How to Answer: What methods do you use to help your clients speak up about their issues and needs?
Advice and answer examples written specifically for a Mental Health Counselor job interview.
11. What methods do you use to help your clients speak up about their issues and needs?
How to Answer
The interviewer would like to know more about your communication style and how you encourage your clients to open up and make the most out of their mental health therapy. Feelings of safety and security are two key elements that will help clients feel free to open up to you.
As a Mental Health Counselor, it's up to you to create that safe space through the energy you put out, and the environment that you create. Discuss with your interviewer the tools that you use to encourage your clients to express themselves. Be as specific as possible.
Written by Ryan Brown on August 11th, 2014
Entry Level Example
"My approach to helping a client speak up about their issues and needs will depend on the client's personality. I know that some people might be defensive in the beginning, even if they're the ones who decided to move forward with counseling. In those instances, I will tell my client that I understand that it's hard to open up to someone they do not know. I will assure them that they're the ones in control of their progress. I will make sure they understand that we have a therapeutic alliance and that we are partners on a journey. I will also express that I'm not there to tell them what to do but rather, to listen. I believe once my client understands the nature of our relationship, they will open up a lot more, and the treatment will have more impact because of that trust."
Written by Rachelle Enns on August 15th, 2020
Answer Example
"To help my clients speak up about their issues and needs, I use positive self-regard techniques. I create a non-judgmental environment, and I use open communication to foster a place of trust. These methods help my clients express themselves as I show empathy and give encouraging statements. I also ask non-threatening, open-ended questions that allow them room to talk. I affirm how my client is feeling, and I walk alongside my clients by supporting them and accepting them for who they are. I encourage my clients to explore their past, and I listen to them as they express their concerns for the future. We set clear and achievable goals and work together to accomplish these targets. This teamwork approach helps my clients to feel safe, which allows them to trust me and open up further."
Written by Ryan Brown on August 11th, 2014
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