Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) Practice Exam

If a client requests that the social worker accompany her to weekly church services, what should the social worker do FIRST?

1. Decline politely

2. Clarify professional boundaries

3. Agree to go with the client

4. Discuss the client's reasons for the request

The correct answer is: Clarify professional boundaries

The best action for the social worker to take first is to clarify professional boundaries. Establishing clear boundaries is essential in the social work profession to maintain a professional and therapeutic relationship with clients. By clarifying these boundaries, the social worker helps ensure that the relationship remains focused on the client’s needs and objectives, rather than shifting into a personal or social realm. This approach not only promotes a clear understanding of the professional role but also protects both the social worker and the client from potential ethical dilemmas or misunderstandings. Addressing boundaries allows for an open dialogue about the nature of the client’s request and reinforces the importance of maintaining a professional distance while still being supportive. Other actions, like discussing the client's reasons for the request, while important in later stages of the conversation, should come after establishing these clear professional parameters. Agreeing to accompany the client could blur the lines of the professional relationship, potentially leading to confusion about the social worker's role. Declining politely may seem respectful, but it doesn’t address or clarify boundaries, which is critical for maintaining a therapeutic environment.