0:00:00.000,0:00:02.600 Hello, I'm Anna.[br]I'm a social worker and also a YouTuber, 0:00:02.600,0:00:06.100 and I'm so, so excited[br]for today's video series 0:00:06.100,0:00:08.720 where we will be going over[br]the social work helping process. 0:00:08.720,0:00:11.800 This is also following the social work[br]Generalist Intervention Model, 0:00:11.800,0:00:13.482 which you might also hear it talked about, 0:00:13.482,0:00:15.800 but really it's the steps,[br]the basic framework 0:00:15.800,0:00:18.960 that every social worker uses[br]in their form of intervention. 0:00:18.960,0:00:23.120 This is applicable on a micro level,[br]on a meso level, and on a macro level, 0:00:23.120,0:00:25.680 and we'll talk about[br]not only what each step is, 0:00:25.680,0:00:27.160 but also how to do it well, 0:00:27.160,0:00:29.400 what it includes,[br]and how to do it ethically. 0:00:29.400,0:00:32.109 If you haven't seen me before,[br]hi, like I said, I'm Anna 0:00:32.109,0:00:35.300 and I have a lot of videos covering[br]lots of different topics of social work 0:00:35.300,0:00:38.660 and then also give a look into[br]my authentic life as a social worker. 0:00:38.660,0:00:41.100 I graduated with my MSW[br]about a year ago 0:00:41.100,0:00:43.500 and have had a postgrad journey since then 0:00:43.500,0:00:45.820 that I would love for you[br]to subscribe and join along for. 0:00:45.820,0:00:48.260 In today's video, we will be talking specifically about 0:00:48.260,0:00:51.260 the engagement and assessment[br]steps of the helping process. 0:00:51.260,0:00:54.300 The second video in this series[br]will cover planning and intervention 0:00:54.300,0:00:57.540 and the final video in this series[br]will cover evaluation and termination, 0:00:57.540,0:01:00.060 which gave a spoiler into[br]the steps of the helping process. 0:01:00.060,0:01:01.900 But that's okay,[br]you're gonna learn them anyways. 0:01:01.900,0:01:05.032 Without too much further introduction,[br]let's get into the helping process. 0:01:05.032,0:01:06.820 Like I said, these steps are going to be 0:01:06.820,0:01:09.140 a basic framework[br]that social workers follow. 0:01:09.140,0:01:12.967 Obviously, each social worker's way[br]that they do each step of this process 0:01:12.967,0:01:15.641 and the little caveats and tools[br]they use in between 0:01:15.641,0:01:18.992 will look different depending on[br]what area of the field you work within 0:01:18.992,0:01:21.100 and also what your scope of practice is, 0:01:21.100,0:01:24.177 whether it's one on one,[br]whether it's with groups, with communities, 0:01:24.177,0:01:26.709 with states, with countries,[br]whatever you're doing. 0:01:26.709,0:01:28.720 But no matter[br]where you work in social work, 0:01:28.720,0:01:30.660 the code of ethics is always applicable. 0:01:30.660,0:01:34.402 And so, I think it's really important to[br]begin with the principles of social work 0:01:34.402,0:01:35.777 so we can see how those apply 0:01:35.777,0:01:37.850 as we go into[br]the steps of the helping process. 0:01:37.850,0:01:39.506 The principles[br]of the social work profession 0:01:39.506,0:01:41.461 are that social workers' primary goal 0:01:41.461,0:01:44.133 is to help people in need[br]and address social problems. 0:01:44.133,0:01:47.160 Both of those two, help people in need[br]and address social problems. 0:01:47.160,0:01:49.280 Social workers challenge social injustice, 0:01:49.280,0:01:52.530 social workers respect the inherent[br]worth and dignity of the person. 0:01:52.530,0:01:55.760 Social workers recognize the[br]central importance of human relationships. 0:01:55.760,0:01:58.126 Social workers behave[br]in a trustworthy manner. 