For a clinician to begin formulating a potential diagnosis, it is essential to get as thorough a list of symptoms as possible from the client. The clinician will translate the client’s experiences into categories of symptoms which, ultimately, track to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual (DSM). Here is an abbreviated list of commonly cited feelings and experiences… Read More What Symptoms Are You Having? An Interpreter’s Guide to Common Descriptors

Here is an abbreviated role play of an initial intake. Pay close attention to: Rapport building – what techniques is the clinician using to join with the client? Confidentiality & exceptions – done before any disclosure takes place Framing the intake process – the “why” behind all the questions Presenting issue, duration, intensity, triggers and… Read More You Only Get One Chance To Make A First Impression – The Intake Process

For clinicians to get a sense of who their clients are and what has brought them to treatment, here are some initial questions and two assessments that are done early on in the therapeutic relationship. Given the newness of the therapeutic relationship, clinicians are trying to create rapport while embarking on this detailed level of questioning.… Read More Getting to Know You