National Certified Addiction Counselor, Level 2 (NCAC II) Practice Exam Exam

What is the primary goal of brief therapy?

1. Long-term exploration of past experiences

2. Reducing the number of therapy sessions needed

3. Enhancing emotional expression over time

4. Focusing on behavior modification exclusively

The correct answer is: Reducing the number of therapy sessions needed

The primary goal of brief therapy is to efficiently address clients' issues within a limited number of sessions, promoting rapid change and practical solutions. This approach emphasizes the importance of setting clear, achievable goals and working collaboratively with clients to develop strategies that can lead to immediate improvement in their situations. Brief therapy is designed to be time-effective, allowing clients to experience relief without the need for extended engagement in therapy, which can often prolong their issues instead of resolving them. This focus on reducing the number of therapy sessions enables clients to gain insights and tools that foster autonomy and self-efficacy in managing their challenges, making it a particularly appealing option for those who may feel overwhelmed by the prospect of long-term therapy commitments. In contrast, the other options emphasize aspects that are not the primary focus of brief therapy. Long-term exploration of past experiences suggests a deeper dive into the client's history, which is more characteristic of traditional, longer-term therapeutic approaches. Enhancing emotional expression over time implies a gradual process that is usually not the focus in brief therapy, which seeks quick outcomes. Focusing exclusively on behavior modification overlooks the broader scope of brief therapy, which often encompasses cognitive and emotional dimensions in addition to behavioral changes, ensuring a more holistic approach within a constrained time frame.