During which stage of counseling is the nature and severity of the presenting problem evaluated?

During the evaluation stage of counseling, the counselor assesses the nature and severity of the presenting problem. This stage is crucial as it involves gathering comprehensive information about the client's situation, challenges, and history, which establishes a foundation for understanding the issues at hand.

In this phase, the counselor may use various techniques, including interviews, assessments, and observations, to accurately capture the client's needs. This thorough evaluation helps in formulating an appropriate treatment plan that is tailored to the individual client. By deeply understanding the presenting issues, the counselor can make informed decisions about the next steps in the counseling process, setting clear goals and expectations for both the client and themselves.