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Frequently Asked Questions
What is PalmPal?
PalmPal is an electronic data collection system that is designed to replace the paper Counselor Information Form that test counselors in California are required to complete for each test client. The system could eventually replace other forms such as STD or HERR LEO forms as well.
PalmPal was developed based on research by Nicolas Sheon and colleagues at CAPS demonstrating that the CIF impedes counseling by - focusing the session on paperwork rather than the client
- placing clients on the defensive by interrogating them about past risks;
- focusing on topics because they are on the form, not because they are relevant to the client
- limiting eye contact since counselor is focused on the paperwork
and not the client
The goal of PalmPal is to remove the form from the session to improve the quality
of client data and allow a more client-centered counseling discussion to flourish.
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