A commentary on the article, Can There Be a Recovery-Oriented Diagnostic Practice examines both the positive and negative consequences of this alternative to diagnosis. The importance and efficacy of collaboration is emphasized along with a critical exploration of the inequality of influence and power inherent in the professional–client relationship. Contextual problems in the relationship, regarding differing motivations and their effect on collaboration are discussed. The key question: Can there be genuine collaboration, when the diagnosis or any form of naming will become a strong determinant in a client’s life course
