My time in my internship has exposed me too many direct social work practice procedures and techniques. I have gotten opportunities to write grants, practice ethically/professionally, and learn how to use community resources. During my time at the BSW program, I have learned the process of assessment and how it is important in identifying the challenges that exist in the clients’ environment and how to alleviate these challenges. My past employment has helped me understand the qualities of leadership and professionalism.
Social work practice in Canada is guided by the Canadian Association of Social Workers ' (CASW) Code of Ethics. This Code of Ethics contains six core values and principles: respect for the inherent dignity and worth of persons, pursuit of social justice, service to humanity, integrity of professional practice, confidentiality, and competence (Canadian Association of Social Workers [CASW], 2005). Social workers who utilize both narrative and solution-focused therapies should fully understand the strengths and limitations of these theories in their professional practice using CASW guidelines. Additionally, social workers should examine if these single approaches are sufficiently comprehensive to address all of a client 's problems, or if a more flexible, adaptable approach of eclecticism is more suited (Coady & Lehmann, 2008).
Today, Dr. Harris stated that he considers himself a better counselor from his valuable experiences as a result of working in the trenches to assist people in making positive changes despite the challenges. According to Dr. Harris, he encouraged beginner social workers to obtain and take advantage of ta good internship experience. It is important to take this opportunity very seriously making a good first impression. This experience will present opportunities to build a good rapport and working relationship. Also, it is important not to never burn bridges; however, build good solid professional connections. Somewhere down the line, you may just need your supervisor as a professional reference. Especially over the past 15 years, throughout
I will then list areas I have identified as my own personal weak points for further development.
Part I (Autobiographical Essay): What were the significant factors that influenced your choice of social work? What skills and experiences do you have that will contribute to your success as a graduate student and social work professional? How is the GCSW a good place for you to build on those skills? 2 pages, double spaced, 12 point font
Prior to being in graduate school I was not fully aware of all the opportunities and experiences in social work. I have since gained more knowledge of macro level opportunities in the field of social work, such as advocating for human rights, and social justice. I have also been presented with the chance to tackle tough policies that directly impacts clients that I have interacted with through my experience in social work. I plan to continue to identify weakness in various systems to promote social justice, and learn more ways to change social institutions to be more humane and
This essay will identify a case I have been involved in and have continuously had to assess whilst on placement. It will refer to a child who will be identified as A. A is a young carer and has only recently returned home after being removed from his mothers care due to her having a substance abuse problem and mental health concerns. I will link the legal framework that was relevant to this case study and describe actions taken. Additionally these actions will demonstrate the application of social work methods and theories that were contributive elements in his intervention, offering explanations as to why these particular methods were used. Before closing, the essay will review any issues of discrimination with a reflection of the
As a social worker an individual must understand that diversity characterize and shape human experience. In diversity the key words that a social worker should pay attention to is cultural awareness, self-awareness, ethno-conscious practice and sensitivity. Having cultural awareness is being aware of individual’s cultural and values. Self-awareness is being aware of personal biases and values when working with diverse groups. Ethno-conscious practice is being concern with social justice and equality. Sensitivity is understanding the difference in assessment, intervention and evaluation when working with diverse groups.
The decision to take the clinical route as a second year MSW graduate student, was one that took no hesitation to make. My passion for children and the preservation of families have been a propelling factor in my Social Work career; both academically and professionally. These two entities have motivated me to remain steadfast on the journey to obtaining my MSW so I can continue to be a vessel for children and families who are in need of support and empowerment. The clinical spectrum of social work practice has strengthened my ability to work proficiently with multiple clients and perform well when assisting families in different realms of social work practice. The knowledge gained during my four years as an undergraduate BSW student and
In this internship I expect to gain a further knowledge and understanding of best practices in working with marginalized populations. I also hope to make connections with fellow social workers that share similar passions and values.
For this paper, I have decided to research two social work theories and how those theories apply to residents in long term care facilities. The primary focus will be those residents who are alert, oriented, and showing minimal symptoms of dementia.
For a start, having the opportunity to be part of the SOCW 6371 Community and Administrative Practices class has broadened my mind-set when viewing social work practices through a macro lens. In addition, I have learned the skill of assessing the community as the target population/concentrated area via a needs assessment. Equally important, realizing the magnitude of work/planning it takes to formulate a program or redesigning one has made me understand the importance of why we should acquire the proper training and administrative practices to be able to lead organizations/agencies.
The most significant experiences I had this semester it was that I got the opportunity to work with foster children, foster parents, and different social workers. Working with foster children I have learned to work with them. Every child its different, and I have learned different strategies to be able to communicate with them. I have learned games and different activities to do with them. Working with foster parents I have learned policies about foster parents and foster children. I have also helped foster parents by providing information about the child’s case. I have also, help parents with their monthly paperwork for the agency. Working with different social workers I have learned different ways to do the same job. Every social worker will have their own different way to do the job and that is okay. The social workers I taught me the policies of the agency and the county policies. The social workers have shared their experiences and strategies for me to be able to help foster children for their best interest.
After I graduated from the University of California Santa Barbara I was unsure what my next step would be. Of course I was anxious since I did not have experience working nor did I excel in my undergrad studies however, I knew I needed to use my newly earned degree in a positive way. Fast forward, after working for two years, I have gained the skills, knowledge and values from my work experiences that have confirmed my desire to advance my education in the social work field. I currently have my own case load of clients as a case manager at a level 12 group home but it’s time to take the next step forward. I want to ultimately advance social justice and provide services to assist individuals, families, groups, organizations and communities.
Every worthwhile journey begins with one step. My social work journey began when I received my undergraduate degree from the University of Utah in 2003. I thought my next step would be to immediately pursue a graduate degree. In my undergraduate career I had taken numerous classes from the College of Social and Behavioral Science and had done well in those classes. In my Social Work as a Profession course I had an assignment to shadow a social worker and write a paper about my experience. I chose to shadow my father-in-law, a social worker with over 30 years of experience, and in my paper I expressed my desire to go into the social work field. I knew I liked helping people. I knew I liked problem solving and critical thinking. I thought my 22 year-old self was ready to embark on that journey, but I wasn’t. I realize now that what I lacked at graduation was one crucial step… perspective. Over the past twelve years I have gained that much needed perspective and have taken many steps forward in my journey, and with those steps and that increased perspective, I now feel more fully prepared to begin my social work career.
What is an intervention? An intervention is interposition or interference in the affairs of another to accomplish a goal or end (“Intervention,” 2012). There are numerous theories being used to help guide social work practice. There are also a number of different practice interventions associated with each of these theories. The purpose of this study is to be able to understand the social, emotional and behavioral needs of siblings of children with autism. The human behavior theories that have been selected to help guide this study are the systems theory and the social learning theory. There are different practice interventions related to each of these theories.