Which of the following is a primary goal of the C-SSRS?

The primary goal of the Columbia – Suicide Severity Rating Scale (C-SSRS) is to assess the severity of suicidal ideation and behaviors. This tool is designed to facilitate a comprehensive evaluation of suicidal thoughts and actions, allowing clinicians to gauge the intensity and frequency of these ideations, as well as any related behaviors. By focusing on the continuum of risk from thoughts to actions, the C-SSRS helps in identifying individuals who may be at risk for suicide, thereby guiding appropriate interventions and treatment plans.

While diagnosing mental health disorders, providing a full psychological evaluation, and creating therapeutic alliances are important aspects of clinical practice, they are not the primary focus of the C-SSRS. The scale is specifically structured to pinpoint the nuances of suicidality, which is crucial for ensuring that appropriate care is administered in a timely manner. Thus, the emphasis remains on understanding suicidal thoughts and behaviors as a means of improving client outcomes and reducing risks.