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

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When a 17-year-old with Bipolar Disorder does not take prescribed medication due to religious beliefs, what action should the therapist take?

Initiate involuntary hospitalization
Discuss the risks of not taking medication
Collaborate with parents to respect their beliefs
Report suspected neglect to authorities

The correct answer is: Collaborate with parents to respect their beliefs

The most effective action is to collaborate with the parents to respect their beliefs while considering the best interests of the adolescent. It's essential to recognize the importance of respecting cultural and religious beliefs, especially in a therapeutic context. By engaging with the parents, the therapist can explore the reasons behind the adolescent's reluctance to take medication and discuss alternative approaches that may align better with the family’s values. This collaborative effort can help create a supportive environment in which the adolescent feels heard and understood, potentially leading to a solution that respects both their religious beliefs and addresses their mental health needs. It also opens up a pathway for further exploration of treatment options that could be acceptable to the family, such as therapy or lifestyle changes, rather than immediately resorting to more restrictive measures.