When a 15-year-old client reports dreams of abuse, what is the most appropriate action?

• A. Dismiss the dreams as irrelevant
• B. Explore this further with the client
• C. Contact the father immediately
• D. Refer the client to another therapist

Answer: (B)

Exploring the client's dreams of abuse further is the most appropriate action in this scenario, as it can provide critical insights into the client’s emotional state and possible trauma experiences. Dreams often reflect an individual's fears, anxieties, and past experiences. By engaging the client in a deeper discussion about their dreams, you can help them process these feelings and understand any underlying issues they may be facing, which is vital for building rapport and trust in the therapeutic relationship.

Additionally, it is important to note that discussing dreams can help the therapist gauge the severity and nature of the client's experiences, and might necessitate further intervention, such as discussing safety, exploring coping strategies, or determining if a report needs to be filed due to potential abuse. This approach aligns with ethical practice, which emphasizes the responsibility of therapists to ensure the safety and well-being of their clients.

Merely dismissing the dreams would overlook potential indicators of significant distress or trauma. Contacting the father immediately might not be appropriate without first assessing the situation further with the client, and referring the client to another therapist could interrupt continuity of care without first understanding the client's needs or context. Therefore, exploring the issue further is crucial for effective intervention and support.