What is the purpose of a mental status exam?

The purpose of a mental status exam is primarily to assess a client's emotional and mental state during an initial interview. This assessment is crucial as it allows the therapist to gather important information about the client's current psychological functioning. Through observation and direct questioning, the clinician can evaluate various aspects such as appearance, behavior, mood, thought processes, and cognitive functioning. The insights gained from this examination help in formulating an appropriate treatment plan and determining the client's needs.

In this context, other options do not align with the primary goal of a mental status exam. Long-term therapy sessions focus more on ongoing treatment rather than initial assessment. Evaluating family history of mental health disorders may provide useful background information but is not the main aim of a mental status exam. Lastly, implementing cognitive behavioral techniques is a specific therapeutic approach that follows after an assessment, rather than being a function of the mental status exam itself.