Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) Practice Exam

What is the FIRST thing a social worker should do with a client that frequently cancels appointments and has conflicts with friends?

1. Discuss time management strategies

2. Relate the client's behavior with the social worker to that with friends

3. Encourage the client to be more punctual

4. Give the client recommendations for making new friends

The correct answer is: Relate the client's behavior with the social worker to that with friends

The appropriate first step for a social worker in this scenario is to relate the client's behavior with the social worker to that with their friends. This approach is effective because it encourages insight into the client's interpersonal dynamics and patterns of behavior, which may transcend multiple relationships. By exploring how the client interacts with the social worker and how those behaviors mirror conflicts in their friendships, the social worker can foster self-awareness and help the client understand the underlying issues contributing to their challenges. This exploration can lead to a deeper conversation about conflict resolution, commitment to relationships, and emotional expressions, ultimately guiding the therapeutic process in a more meaningful direction. Engaging in this discussion sets a foundation for addressing time management or punctuality as secondary concerns, giving priority to understanding the client's relational patterns. Recognizing how the client's difficulties impact various aspects of their life is crucial for effective intervention and support.