ABSTRACT
As discussed in Chapters 2 and 3, a therapist who uses both linear and nonlinear methods of listening and responding substantially increases the likelihood of connecting with and engaging a client. Engaging a client in the treatment process overcomes potential reluctance about telling “a complete stranger” the
Introduction 67 Assessing the Client: Symptoms, Diagnoses, Strengths, and (Untapped) Resources 68
Linear Methods of Assessment: Looking for Symptoms and Diagnoses 69 Linear Methods of Assessment: Looking for Strengths and Resources 74 Nonlinear Methods of Assessing for Strengths and Resources 75
Looking for Unused or Misused Power 75 Connecting With Untapped Social Supports 76
Assessing a Client’s Readiness for Change: The Stages of Change Model 79 Precontemplation 80 Contemplation 83 Preparation for Action 84 Action 85 Maintenance 86 Relapse 87
How to Identify a Client’s Stage of Change 88 Moving Through the Stages of Change 89
Endnotes 90
intimate details of his or her story. A client’s “story” provides a wealth of information for a clinician to work with, but most often the information initially presented is not enough to begin to work toward definable goals. Sometimes, more detailed information is missing (e.g., “How long have you felt this depressed? Have you ever felt this way before? If so, what did you do about it back then? How did you get yourself out of that depression?”). Sometimes, there may be substantial gaps in a client’s story (e.g., “You told me a lot about your childhood, but I’m not clear on how you see that affecting you today”). In other words, a client tells only the conscious part of a story. Thus, a master practitioner of necessity conducts a very thorough assessment of a client’s history, needs, strengths, and goals before more definable therapeutic interventions can be considered and implemented.