0:01:58.126,0:02:00.949 And social workers practice[br]within their area of competence 0:02:00.949,0:02:03.660 and develop and enhance[br]their professional expertise. 0:02:03.660,0:02:05.580 That applies to every social worker. 0:02:05.580,0:02:07.653 The helping process contains six steps– 0:02:07.653,0:02:10.058 sometimes seven, we'll kind of[br]talk a little bit about that one– 0:02:10.058,0:02:14.493 engagement, assessment, planning,[br]intervention, evaluation, termination, 0:02:14.493,0:02:16.180 and then the seventh one is follow up. 0:02:16.180,0:02:17.720 No matter what social worker you are, 0:02:17.720,0:02:19.550 no matter which[br]area of the field you work in, 0:02:19.550,0:02:22.260 you are always, always[br]going to begin with engagement. 0:02:22.260,0:02:23.620 When does engagement happen? 0:02:23.620,0:02:25.340 As soon as you meet the client. 0:02:25.340,0:02:27.469 It is the very first impression 0:02:27.469,0:02:30.138 and it can also last[br]way beyond the first session 0:02:30.138,0:02:32.625 as you continue to establish[br]a therapeutic rapport 0:02:32.625,0:02:34.175 and build trust with the client. 0:02:34.175,0:02:36.420 Whenever I say the client,[br]all throughout these videos, 0:02:36.420,0:02:38.650 I can mean an individual,[br]I can mean a family, 0:02:38.650,0:02:41.020 I can mean a group,[br]I can mean a community. 0:02:41.020,0:02:42.389 So with establishing rapport, 0:02:42.389,0:02:44.570 it can be one to one[br]with an individual in front of you, 0:02:44.570,0:02:46.410 or it can be with a community as a whole, 0:02:46.410,0:02:50.075 establishing rapport with a neighborhood[br]or with a school, with a city. 0:02:50.075,0:02:51.050 What is engagement? 0:02:51.050,0:02:53.890 'Building rapport'[br]is a super common phrase in social work, 0:02:53.890,0:02:57.000 but it really just means establishing[br]a trusting working relationship 0:02:57.000,0:02:58.210 between yourself and the client. 0:02:58.210,0:03:01.523 Do they know you? Do they trust you?[br]Do they understand who you are? 0:03:01.523,0:03:04.650 Ultimately, rapport is built over time,[br]but starting off 0:03:04.650,0:03:07.930 focusing in on establishing that rapport[br]is so super crucial 0:03:07.930,0:03:10.442 because it sets the foundation[br]of how your working relationship 0:03:10.442,0:03:12.530 will develop over time[br]as you work with your client. 0:03:12.530,0:03:15.170 Engagement is the first impression[br]that the client will have of you. 0:03:15.170,0:03:17.610 Are you focused on them[br]and ready to assist them? 0:03:17.610,0:03:20.260 Or are you frazzled and distracted[br]and acting as if 0:03:20.260,0:03:22.330 they're just another thing in your day[br]that you have to do. 0:03:22.330,0:03:23.220 As I've already mentioned, 0:03:23.220,0:03:25.650 and as I'm sure I'll continue to mention[br]throughout these videos, 0:03:25.650,0:03:29.090 the steps and what they include[br]will vary based on what you're doing. 0:03:29.090,0:03:33.330 However, some aspects of engagement[br]that are pretty much always included, 0:03:33.330,0:03:34.850 number one is an introduction, 0:03:34.850,0:03:38.279 letting the client know who you are,[br]what you do, what your role is, 0:03:38.279,0:03:40.970 and also letting the client[br]introduce themselves, listening to them. 0:03:40.970,0:03:42.399 What's their name? Why are they there? 0:03:42.399,0:03:46.837 Engagement will include explaining[br]confidentiality and confidentiality limits. 