SOCIAL WORK THEORIES

Social Work Theories

Social Work Theories

Case Study 1: Dave and Jenny Smith

Applying Crisis Intervention Assessment

Crisis and traumatic stress are overlapping terms used by theorists when defining the condition. Although there are subtle differences in their definitions, there are also certain commonalities. They compromise a person's sense of safety and security and result in feelings of helplessness and vulnerability. Whatever name is used to describe the condition, the impact is the same. People in crisis are left feeling overwhelmed, out of control, and helpless.

Main Principles

Establish a Relationship

The counsellor must establish rapport and trust with the addicted client and his support system to begin the process from crisis to recovery. The client will trust the counsellor who offers him respect and hope for change, provided the client is willing to admit there is a problem and he desires the change. Even if the client desires change, he will resist help if a trusting relationship is not established first.

The counsellor may help the family to schedule an intervention, which may help open the door for the counsellor to establish a working relationship with the client.

Assess and Define

The client and the counsellor are working together to assess the situation and define problem. The counsellor may employ questionnaires, assessment processes and direct counselling with the client. The counsellor may also discuss any previous methods the client has tried to make changes in her life and addictive behaviour.

Process the Trauma Cycle

Next, the client and counsellor discuss any precipitating events that pushed the client to choose addictive coping mechanisms. The counsellor will employ active and compassionate listening as the client expresses her emotional response to life events. This process must occur in a non-judgemental environment where the client feels safe and free to share.

Problem Solving

The client and the counsellor may discuss a variety of options the client can use to move from the current situation toward recovery. The counsellor will often know options the client and support system are unaware of. The client and the support system may explore each alternative and determine which alternative is most in line with the resources and needs of the client.

Mobilizing Resources

Once a plan is formulated, the counsellor works with the client and support system to begin implementation. The counsellor may help the client move directly to treatment by helping to arrange for in-house care and transportation. If the choice is to use out-patient treatment, the counsellor may continue to work with the client.

Termination of Agreement

Once the client moves into a treatment program, the counsellor can terminate the client-counsellor relationship so the treatment program can work with the client. The counsellor may continue to work the support system to help them recover and avoid enabling the client into further addictive behaviour.

Advantages of Crisis Intervention

Crisis intervention is a humane effort to try and reduce the suffering of individuals experiencing a life-altering event. Health care providers, social workers, emergency responders and victim advocates are all professionals often educated in crisis intervention theory and ...