Help Needed

Week 1

Respond to the following in a minimum of 175 words each question, post must be substantive responses: 

What are the similarities and differences between structured and semi-structured clinical interviews?

What role does the setting of the interview play in deciding which style of interview is most appropriate?

Respond to classmates in a minimum of 175 words each person, post must be substantive responses: 

T.W.

What are the similarities and differences between structured and semi-structured clinical interviews? The similarities between a structured and semi-structured clinical interviews is that they are both designed to gather information in order to diagnosis and treat the client. The difference between the two are that the structured interview is a standardized interview that is used with each client. A semi-structured interview is not so standard. There is an order or a process however each client may not be asked the same questions in the same exact way. Sometimes in an unstructured interview the questions are not already set.

What role does the setting of the interview play in deciding which style of interview is most appropriate? I have experience with interviewing clients in a professional setting and also in a home setting. Based on my experience, the setting plays a crucial role in the behavior of both the client and counselor. When I have met with clients in a more professional or structured setting the interview seemed to be more structured and professional. However, when I was in the client’s home, the behavior was more relaxed and more casual. The interview was dictated by the client’s behavior. If they are more relaxed and more comfortable in their home you unconsciously or at least I did tried to be as light as possible. I could still ask the necessary questions to gather the information it just because in a different approach or manner. It was more in a conversation form. For me, that was harder because I had to pay more close attention and then pulling out the information I needed.  But in that approach, I learned more than I would have if I were in a more professional (office) setting. This sounds contrary to the job of the interviewer and the purpose of the interview, however, according to the clinical interviewing text the interview does not always have to be direct. Indirect interviews are also effective in any setting and at the appropriate situation.

H.G.

The similarities of structured and semi-structured clinical interviews are that both are used to gather information from an individual. Structured interviews are standardized and gather specific information. Whereas a semi-structured interview may have different questions or questions may be asked differently depending on the individual that is being assisted.

The setting of where an interview is to be taken place is extremely important. It is important that a counselor is aware of how their setting must match their interviewing. Counselors must allow individuals to feel comfortable. If a counselor is assisting a child, they may have a setting that has things that may be interesting to children, including books, puzzles, and toys. If a counselor is assisting individuals who may be destructive or who may be affected by different things, they may have an office with little to no distractions or objects. Counselors must have a professional, private setting where individuals may feel comfortable. Depending on what population a counselor is assisting may depend on the setting of the interview or the session. There may also be times that professional have to assist an individual in a setting other than their office setting. Professionals must still maintain professionalism and provide services to individuals.