Which of the following describes a short-term goal?

Which of the following describes a short-term goal?

• A. The expected outcome after months of therapy
• B. A desired outcome achievable in the near future
• C. An ultimate aim of the therapeutic process
• D. A measure of therapist effectiveness

Answer: (B)

A short-term goal refers to a desired outcome that can be realistically achieved in the near future, typically within a few sessions or weeks. These goals are integral to the therapeutic process as they provide a clear target for both the therapist and the client. Focusing on short-term goals helps clients experience quick wins and progress, which can enhance motivation and engagement in the therapy process. In contrast, other options describe different aspects of therapy. The first option refers to long-term goals, which take an extended period to achieve and usually represent broader, more comprehensive objectives. The third option pertains to ultimate aims of the therapeutic process, which are typically more extensive and require ongoing work over many sessions. Finally, the fourth option relates to evaluating the therapist's effectiveness, which is not a goal set within therapy itself but rather a measure of performance and outcomes over time. Thus, recognizing the specific nature of short-term goals as achievable in the near future is crucial in therapy practice.

A short-term goal refers to a desired outcome that can be realistically achieved in the near future, typically within a few sessions or weeks. These goals are integral to the therapeutic process as they provide a clear target for both the therapist and the client. Focusing on short-term goals helps clients experience quick wins and progress, which can enhance motivation and engagement in the therapy process.

In contrast, other options describe different aspects of therapy. The first option refers to long-term goals, which take an extended period to achieve and usually represent broader, more comprehensive objectives. The third option pertains to ultimate aims of the therapeutic process, which are typically more extensive and require ongoing work over many sessions. Finally, the fourth option relates to evaluating the therapist's effectiveness, which is not a goal set within therapy itself but rather a measure of performance and outcomes over time. Thus, recognizing the specific nature of short-term goals as achievable in the near future is crucial in therapy practice.