Therapeutic Communication Skills Flashcards

A client asks the BHT, 'Do you think I'm crazy?' The MOST therapeutic response is:

Answer: I'm curious what makes you wonder that about yourself.

Turning the question back with curiosity respects the client's autonomy and explores the meaning behind the question without dismissing it.

Using the client's preferred name and correct pronouns in every interaction is important because it:

Answer: Demonstrates respect and strengthens therapeutic alliance

Consistently honoring a client's name and pronouns signals respect for their identity and is foundational to building trust.

A BHT who shares a personal story about their own struggles with anxiety to help a client is using:

Answer: Self-disclosure

Self-disclosure involves a clinician sharing personal information; it must be used sparingly and purposefully to benefit the client, not the BHT.

A client suddenly becomes tearful mid-session. The BHT should FIRST:

Answer: Pause, acknowledge the emotion, and allow the client space

Pausing to acknowledge emotion communicates empathy and creates a safe space for the client to process their feelings.

In motivational interviewing, 'rolling with resistance' means:

Answer: Avoiding arguing and exploring the client's ambivalence instead

Rolling with resistance avoids direct confrontation and instead acknowledges the client's perspective to reduce defensiveness and support change.

Which statement by a BHT best demonstrates unconditional positive regard?

Answer: 'I accept you as a person regardless of your choices.'

Unconditional positive regard, a core Rogerian principle, means accepting the client fully without conditions attached to support.

A BHT working with a client who has an intellectual disability should PRIMARILY adjust communication by:

Answer: Using simpler language and checking for understanding frequently

Plain language and frequent comprehension checks ensure clients with intellectual disabilities can meaningfully participate in treatment.