Therapist Development Center Practice Exam 1

When should the social worker consider involving external resources?

1. When a client expresses needing support in specific areas.

2. When therapy goals are not being met.

3. When clients show no willingness to change.

4. When multiple life domains are negatively impacted.

The correct answer is: When multiple life domains are negatively impacted.

Involving external resources is particularly warranted when multiple life domains are negatively impacted. This scenario indicates that the client may be experiencing challenges that span several areas of their life, such as social, occupational, and personal domains. When various aspects of a client’s life are affected, it is often a sign that the issues go beyond the therapeutic relationship and may require additional support systems, services, or interventions from outside the therapy context. Social workers aim to provide comprehensive care, and recognizing when a situation exceeds what can be addressed within therapy is crucial. By integrating external resources—such as community programs, support groups, or other social services—the social worker can help the client achieve a more holistic approach to their needs and facilitate improvements in multiple areas of their life. Addressing these interconnected challenges can lead to better outcomes and a more sustainable pathway to recovery and personal growth for the client.