Clinical Assessment Assignment

Submited To: Dr. Noor Alam

Submited By: Muqaddas Naz (29139)

Zarnain Naseer (29324)
Sadia Maqsood (30581)
Section: A
Group: 1

M. Phil. Clinical Psychology (1st Semester)

Riphah International University, Faisalabad

 Interviewing Skills

Interview

An interview is an organized conversation where one asks questions, and the other gives
answers. Interview skills are measures that make a person more productive.

Clinical Interview

A clinical interview involves counselors asking individuals questions to gather pertinent

information. In interviewing, therapists attempt to help individuals feel comfortable so that
candid and relevant information is revealed. Clinical interviewing occurs throughout the
counseling process but is typically a major component of the initial session.

An initial interview focuses on gathering information. Therapists generally gather

demographic information (e.g., marital status, race or ethnicity, and employment) and
information about current problems (e.g., frequency of problem, degree problem affects
functioning, and previous attempts to solve problems). Additional questions are asked about
social support, medical history, and current medications. Furthermore, therapists may ask
questions regarding suicide, substance use, and issues of violence. The information gathered
during the initial clinical interview influences the treatment plan, so honest communication is
essential to permit accurate assessment.

Types of Clinical Interviews

There are three types of clinical interviews: structured, unstructured, and semistructured. The
type of interview used varies according to the setting and the theoretical or professional
orientation of the therapist. A structured interview requires that the same questions be asked of
each client in an identical manner. An unstructured interview allows the counselor to determine
the questions and topics covered during the interview. A semistructured interview combines
these formats. Specific questions are always asked, but these are coupled with opportunities to
explore unique client circumstances.
Definition of interview skills

Interview skills are action measures that let a person be more productive in an interview. These
skills make people practice mock interviews and make them confident. Dummy job interviews
will get you an idea of how job interviews happen. This will make you feel comfortable about
your skills, experience and qualifications.

Open interviews

These are used to solve personal problems. Open interviews are not strict because they want
people to give a free and honest answer. Psychologists use this method to treat their patients.

Interviews by psychologists

Interviews by psychologists are called psychiatric interviews. Psychologists have various

techniques for understanding their patients. These techniques are used to treat their patients.
They have specific questions that are decided beforehand. This method is called psychiatric
assessment.

Psychological interviewing methods

The techniques used to treat patients are important. Here are a few common interviewing
methods:

 Use of common language: Common language is a common professional method used by

psychologists. These methods get patients more comfortable and share their feelings or
problems. Psychologists do not use technical, medical terms with patients. They use
simple and friendly questions to make the patients express their worries or problems.

 Active listening: Active listening plays an important role in the psychological

understanding of patients. This process includes listening patiently, maintaining eye
contact, being non-judgmental, etc.
  Reflective statements: Have a conversation with your patient. Whenever they choose to
tell a story, go with it. Ask relevant questions about their story. This will make them
comfortable.

Interviewing skills

Clinical psychology involves the assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of various mental and
emotional disorders. One of the fundamental skills required in clinical psychology is effective
interviewing. Clinical psychologists use interviews as a primary method to gather information
about a client's thoughts, feelings, behaviors, and life experiences. Here, I will explain in detail
the importance of interviewing skills in clinical psychology and the key elements involved:

1. Establishing Rapport

Before delving into the assessment, it's crucial to establish a positive and empathetic rapport with
the client. This helps create a safe and trusting environment in which the client feels comfortable
sharing personal information.

2. Active Listening

Active listening involves paying full attention to the client, both verbally and non-verbally. It
includes making eye contact, nodding, and providing verbal cues (e.g., "I understand," "Tell me
more") to show that you are engaged and interested in what they are saying.

3. Empathy and Validation

Demonstrating empathy by acknowledging the client's emotions and experiences can help them
feel heard and understood. Validation is a critical component of this, as it confirms the
legitimacy of their feelings.

4. Cultural Competence

Understanding and respecting cultural differences is essential in clinical psychology. Being

culturally competent means being aware of and sensitive to the unique experiences and
worldviews of clients from diverse backgrounds.
 5. Empathy and Validation

Demonstrating empathy by acknowledging the client's emotions and experiences can help them
feel heard and understood. Validation is a critical component of this, as it confirms the
legitimacy of their feelings.

6. Cultural Competence

Understanding and respecting cultural differences is essential in clinical psychology. Being

culturally competent means being aware of and sensitive to the unique experiences and
worldviews of clients from diverse backgrounds.

7. Assessment and Diagnosis

Interviews are used to gather data for clinical assessment and diagnosis. Clinical psychologists
use structured and semi-structured interviews to ask specific questions related to symptoms,
history, and life events, helping them make accurate assessments and diagnoses.

8. Psychosocial History

Gathering information about a client's life history, family dynamics, childhood experiences, and
significant life events is crucial for understanding the factors that may contribute to their current
psychological state.

9. Exploration of Presenting Problems

Clients typically come to clinical psychologists with specific issues or concerns. Effective
interviewers explore these problems in-depth, asking questions to get to the root causes and
contributing factors.

10. Crisis Assessment

In cases of acute distress or crisis, clinical psychologists must assess the client's immediate safety
and provide appropriate interventions.
 11. Feedback and Psycho education

After the assessment, psychologists provide feedback to the client. This includes sharing their
clinical impressions, discussing the diagnosis (if applicable), and providing psycho education
about the condition and available treatment options.

12. Goal Setting and Treatment Planning

Collaboratively setting treatment goals with the client is an important aspect of the interview
process. This helps ensure that therapy aligns with the client's needs and preferences.

13. Termination and Follow-Up

The final phase involves discussing termination of therapy and any follow-up plans. Clinical
psychologists should ensure that clients have the resources and support they need to continue
their progress.

14. Ethical Considerations

Clinical psychologists must adhere to ethical guidelines, which include maintaining client
confidentiality and obtaining informed consent for treatment and assessment.

Effective interviewing in clinical psychology is a dynamic and skill-intensive process that

combines empathy, active listening, and a structured approach to gather essential information for
assessment and treatment. It is a crucial component of the therapeutic relationship and plays a
significant role in helping clients achieve their therapeutic goals.