Initial Interview / History Taking
Objective:
To practice and develop interviewing skills by conducting an initial interview with a client
and recording relevant personal, social, and psychological information for counselling
purposes.
1. Identification Data
Name: Mr.
Age:20 years
Sex: Male
Address:TC 45/872, Vazhuthacaud, Thiruvananthapuram
Contact Number: 9XXXXXXXXX
Education: [Link]. Psychology (II Year)
Occupation: Student
Marital Status: Single
2. Information Related to the Problem
The client reported difficulty in concentrating on studies and a lack of motivation during the
past six months.
Nature of the Problem: Low concentration, anxiety, and procrastination.
Impact: Interferes with academic performance and sleep routine.
Thoughts and Feelings: “I’m not good enough”; feelings of restlessness and self-doubt.
Duration: Approximately six months.
Situational Pattern: Occurs mostly when studying alone; better focus during group studies.
Reason for Seeking Counselling: Suggested by class tutor due to academic decline and
withdrawal from class activities.
3. Client’s Present Life Situation
Daily Routine: Attends college from 9 30 AM to 3 30 PM, spends evenings on his phone or
watching shows, studies irregularly.
Social and Recreational Activities: Occasionally plays football; avoids social events.
Current Academic/Vocational Status: Below-average performance in the present semester; no
part-time work experience.
4. Family Setting
Father:Mr. (48 yrs), Engineer in Kuwait.
Mother: Mrs. (44 yrs), Homemaker.
Siblings: One younger sister (17 yrs), school student.
Relationship within Family: Cordial relationship between parents. Client feels emotionally
closer to mother and sister; limited contact with father due to his job abroad.
Health Issues: None reported.
Family Stability:The family has been living in the same house for the last 10 years; stable
socio-cultural background.
5. Personal History
a) Educational History:
Good academic performance till higher secondary. Adjustment difficulties began after
entering college. Has an interest in psychology, but online distractions affect study habits.
b) Work Experience:
None reported.
c) Medical History:
No significant illness or surgeries. Occasional headaches due to poor sleep.
d) Marital/Relationship History:
Had a brief relationship in first year; ended a few months ago, leading to emotional distress.
e) Previous Counselling Experience:
None.
f) Substance Use:
Occasional alcohol use in social settings; no drug use.
g) Goals:
Aspires to pursue post-graduation in Clinical Psychology and work as a therapist, though
currently uncertain about his abilities.
6. Description of the Client During the Interview
Temperament: Calm and polite, initially reserved but gradually opened up.
Behaviour and Mannerisms: Mild fidgeting; clasped hands when anxious.
Body Language: Leaned forward when discussing academic stress; avoided eye contact while
sharing personal issues.
Facial Expressions: Mildly anxious, forced smile at times.
Language and Tone: Fluent and coherent; low voice while discussing emotional topics.
Motivation and Attitude: Cooperative and motivated to improve; showed self-awareness
about his problem.
7. Summary and Analysis
The client’s main difficulty appears to be reduced concentration and motivation, possibly
linked to emotional stress from a breakup and feelings of loneliness due to his father’s
absence.
He exhibits mild anxiety and self-doubt, impacting academic functioning.
The counsellor noted good insight, motivation for self-improvement, and emotional maturity.
Counselling Plan:
A supportive and directive counselling approach focusing on:
Stress management and coping strategies
Study skill improvement
Emotional expression and self-esteem building
Goal setting and motivational enhancement
8. Counsellor’s Observations
The client responded well to the session and began to show trust. Rapport was established
successfully. Further sessions are recommended to explore emotional adjustment and time
management skills.
Confidentiality Statement
All information shared by the client is kept strictly confidential and will not be disclosed
without consent.
Signature of the Counsellor: ___________________________
Signature of the Client: ______________________________
Date:10 October 2025
Institution: Department of Psychology