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HCET Home > On-line Training > Prenatal Smoking Cessation > Counseling Aids
6. Counseling Aids
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Orient the client to the session This is an important step. By informing the client of the purpose of the visit, it not only lessons any uncertainty but also builds rapport. The client will need to be reassured you are there to provide support and assistance, not harsh judgments and lectures. If this is a follow-up appointment take this time to praise any progress your client has made. Even small steps are steps in the right direction. |
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Supply the client with your undivided attention Make the client feel that she is being heard and understood. A way to show that you are interested is to allow the client time to explain her answers or situations. An effective tool used to draw information from patients without a lengthy list of questions is using open-ended, non-accusatory questions. For example, what techniques have you used to assist you in your past attempts to quit smoking? This question allows the client to provide you the information you need without taking the extra time to go through each method on the lengthy check list. In a session, do not use technical medical terminology and jargon; this will intimidate and confuse many patients. Be aware of not only your verbal responses to the patients but also your non-verbal signals. A way to show that you are being attentive to the client without saying anything is a slight smile, or nodding of the head. Posture will also say a lot. Try to sit up and lean toward the client without folding your arms across your chest. If there is a desk or table, do not place yourself on one side and the client on the other. Because such positioning can be viewed as being defensive or closed to what your client has to say. |
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Offer suggestions instead of prescribing a regimen of change By dictating a specific regimen or way your client should quit you are no longer customizing the cessation method. The regimen may have been effective for one patient, but remember each client is unique with her own needs and abilities. One method will not work for everyone. |
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Provide a multitude of opportunities through various personalized recommendations Through listening to the patients needs, concerns, and smoking preferences, you will be able to make recommendations for a multitude of cessation tools. Allow the client to choose which method will be best for her by offering all of the options to the client and allowing the client to choose the method she feels best suits her needs. |
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Wrapping up the appointment At the end of each session, be sure to restate any agreements that have been made, e.g. possible cessation dates or a specific cessation method that will be used. Make sure you have addressed any concerns and questions that the client might have had, and set a follow up appointment. To end on a positive note, remember to praise and recognize any progress your client has made up to this point. Remind her that relapse is normal and that she should use relapse as a tool to help her learn. |
Supplemental Handout Materials in PDF
- Preparing Your Patient to Quit Smoking - Information for Counselors
- Smoking Cessation Resources
