Reflective Paper

Table of Contents

Abstract2

Introduction2

My Observations and Experiences3

Strengths14

Challenges14

Conclusion15

References16

Reflective Paper

Abstract

This is a reflective paper describing my experiences and learning in the program. The group therapy sessions provided me with the practical experience of leadership of which I wanted to be a part of for a very long time. I took it as a challenge and an opportunity to express my feelings as a social worker. The practical knowledge of situation as to understand what to do in which situation, is very important in this profession. The procedures of following the treatment of patients at the hospital and how to collect information from patients, in order to successfully identify and diagnose the problem. The problem is both hard to find and solve. Often we have to dig in so deep that we reach the unconscious of the patient and have to bring the relevant material without affecting the mental health of the individual. Overall my experience was good, and I look forward to have my career in this field.

Introduction

This paper is a reflection of my experiences, as I share, what I learned and what was challenging. Also, I have attempted to reflect the way I felt about this experience as a group leader, group member, my experience, and participant. The successful treatment is not the medication and behavior towards the patient only. It is a complete process, right from the data collection of the patient to the rehabilitation to normal life. This paper also includes my class group formative stages: forming, storming, norming, performing, and adjourning during the various sessions.

My Reflections and Experiences

Initially, I attended the Treatment Team meeting, where we discussed the diverse needs and situations of patients, relating to their behavior. The group therapy session is very diverse and interpersonal in nature. The therapist needs to be well trained, in order to effectively judge the situation and give freedom to the patients. The group therapy has both advantages and disadvantages. The advantages include lower cost. Many of the people going through rough stages of their life and most of the patients I worked with were on social security income. It is an effective mode of treatment while giving cost advantage. I have observed during my experience at The Temple Episcopal Hospital, many people when observe other people, who have similar problems, feel that they are not alone. This exact feeling gives them the strength to feel a bit confident. Also, many of them when listen to the concern of others; feel that, what they actually are going through is not as worst as the other people are having. This again gives confidence and feeling that they can improve their situations. I had patients who were having problems in the family; there was a girl who was having serious alcohol abuse problem. Her mother was so angry at her, that she even came to the hospital and asked her daughter to get her stuff and move out from that home. I actually went to that girl's mother house to have a meeting with ...