Bshs 385 - Three Stage Model of Interviewing

Three Stage Model of Interviewing

BSHS385

In the short film “The Angry Couple” Dr. Susan Heitler meets with a married couple Judith and Richard.  After 2 and a half years of marriage they are having some marital problems and have sought help from other marriage counselors. They have come to Dr. Susan Heitler in hopes that she can finally help them solve their marital issues (Holland & Schein, 1995). In this video, Dr. Susan Heitler will show examples of the 3 stages, and provide examples of the 13 different elements of interviewing.

The first of the 3 stages is exploration. This stage helps clients identify their experiences, issues, and problems (Evans, Hearn, Uhlemann, & Ivey, 2011). The exploration stage sets a positive tone between both the client and provider. Within this film Dr. Heitler asked both Judith and Richard to explain to her exactly what each of them hoped to accomplished during their sessions with her. Dr. Heitler asks Richard and Judith to turn towards one another and try to explain to one another clearly why each of them are there. Judith explains to Richard that she wants him to commit to her and a family. Whereas, Richard feels that at this current place in their relationship, the timing just isn’t right. Dr. Heitler further explores the issues they are having and the feelings that each of them are experiencing. The couple has told her that they went to another therapist, but that it didn’t work. Judith feels that Richard doesn’t listen to her, and Richard feels that Judith’s anger is the main problem.

The next stage is clarification. This stage the define the client’s problem, and helps the client order those problems requiring further action and redefine them into attainable goals (Evans, Hearn, Uhlemann, & Ivey, 2011). Dr. Heitler soon realizes that she will need to set some basic rules with Judith and Richard, otherwise their session is going to become heated like it does when they are home. Dr. Heitler also realizes that Judith is only interested in getting out her feelings without listing to what her husband is saying. This is where the clarification stage is important. Dr. Heitler asked Judith is she fully understand what has been said up to this point, and if she understand the goals of both her and Richards goals. Dr. Heitler points out what both clients need, and then bringing them to their attention for a quick resolution and determining a solution they both can agree upon (Holland & Schein, 1995).

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