What is a clinical interview?

A clinical interview is a structured conversation aimed at assessing an individual's mental health status, psychological state, and specific concerns or symptoms. It involves open-ended questions, allowing the clinician to gather detailed information about the patient's history, thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. This approach not only helps in diagnosing mental health conditions but also assists in developing a treatment plan tailored to the individual’s needs.

In contrast to standardized tests, which measure intelligence or other specific abilities, a clinical interview focuses on personal experiences and mental health issues. While written questionnaires can be useful for symptom assessment, they may not capture the nuances of a patient’s situation as effectively as a conversation. A physical evaluation, on the other hand, is primarily concerned with the patient’s physical health rather than their psychological state, making it distinct from the purpose of a clinical interview.