The clinical field practicum is taken concurrently with GRSW 603 and 604. Therefore, social workers need to be prepared to respond in an effective, spiritually-sensitive manner. The seminar focuses on the knowledge, assessment and treatment of alcoholism, substance abuse and addictive behaviors in adolescents, adults and families. Visits to treatment facilities, realistic assignments and student involvement through a seminar format enhance the clinical practice component. This course provides a theoretical framework for understanding loss and grief issues as they relate to social work practice.
Special attention is given to non-death losses.
Skills are taught for use in recognizing and addressing loss and grief with clients of diverse backgrounds in a variety of practice settings. This course is designed to expand knowledge and practice skills in ethical decision making. Students are introduced to the values embodied in the codes of ethics, the confidential nature of the professional-client relationship, the power differential and the boundaries that protect the relationship, the characteristics of a boundary violation, the reaction of clients to a violation and what the worker must do to repair the damage. Theoretical content includes psychological information and paradigms that allow for understanding of child behavior and parental reciprocity. Focus is on both the child's inner experience and relational experience with caregivers as simultaneously contributing to the development of personality and adaptive capacity.