Psychiatric Technician Practice Exam

When a psychiatric technician approaches a patient with Major Depression, what is an appropriate way to introduce a group therapy session?

1. "Let's discuss your feelings in therapy."

2. "I'm going to escort you to the Feelings Group that is starting soon."

3. "You should feel better after this group."

4. "It's important to socialize with others."

The correct answer is: "I'm going to escort you to the Feelings Group that is starting soon."

Introducing a group therapy session to a patient with Major Depression requires a thoughtful and supportive approach. The choice of stating, "I'm going to escort you to the Feelings Group that is starting soon," is effective because it conveys a sense of safety and support. The statement emphasizes the technician's role in guiding the patient to the session, which can be particularly important for someone experiencing depression, as they may feel overwhelmed or reluctant to engage socially. This introduction is clear and informative, letting the patient know exactly what to expect without placing undue pressure on them to participate in a specific emotional exchange. It respects the patient's current state while encouraging them to join a therapeutic setting where they can potentially benefit from interaction with others who may share similar experiences. In contrast, other options may not be as suitable for the context of introducing group therapy. For example, discussing feelings explicitly could be intimidating for a patient who may be struggling to articulate their emotions. Phrasing it as a directive about feeling better can set unrealistic expectations, and implying the necessity of socializing might put additional pressure on the patient, especially if they are not yet ready to engage with others. Therefore, the choice highlights a delicate balance of providing direction while also being empathetic and reassuring, making it the most