Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) Practice Exam Prep: Practice Test & Study Guide

In this scenario, inquiring about how the client is feeling is the most appropriate next step. During the initial session, establishing a foundation of trust and understanding is crucial, especially when a client exhibits guardedness and discomfort. By directly asking the client about his feelings, the social worker demonstrates attentiveness, empathy, and validation of the client's experience. This approach can help the client feel more supported and respected, which may encourage him to share more openly.

This strategy also aligns with the principles of person-centered therapy, where the focus is on the client's emotional state and fostering a safe environment. It allows the social worker to gain insight into the client's perspective, which can inform subsequent interactions and therapeutic approaches.

While discussing therapy goals or encouraging the client to open up are important components of therapy, they might be premature if the client is not yet comfortable. The social worker’s own experiences may not be relevant or helpful at this stage and could inadvertently shift the focus away from the client, potentially increasing his discomfort. Hence, starting with a simple inquiry about his feelings is the most effective and sensitive approach in this context.