CBHT - Certified Behavioral Health Technician Therapeutic Communication Skills Questions and Answers

Question 1

A client states, "I'm just so overwhelmed. My new job is stressful, and I feel like I'm failing at it." Which of the following responses by the CBHT best demonstrates the therapeutic technique of reflection?

Accepted Answer

"It sounds like you're feeling a lot of pressure and are worried about your performance at work."

Answer

Reflection involves paraphrasing and restating both the feelings and content of a client's message to show understanding. [12, 27] This response accurately mirrors the client's expressed emotions (overwhelmed, worried) and situation (job pressure), which validates their experience and encourages further exploration. [27]

Question 2

Which of the following is the primary reason for using open-ended questions in a therapeutic setting?

Accepted Answer

To encourage the client to provide detailed, narrative responses and explore their thoughts and feelings. [7, 14, 19]

Answer

Open-ended questions, often beginning with 'what' or 'how', are designed to prompt clients to share more than a one-word answer. [9, 19] This technique facilitates deeper self-exploration and allows the client to direct the conversation, providing richer, more meaningful information. [7, 14]

Question 3

A CBHT is speaking with a client who is expressing anxiety about an upcoming family visit. Which statement by the CBHT would be considered a barrier to therapeutic communication?

Accepted Answer

"There's no reason to be anxious. I'm sure it will be wonderful."

Answer

This statement is an example of providing false reassurance. It dismisses the client's legitimate feelings and can shut down further communication by minimizing their concerns instead of helping them explore and cope with their anxiety.

Question 4

A client tells a CBHT, "I'm just not myself lately." Which of the following responses best uses the therapeutic technique of clarification?

Accepted Answer

"Could you tell me more about what 'not being yourself' feels like for you?"

Answer

Clarification is a technique used to ensure the CBHT accurately understands a client's message, especially when it is vague. [1, 2, 10, 11] Asking for a more detailed description of what 'not myself' means helps prevent misunderstanding and encourages the client to elaborate on their experience.

Question 5

A client has just finished sharing a very painful memory and has become quiet and tearful. What is the most therapeutically appropriate initial action for the CBHT?

Accepted Answer

Allow for a period of silence to give the client space to process.

Answer

Therapeutic silence can be a powerful tool that gives the client time and space to process difficult emotions and thoughts. [4, 8, 21] By sitting patiently and attentively, the CBHT communicates presence and support without rushing the client's emotional experience.

(CBHT) Certified Behavioral Health Technician Practice Test

(CBHT) Certified Behavioral Health Technician Practice Test

CBHT - Certified Behavioral Health Technician Therapeutic Communication Skills Questions and Answers