Competency 8: Intervene with individuals, families, groups, organizations, and communities
As a social worker, I understand that it is my professional responsibility to know that intervention is an ongoing primary component of the interactive process of social work practice. Social workers understand theories of human behavior, person-in-environment, and other conceptual frameworks, and they critically evaluate and apply this knowledge in selecting culturally responsive interventions with clients and constituencies, including individuals, families, groups, organizations, and communities. It is also my due diligence to understand different methods of identifying, analyzing, and implementing evidence-informed interventions and participate in inter-professional collaborations to achieve client and constituency goals.
8.1: Implement clinical evidence-based interventions with individuals, families, and/or groups.
Course Evidence: As part of my Advanced Clinical Practice:Individuals and Families course, my partner and I developed and implemented CBT strategies to combat the pseudo client’s various issues. The goal was met as the client “Jaime” had found a sense of resolve and resiliency throughout the process. CBT intervention strategies that were implemented included Cognitive Restructuring, The Personal Model of Resilience, as well as successive approximation strategies.To view the treatment plan refer to slide 16 at this link to view the PowerPoint presentation, click here.
Field Evidence: As part of my practicum journey, I took a course in Restorative Practices. I first learned of the process from my field supervisor in supervision. She guided me and gave me the opportunity to lead several Restorative Circles with teachers and students in the classroom setting. The purpose of these circles is to resolve conflict via teacher and student or student to student and so forth. Research has provided positive feedback surrounding the importance of these circles for conflict resolution. There are findings that suggest that restorative practices, when implemented effectively, can lead to decreased behavioral needs and a more positive learning environment. To view our notes and planning for the Restorative Circles please click here. For a reflection on the intervention itself, please see the attached practicum journal (beginning at the bottom of page 9).
8.2:Integrate macro level evidence-based strategies with organizations and/or communities
Course Evidence: In my Advanced Administrative Program Development course, I worked alongside of several others to review research and develop a paper titled “Bright Beginnings.” This allowed me to develop, conduct and integrate ways to assist mothers struggling with postpartum depression. A section of the program proposal focused on reviewing macro level evidence-based strategies that have been beneficial when working with women experiencing postpartum. Several strategies proposed were Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and medication for those who require further assistance, as well as education surrounding postpartum depression.This information was compiled in the Literature Review and Evidence-based Practices section of the paper on page 11.To view the entire paper, please click here.
Field Evidence: Throughout my field experience, I had the opportunity to assist families in the community by helping them with housing assessments and advocating in the community on their behalf following the Budgetel Motel closing in 2022. Many families do not meet the requirements of income and make just enough to not meet section 8 standards. It is my due diligence to continue to reach out with organizations in the community and assist them with their needs. Many families need other resources such as food, and clothing. Families in Transition or (F.I.T.) assists families who are in a financial hardship. Please view the following form to access the enrollment process that took place to assist families in the community in need: FitEnrollment Transportation Clothing 8.3.23-6. I used the information on the assessment form to met with the families; after meeting with them, I was able to work with the McKinney-Vento liaison at the central office to address the identified needs; please see page 6 of this field journal.
Knowledge Used: Throughout this competency, knowledge was used from classes such as Advanced Clinical Practice: Individuals and Families and Advanced Administrative Practice:Program Development. Additionally, knowledge about the Chattanooga TN area were utilized to complete this competency.
Values Present: Competence was a large portion of the values demonstrated within this competency. Being competent in research methods as well as collaboration with others was vital throughout. The dignity and worth of others was also present through providing equality in services as well as working with individuals and groups.
Cognitive Processes Used: Cognitive processes such as recognizing the need for intervention and service assistance were utilized throughout. Assessment as well as a program proposal to assist women in high need in Chattanooga, Tennessee were also present throughout.
Affective Processes Used: Throughout this competency, several affective processes were utilized such as interventions surrounding cognitive behavioral therapy. Additionally, assisting mothers who struggle with postpartum depression in the Chattanooga, TN area were also demonstrated.
Theoretical Foundation: Behaviorism and social learning theory were both present within this competency. By learning how past experiences influence present-day behavior, we can develop a research-backed approach to providing targeted care.