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

What is the best course of action when assessing a minor with a history of self-harm and suicide attempts?

1. Focus solely on the current symptoms shared by the client

2. Communicate with the psychiatrist and prior therapist

3. Develop a treatment plan based on the parent's concerns

4. Assess the minor’s feelings about therapy during sessions

The correct answer is: Communicate with the psychiatrist and prior therapist

The best course of action when assessing a minor with a history of self-harm and suicide attempts involves communicating with the psychiatrist and prior therapist. This approach allows the clinician to gather comprehensive information that is critical for understanding the minor's background, past treatment responses, and any patterns that may assist in informing current assessments and interventions. Communication with a psychiatrist can provide insights into any psychiatric diagnoses, medication history, and overall treatment progress. Similarly, the previous therapist can offer valuable information about the minor's therapeutic history, triggering events, coping mechanisms, and effectiveness of prior interventions. This collaborative approach not only enhances the understanding of the minor's situation but also helps in creating a safer and more effective treatment plan tailored to the individual needs of the child. While focusing on current symptoms or developing a treatment plan based solely on parental concerns might seem beneficial, these strategies would limit understanding to just the present without incorporating the important historical context. Assessing the minor's feelings about therapy is useful but should not be the sole focus, as it may overlook critical information gained from previous providers that could guide effective treatment planning.