Which approach best reflects client-centered practice for a client who does not want to attend GA?

• A. Act as Sponsor to Complete the 12 Steps
• B. Explore Other Options for Social Support
• C. Tell GA Is Mandatory
• D. Tell Client Recovery Will Decrease if They Don't Attend

Answer: (B)

Client-centered practice focuses on respecting the client’s autonomy, values, and preferences while collaborating to identify supports that fit their needs. When a client does not want to attend Gamblers Anonymous, the best approach is to explore other options for social support. Have an open discussion about what kinds of help feel meaningful to them—one-on-one counseling, other mutual-aid groups, family or peer support, online communities, or tailored recovery resources—while providing clear information about GA so they can decide without pressure. This approach builds trust, validates the client’s choices, and maintains engagement by meeting them where they are.

Other approaches undermine autonomy and can damage the therapeutic relationship. Forcing attendance or acting as a sponsor to complete a prescribed path imposes GA on the client instead of guiding it through collaborative choice. Declaring GA mandatory uses authority rather than partnership. Threatening that recovery will decline if they don’t attend introduces fear and shame, which can hinder motivation and trust.