Chapter 11

The Clinical Interview and

Communication Skills

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The reciprocal process of communication

Slide 11-2 (Fig. 11-1)

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Clinical Interview: Tactics to Avoid

● Arguing, minimizing, challenging

● Giving false reassurance
● Interpreting or speculating on the dynamics of client
problems
● Probing sensitive areas
● “Selling” client on accepting treatment
● Participating in criticism of any staff member
● Joining any attacks led by client

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Clinical Interview Guidelines

● Speak briefly
● When you don’t know what to say, say nothing
● When in doubt, focus on feelings
● Avoid giving advice
● Don’t rely on asking questions
● Pay attention to nonverbal cues
● Focus on the client

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Help the Client

● Identify and explore problems relating to others

● Discover healthy ways of meeting emotional needs
● Experience satisfying interpersonal relationships
● Feel understood and comfortable

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Active Listening Components

● Observing nonverbal behaviors

● Listening to/understanding verbal messages
● Understanding in context of life
● Listening for inconsistencies
● Giving feedback

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Obstructive Techniques

● Asking close-ended questions

● Giving approval/disapproval
● Advising
● Asking “why” questions

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