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

If a social worker experiences a lower mood and thoughts about death after sessions with a client, what is this indicative of?

1. Poor Boundaries

2. Transference

3. Countertransference

4. Trauma Response

The correct answer is: Countertransference

The situation where a social worker feels a lower mood and has thoughts about death after sessions with a client is indicative of countertransference. Countertransference refers to the emotional reactions and unresolved feelings that a therapist may project onto a client based on their own personal experiences. In this case, the social worker’s emotional state reflects an internal struggle that has been triggered by interactions with the client, possibly stemming from the client’s issues or expressions during therapy. This phenomenon is significant because it highlights the importance of self-awareness and emotional regulation in therapeutic practice. Social workers must be attuned to their own feelings and reactions to ensure that their emotional responses do not interfere with the therapeutic process or the well-being of their clients. If countertransference goes unrecognized, it can lead to ineffective therapy and potential harm to both the therapist and client. Understanding the client’s situation while being mindful of the therapist's emotional responses allows for better therapeutic boundaries and more effective practice. This points to the need for supervision, self-care, and professional development to address any challenging emotions that arise in the course of providing care.