0:03:46.837,0:03:49.910 This is super important because[br]before you do anything with a client, 0:03:49.910,0:03:53.190 they need to know where the[br]information that they disclose will go, 0:03:53.190,0:03:56.072 who it will go to,[br]when it is protected, and when it is not 0:03:56.072,0:03:58.750 because then they can be informed[br]as they talk with you. 0:03:58.750,0:04:01.870 Reading from the social work[br]Code of Ethics, this is 1.01, 0:04:01.870,0:04:05.830 "But social workers primary responsibility[br]is to promote the well being of clients. 0:04:05.830,0:04:08.085 In general, clients interests are primary. 0:04:08.085,0:04:11.010 However, social workers'[br]responsibility to the larger society 0:04:11.010,0:04:12.623 or specific legal obligations 0:04:12.623,0:04:16.013 may, on limited occasions,[br]supersede the loyalty owed clients 0:04:16.013,0:04:17.820 and clients should be so advised. 0:04:17.820,0:04:19.602 Examples include when a social worker 0:04:19.602,0:04:22.359 is required by law to report[br]that a client has abused a child 0:04:22.359,0:04:24.459 or has threatened to harm themselves[br]or others." 0:04:24.459,0:04:26.220 So sometimes in a therapeutic room, 0:04:26.220,0:04:29.180 that could look like,[br]"Everything you say here is confidential, 0:04:29.180,0:04:31.580 meaning that I'm not going to[br]go and tell other people about it, 0:04:31.580,0:04:33.140 but the limits to that will be 0:04:33.140,0:04:35.507 if you let me know that[br]you are planning to hurt yourself 0:04:35.507,0:04:37.100 or if there are allegations of abuse. 0:04:37.100,0:04:40.205 Which in those cases, I'm legally obligated[br]to make sure that everyone is safe." 0:04:40.205,0:04:43.013 It doesn't have to be that exact line,[br]maybe that exact line isn't perfect, 0:04:43.013,0:04:44.595 but something like that so they know, 0:04:44.595,0:04:47.310 "Okay, if I tell the social worker[br]that I am a harm to myself, 0:04:47.310,0:04:49.830 that social worker then has an obligation[br]to do something about it." 0:04:49.830,0:04:51.252 Lets them know what's gonna happen 0:04:51.252,0:04:53.423 based on what they disclose[br]or what they don't disclose. 0:04:53.423,0:04:56.070 So introduction,[br]confidentiality and limits to it. 0:04:56.070,0:04:59.590 You'll also discuss the agency's services[br]and what your role is within that. 0:04:59.590,0:05:03.070 Maybe this agency offers[br]assistance in connecting clients 0:05:03.070,0:05:06.525 to resources to obtain[br]housing, food, employment, 0:05:06.525,0:05:10.101 and what I'm here to do is assess if[br]what we offer fits what your needs are. 0:05:10.101,0:05:11.940 I totally made that up,[br]but something like that 0:05:11.940,0:05:14.840 where it explains what we offer[br]and who you are so they know, 0:05:14.840,0:05:17.160 "Okay, this is the situation,[br]this is what we're doing." 0:05:17.160,0:05:19.540 Engagement will also include[br]setting boundaries. 0:05:19.540,0:05:22.235 Again, this will look different[br]depending on where you're at. 0:05:22.235,0:05:24.440 Sometimes boundaries[br]will be explicitly stated. 0:05:24.440,0:05:27.231 Maybe if you are in a therapy setting[br]in a private practice 0:05:27.231,0:05:28.360 and you explicitly state, 0:05:28.360,0:05:30.720 "I am not able to be reached[br]outside of business hours, 0:05:30.720,0:05:33.800 but if you do have a crisis in which you[br]need help outside of business hours, 0:05:33.800,0:05:36.160 here is a resource or line you can call."[br]Something like that. 0:05:36.160,0:05:37.560 If there are boundaries[br]that need to be set, 0:05:37.560,0:05:39.110 sometimes they can be explicitly stated. 0:05:39.110,0:05:40.860 Or if a client misunderstands what 0:05:40.860,0:05:42.390 the services are[br]that you're offering them like, 0:05:42.390,0:05:44.530 "Oh, perfect, I can't wait for[br]you to pick me up each week 0:05:44.530,0:05:46.820 and we can go get groceries together[br]and you'll pay for them," 0:05:46.820,0:05:48.268 you need to explicitly state, 0:05:48.268,0:05:50.670 "Actually, the services[br]that we provide are [blank] 0:05:50.670,0:05:52.640 and I'm so excited to be able to[br]connect you with resources." 