An older woman comes to you for help after a particularly abusive incident with her husband. She admits that she is becoming increasingly afraid of him. She has no friends and no job, “because he wouldn’t let me out of the house or out of his sight.” She has a number of old bruises and lost two teeth in this last incident. She is asking for help and says, “I don’t know. I really fear for my life. It’s just gotten out of hand and I don’t know where it will end.” 

In each of the above situations, develop a tentative plan for the client. List the various services you believe each person needs initially. Include in your plan for each client both formal and generic services, and where appropriate, use social supports and support groups. Suggest other services the person might use later once the case is stabilized. Think about how you can involve others close to the person and how you will involve the client in planning.