ASWB Clinical Exam 2025 – 400 Free Practice Questions to Pass the Exam

Prioritizing the client's comfort with the situation during the initial meeting when another person is present is crucial for establishing a trusting therapeutic environment. When a client introduces another individual, such as a friend or family member, it can create uncertainty for the client regarding the confidentiality and nature of the session. By ensuring that the client feels comfortable, the social worker can effectively foster open communication, which is essential for gathering information and understanding the client's needs.

Creating a safe and secure atmosphere encourages the client to express concerns and feelings about the presence of the other person, which can influence how the session unfolds. If the client is uncomfortable, it may hinder their willingness to share personal information or fully engage in the therapeutic process. This focus on comfort helps the social worker to assess whether the additional individual is there to provide support or if their presence might inhibit the client's openness.

While confidentiality policies, relationship dynamics, and assessment of the situation are all important factors to consider in a therapeutic context, the initial priority in this scenario should center around the client's comfort, as it sets the groundwork for effective counseling. This approach ultimately guides how the social worker navigates the complexities introduced by the presence of another person.