Seeking further information

In some situations you will be required to extract further information from the client to find out the reason for contact with the service.

This is done by taking time, by listening actively, and by taking your questioning a little deeper. The aim is to gain an accurate picture of the client’s needs and why they are here. This may involve letting them tell their story in more detail. When you are encouraging the client to describe their situation and the reason for making contact with the service, it is important to consider strategies for clarifying the information provided.

When seeking further information from the client, take the following points into consideration:

• It is very easy to ask too many questions making the client feel like they are being interrogated.
• You do not have to diagnose or be the counsellor.
• If you are unable to provide the client with direct assistance, you may be able to provide them with other assistance.