Collaboration with Clients, Goal Setting & Self-Efficacy (Module 8)

Vocabulary flashcards covering the essential terms and definitions discussed in Module 8 on collaboration, goal setting and self-efficacy.

Collaboration with clients

Working alongside clients as equal partners so they set their own goals and remain in control of their change journey.

Goal

A desired end-point, target or aspiration that provides direction, focus and motivation.

Goal setting

The process of identifying meaningful objectives and outlining steps to achieve them.

Short-term goal

An objective that can be accomplished in the near future—typically within days, weeks, or a few months.

Medium-term goal

An objective that generally takes about six months to two years to achieve and often serves as a step toward a long-term goal.

Long-term goal

A far-reaching objective that usually takes more than two years and several smaller steps to accomplish.

SMART goal

A goal that is Specific, Measurable, Achievable (Action-oriented), Realistic (Relevant) and Time-bound.

Specific (SMART)

Clearly states what will change—who, what, where, when and why.

Measurable (SMART)

Includes criteria or metrics that allow progress to be tracked and success to be verified.

Achievable / Action-oriented (SMART)

Within the person’s capability and resources, outlining concrete actions that can be taken.

Realistic / Relevant (SMART)

Physically possible, reasonable and aligned with the individual’s broader life priorities.

Time-bound (SMART)

Has a clear deadline or schedule that creates urgency and enables review.

Motivation

The internal drive that energises and sustains goal-directed behaviour.

Readiness for change

A person’s current willingness and preparedness to work hard toward a specific change.

Roadblocks

Potential obstacles or challenges that can hinder progress toward a goal.

Celebrate achievements

Acknowledging and rewarding completed steps to reinforce progress and build confidence.

Transfer of knowledge

Applying skills or learning acquired in one context to new or different situations.

Self-efficacy

A person’s belief in their own ability to succeed at a task or handle a situation.

Albert Bandura

Canadian-American psychologist who introduced the concepts of Social Learning Theory and self-efficacy.

Social Learning Theory

Bandura’s idea that people learn not only from direct experience but also by observing others.

Observational learning

Acquiring new behaviours or knowledge by watching the actions and outcomes of others’ behaviour.

Action plan

A step-by-step outline—often 10 steps—from psychological preparation to reassessing the overall goal.

Micro-skills (paraphrasing, reflection, summarising)

Core communication techniques used to understand, clarify and support clients during collaboration.

Client dependency

Reliance on the professional for answers; effective practice discourages this and promotes client autonomy.