Communication & Stakeholder Engagement Flashcards

When a client expresses ambivalence about treatment, which motivational interviewing technique best helps the specialist resolve that ambivalence?

Answer: Developing discrepancy between current behavior and stated goals

Developing discrepancy helps clients see the gap between their current behavior and their own values or goals, which is a core MI strategy for resolving ambivalence.

A CAS is preparing a treatment progress report for a referring physician. Which element is MOST critical to include for effective interdisciplinary communication?

Answer: Standardized clinical language describing treatment milestones and current functional status

Standardized clinical language ensures the physician can interpret findings accurately and facilitates coordinated care.

During a family education session, a family member becomes defensive when addiction is described as a brain disease. The best response is to:

Answer: Acknowledge their perspective and provide evidence-based information without arguing

Acknowledging resistance while offering factual, non-confrontational education respects the family member and keeps them engaged in the process.

Which communication barrier is MOST likely to occur when a CAS works with a client who has low health literacy?

Answer: The client misunderstands clinical instructions or treatment expectations

Low health literacy commonly leads to misunderstanding of clinical language, medication instructions, and treatment plans.

A CAS is collaborating with a probation officer regarding a shared client. To maintain the therapeutic relationship while complying with legal obligations, the specialist should:

Answer: Share only the information authorized by the client's signed release and required by the court order

Sharing only authorized and legally required information protects the client's rights while fulfilling the specialist's legal duties.

Which approach is MOST effective when facilitating a psychoeducation group where participants have varying levels of substance use knowledge?

Answer: Using simple language, visual aids, and checking for understanding throughout the session

Accessible language and ongoing comprehension checks ensure that all group members benefit regardless of their prior knowledge level.

A client's employer calls the treatment center asking whether the client is enrolled in the program. The CAS should:

Answer: Neither confirm nor deny the client's enrollment without a valid signed release

Under 42 CFR Part 2 and HIPAA, the specialist may not confirm or deny enrollment without the client's written authorization.