Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) Therapist Development Center Practice Exam

A social worker is faced with a client expressing anger towards her boyfriend for infidelity. What should the social worker do first?

1. Contact the authorities immediately

2. Explore the reasons for the client’s anger

3. Confront the boyfriend about the situation

4. Suggest a cooling-off period

The correct answer is: Explore the reasons for the client’s anger

The appropriate first step for the social worker in this scenario is to explore the reasons for the client’s anger. Engaging with the client about her feelings allows the social worker to gain insight into the emotional response and the underlying issues surrounding the infidelity. Understanding this anger can help the therapist identify specific triggers and feelings, such as betrayal, hurt, or abandonment, which are essential for effective therapeutic intervention. Exploring the client’s emotional landscape fosters a therapeutic alliance and demonstrates empathy, which is crucial in building trust. This process may also provide an opportunity for the client to articulate her thoughts and feelings, helping her to process the situation more effectively. Additionally, it sets a foundation for examining coping strategies, communication skills, and personal values in subsequent sessions. Addressing the client’s feelings first allows the social worker to approach the situation with sensitivity and provides a safe space for the client to express herself. This approach aligns with therapeutic principles, emphasizing the importance of client-centered exploration before taking action or making suggestions.