0:05:52.640,0:05:55.500 Kind of clearing up what the role is,[br]that's setting boundaries. 0:05:55.500,0:05:58.620 Another part of engagement is[br]talking through expectations for treatment. 0:05:58.620,0:06:00.155 Say that you are in a therapy setting 0:06:00.155,0:06:02.580 and you have a client coming in[br]for the first time and they say, 0:06:02.580,0:06:04.180 "I just can't wait for you to fix me. 0:06:04.180,0:06:06.171 I can't wait to be happy every single day. 0:06:06.171,0:06:09.100 Probably by next week, right?[br]I'll never feel sad again." 0:06:09.100,0:06:12.957 But talking through a realistic trajectory[br]of what may happen in therapy, 0:06:12.957,0:06:15.485 what to expect,[br]not promising any outcomes 0:06:15.485,0:06:17.860 because we can never[br]guarantee any outcomes, saying, 0:06:17.860,0:06:21.708 "I would love to work with you to identify[br]what the stressors are in your life 0:06:21.708,0:06:23.992 and what steps[br]you can take to lessen them." 0:06:23.992,0:06:25.260 Something like that. 0:06:25.260,0:06:28.780 Engagement will also include[br]obtaining informed consent. 0:06:28.780,0:06:32.060 This is very important because after[br]you discuss expectations for treatment, 0:06:32.060,0:06:33.660 what your role is,[br]what the boundaries are. 0:06:33.660,0:06:34.980 Clients get to decide if 0:06:34.980,0:06:36.900 your services are something[br]they want to go through with. 0:06:36.900,0:06:38.820 You don't get to[br]force your services onto a client. 0:06:38.820,0:06:40.260 Self determination is key. 0:06:40.260,0:06:42.092 Obviously, there are some settings where 0:06:42.092,0:06:43.820 informed consent[br]will look a little bit different. 0:06:43.820,0:06:46.300 For example, if things are[br]court mandated, court ordered, 0:06:46.300,0:06:49.690 but in those cases where you can[br]promote self determination in a client, 0:06:49.690,0:06:50.745 you should still do so. 0:06:50.745,0:06:52.770 But as far as[br]obtaining informed consent goes, 0:06:52.770,0:06:55.528 we can go back to our code of ethics[br]because it talks about it explicitly, 0:06:55.528,0:06:59.687 1.03, "Social workers should use[br]clear and understandable language 0:06:59.687,0:07:01.930 to inform clients of[br]the purpose of services, 0:07:01.930,0:07:03.490 risks related to the services, 0:07:03.490,0:07:04.690 limits to the services, 0:07:04.690,0:07:06.730 relevant costs, reasonable alternatives, 0:07:06.730,0:07:08.948 clients right to refuse[br]or withdraw consent, 0:07:08.948,0:07:10.770 and the time frame covered by the consent. 0:07:10.770,0:07:14.045 Social workers should provide clients[br]with an opportunity to ask questions." 0:07:14.045,0:07:16.682 This doesn't mean just do[br]a real quick spiel that you have memorized 0:07:16.682,0:07:18.860 so super fast the client[br]doesn't actually understand it 0:07:18.860,0:07:20.960 and you're like, "Okay, cool? Cool."[br]And then you're done. 0:07:20.960,0:07:22.200 That's not really what consent is. 0:07:22.200,0:07:25.100 The client needs to have the fullest[br]understanding that they can possible 0:07:25.100,0:07:26.517 of what the process will look like 0:07:26.517,0:07:28.560 because there shouldn't be surprises[br]that come up along the way. 0:07:28.560,0:07:30.880 For example, you get five sessions in[br]and then you're like, 0:07:30.880,0:07:34.000 "Actually, you owe $1,500[br]and I didn't tell you about that till now." 0:07:34.000,0:07:35.720 Hopefully, no social worker is doing that. 0:07:35.720,0:07:37.364 But that's a drastic example of 0:07:37.364,0:07:41.110 a lack of information given upfront[br]that the client can consent to 0:07:41.110,0:07:43.940 and say, "Okay, I understand[br]the risks of what I'm getting into." 0:07:43.940,0:07:46.780 For example, the fact that therapy[br]might not always be comfortable. 