Clinical encounters can provide a portal into understanding patient needs and person-centred care. Communication in interviewing is vital: communicating caring attitudes and actions in tandem. Some patients and populations require extra consideration in clinical settings. Many individuals with developmental disabilities present with cognitive, communication, motor or sensory differences that necessitate adaptations as we prepare and engage them in interviews. The following guidelines provide a summary of steps to “Communicate CARE when you INTERVIEW” a patient with a developmental disability. The principles and practices are broadly applicable and stand to benefit patients as well as clinicians in initial clinical encounters.

Dr Peter Szatmari is a renowned child and youth psychiatrist with extensive experience with people who live with what is now referred to as the autism spectrum. Dr Szatmari shares insights from his experiences, highlighting lessons learned from people on the autism spectrum and the importance of collaborative relationships.

SpotLight Drama and friends remind professionals to think 'H.E.L.P.' when 'behaviour' is the 'presenting problem'.