AFC Module 4 - Client Goals

Question 1

Action Plan

Answer 1

The written instrument that specifies the goals and direction that help the client make a commitment and summarizes the content of the counseling session.

Question 2

Seven principles of effective goals. They are:

Answer 2

1. The goals are under the client’s control.
2. The goals emphasize what the client will do or how they will behave.
3. The goals specify what the client will be doing when on track toward achieving goals.
4. The goals may specify the conditions under which behavior can be observed.
5. The goals may specify actions, in percentages, degrees, or numbers that will be acceptable during a specific time period.
6. The goals are stated in positive terms.
7. The goals are stated in the client’s language.

Question 3

S.M.A.R.T Goals

Answer 3

S: is for specific. Goals should be as clear as possible so that when they review the goals periodically, they will know exactly what they wanted to accomplish and whether or not they have done it. The key is to be specific!

M: is for measurable. The client should state what they want to accomplish with numbers. The power of this approach is that it will be easy to know when the goal is successfully completed.

A: is for achievable. The client should set a goal that is challenging but not one that they will never achieve.

R: is for realistic or relevant. A counselor should ask the client whether or not the goal is appropriate. Is it something that would actually be helpful or are they just setting a goal because someone convinced them that it was a good idea? If the client does not believe that the goal is important, chances are that they will not see it through.

T: is for timely. A client should set due dates for their goals. It is very easy to procrastinate when it comes to making progress toward goals.

Goal setting should be an iterative process whereby clients review their progress periodically and revise goals as needed. Counselors can help clients review progress toward goals and determine what adjustments need to be made.