ABSTRACT
This introductory chapter introduces a short list of interviewing skills that can be used very flexibly to cover most client–helper interactions. These skills include verbal and nonverbal attending, commenting on nonverbal behavior, open-ended and closed questions, reflective listening, empathetic comments, summarizing, supportive redirecting, supportive confrontation, and process comments. Mastering these skills provides a strong foundation of helping skills that can be used to achieve the goals of the first stage of treatment including: gaining an in-depth understanding of client strengths or sources of resilience, gaining an in-depth understanding of client weaknesses or areas of difficulty, and developing a trusting, working relationship with a client. This chapter also raises issues about how human diversity can influence the development of a working relationship and the key processes that lead to effective treatment.
