Initial Contact with Clients

If possible, the BMDC component should be assigned its own phone number, and a receptionist answering the phone should respond with that component's name.

Initial Contact with Clients

nitial Contact With Clients

Receptionists and assessment staff members should be aware of the program’s advertisements, public service announcements, or other activities so that they can respond knowledgeably and professionally to telephone inquiries. Research participants report that any initial resistance or confusion by the treatment facility leads to a breakdown in the initiation process. A friendly, empathetic, and understanding atmosphere should begin with the first contact and continue throughout treatment and followup.

If possible, the BMDC component should be assigned its own phone number, and a receptionist answering the phone should respond with that component’s name. If an answering system is used, the message can distinguish the BMDC program from others offered by the agency. Callers may raise questions about BMDC’s specific components and its track record or demonstrated effectiveness to determine whether it can help them. They may be concerned about whether they will be treated in groups with people who use other drugs (e.g., cocaine) or alcohol. They may be relieved that BMDC specializes in treating “people like them” and pleased to know the program is based on scientific research. Callers need to know that the program is sensitive to their needs, that staff will take them seriously, and that the services are delivered professionally. MTP participants were apprehensive initially and wanted a counselor trained to treat marijuana problems.

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