Mental Health Serivces?

I am new to a mental health team that goes out and helps the homeless with services (housing, food, etc.). I am coming across a lot of folks that are having perfectly clear conversations with themselves. As a budding mental health prfessional how do I deal with that? DO I ask what they are talking about or to whom they are talking? Do I just let it go, etc. etc. Any professional direction would be appreciated!!! Thanks!

You might ask, "You seem to be keeping yourself good company, would you like to talk with me while I'm here?" If the person is simply lonely, he or she may appreciate another person to talk with. If he or she is schizophrenic, you'll get a response that will clue you in on that. If the person is dissociative, you may get a response that indicates that the conversation is between 'us' and not for you. Best thing you can do in any case is be highly respectful and ask how you can be of help.

Take it up with your supervisor. It is his responsibility to prepare you for what you may encounter out there.

Good luck in your chosen field.

If they are homeless they can have delusions and hallucinations they are talking to the voices in their head. Stay clear let them come to you for the food. If they are paranoid they can hurt you without realizing it. I do not mean to scare you, you have to approach these people the same way you would approach any other stranger. Be careful, some may need in patient restabilization on meds.