Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) Practice Exam

In therapy, when a client is not making progress, what is a viable first step for the social worker?

1. Change the therapist if progress is not made

2. Increase the intensity of the sessions

3. Seek supervision to analyze the therapeutic approach

4. Educate the client about their diagnosis

The correct answer is: Seek supervision to analyze the therapeutic approach

In therapy, when a client is not making progress, seeking supervision to analyze the therapeutic approach is a crucial first step. This action allows the social worker to gain additional insights and perspectives on the situation, which can be essential for understanding any barriers to progress. Consulting with a supervisor provides an opportunity to reflect on the therapeutic methods being used, identify potential blind spots, and consider new strategies that may be more effective in meeting the client’s needs. This approach emphasizes the importance of collaborative learning in the therapeutic process and demonstrates the value of ongoing professional development. By engaging with a supervisor, the social worker can ensure that they are utilizing evidence-based practices and adapting their approach based on the unique dynamics of their therapeutic relationship with the client. This reflective practice can ultimately lead to improved outcomes in therapy. Choosing to change therapists or increasing session intensity might not address the underlying issues that are hindering progress. Educating the client about their diagnosis can be beneficial at some point, but it is not necessarily the first step to address the lack of progress in therapy.