Treatment Planning Case Studies for LCSW Exam Prep
Preparing for the Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) exam means mastering more than just terminology and ethics—it means learning how to think like a social worker. One of the most essential skills tested on the exam is treatment planning. To help you strengthen this area, we’ve put together a few case study examples that simulate the types of scenarios you’ll encounter on the test—and in your career.
Why Treatment Planning Matters in Clinical Social Work
Treatment planning is a core component of clinical social work. It reflects your ability to assess a client’s needs, prioritize issues, set goals, and implement interventions—all while considering cultural, ethical, and systemic factors.
On the LCSW exam, treatment planning questions may show up in the form of vignettes or clinical scenarios where you must decide the MOST appropriate next step.
What to Expect on the ASWB Clinical Exam
Expect questions that test your:
- Clinical judgment
- Understanding of the stages of treatment (engagement, assessment, intervention, evaluation)
- Ability to align interventions with client needs
- Knowledge of best practices and theoretical approaches
3 ASWB LCSW Exam Prep Treatment Planning Case Studies
Case Study 1: Anxiety in a Young Adult
Maria, a 26-year-old woman, seeks therapy due to persistent anxiety that affects her work performance. She reports difficulty sleeping, racing thoughts, and occasional panic attacks. She has no prior therapy experience and is unsure what to expect.
What is the MOST appropriate first step in treatment planning?
A. Teach Maria grounding techniques for panic attacks
B. Refer Maria for a psychiatric evaluation
C. Conduct a comprehensive biopsychosocial assessment
D. Explore Maria’s family history of anxiety
Correct answer: C. Conduct a comprehensive biopsychosocial assessment
Before creating a treatment plan, you must complete a full assessment. While teaching coping skills or referring for medication may come later, a comprehensive assessment is the first step.
Case Study 2: Substance Use and Family Conflict
James, a 40-year-old man, enters therapy following an ultimatum from his partner. He drinks heavily, especially on weekends, and denies having a problem. His partner is threatening to leave if he doesn’t seek help. James states he’s only coming in to “keep the peace.”
What should the social worker address FIRST in the treatment plan?
A. Explore James’s motivation for change
B. Begin couples counseling
C. Suggest a trial of sobriety
D. Refer James to a detox program
Correct answer: A. Explore James’s motivation for change
Since James is ambivalent, starting with motivational interviewing and exploring readiness for change is critical. Effective treatment planning aligns with the client’s stage of change.
Case Study 3: Depression and Suicidal Ideation
A 17-year-old client reports symptoms of depression, including low energy, withdrawal from friends, and recent suicidal thoughts without a specific plan. The client denies intent to harm themselves but feels overwhelmed and hopeless.
What is the MOST appropriate next step in the treatment plan?
A. Begin cognitive behavioral therapy for depression
B. Develop a safety plan and involve the client’s guardians
C. Refer the client for inpatient treatment
D. Provide psychoeducation about adolescent depression
Correct answer: B. Develop a safety plan and involve the client’s guardians
Safety planning comes first when suicidal ideation is present. Involving guardians and ensuring the client’s safety must precede therapeutic intervention.
How to Use Case Studies in LCSW Exam Prep
- Practice identifying key information in a vignette.
- Focus on the FIRST step and MOST appropriate interventions.
- Review NASW Code of Ethics for guidance on decision-making.
- Pair case studies with content review and timed practice questions.
Treatment planning isn’t just test prep—it’s career prep. Practicing with case studies helps you sharpen your clinical reasoning and increases your confidence on exam day. Use these sample scenarios to test yourself, reflect on your answers, and prepare for the real-world decisions that come with being an LCSW.
Preparing for the ASWB LCSW Exam
Pocket Prep’s ASWB LCSW Exam Prep offers scenario-based practice tailored specifically to clinical-level competencies, designed to enhance your critical thinking and confidence. Start preparing for the ASWB LCSW exam with confidence.
