Which statement is true about treatment goals?

• A. A single goal is sufficient for all problems
• B. One or more goals is needed for each problem being treated
• C. Goals are optional
• D. Goals should be removed after progress

Answer: (B)

Clear, problem-specific goals drive effective treatment. In counseling, clients often present multiple concerns, so setting one or more concrete goals for each problem gives direction to the work, creates criteria for judging progress, and helps keep the client engaged. When goals are defined for each issue, interventions can be tailored to targeted outcomes, and progress becomes observable rather than vague. If you tried to address everything with a single broad goal, important problems may be overlooked and progress may feel less tangible.

Goals are not optional; they shape what happens in sessions and provide a clear way to evaluate change. They should be revisited and adjusted as progress occurs or as new concerns emerge, ensuring the plan stays aligned with the client's needs and circumstances. It wouldn’t be appropriate to remove goals after some progress, as that would reduce accountability and make it harder to maintain gains or prevent relapse.