0:07:46.780,0:07:49.380 Okay, I understand that and I'm[br]still willing to go through with it. 0:07:49.380,0:07:51.900 I understand the pay scale,[br]I understand when payment is due, 0:07:51.900,0:07:54.149 I understand the expectations of me,[br]I understand your role, 0:07:54.149,0:07:55.886 and this is something that[br]I'm willing to do. 0:07:55.886,0:07:58.540 And notice that it says[br]clear and understandable language. 0:07:58.540,0:08:00.700 If there is a language barrier[br]between you and your client, 0:08:00.700,0:08:02.420 they can't give informed consent if you 0:08:02.420,0:08:04.990 haven't presented information to them[br]in a way that they can understand. 0:08:04.990,0:08:06.440 Then it also goes on to say, 0:08:06.440,0:08:09.760 "In instances when clients[br]are receiving services involuntarily–" 0:08:09.760,0:08:11.600 like what we mentioned,[br]maybe it's court ordered, 0:08:11.600,0:08:13.760 maybe it's an involuntary hospitalization. 0:08:13.760,0:08:15.548 "–social workers should[br]provide information 0:08:15.548,0:08:17.626 about the nature[br]and the extent of services 0:08:17.626,0:08:20.080 and about the extent of client's[br]right to refuse service." 0:08:20.080,0:08:21.680 Quick overview of what we discussed. 0:08:21.680,0:08:23.520 Engagement includes introductions, 0:08:23.520,0:08:25.640 explaining confidentiality[br]and the limits to it, 0:08:25.640,0:08:28.240 discussing agency services[br]and the social worker's role, 0:08:28.240,0:08:31.080 setting boundaries,[br]talking through expectations of services, 0:08:31.080,0:08:32.640 and obtaining informed consent. 0:08:32.640,0:08:34.280 Some tips to do engagement well. 0:08:34.280,0:08:37.280 I think number one is just remember[br]that it's a human to human interaction. 0:08:37.280,0:08:40.419 Treat your client how you would want[br]your loved one to be treated 0:08:40.419,0:08:41.804 if they walked into your agency. 0:08:41.804,0:08:44.090 If you have an imaginary uncle who's out there 0:08:44.090,0:08:46.330 and was gonna walk through[br]the front doors of your agency, 0:08:46.330,0:08:48.690 be kind, be welcoming,[br]don't be judgmental. 0:08:48.690,0:08:50.130 It's a human to human interaction. 0:08:50.130,0:08:52.790 I think lots of times social workers[br]can put pressure on themselves, are like, 0:08:52.790,0:08:55.810 "Okay, it's time to be[br]the superhero social worker." 0:08:55.810,0:08:57.610 It's okay to laugh, to chat a little bit, 0:08:57.610,0:09:00.170 to do a little bit of small talk,[br]really establish that rapport. 0:09:00.170,0:09:01.530 Whether you need to talk about the weather 0:09:01.530,0:09:03.330 or if there's a sports game[br]that just happened, 0:09:03.330,0:09:05.170 being able to build a working relationship 0:09:05.170,0:09:08.250 will ultimately lead to a beneficial[br]social worker-client relationship. 