Ace the California RDH Law & Ethics Exam 2026 – Smile Bright and Rule Right!

The first step a social worker should take when faced with a personal loss while working with a grieving client is to determine if they can effectively handle the situation. This involves an honest self-assessment of their emotional and mental state. The social worker needs to consider whether their recent loss might interfere with their ability to provide the necessary support to the client. If they feel that their grief could limit their effectiveness or bias their interactions, they must recognize this impact and make a decision about continuing the therapeutic relationship. By assessing their own capacity to help, the social worker prioritizes the well-being of the client and the quality of care they can provide.

While talking about the situation in therapy, seeking professional consultation, or referring the client to another professional may be valid actions to consider later, they come after the initial step of assessing personal readiness. The social worker's ability to cope with their own grief is crucial for maintaining an objective and effective therapeutic environment for the client.