The first component of case conceptualization is gathering as much information as possible about one's client. This information includes demographics, presenting symptoms, observable behaviors, results of medical, cognitive and behavioral tests, the client's perceptions about his problem and any past illnesses.
Based on all of the client information, the student selects the most appropriate diagnosis. Sometimes, more than one diagnosis seems plausible. The student lists competing diagnoses, such as "borderline personality disorder vs. substance abuse." The student then explores psychological mechanisms that may be causing the symptoms or disorder.
With a tentative diagnosis and a suspected list of causes for the disorder in mind, the student decides on treatment goals, such as alleviating symptoms of fear or reducing the use of illegal substances. Next, the student identifies which therapeutic techniques will be most helpful in reaching these goals. Finally, the student outlines how she will evaluate progress towards the goals.