Demonstrate Ethical and Professional Behavior
As advanced practitioners, there are certain standards and codes that one must follow to be able to claim that they are professional. Being a professional transcends appearance and personal conduct. Professionalism is a mentality; it is a part of you. The National Association of Social Workers Code of Ethics provides the framework in which social workers are able to adhere to the menial standard of professionalism. For me, being a professional is not only limited to only your job, but also in the classroom, with strangers, and even with friends.
1.1 – Develop a practice framework for analysis of complex environments, that is ethical, value-grounded, and evidenced-based
Field Evidence: As I started my practicum placement, I worked with my field instructor in order to create an ethical framework, that was evidence-based, to help me in potential ethical dilemmas. I was able to utilize the 6Q Model of Ethical Decision-Making that was developed by Amy Phillips from Minot State University Social Work. Similar to Trevino and Nelson’s “Eight Steps to Ethical Decision Making,” the 6Q model follows a set of six questions to help you go through an ethical dilemma. I was able to utilize this model when a client from Centerstone reported that her mother had yelled at her for work that she had done during our therapy session. To see my journal entry for this incident, please click here.
1.2 – Implement supervisory and self-care strategies that integrate professional strengths, limitations, and challenges
Course Evidence: During the Trauma and Emergency Management emphasis course (SOCW-670), we learned many different ways in which trauma can affect people, including ourselves. One of the main assignments that we completed for the class was a presentation on vicarious, also known as secondary, trauma and our own self-care practices. This presentation was a way in which we were able to learn how to help those who have experienced some form of trauma and different coping skills that can help. To see a copy of the presentation, please click here.
1.3 – Exhibit commitment to professional growth through continuing education, supervision, and ongoing consultation
Course Evidence: One of the key elements of being a student is the continual process of learning and growing as an individual and aspiring professional. In my Advanced Admin course (SOCW-612), I was able to complete an online training from the Collaborative Institutional Training Initiative (CITI) about conducting research responsibly. In this training, I was able to learn how to ensure ethical practices are continually incorporated into any and all research projects as well as the specific ways in which to do so at all levels of research. To view the certificate of completion for the CITI training, please click here.
1.4 – Demonstrate professional oral and written communication skills
Field Evidence: While working with Commissioner Geter in District 5 of Hamilton County, I was able to demonstrate my professional oral and written communication skills in a variety of ways. First, I was able to meet with representatives from the Mental Health Court (MHC) of Hamilton County and learn more about their program and the impact they have on the community. This provided me with an opportunity to be able to practice my spoken communication skills by asking questions and conversing with the representatives accordingly. To view my field journal about the MHC meeting, please here. Another example of utilizing professional communication skills is found in emails that I would send to different organizations and representatives in the community. One such individual is Karen McReynolds, who was the director of the Office of Multicultural Affairs for the City of Chattanooga. To see the field journal for this situation, please click here.