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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. |
Counseling
Aids 
in PDF
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