Clinical Practice SWES Practice Exam

In the early phase of work with an acutely depressed client, what is the primary approach a social worker should take?

1. An advocate

2. Confrontational

3. Probing

4. Supportive

The correct answer is: Supportive

In the early phase of work with an acutely depressed client, adopting a supportive approach is essential. This stage often involves establishing trust and safety, creating an environment where the client feels comfortable to share their feelings and experiences. A supportive approach helps the social worker to actively listen, show empathy, and validate the client's emotional state, which is crucial for clients experiencing depression. Additionally, this supportive stance can encourage the client to engage in the therapeutic process, paving the way for deeper exploration of their issues over time. A supportive environment can reduce feelings of isolation that often accompany depression, making the client feel understood and accepted. In contrast, approaches like being confrontational or excessively probing can be counterproductive in the early stages, as they may increase the client's anxiety or defensiveness. Similarly, while advocacy is an important role for social workers, it is more effective in later stages once a solid therapeutic relationship has been established. Thus, the supportive approach is fundamental in fostering connection and enabling the client to begin their journey toward recovery.