LMSW Practice Test

Following an emotional therapy session, a client skips an appointment and then expresses a desire to end treatment. The social worker should:

1. Arrange a referral to another therapist

2. Follow the client's wish and terminate treatment

3. State that the client is running away

4. Suggest that the client discuss her feelings about the last session

The correct answer is: Arrange a referral to another therapist

The correct approach focuses on the importance of understanding and addressing the client's feelings and behaviors that have emerged following the emotional therapy session. By suggesting that the client discuss her feelings about the last session, the social worker can create a supportive environment that encourages the client to express her emotions and thoughts. This approach highlights the therapeutic process, emphasizes the value of open communication, and aids in exploring underlying issues that may be influencing the client's desire to terminate treatment. Engaging the client in a discussion about her feelings allows the social worker to assess the situation more thoroughly and provides an opportunity to address any misunderstandings or concerns that may have arisen. This reflects the social work practice of client-centered care, where the goal is to empower the client to understand her feelings and make informed decisions regarding her treatment. While referring the client to another therapist may seem like a valuable option, it typically does not address the immediate concerns and emotions that prompted the client's decision. Similarly, simply following the client's wish to terminate can overlook important therapeutic needs. Telling the client that she is running away may be perceived as confrontational and could damage the therapeutic relationship, leading to further withdrawal rather than facilitating constructive exploration of her feelings.