Association of Social Work Boards Bachelor (ASWB) Practice Exam

When a lesbian client expresses a desire for a lesbian social worker, the most appropriate initial action is to explore why she wants a lesbian therapist. This approach demonstrates a person-centered practice and allows the social worker to understand the client's specific needs, preferences, and values. By engaging in this exploratory conversation, the social worker can gain insight into the client's experiences, which may include feelings of comfort, understanding, or a desire for shared experiences that she believes a lesbian therapist could provide.

Understanding the client's perspective is vital as it helps the social worker tailor the approach to support the client effectively. This process aids in building rapport, fostering a trusting therapeutic relationship, and ensuring the client feels heard and validated in her identity and preferences. The exploration may reveal important information about the client's expectations, concerns, or previous therapy experiences, all of which can inform the intervention moving forward.

This option emphasizes the importance of dialogue and understanding in social work practice, aligning with principles of cultural competence and empowerment.