Clinical Practice SWES Practice Exam

Which of the following is a key characteristic of supportive therapy?

1. Promoting anxiety to challenge the client.

2. Supporting ego strengths.

3. Encouraging self-criticism.

4. Focusing solely on past trauma.

The correct answer is: Supporting ego strengths.

Supportive therapy primarily aims to strengthen an individual's coping mechanisms and reinforce their ego strengths. This approach emphasizes validation and support rather than confrontation or deep analysis of past traumas. In supportive therapy, the therapist works collaboratively with the client to help them build resilience, enhance self-esteem, and develop effective coping strategies in the face of life’s challenges. The focus on supporting ego strengths allows clients to feel more secure and capable, fostering a sense of self-efficacy. This characteristic is crucial as it empowers clients to face difficulties without becoming overwhelmed, ensuring that they feel understood and accepted in a therapeutic setting. Through this nurturing framework, clients can gradually process their feelings and experiences without inducing undue anxiety or self-critical thoughts, which can be detrimental to their mental well-being. In contrast, the other options do not align with the principles of supportive therapy; they either introduce negative elements or misrepresent the therapeutic focus. By prioritizing the individual's strengths and current coping strategies, supportive therapy cultivates an environment where clients can thrive emotionally.