FREE CLC Counseling Skills & Techniques Questions and Answers

Question 1

Which response best demonstrates **active listening** during a lactation counseling session?

Accepted Answer

"I understand you feel frustrated. So, you're saying the baby latches but then lets go?"

Answer

This response demonstrates active listening by first acknowledging the parent's emotion, showing empathy. It then uses a clarifying or summarizing statement to ensure understanding of the factual information shared. This combination confirms the counselor is fully engaged and processing both the emotional and informational content of the parent's message, inviting correction if needed.

Question 2

Motivational Interviewing primarily helps parents by:

Accepted Answer

Exploring ambivalence and fostering self‑efficacy

Answer

Motivational Interviewing (MI) is a client-centered approach focused on helping individuals resolve their ambivalence about change. It empowers parents by exploring their mixed feelings regarding a behavior and strengthening their belief in their own ability to succeed (self-efficacy). This process fosters intrinsic motivation, leading to more sustainable behavioral changes.

Question 3

When setting feeding goals, which method ensures they are clear and achievable?

Accepted Answer

SMART framework

Answer

The SMART framework ensures goals are Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound. Applying this to feeding goals helps parents and counselors create clear, quantifiable, and realistic objectives. This structure facilitates effective planning, progress tracking, and increases the likelihood of successfully achieving the desired feeding outcomes.

Question 4

Which is an **open‑ended** question appropriate for assessing breastfeeding challenges?

Accepted Answer

"Can you describe what feeding has been like for you so far?"

Answer

An open-ended question encourages a detailed and personal response, allowing the parent to share their experiences in their own words without being limited to a 'yes' or 'no.' This provides rich, qualitative information about their perceptions, challenges, and successes. Such comprehensive insights are crucial for a thorough assessment of breastfeeding issues.

Question 5

A counselor says, "Many parents find the first weeks challenging." This is an example of:

Accepted Answer

Normalizing

Answer

Normalizing involves reassuring parents that their experiences, feelings, or challenges are common and not unusual. By stating that 'Many parents find the first weeks challenging,' the counselor validates the parent's potential struggles and reduces feelings of isolation or inadequacy. This technique helps build rapport, reduces anxiety, and creates a supportive environment for discussion.

CLC - Certified Lactation Counselor Practice Test

CLC - Certified Lactation Counselor Practice Test

FREE CLC Counseling Skills & Techniques Questions and Answers