HN 499 BACHELOR’S CAPSTONE FOR HUMAN SERVICES Unit 2 Seminar Cathy R. Moore

Unit 2 Project - INTAKE In each of your projects, you will select the path that relates to your specific concentration of study. The project assignment and grading rubric are the same regardless of emphasis area though the actual scenario content differs. Use your knowledge of ethics and best practices to identify the main issue presented by the client and develop a 3-page paper. In the paper, you will create a detailed portrait of your client, his/her main problems, and a plan for the next session. Choose the path of your career interest. Completing this exercise brings you one step closer to graduation!

Unit 2 Project - INTAKE Write a paper using your notes from past reading and discussions to: Create a scenario related to your area of concentration (one page) Don’t worry about using one of the three prompts in the project description. Identify the client’s main problem (half page). Propose best practice solutions and justify your ideas (one page). Discuss some of the ethical problems that might be present in these situations (half page). Project for Unit 3 will build upon this one

Due by midnight on Tuesday Unit 2 project (cont.) Due by midnight on Tuesday Review late policy One letter grade or 15 points deducted per week late 1 day to 1 week = 15 points; 1 week and 1 day to 2 weeks = 30 points; 2 weeks and 1 day to 3 weeks = 45 points) No projects accepted more than 3 weeks/units late Questions?

What is an intake? An initial interview used to gather data about a client. An intake interview is the first step to understanding, and then diagnosing the problem. Used to provide information to guide diagnosis and selection of a treatment plan. Helps to match the client to a counselor.

What to do during Intake Interviews? Have a clear idea of why the individual is being interviewed. Be concerned about the physical setting or environment. Empathize and be warm to help establish good rapport with the client. Be alert to verbal and nonverbal behavior. Be in charge and keep the goals of the interview in mind.

Information Obtained During Intake Demographic Information Presenting Problem Past Psychiatric History Medical History Mental status Personal & Social History * Pay attention to how the client speaks, thinks, feels, and evaluates situations.

How to Obtain Information: Models of Clinical Assessment During an intake, there are two ways of gathering information, or two models of assessment to help diagnose the client. Psychodiagnostic Model---holistic and intended to describe the client in a variety of ways. Psychometric Model---emphasizes more objective use of tests and assessment instruments.

Types of Intake Interviews Structured---A set of specific questions. Each client is asked exactly the same questions in the same manner. Unstructured---Does not follow any specific format. Allows the client to determine what is important to talk about.

Intake Interview What are the client’s immediate reasons for coming into treatment? When did the presenting complaint become a problem and who defined it as such? What does the client know about you or your service and how does this relate to their expectations for treatment? Are there physical/medical problems present? If so, consider consulting a physician for further information.

Intake Interview What are the client’s theories about the problem(s) and their causes? What has the client done in an attempt to solve the problem? What strengths does the client possess that might prove helpful? Do I (therapist) possess the necessary competencies to work with this client?

Characteristics of Good Interviewing Skills Convey to the interviewee that you understand their feelings and attitudes Use language that is understandable and not offensive Use open-ended rather than close- ended questions to extract more information

Characteristics of Good Interviewing Skills Avoid excessive talking about personal experiences during the interview Allow the interviewee to use silence for reflection Set an agenda for the interview Structuring skills

Components of Good Listening Elimination of distractions Alertness Concentration Patience Open-mindedness

Protecting Confidentiality Rights Fisher’s (2008) 6-step ethical practice model for protecting confidentiality rights: Preparation Tell clients the truth “up front” Obtain truly informed consent before making a disclosure Respond ethically to legal requests for disclosure Avoid the “avoidable” breaches of confidentiality Talk about confidentiality

Limits of Confidentiality When clerical assistants handle confidential information When a counselor consults When a counselor is being supervised When a client has given consent When a client poses danger to self or others When a client discloses intention to commit a crime When a counselor suspects abuse or neglect of a child or vulnerable adult When a court orders counselor to make records available

Question for discussion When might confidentiality issues come up during or as a result of the intake interview? What information might you gather in the intake interview that would prompt you to break confidentiality? Are there any situations where it would be appropriate (legal and ethical) to break confidentiality?