A social worker is treating a 50-year-old acutely depressed married woman who wishes to terminate therapy. What is the social worker's most appropriate response?

The most appropriate response in this scenario is to explore her reasons for wanting to terminate therapy. Understanding the client’s motivation for discontinuing treatment is crucial, especially given her acute depression. This exploration can provide valuable insight into her current emotional state and help identify underlying issues that may need to be addressed. Engaging in a discussion about her reasons allows the social worker to assess whether her decision is influenced by current feelings of hopelessness or a temporary emotion associated with her depression.

Moreover, this approach fosters an open dialogue, demonstrating that the social worker values her perspective and is willing to support her in navigating her feelings. It is essential for the social worker to ensure that the client is making an informed decision and not prematurely ending therapy due to transient emotions. This can ultimately lead to a better understanding of her situation and may facilitate a more supportive therapeutic environment or a more structured plan for her ongoing care.