Next up as we navigate our way through the ASWB exam content outline: the elements of a case presentation. Let's review what makes a strong presentation—and examine how this information may appear on the social work licensing exam. We'll finish with a practice question.
Case presentation formats can vary widely across settings. But whether you're preparing for a supervision meeting, interdisciplinary team huddle, or clinical documentation, certain elements appear consistently. Here's a breakdown of the key components:
By including these elements, social workers create a thorough and collaborative summary that supports treatment planning, professional accountability, and ethical care.
Here’s a sample case write-up using these elements. The client is fictional—“Sarah,” a young adult seeking help for depression and anxiety.
Client Demographics
Sarah is a 32-year-old Caucasian woman living alone in a downtown apartment. She works full-time as a marketing assistant.
Presenting Problem
Sarah reports persistent sadness, hopelessness, and anxiety. Symptoms have lasted six months and include sleep disruption and difficulty concentrating at work.
Background Information
She was raised in a middle-class household with both parents and an older brother. Her parents divorced during her teen years. She holds a B.A. in Business Administration and has experienced intermittent employment, contributing to low self-esteem.
Social and Environmental Factors
Sarah is socially isolated since relocating two years ago. She has limited local friendships and little contact with her family, who live out of state.
Assessment
Sarah exhibits moderate-to-severe symptoms of depression and generalized anxiety. Strengths include her insight, verbal expression, and commitment to therapy.
Goals and Objectives
Goal 1: Reduce depressive and anxiety symptoms.
Objective: 50% reduction in symptoms within 3 months using CBT.
Goal 2: Improve social connectedness.
Objective: Attend one non-work social activity per week.
Intervention Plan
Weekly CBT sessions
Psychoeducation on mindfulness and stress reduction
Referral for psychiatric evaluation
Support in joining a community book club or interest-based group
Progress to Date
Sarah has completed three sessions. She reports improved sleep and mood, and has contacted a local book club.
Collaboration and Coordination
Her primary care provider is looped in for holistic care. Workplace HR is involved to explore employee support.
Plan for Continued Support
Continue weekly sessions, monitor psychiatric referral, and support community engagement.
Ethical and Legal Considerations
Confidentiality upheld; all interventions in line with ethical standards and informed consent.
Reflection and Supervision Needs
Clinician to monitor for countertransference and seek consultation as needed.
Understanding case presentation structure isn’t just important in clinical practice—it’s likely to appear on the ASWB exam. Here are a few elements and how they might translate into a test item:
Presenting Problem
A 42-year-old client reports persistent low mood, fatigue, and difficulty concentrating following a layoff. Additional symptoms include poor sleep and lack of interest in hobbies.
→ On the exam, you might be asked which symptoms are most relevant to diagnosis or what additional information is needed.
Psychosocial History
Client raised by a single parent, reports childhood abuse, limited current support, and financial strain.
→ Expect questions on how background affects treatment planning or assessment.
Treatment Recommendations
CBT is recommended; client is referred to an employment support program and seen weekly for follow-up.
→ On the exam, this might appear as: “What is the MOST appropriate next step?”
A social worker is preparing a case presentation for a multidisciplinary team meeting. Which of the following elements is MOST important to include when formulating treatment recommendations?
A. The client’s current emotional state as reported by family members
B. A detailed history of all prior service providers
C. A concise summary of the client’s presenting problem and diagnosis
D. The personal views of the social worker regarding the client’s prognosis
Have your answer?
Answer and Rationale:
A is incorrect: Family perspectives can provide context, but are not central to clinical planning.
B is incorrect: Prior provider history may help, but isn't key for forward planning.
C looks good: Treatment recommendations should be grounded in a clear understanding of the presenting problem and clinical diagnosis.
D is incorrect: Personal opinions are not appropriate in professional case summaries.
The best answer is C.
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