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

When discussing treatment objectives for a child whose family utilizes religious means for mental health issues, what should the therapist focus on?

1. Investigation of the family's practices

2. Ensuring the child receives conventional psychotropic medication

3. Promoting the importance of faith in treatment

4. Exploring alternative support systems

The correct answer is: Exploring alternative support systems

Focusing on exploring alternative support systems is crucial when working with a child from a family that relies on religious means for mental health issues. This approach allows the therapist to respect and engage with the family's beliefs while also introducing other available resources that can complement their existing practices. Identifying and discussing these alternative support systems can help the child access a broader array of coping strategies and support, ultimately enriching their treatment experience without directly challenging the family's religious approach. By emphasizing alternative support systems, the therapist facilitates collaboration between conventional mental health practices and the family's faith-based methodologies. This can lead to a more holistic treatment plan that addresses the child's mental health needs while honoring the family's cultural and spiritual perspectives. Such a strategy fosters an open dialogue about diverse options, empowering the family to consider and incorporate different forms of support in a way that is acceptable to them.