The Professional: Out and About

As you saw in the video clips, your work in the human services field may take you to a variety of different environments. Frequently, professionals meet with clients in their homes, community, medical facilities, or community centers. With each environment comes different strengths and challenges, including safety for both you and the client.

Thinking about what you have learned thus far in the unit, answer the following:

• What are the strengths and challenges of meeting with clients in the home versus the office? In which setting do you think the client might be more comfortable? In which setting might you, as the professional, be more comfortable?
• Can you think of any time or reason you would want to meet in a different location? Where else might you meet with clients? How would you ensure confidentiality?
• What are some safety guidelines you might use when meeting with clients in different situations? How might your awareness of safety change from location to location?