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Do Good Work CHAPTER SIX Intake Forms O utside of your code of ethics and professional liability insurance certificate, there is no more important piece of paper to your career than your client intake form. It is a doorway to your client and a well-lit path toward professional security. CREATE AN INTAKE FORM While some therapists use ready-made intake forms (examples are available online at www.ascpskincare. com in the Members section), others choose to design their own document. It’s up to you to decide how best to formulate your form—borrow from others, combine the best elements from all, or start from scratch. The goal is to create a form that provides important client history, skin type and condition, and clearly states the purpose of the session at hand. Regardless of the breadth or nature of your intake form, it should include some very basic elements: client’s full name, address, phone number, emergency contact, health history, and skin type questionnaire. HEALTH HISTORY Always get a health history. A client’s health affects her skin. Detailed information can greatly complement your physical analysis. Health histories can be incorporated into a skin care history or intake form or taken separately. They can be filled out by the clients, or can be detailed by you in an interview (physicians cross-check the accuracy of information by doing both). One important question to ask on your form is whether your client is under a physician’s care. The response will highlight any conditions that may contraindicate esthetic treatments. Intake forms also include an informed consent and/or liability release form. Such a release can www.ascpskincare.com be used to specify the scope of your practice, as well as provide a signed assurance that the client has fully disclosed any existing medical conditions (see also “Keep Accurate Client Records,” page 130). When designing your form, you might include a few extras to help and protect you along the way. For instance, you might have an appended form for minors that includes a space for a parent or guardian signature. You will want to know what products your clients are using in their home care regimens. You might also ask for a client’s previous experience with the particular treatment they are seeking. INITIAL CONSULTATION The initial consultation with your client is critical. Using the intake form, you can review the information with him or her and define their goals and objectives. This is the perfect time to seek clarification and ask questions about allergies, medications, and other pertinent health information. You also want to find out the main reason for the visit. Clients look to you, their professional, to find solutions to their concerns. Once you are clear about your client’s expectations, you can work together to develop a strategy for meeting them. The initial consultation also establishes a bond with the client and helps maintain the relationship. Show genuine concern, be an empathetic listener, and demonstrate patience and acceptance. Remember, you want to build trust and achieve a realistic, positive outcome. Finally, reassure your client—either verbally or in writing—the information she provides is absolutely confidential. This understanding is important for your integrity, ensures full disclosure, and encourages open and honest communication. successful business handbook 119