ASWB Clinical case studies
ASWB Clinical · Put your knowledge to work in context.
The Clinical Social Work Licensing Examination is one of the social work licensing examinations developed and maintained by the Association of Social Work Boards (ASWB). ASWB states that it "develops and maintains the social work licensing examinations that are used to test a social worker's competence to practice ethically and safely," and that exams "are administered throughout the year at secure test centers in the United States, Canada, and abroad." The clinical examination is intended for candidates seeking the clinical-level social work license offered by the regulatory board in the state or province where they intend to practice, since licensing boards set the qualifications a candidate must meet. The ASWB Clinical case studies are 5 cases and about 3,186 words.
1The Inherited Caregiver
Marisol, age 34, immigrated at age 9 with her parents from a country where multigenerational caregiving is the norm. She is the eldest daughter and has cared for her younger brother, who has an intellectual disability, since she was 12 while both parents worked two jobs.
724 words, about 4 min2The Court-Ordered Disclosure
Devon, a licensed clinical social worker, has treated Angela for 14 months for PTSD following an assault. Angela's ex-partner has filed for custody of their 9-year-old son and has subpoenaed Devon's records, including progress notes referencing Angela's history of binge drinking and one note stating she 'minimized' a safety incident at home.
622 words, about 3 min3The Teen Who Won't Say
You are a school-based clinician. Jordan, age 15, was referred after a teacher saw fresh cuts on their forearm.
628 words, about 3 min4The Missing Signature
Robert, age 58, is referred by his employer's EAP after a workplace conflict. He reports 3 weeks of low mood, anhedonia, poor concentration, and sleeping 10–11 hours nightly; he has gained 5 pounds and feels 'heavy.' He denies suicidal ideation but says, 'I'd be fine if I just didn't wake up.' He drinks 2–3 beers most nights and has hypertension managed with medication.
587 words, about 3 min5The Gift and the Boundary
Priya has seen Marcus, age 41, for 10 months for generalized anxiety. Marcus has made good progress.
625 words, about 3 min