Chapter 8 -- The Clinical Interview

I. Functions of Intake Interviews
A. Establishing a relationship with the client
B. Understanding client's view of problem
C. Getting examples of thoughts, feelings, and behaviors to understand the client's personality
D. Gathering relevant history
E. Generating and testing hypotheses
F. Learning about past therapy or change efforts
G. Providing a treatment plan and hope for change

II. Communication Skills
A. Nonverbal Attenting Skills (SOFTEN)
1. Smile
2. Open Posture (facing client)
3. Forward Lean (toward client)
4. Touch (handshake, pat on the back)
5. Eye Contact (looking, not staring)
6. Nod (to agree or reassure)

B. Verbal Attending Skills
1. Open-Ended Questions (How would you describe your family?)
2. Closed Questions (Are you sad?)
3. Facilitative Encouragement (Tell me more.)
4. Clarifying (It sounds like you were bored. Is that right?)
5. Confronting (Before you said something different.)
6. Paraphrasing (You binge and purge when no one is around.)
7. Reflecting Feelings (You sound frustrated)
8. Summarizing (You want to change, but you are not sure you can)

C. Building rapport (CSALADS)
1. Use preferred name (start with Mr. or Ms. with last name, then ask for preferred name)
2. Compliment efforts to work on problems
3. Agreeing
4. Limit Interruptions
5. Disclose Similarity to connect with client

III. Interview Formats
A. Unstructured Clinical Interviews (Attend to client’s concerns)
B. Structured Diagnostic Interviews (Use DSM criteria in questions)
C. Mental Status Examination (Assess behavior, appearance, orientation, speech and thought, mood, perceptions, insight, motivation, and cognitive functioning)
D. Crisis Interviews (suicide assessment and intervention with a safety plan)

IV. Cultural Considerations
A. Country of birth
B. Who are family members
C. Languages spoken (first and currently)
D. Religious beliefs and practices
E. Favorite activities
F. Cultural identity
G. Help-seeking