replace counseling sessions, and it isn’t about assigning grades; those functions lie outside the primary aim of guiding therapy and informing the client.