Therapeutic Communication Pt. 2

What does LEAP stand for in therapeutic communication?

Listen, Empathize, Agree, Partner

What is the goal of 'Listening' in LEAP?

To understand the other person’s point of view and reflect it back without offering opinions.

What does 'Empathize' mean in the LEAP method?

Identifying with the client’s feelings and acknowledging their experience without agreeing.

What is the purpose of 'Agree' in LEAP?

To find common ground by discussing perceived problems/symptoms and reviewing treatment benefits.

How does 'Partner' work in LEAP?

Work towards shared goals, build trust, and foster collaboration.

Why should you directly ask about suicide?

To open dialogue and assess suicidal ideation clearly without avoiding the topic.

What are examples of validating statements to a suicidal client?

“That must have been difficult” or “Sounds like you’ve been having a tough time.”

What is therapeutic communication?

Accepting, active listening, empathy, silence, offering self, giving recognition, broad openings, eye contact and humor,

Give examples of non-therapeutic communication.

Reassurance, minimizing, rejecting, defending, requesting explanations - “why”, changing topics.

What does SBAR stand for?

Situation, Background, Assessment, Recommendation

How does 'Call Out' work in communication?

Communicates critical info to all, assigns responsibility to one specific individual.

What is 'Check Back' in communication?

Message is repeated back by receiver to confirm understanding.

What is 'Handoff' in communication?

Transfer of info and accountability during care transitions.

What are signs of disorganized thought processes?

Loose associations, thought blocking, tangential, word salad.

Define insight in a mental status exam.

Awareness of illness, attribution of symptoms, and recognition of need for treatment.

What is judgment in a mental health context?

Ability to make safe, logical, goal-directed decisions.

What is Affect?

Observable expression of emotions - can be broad (full emotion), blunted (reduced), flat (none), and labile (rapidly changing).

What is Mood?

Internal and emotional state of patient.

Communication w/ a Suicidal Patient

• Have you had thoughts of harming yourself?