Assignment Problem: Jamar is a 45-year-old African American man who is self-referred to the agency in which you work. The intake paperwork indicates he is seeking psychotherapy to address several life issues, yet his concerns seem vague. The intake worker indicated Jamar reported "feeling depressed and anxious" about life and did not have "anyone in his life to talk to about this stuff." In the first session, Jamar vocalizes he is uncertain about being in counseling but does not know where else to go. Over and over he says he feels like he is going to burst. He seems listless and does not identify a particular stressor but agrees to come back for a second session. In the second session, Jamar says he just must tell you something. He asks you not to look at him for a few minutes and during this time. Jamar discloses he has been having feelings he does not understand. He feels confused and ashamed about an encounter he had with another man at work three weeks ago. Jamar said he struggled in the past with an attraction to men and had gone to a few gay bars. But through his faith, prayer, and family counseling at his church he was able to overcome those feelings and focus on dating women. Jamar said he thought God had cured him, but last week, in a meeting, Micah winked at Jamar. Jamar recalled feeling immediately drawn to Micah but since last week has avoided contact with him. Jamar said all he can think about is Micah and has been fantasizing about a life with Micah. Jamar asks you what you can do to cure him of his attraction to other men.
Respond to the following questions:
Question 1: How do you respond to Jamar's immediate concerns?
Question 2: What are your priorities with Jamar in this session?
Question 3: Who else may you involve in the conversation?
Question 4: What advanced skills will you utilize?
Question 5: What additional information or resources are required for you to assist Jamar?
Question 6: What are the desired outcomes for Jamar and you in this session?
Question 7: Describe your assessment and treatment plan.