Description:

Social workers are aware of the importance of an assessment in the process of the interaction with diverse individuals, families, groups, organizations, and communities. During an assessment, social workers will gather information and apply critical thinking to have a better understanding of the information from the clients. Social workers understand that collaboration is the best approach in this process. In order to have an effective assessment, social workers develop mutually agreed-on intervention goals and objectives by assessing the client’s strengths, needs, and challenges.

Practice Behaviors:

• Formulate comprehensive assessments, using a variety of diagnostic classification systems
• Design and implement organizational and/or community assessments

 

7A Evidence: Formulate comprehensive assessments, using a variety of diagnostic classification systems

Course: During my graduate year, I took a course to learn more about Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). I was able to conduct a 15 minute video practicing CBT skills, allowing myself to focused on cognitive distortions. This assignment helped me formulate comprehensive assessments because it allowed me to understand and identify areas on where I may be struggling.

Field: While interning at The Transition House, I was able to conduct Individual Session with my clients. During those sessions, I was able to assess each client for suicidal and self-harming thoughts and behaviors. These assessments, included follow-ups on medication, if their medication are being taking, and if the medication is helping.

7B Evidence: Design and implement organizational and/or community assessments

Course: While attending my Administrative Practice 1 class, my group and I was assigned to create a Needs Assessment Plan. This plan addressed how parents involvement relates to a student’s academic success. It includes independent and dependent variables, what could be possible barriers, and the  financial needs for the program to be successful.

Field: At The Transition House, each client of mine had to fill out a Questionnaire. This questionnaire, allowed me to know exactly what to work on with my client and how to help them. My clients might have the same or similar diagnose but have different outcomes, so they need assistance on different areas in their life.