Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) Practice Exam

What is the most appropriate action for a social worker to take if a client is resistant to therapy?

1. Refer the client to another professional

2. Focus on building rapport and trust

3. Directly challenge the client’s resistance

4. End the therapeutic relationship immediately

The correct answer is: Focus on building rapport and trust

Focusing on building rapport and trust is the most appropriate action for a social worker when dealing with a client who is resistant to therapy. Establishing a strong therapeutic relationship is crucial for effective intervention. It allows the client to feel safe and understood, which can facilitate more open communication. When clients sense that their therapist genuinely cares about their well-being and is committed to understanding their perspective, they are often more willing to engage in the therapeutic process. This rapport-building phase serves as the foundation that can lead to addressing the underlying issues behind the client's resistance. Understanding that resistance can be a natural reaction to the therapeutic process is important. It often stems from various factors, such as fear of vulnerability, past negative experiences with therapy, or external pressures. By taking the time to connect with the client on a personal level, the social worker can help mitigate these fears and encourage a more collaborative environment where the client is more likely to explore their feelings and experiences. In contrast, referring the client to another professional may overlook the opportunity to develop a meaningful relationship that could be transformative. Directly challenging the client’s resistance could lead to increased defensiveness and further disengagement. Ending the therapeutic relationship immediately would not only be a premature action but could also have negative implications for the client