Counseling Techniques
What is self-disclosure?
when the helper reveals to the client personal information about himself or herself purposefully or unwittingly
Client/employee: I woke up this morning feeling depressed. My life is out of sorts, and I’m not sure why. Do you think this is something that will pass?
HSP: So, it seems as if your depression just came out of nowhere, and you’re not sure what’s causing it.
empathy
What purposes do questions serve?
questions can be helpful gathering information, inducing self exploration, challenging the client to change & moving the client along towards their goals
What version of the DSM is being used today?
DSM-5: is the most widespread diagnostic classification system
Do clients have a right to view their records?
Yes!
What is empathy and how does it differ from sympathy?
the ability to understand another person's feelings and situation
sympathy is to feel sorry for someone but not necessarily understand or relate
Client: Yeah, I’ve thought about going back to school, quitting my job, looking for another job, and even just storming into my boss’s office and telling her what I think.
HSP: What do you think about all these different options?
open question
What is the difference between open questions vs closed questions?
open questions allow for details in a response
closed questions usually result in one word answers and yes or no responses
What are 2 examples of psychotropic medications?
antipsychotics, mood stabilizing drugs, antidepressants, antianxiety agents, and stimulants
Name 3 ways to overcome hindrances to effective listening? (hint: PowerPoint slide had a long list of suggestions)
Calm yourself down, Stop talking and do not interrupt, Show interest, Do not jump to conclusions, Actively listen, Concentrate on content, Maintain appropriate eye contact, Have an open body posture, Be sensitive to personal space, Do not ask questions, etc.
What are pros and cons to using silence?
silence is a powerful technique that allows the client to reflect on what has been said and allows the helper to process the session and formulate his or her next response
silence can raise anxiety within the client & could push the client to talk further or even drop out from the counseling session
Client: Well, I guess I have thought about at least talking to my boss and asking her what she thinks I might do. That would be at least a beginning.
HSP: Do you feel good or bad about your relationship with your boss?
closed question
What kind of questions makes people feel defensive?
Why questions
What are some ways in which an HSP may follow up with a client? When should you follow up with a client?
phone call, email, letter, survey
follow-up can be done a few days to a few weeks after the relationship has ended
How do you create a welcoming office environment?
proper light, seating & avoiding unnecessary obstructions
What is the difference between encouragement and affirmation?
Encouragement is expressing a positive attitude toward the client by reinforcing his or her ability to perform a task (I’m confident of your ability to change)
Affirmation is expressing a positive attitude toward the client by reinforcing the client’s existing way of being (I know you are lovable and capable)
Client: Yeah, I guess I do. I hope I can do it. You know, I get pretty nervous talking to her.
HSP: I know you can do it if you want to. I know you’re capable of lots!
encouragement
What are tentative questions?
tentative questions are more facilitative and are used when you want a client to ponder and have self-exploration
Why is case report writing needed? List 2 reasons
used in court, for case conceptualization, to determine any progress, useful when obtaining supervision. helps remember what is said, used by insurance companies, and used to show accountability
Posture, eye contact, tone of voice, personal space, and touch are all examples of what?
Nonverbal behavior
What is the first skill needed to effectively help clients?
Listening skills
Client: It had crossed my mind. Especially because I believe this issue is something that prevents me from getting ahead in my life. What do you think?
HSP: I know of some good helpers, and I know of an assertiveness training group. I think considering some counseling might be really good for you. But, I’d like to know, what are your thoughts on that?
offering alternatives, advice giving, collaboration, referral
What are solution focused questions?
solution focused questions offer the client an opportunity to develop new, positive ways of reaching their goals
What is a referral and why would a referral be made?
Referral: the process and reason for having your client see another helper or professional
HSP could be leaving the agency or HSP could feel that client needs more in depth services to focus on a specific issue
What are the 5 stages of the helping relationship?
1. Building Rapport
2. Problem Identification
3. Deepening Understanding & Goal Setting
4. Work
5. Closure