Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) Practice Exam

A gay man with depression expresses distance from the gay community. What should the social worker do first?

1. Conduct a comprehensive assessment

2. Refer him to a support group

3. Encourage him to join community events

4. Discuss his feelings towards relationships

The correct answer is: Conduct a comprehensive assessment

The most appropriate initial action for the social worker in this scenario is to conduct a comprehensive assessment. This foundational step allows the social worker to gather detailed information about the client's mental health status, emotional well-being, and specific experiences related to his depression and feelings of distance from the gay community. A comprehensive assessment ensures that the social worker can understand the client's unique context, including how his sexual orientation may intersect with his depression and his relationships with the community. It helps identify factors contributing to his current feelings and provides insights into the nuances of his situation, which is essential for formulating an effective intervention plan. In this case, referrals to support groups, encouragement to attend community events, or discussions about relationships can all be part of the therapeutic process, but these actions should be informed by the thorough understanding gained from the assessment first. Engaging in these activities without assessing the client's needs might overlook underlying issues or specific barriers he faces, which could impede effective support and intervention later on.