Social Work Clinical Intervention: Client in Domestic Violence Situation

Context:

• A client in a domestic violence shelter plans to return home with children despite the abusive husband living there.

Key Steps in Analyzing the Situation:

1. Determine the Helping Process Stage:
   • It's unclear which phase the social worker is in (beginning or established relationship).
   • Focus on the current session details: client’s plan to return to an abusive environment.
2. Identify the Presenting Issue:
   • Prioritize immediate concerns over past events.
   • Present issue: Client’s intention to return home with children to an abusive setting.

Evaluating Options:

• Accepting Client's Decision:
  • Acknowledging client autonomy but not the priority given child safety concerns.
• Explaining Domestic Violence Effects:
  • Prioritize educating the client about domestic violence effects on children.
  • Helps the client understand the potential consequences on children.
• Encouraging Relationship Continuation:
  • Not appropriate; it’s crucial not to direct client decisions.
• Filing a CPS Report:
  • Not necessary without evidence of direct child abuse.

Conclusion:

• Most Important Action:
  • Explain how domestic violence affects children.
  • Ensure the client is aware of the potential impact on children in the short and long term.

Social Work Clinical Intervention: Client with End-Stage Heart Failure

Context:

• A man with end-stage heart failure has been sending death threats, feels alienated and vengeful.
• Referral from a psychiatrist for social work intervention.

Key Steps in Analyzing the Situation:

1. Determine the Helping Process Stage:
   • Initial interview: Engaging and assessing stages.
   • Social worker has clarified no plans for harm.
2. Identify the Presenting Issue:
   • Focus on feelings of alienation and vengefulness.

Evaluating Options:

• Referring to Support Group:
  • Possible but not immediately addressing the presenting feelings.
• Encouraging Time with Family/Friends:
  • Not directly addressing the man's presenting emotional state.
• Exploring Feelings and Providing Coping Techniques:
  • Appropriate for initial interview; aligns with addressing emotional concerns.
• Involuntary Commitment:
  • Unnecessary; no immediate safety risk identified.

Conclusion:

• Next Action:
  • Explore feelings about end-of-life and provide coping strategies.
  • Ensure a thorough understanding of feelings and ways to manage emotions in line with diagnosis.