LMSW Practice Test

When a new client shares a bad experience with a previous social worker, the current social worker should first

1. ask the client to tell her more about what had happened with the other social worker

2. reassure the client that she won't reveal anything to anyone unless authorized by the client

3. reassure the client that the other worker probably had the client's best interest in mind

4. tell the client that with today's computerized systems, there are no secrets that are secure

The correct answer is: ask the client to tell her more about what had happened with the other social worker

The first step for a social worker when a new client shares a negative experience with a previous social worker is to encourage the client to provide more details about what occurred. This approach validates the client's feelings and experiences, allowing the social worker to understand the context and specifics of the situation. By inviting the client to elaborate, the social worker can effectively empathize with the client and begin building a trusting relationship, which is essential to effective social work practice. Moreover, gathering in-depth information about the client's past experiences can help the social worker identify any potential barriers or concerns the client may have regarding the therapeutic process, thereby facilitating better service delivery moving forward. Listening attentively also demonstrates respect for the client's narrative, reinforcing the client’s autonomy and empowerment in the therapeutic setting.