The client was a resident of the Davis Child Shelter, her name was Resident S. The interview happened 8/7/15. Most of the residents went outside to play some basketball and football in the afternoon, and she was seeing at the steps alone, and looked distressed. I walked over to her, to see what was wrong. There was no previous interview, and before approaching Resident S, I was not sure about the readiness if she was willing to talk to me. I hoped that the last couple of weeks of building rapport would help, but she did open up to me. At the start of the interview, Resident S was withdrawn and mad/sad that something happened. I was a little nervous walking to her, but I knew she would not get mad at me for it. It could be possible that because it was outside, and away from ear-shot of anyone, she would open up to me more than if I was in the Shelter. As for my appearance, I normally wear “regular” clothes at the Shelter. I believe that helps me build rapport with the residents at the Shelter by putting me on an equal level.
I recognized that Resident S was said, and knew something was making her…
I kept a supportive, yet claim face and nonverbal communication, and my tone of my voice was firm yet understanding. I had to place myself in the eyes of a 16-17 year old, and rather than judge Resident S and telling her to get over it, I realize that “relationships” can mean more when you are younger. I am more empathic now than my foundation year as well. My role is being the intern, and I am in a “limbo” role. I am not staff, but I am also not a resident either. An intern does not have to take on the supervisory role, but I have to remind the residents about rules and policies. I believe my role may have help when talking to the residents because they do not fear that they will get into trouble, but know I can still be there to be…
