SWK 7703: Engaging with clients

1) In chapter 4, there is a lot of discussion regarding accurately engaging with clients

which includes the importance of responding accurately with empathy. To practice these

skills, provide a response to the 5 client statements below and respond empathetically as

a practitioner with a Level 3 empathy or higher.   

10 points

    a) "Nothing works out for me. It doesn't matter how hard I try."

    b) "My mom won't listen to me. She thinks I'm still 10 years old."

    c) "My boss is driving me crazy. He just piles more work on me and expects me to have it

done by tomorrow."

    d) "I don't understand why I'm upset. I know this problem shouldn't be that important."

    e) "I bet you think I'm an idiot. I just can't seem to figure out what to do next."

2) Chapter 5 focuses on the importance of assessment & goal formulation using a

strengths-based approach as well as starting where the client is. A reminder that goals

should be achievable, specific, and expressed in positive terms. Using vignette Case 5.1

with Justin answer the questions listed below. 

10 points

    a) What are Justin's strengths?

    b) What additional information would Penny need to gather from Justin? Using the

techniques listed in this chapter, identify how you would obtain this information and

provide some examples of what questions you would ask.

    c) What are the goals that Penny & Justin established, and what additional goal might

you want to address with Justin? Explain how these goals meet the criteria of constructive

goals as delineated in the text.