Difficult Behaviors
This behavior occurs when a client pushes back against therapy or refuses an activity.
Resistance
Empathizing
The first step in the seven-step conflict resolution process
Stay calm
An empathic break is
When a client feels hurt or misunderstood by the therapist.
This behavior involves relying on the therapist more than necessary.
Excessive Dependence
This therapeutic mode involves making decisions together with the client.
Collaborating
After listening to the client's perspective, the OT should
Summarize what they heard from the client to make sure they understood correctly.
Name one thing an OT should avoid after an empathic break?
Minimizing the client's feelings, blaming them, or making the situation worse.
A client spends most of therapy talking about pain and has difficulty starting an activity. This behavior is
Symptom Focusing
This therapeutic mode involves providing guidance, structure, and professional boundaries.
Instructing
After the OT shares their own perspective, they should immediately ask the client to do what
Ask the client to summarize the therapist's perspective to check understanding.
If an OT realizes that they have hurt or misunderstood a client, they should
Recognize the problem and address what happened.
A client insists they can safely live alone despite needing significant help with ADLs. This behavior represents
Denial
This therapeutic mode uses questions and discussion to explore solutions.
Problem-solving
Name two communication strategies that help prevent conflict from getting worse.
Listen more than you talk, use I statements, avoid blaming, avoid always and never, or maintain professional boundaries.
It is important to acknowledge the client's feelings after an empathic break because
It helps the client feel heard and can rebuild trust.
A client becomes withdrawn, gives one-word answers, and stops engaging in treatment. Identify the behavior and one appropriate OT response.
Emotional disengagement.
Use empathy, avoid pressuring the client, and explore what support or activity changes might help.
A client refuses dressing practice because they feel pressured. The therapeutic mode you would choose is ...
Say why
Collaborating
Supported by empathizing - It gives the client more choice and helps avoid a power struggle.
Put these steps in the correct order: Share your perspective, listen to the client, work toward a solution, summarize what you heard.
Listen to the client → Summarize what you heard → Share your perspective → Work toward a solution.
An OT tells a worried client, 'You'll be fine. Stop worrying.' The client becomes upset. What could the OT say to repair the empathic break?
'I'm sorry I dismissed your concerns. I understand you're worried, and I'd like to hear more about what's bothering you.'