Question

A 30-year-old man begins court-ordered treatment with a social worker following an arrest for driving under the influence. The man attends two sessions and then no-shows to the next two appointments. What should the social worker do FIRST?

A. Call the client and ensure his understanding of the consequences of his behavior.
B. Send the man a bill for the two missed sessions and close the case.
C. Inform the court of the client's noncompliance with treatment.
D. Call the man and reschedule the appointments.

Answer 1

The social worker should first call the client and ensure his understanding of the consequences of his behavior. If the client continues to miss appointments, the social worker may consider informing the court of the client's noncompliance with treatment. However, before taking such action, it is crucial to reach out to the client and attempt to reschedule the missed appointments.

Step-by-step explanation:

The social worker should first call the client and ensure his understanding of the consequences of his behavior. This is important to address any potential misunderstandings or lack of awareness on the client's part. The social worker can discuss the importance of attending the sessions as part of the court-ordered treatment and emphasize the consequences of noncompliance.

If the client continues to miss appointments, the social worker may consider informing the court of the client's noncompliance with treatment. This step is necessary to keep the court informed of the situation and to ensure that appropriate actions can be taken.

However, before taking such action, it is crucial to reach out to the client and attempt to reschedule the missed appointments. Calling the man and rescheduling the appointments shows that the social worker is invested in the client's treatment and tries to work towards a solution rather than immediately escalating the situation.