Filling Out Case Report Forms
In this video, I’m focusing on how to fill out your Case Report Forms (CRFs) effectively. These forms are a critical part of your ACBC Phase 3 process, as they allow me to understand your counseling sessions and provide meaningful feedback.
Understanding the CRF Template
CRFs are static forms with fixed questions, but counseling sessions are dynamic and fluid. This antithesis creates a natural tension because the template stays the same while the content of each session changes.
Here’s the key idea: I need an accurate representation of your counseling session more than strict adherence to the CRF questions. Think of the CRF as a framework or guide—not a rigid checklist.
How to Approach CRFs
- Answer the Questions Thoughtfully: Use the questions in the CRF as a guide to help you process and articulate the session. You do want to answer the questions where applicable. However, if something significant happens that doesn’t align neatly with a question, include that something anyway. Think of it as telling me the story of a unique counseling session. This storytelling approach helps me understand not only what happened but also how you’re thinking through the session as a biblical counselor.
- Avoid Repetition Across CRFs: For example, you might address questions 1 and 2 (history and presenting problems) thoroughly in the first CRF. Don’t repeat that information in subsequent CRFs unless new details emerge. If additional history or presenting problems emerge in the second, third, or later sessions, include that new information in the relevant CRFs. This approach ensures each CRF builds upon the last and reflects the unique progression of the counseling relationship.
- Customize Your CRFs if Needed: If you find the standard CRF format restrictive—hard to fill out due to its formatting, you’re welcome to copy the questions into a Word or Pages document. You can then use that customized document to write your CRF. The format doesn’t have to match the exact form provided by ACBC as long as the questions are included and the information is clear.
- Key Idea: Accuracy Over Structure
Your primary goal is to provide the most accurate representation of the counseling session. This challenge might mean:
- Adding, ignoring, or adapting questions as necessary.
- Using wisdom to determine what’s most relevant for me to know about the session.
- No two CRFs should look the same because no two counseling sessions are identical.
Final Thoughts
These forms allow me to step into your counseling process and see how you’re serving your counselee. The clearer and more accurate your CRFs are, the better I can support you in growing your skills.
Remember: It’s not about perfection—it’s about faithfulness in communicating the unique aspects of each session. Let’s use this tool well as part of your journey toward equipping yourself to serve others for God’s glory.
Peace,
Rick
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