Certification Board for Music Therapists (CBMT) Practice Exam

Which language is preferred in treatment documentation regarding past abuse?

1. The client suffered abuse

2. The client is a victim of abuse

3. The client experienced abuse

4. The client was subjected to abuse

The correct answer is: The client experienced abuse

The preferred language in treatment documentation regarding past abuse emphasizes a focus on the client's experience rather than labeling them or defining them by their past trauma. By stating "The client experienced abuse," the phrasing allows for the acknowledgment of the event without imposing a victim identity on the client. This promotes a sense of empowerment and focuses on the client’s resilience and agency, which is essential in therapeutic settings. Using language that focuses on experience can help foster a supportive environment that respects the client's journey. It avoids potentially stigmatizing terminology, promoting a narrative that emphasizes healing and growth. Such language can also reduce the possibility of victimization and help clients take ownership of their narratives in a constructive way. Thus, this approach aligns with trauma-informed care principles in which the client's perspective and experiences are prioritized in the healing process.