What is the main benefit of semi-structured assessment interviews?

The main benefit of semi-structured assessment interviews is that they provide a framework while allowing for detail-oriented exploration. This approach combines the advantages of structured interviews, which have set questions, with the flexibility of unstructured interviews, where more spontaneous dialogue can unfold.

By using a semi-structured format, clinicians can ensure that essential topics are covered, yet they can also probe deeper into specific areas of a client’s experience as needed. This can lead to richer, more nuanced insights into the client's thoughts, feelings, and behaviors, facilitating a better understanding of their situation. In contrast to rigid methods requiring total closure with clients or those that are purely time-efficient, semi-structured interviews prioritize both comprehensiveness and depth, making them particularly valuable in treatment and assessment settings.