LMSW Practice Test

What is the most appropriate recommendation for the Williams couple, who exhibit anger, poor reality testing, and acting-out behavior?

1. Provide no psychotherapeutic interventions since it might exacerbate the decompenstation

2. Refer them to a psychiatric clinic for possible medication and long-term therapy

3. See the couple conjointly, but on a short-term basis

4. See the couple individually for short-term treatment

The correct answer is: Provide no psychotherapeutic interventions since it might exacerbate the decompenstation

The recommendation to provide no psychotherapeutic interventions is based on the potential risks involved with intervention in a situation where the couple is exhibiting significant instability, such as anger and poor reality testing. In cases where clients are experiencing a high level of distress, particularly with acting-out behaviors, there is a concern that engaging them in therapy might lead to further exacerbation of their symptoms or emotional state. By refraining from immediate psychotherapy, the focus can be on stabilization and assessment of the couple’s condition before any therapeutic interventions are considered. The other options suggest more immediate interventions which may not be suitable given their current mental state. Referring them to a psychiatric clinic may imply a level of urgency that does not take into account the need for stabilization first. Seeing them conjointly or individually for short-term treatment could lead to increased conflict or misunderstanding in their fragile emotional state, potentially worsening their behavior. Therefore, the choice to avoid recommending immediate psychotherapeutic interventions prioritizes their current condition and allows for careful consideration of the necessary next steps.