Association of Social Work Boards Masters (ASWB MSW) Practice Exam

What are the levels of care for behavioral health services?

1. Only outpatient services

2. Intensive outpatient/ partial hospitalization

3. Early intervention services to residential/inpatient services

4. Self-taught behavioral techniques only

The correct answer is: Early intervention services to residential/inpatient services

Behavioral health services often require different levels of care depending on the severity of a person's symptoms. Outpatient services, as listed in option A, are typically the least intensive level of care and are usually recommended for those with mild to moderate symptoms. However, they may not be enough for those with more severe symptoms. Options B and C provide higher levels of care, with intensive outpatient/partial hospitalization being more intensive than outpatient services and early intervention services leading to residential/inpatient services if needed. Self-taught behavioral techniques, as listed in option D, may be helpful for some individuals, but are not considered a formal level of care for behavioral health services.