0:09:08.250,0:09:12.238 A buzz phrase in social work[br]is to meet the client where they are at. 0:09:12.238,0:09:15.270 And that just means[br]however the client is arriving to you, 0:09:15.270,0:09:19.190 maybe they're not super ready or[br]not super comfortable to enter services, 0:09:19.190,0:09:20.830 meeting them there instead of assuming 0:09:20.830,0:09:23.270 that they're so gung ho[br]about something they're not. 0:09:23.270,0:09:25.464 If they have reservations,[br]meeting them there, 0:09:25.464,0:09:28.070 it's okay if a client doesn't[br]immediately warm up to you. 0:09:28.070,0:09:30.830 Just because you do social work every day[br]doesn't mean that a client 0:09:30.830,0:09:33.950 is used to participating in[br]social work services every day. 0:09:33.950,0:09:36.540 If there is resistance there,[br]you can acknowledge that. 0:09:36.540,0:09:38.830 Like, "I know it's hard to get up[br]and show up here, 0:09:38.830,0:09:40.112 but I'm so glad you did 0:09:40.112,0:09:42.401 and I'm looking forward to seeing[br]what we can do together." 0:09:42.401,0:09:44.030 Part of this too is to be aware of 0:09:44.030,0:09:45.929 any cultural differences[br]that might be present 0:09:45.929,0:09:48.070 or any power imbalances[br]that might be present. 0:09:48.070,0:09:50.030 Maybe a client has only ever had 0:09:50.030,0:09:52.340 negative experiences[br]with previous social workers. 0:09:52.340,0:09:53.718 You can't get personally offended 0:09:53.718,0:09:55.910 if they come in reserved[br]and not really wanting to talk to you. 0:09:55.910,0:09:57.830 Meeting them where they're at[br]is understanding, like, 0:09:57.830,0:09:59.910 "Okay, they haven't had[br]great experiences in the past. 0:09:59.910,0:10:02.990 I'm gonna do what I can to make sure that[br]this experience doesn't match those." 0:10:02.990,0:10:04.990 But understand that[br]they're coming in reserved, 0:10:04.990,0:10:06.750 they're coming in hesitant[br]and that's okay. 0:10:06.750,0:10:08.910 One size does not fit all for engagement. 0:10:08.910,0:10:11.830 Every person is different, so you're[br]going to engage every person differently. 0:10:11.830,0:10:14.550 I think that can seem pretty obvious[br]when you're just sitting here saying it, 0:10:14.550,0:10:16.340 but it's important to remember 0:10:16.340,0:10:19.020 as you are a social worker[br]engaging with clients. 0:10:19.020,0:10:20.920 Using your soft skills that you've learned 0:10:20.920,0:10:23.512 through the engagement process[br]is so important. 0:10:23.512,0:10:26.860 Find empathy for your client,[br]maintain eye contact when appropriate. 0:10:26.860,0:10:29.300 Show your client that you're[br]focused on them, you're listening to them. 0:10:29.300,0:10:30.700 It means actively listening. 0:10:30.700,0:10:32.540 Pay attention to your posture. 0:10:32.540,0:10:34.100 Are you just sitting and typing 0:10:34.100,0:10:35.540 and looking away from them[br]while they're talking to you? 0:10:35.540,0:10:37.510 They're not going to feel as engaged. 0:10:37.510,0:10:39.440 As if you turn to face them, 0:10:39.440,0:10:41.000 have an open posture, 0:10:41.000,0:10:43.000 maybe nod along as they're talking. 0:10:43.000,0:10:44.160 You don't have to overdo it, 0:10:44.160,0:10:46.440 but just show signs that you are[br]actively listening to them. 0:10:46.440,0:10:49.280 Focus on and be receptive[br]to the client's thoughts and feelings. 0:10:49.280,0:10:51.784 Social work is client centered[br]and so that includes 0:10:51.784,0:10:54.680 you being client centered[br]whenever a client comes in. 0:10:54.680,0:10:56.920 A lot of those soft skills[br]you'll use anytime, 0:10:56.920,0:10:58.800 especially when you're[br]doing micro social work, 0:10:58.800,0:11:00.480 when you're working[br]one on one with a person. 