Social Work Helping Process Lecture
Introduction
- Presenter: Megan Mitchell from Agents of Change Social Work Test Prep
- Topic: Social Work Helping Process (very important for exams)
- Purpose: To help with questions on the exam, especially those ending in "what would you do first or next?"
Six Steps of the Helping Process
- Engagement
- Assessment
- Planning
- Intervention
- Evaluation
- Termination
- Acronym to Remember: EAT PIE (Engagement, Assessment, Planning, Intervention, Evaluation, Termination)
- Application: Important to apply these steps to case vignettes and scenarios
Detailed Steps
1. Engagement
- Occurs in initial sessions
- Builds rapport and trust
- Includes the intake process
- Discuss confidentiality, risks, and informed consent
- Set boundaries and expectations (e.g., communication methods)
2. Assessment
- Identifies the presenting problem
- Collects comprehensive information (e.g., biopsychosocial assessments)
- Determines strengths and weaknesses
- Example: Identifying anxiety as the primary issue
3. Planning
- Develops a roadmap for treatment
- Sets goals and objectives collaboratively
- Chooses treatment modalities (e.g., CBT, DBT)
- Determines frequency of sessions
- Example: Planning 12 weeks of CBT for anxiety
4. Intervention
- Execution of the treatment plan
- Involves active therapeutic work
- May include tasks outside of sessions
- Example: Using CBT techniques like muscle relaxation and mindfulness
5. Evaluation
- Conducted throughout treatment
- Assesses progress towards goals
- Determines if interventions are effective
- Adapts treatment as needed
- Example: Evaluating progress in anxiety management
6. Termination
- Concludes the therapeutic relationship
- Should be prepared for in advance
- Discuss goals achieved and future resources
- Acknowledge emotions associated with termination
Study Tips
- Use real-life examples to apply the six steps
- Apply process to practice questions (first and next questions)
- Think critically and apply higher-level reasoning
Additional Resources
- Courses: 7-session pre-recorded series on major topics
- Includes practice questions and a 50-question mini-test
- Study Groups: Interactive 1-1.5 hour sessions
- Contact: Email for questions or more information
Closing Encouragement
- Be confident in your social work abilities
- Utilize grounding strategies
- Best wishes for your study journey
These notes encapsulate the key points of the helping process and offer strategies for applying them to exam scenarios. Remember to practice applying these concepts to ensure success.