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

What is the best initial response for a social worker when a client presents with varying emotional states during sessions?

1. Explore the triggers of their emotions

2. Establish a consistent therapy plan

3. Refer the client to a psychiatrist

4. Assess for deeper issues

The correct answer is: Explore the triggers of their emotions

When a client exhibits varying emotional states during sessions, the most effective initial response for a social worker is to explore the triggers of their emotions. This approach allows the therapist to gain insight into the specific factors that contribute to the client’s emotional fluctuations. Understanding these triggers is crucial as it helps the client to identify patterns in their emotional responses, promotes self-awareness, and can guide the therapeutic process. By addressing the triggers first, the social worker can foster a sense of safety and validation for the client, which is essential for building trust in the therapeutic relationship. This initial exploration allows for the identification of specific stressors or situations that might influence the client’s emotional state, laying a foundation for deeper therapeutic work in subsequent sessions. The other options do not address the immediate need to understand the client's emotional experiences. Establishing a consistent therapy plan might come after understanding the triggers, as it is informed by the client’s unique emotional landscape. Referring the client to a psychiatrist could be appropriate if there are indications of a psychiatric condition, but initially exploring emotions is essential before considering such a referral. Finally, assessing for deeper issues is typically a later step in therapy; it builds on the foundational work of understanding current emotions and their triggers.