If a clinician had only 15 minutes to conduct a preliminary clinical interview, which information should he or she try to get, and why?

In a 15-minute preliminary clinical interview, the clinician should prioritize gathering essential information that will help them understand the client's presenting concerns and determine the next steps in their care. This may include obtaining information about the client's current symptoms, any relevant medical history, any previous mental health treatment, current medications, and any immediate safety concerns. Additionally, it would be important to assess the client's current level of functioning and any significant stressors or life events that may be contributing to their current difficulties. This information is crucial for the clinician to make an initial assessment of the client's needs and to develop a plan for further evaluation and treatment. While a 15-minute interview is limited in time, focusing on these key areas can help the clinician gather important information to guide their initial clinical impressions and recommendations.