0:11:00.480,0:11:02.120 It can begin to look[br]a little bit different 0:11:02.120,0:11:04.251 once you move into[br]meso and macro social work, 0:11:04.251,0:11:06.320 which if you don't know[br]the differences between those levels, 0:11:06.320,0:11:09.680 I do have a video that talks all about[br]micro versus meso versus macro, 0:11:09.680,0:11:11.325 but say you're doing meso social work, 0:11:11.325,0:11:12.818 all the soft skills that I just mentioned 0:11:12.818,0:11:14.650 are still so important[br]when you're meeting with people, 0:11:14.650,0:11:17.050 but if you're trying to establish rapport[br]with the community, 0:11:17.050,0:11:19.250 maybe attending community events,[br]being present, 0:11:19.250,0:11:22.890 getting to know who the stakeholders are[br]in the community, who holds power, 0:11:22.890,0:11:25.290 who has influence in the community,[br]getting to know them, 0:11:25.290,0:11:28.211 meeting different people with[br]various different roles in the community, 0:11:28.211,0:11:30.210 or if you're working more macro focused, 0:11:30.210,0:11:32.290 meeting people who are[br]personally affected by 0:11:32.290,0:11:35.410 the macro social issue[br]or macro problem that you're working with, 0:11:35.410,0:11:37.785 meeting with people[br]who hold the power to change, 0:11:37.785,0:11:41.310 and meeting with the people who care[br]and who identified the social problem 0:11:41.310,0:11:43.600 and brought you in[br]to do something about it. 0:11:43.600,0:11:45.840 All in all, engagement is the foundation. 0:11:45.840,0:11:47.920 It's what the rest of[br]your helping process, 0:11:47.920,0:11:50.646 the rest of your work with a client[br]will be based off of 0:11:50.646,0:11:53.332 and giving it the proper[br]time and energy that it deserves 0:11:53.332,0:11:54.840 is super, super important. 0:11:54.840,0:11:57.760 But once you do all of the steps[br]that we mentioned in engagement, 0:11:57.760,0:12:00.715 the second step of the helping process[br]is moving into assessment. 0:12:00.715,0:12:04.670 Assessment only happens[br]after you have obtained informed consent. 0:12:04.670,0:12:07.110 You've let them know[br]the limits of confidentiality. 0:12:07.110,0:12:09.070 They know your role,[br]they know what you're doing, 0:12:09.070,0:12:10.590 they know what services you can offer, 0:12:10.590,0:12:11.710 then it's time to assess. 0:12:11.710,0:12:14.670 In short, assessment is determining[br]what the presenting problem is. 0:12:14.670,0:12:16.910 Again, this can be micro, meso, or macro. 0:12:16.910,0:12:19.150 A problem must be known[br]in order to be solved. 0:12:19.150,0:12:22.744 If you go in blind, close your eyes[br]and shooting darts at the bull's eye, 0:12:22.744,0:12:24.382 don't do that.[br]No. 0:12:24.382,0:12:28.258 Additionally, assessment determines[br]what the client is seeking treatment for. 0:12:28.258,0:12:29.880 Your assessment isn't to see, okay, 0:12:29.880,0:12:33.014 I'm going to look at this client's life[br]and determine what I think are problems 0:12:33.014,0:12:35.250 and determine what I think[br]they need to work on. 0:12:35.250,0:12:37.321 No, you're figuring out[br]why did the client show up? 0:12:37.321,0:12:39.560 What's going on?[br]What do they want help with? 0:12:39.560,0:12:41.120 Also, why are they here now? 0:12:41.120,0:12:43.360 What changed in[br]the presenting problem where, 0:12:43.360,0:12:45.040 today's the day[br]where they showed up to you? 0:12:45.040,0:12:48.200 What has gone on leading up to them[br]taking the steps to take action now? 0:12:48.200,0:12:49.560 Depending on your agency, 0:12:49.560,0:12:52.196 there may be specific tools,[br]specific questionnaires, 0:12:52.196,0:12:55.045 specific templates[br]that you use for your assessment. 0:12:55.045,0:12:57.370 Depending on[br]what kind of information you need, 0:12:57.370,0:13:00.587 if you're in a school with children,[br]you're going to need different information 0:13:00.587,0:13:03.770 than if you're working with veterans[br]assisting them to get home loans. 