Question

A social worker is seeing an adolescent for individual treatment. The adolescent's mother asks the social worker to see her in individual therapy also. What would the social worker do?

A. Provide the mother with the names of several social workers
B. Refer the adolescent to another therapist
C. See the adolescent and the mother together in therapy
D.See both members of the family in individual treatment

Answer 1

A social worker should refer the mother to other social workers to avoid conflict of interest and boundary issues, and maintain the confidentiality and therapeutic alliance with the adolescent.

Step-by-step explanation:

When a social worker is seeing an adolescent for individual treatment and is approached by the adolescent's mother requesting individual therapy as well, professional ethics and boundaries must be considered. The social worker should provide the mother with the names of several other social workers (referral). This action prevents a potential conflict of interest and boundary issues that could arise from treating two family members who may have interconnected issues.

Moreover, to maintain confidentiality and the therapeutic alliance with the adolescent, it would not be advisable for the same social worker to see both in individual therapy. If the social worker deems it beneficial for the family dynamics, they could consider family therapy with a different therapist or refer the family to social communication groups or social skills groups, actions that align with aligning therapy goals with the best interests of the client.