Weekly Practice Log (Week of 8/21/2010-8/27/2010)

Dates of practice:  ___8/24/06_____         Times (start and finish): 9– 9:20 a.m._

                               __8/25/06_____                                                 _8:30-9:10 a.m.

                              ______________                                                ____________

Persons with whom you practiced: _Mike Q., EllenY._______________________ _______________________________________________________________ (First names only please)

Three specific skills that you practiced: 1. _____SOLER____________________   

2. ____Reflecting_______________     3. _____Complimenting______________

Describe the practice sessions:  

I mostly practiced SOLER with Mike.  He came in as a client who was referred by his boss because of his problems with his temper.  I worked on the introduction and being attentive through posture and clearly explaining the process.  I was able to do that but then had trouble knowing what to ask next.

Ellen pretended to be a woman who felt like she could not communicate with her 12 year old son.  I practiced reflecting what she was saying, mostly the content, to make sure I understood what she was saying.  I also tried to identify strengths and compliment her on these strengths.  It was hard because she kept laughing as we role-played and I was nervous and kept laughing, too.

In which areas/skills do you feel you did well?   

I explained the process, particularly confidentiality, well and made sure the client understood that.  I also practiced SOLER.  I was able to reflect some of what the clients were saying.

Which areas/skills were the most difficult?  What do you need to do to continue to gain skills in this/these areas?

I had a hard time staying serious.  I need to practice not laughing through reminding myself to calm down and focus.  I also got stuck on what to ask next and I need to remember to ask open-ended questions.