T9: Clinical Reasoning Beyond the DSM

Only available as part of a package

Clinical social workers are trained to diagnose and apply interventions, yet many struggle with real-time clinical decision-making when client presentations are complex or don't fit neatly into diagnostic categories. This workshop focuses on how therapists reason in session, moving beyond checklist-based diagnosis toward practical clinical judgment. Using focused case examples, participants will examine a streamlined approach to clinical reasoning that prioritizes clarifying client needs, assessing risk and impairment, and making ethically sound treatment and referral decisions. The presentation highlights common reasoning traps, such as diagnostic inflation, premature conclusions, and avoidance of referral, and offers practical strategies to improve clarity and confidence in everyday practice. This session is designed for clinicians at all levels who want a clearer, more reliable way to think through complex clinical situations.

Sean Steele LCSW, MSW, Ed.D.

Sean Steele, Ed.D., LCSW, is a licensed clinical social worker with experience in outpatient practice, supervision, and clinician training. His work emphasizes practical clinical judgment, ethical decision-making, and supporting clinicians as they navigate diagnostic uncertainty and complex presentations. Dr. Steele frequently works with neurodivergent clients, where formulation and flexibility are essential. He provides therapy and supervision focused on helping clinicians translate theory into sound, in-session decisions.