Therapeutic Techniques Flashcards

A client arrives flooded with anger after a text from their ex. Which immediate technique best helps them regulate before problem-solving?

Answer: Guided diaphragmatic breathing

Slow diaphragmatic breathing calms the stress response so the client can think clearly again.

In motivational interviewing, 'change talk' refers to:

Answer: Client statements expressing desire, ability, reasons, or need to change

Motivational interviewing draws out and strengthens the client's own statements in favor of change.

A coach notices a client repeatedly saying "I should have seen it coming." Which cognitive distortion is most evident?

Answer: Hindsight bias with self-blame

Judging past choices with information gained later leads to unfair self-blame, which can be gently challenged.

Which technique helps a client prepare for a difficult co-parenting conversation by practicing it in session?

Answer: Role-play rehearsal

Role-play lets clients rehearse wording and build confidence before a real high-stakes conversation.

The 'OARS' skills in motivational interviewing stand for:

Answer: Open questions, Affirmations, Reflections, Summaries

OARS are the core communication skills used to build engagement and draw out motivation.

A client is stuck deciding whether to keep the marital home. The coach helps them list costs and benefits of each option. This is a:

Answer: Decisional balance exercise

Decisional balance sets out pros and cons so the client can make a clearer, values-based choice.

Which statement best describes the difference between divorce coaching and therapy?

Answer: Coaching is future- and goal-oriented, while therapy often treats emotional wounds and clinical issues

Coaches use supportive techniques to move clients toward goals but do not diagnose or treat mental health disorders.