What action should social workers take when they believe they are not effective with a client?

When social workers find themselves ineffective with a client, the most appropriate course of action is to refer the client to another professional. This ensures that the client continues to receive the necessary support and services they need, which might be better delivered by someone with different expertise or a fresh perspective. Referring the client demonstrates a commitment to the client's welfare and acknowledges that the current approach is not beneficial.

By making a referral, social workers prioritize their client’s needs above their own professional pride or limitations. This action aligns with ethical standards that encourage professionals to recognize their own limits and seek collaboration or external assistance when necessary. Such humility and responsibility help maintain the integrity of the professional relationship and foster a positive outcome for the client.

Options like ignoring the situation or changing their approach alone could risk further harming the client’s progress and undermine trust in the therapeutic relationship. Consulting only with a supervisor might limit the options available to aid the client unless it is accompanied by a referral to other professionals who can provide different insights or specialized skills. Each of these other choices does not adequately address the primary issue of ensuring effective support for the client.