Clinical Assessment Brief Response
Write a brief reaction to the Clinical Assessment video transcript.
Respond to the following questions in your reaction paper:
1. Key points: What important points did you learn about the Sommers-Flanagans’ approach to clinical interviewing? What stands out to you about the topics covered?
2. What I found most helpful: As a therapist, what was most beneficial to you about the techniques resented? What tools or perspectives did you find helpful and might you use in your own work? What challenged you to think about something in a new way?
3. What does not make sense: What principles/techniques/interventions did not make sense to you? Did anything push your buttons or bring about a sense of resistance in you, or just not fit with your own style of working?
4. How I would do it differently: What might you do differently from the Sommers-Flanagans when starting work with clients? Be specific about what different approaches, interventions and techniques you would apply.
5. Other questions/reactions: What questions or reactions did you have as you viewed the therapy sessions with the clinicians in the video? Other comments, thoughts or feelings?
Sample Solution
The Sommers-Flanagans’ approach to clinical interviewing is a comprehensive overview of the different elements that go into successful interviews with clients. Through their experience as therapists, they emphasize the importance of building a strong therapeutic relationship between interviewer and client by using multiple techniques such as active listening, empathy, and respect for both parties. Additionally, they also discuss the use of open-ended questions and goal setting to ensure clear communication between client and therapist throughout treatment sessions.
The importance of trust is highlighted throughout this approach; it’s noted that establishing an atmosphere where clients feel comfortable discussing any issue openly can be difficult due to potential stigma or fear of judgement which can lead to resistance from the client side if not handled properly (Sommers-Flanagan et al., 2016). To counteract this however Sommers-Flanagan suggests utilizing techniques such as positive reinforcement or humor when appropriate in order make sure all participants remain engaged during therapy sessions.
Another point that stands out about this approach is its focus on understanding cultural differences. When conducting interviews with people from different backgrounds it is important for us to keep in mind our own biases while also respecting the values & beliefs of other cultures so we can effectively communicate without any misunderstandings – especially those related to language barriers (Sommers-Flanagan et al., 2016). It may be necessary then for therapists to do additional research on these topics beforehand in order gain a better understanding before even beginning treatment plans.
Ultimately then, The Sommers-Flanagans have provided us with an invaluable resource on how best handle clinical interviewing scenarios. While there are numerous points covered here what really stands out is their emphasis on creating trusting relationships with clients by addressing issues through nonjudgmental dialogue rather than criticism or stereotypes – allowing both parties involved equal opportunity at finding solutions together instead.