0:13:03.770,0:13:06.130 Part of the way that social work[br]as a discipline 0:13:06.130,0:13:09.510 is different from some other[br]educational backgrounds in assessments 0:13:09.510,0:13:12.551 is that it takes account for multiple[br]different parts of the client's life 0:13:12.551,0:13:15.570 and how they all play together[br]to affect a presenting problem. 0:13:15.570,0:13:17.610 For example, in social work background, 0:13:17.610,0:13:20.530 a mental health struggle[br]is not just biologically based. 0:13:20.530,0:13:23.050 It may also be[br]exasperated by social pressures, 0:13:23.050,0:13:25.597 systemic oppression,[br]maladaptive cognitions. 0:13:25.597,0:13:26.995 There's more that goes into it. 0:13:26.995,0:13:30.890 You need to collect information[br]before you begin any kind of intervention, 0:13:30.890,0:13:33.843 or else, how do you know that[br]your intervention is a fit for the client 0:13:33.843,0:13:36.010 and a fit for the presenting problem[br]that they came in with? 0:13:36.010,0:13:38.640 Like I said, the exact information[br]that you're looking for 0:13:38.640,0:13:40.210 will vary based on where you are, 0:13:40.210,0:13:42.450 what you're doing, who you are,[br]what your role is. 0:13:42.450,0:13:44.676 But some elements that[br]will be included in the assessment 0:13:44.676,0:13:47.610 that you'll be asking people about[br]may include biological elements, 0:13:47.610,0:13:50.290 psychological elements,[br]sociological elements. 0:13:50.290,0:13:53.518 I don't know if you noticed,[br]but biopsychosocial. 0:13:53.518,0:13:55.390 Probably heard of[br]those types of assessments before. 0:13:55.390,0:13:59.270 In assessment, this is a great time for[br]you to use a strengths based perspective, 0:13:59.270,0:14:01.870 which I also have a video on[br]if you'd like to learn more about it. 0:14:01.870,0:14:05.030 But you're not looking at[br]what problems are in this client's life. 0:14:05.030,0:14:07.670 You're also looking at[br]what strengths does a client come in with, 0:14:07.670,0:14:09.790 what resources are available[br]for them to use. 0:14:09.790,0:14:12.470 Along with that,[br]you'll identify any gaps in services 0:14:12.470,0:14:15.168 or any barriers to services[br]that a client might be facing. 0:14:15.168,0:14:17.110 You'll be looking at[br]how does your client system 0:14:17.110,0:14:18.910 interact with other systems around them, 0:14:18.910,0:14:23.208 whether your client system is an[br]individual, family, a group, a community. 0:14:23.208,0:14:26.710 Also, sometimes in assessment,[br]you will obtain collateral information. 0:14:26.710,0:14:29.750 This means information from people[br]outside of your client system 0:14:29.750,0:14:32.830 that may be necessary to get[br]a holistic picture of an assessment. 0:14:32.830,0:14:34.070 Now, with collateral information, 0:14:34.070,0:14:36.499 ensure that you have[br]proper consent from your client 0:14:36.499,0:14:38.630 in order to talk about them[br]to anyone else, 0:14:38.630,0:14:39.925 whether it's another professional, 0:14:39.925,0:14:41.910 whether it's a family member,[br]a school teacher, 0:14:41.910,0:14:44.238 make sure that[br]the proper releases are given 0:14:44.238,0:14:45.710 for you to talk about your client. 0:14:45.710,0:14:48.350 That will be a question that whenever[br]you start working somewhere new, 0:14:48.350,0:14:50.975 you'll need to make sure you have clear,[br]"Okay, who can we talk to 0:14:50.975,0:14:53.530 and what is the process to[br]go about releasing information 0:14:53.530,0:14:56.850 or obtaining information from someone[br]outside of the client with their consent. 0:14:56.850,0:14:58.070 When working with children, 0:14:58.070,0:15:01.245 you do not need a release[br]to speak to their legal guardians 0:15:01.245,0:15:03.030 and their legal guardians[br]are generally the ones 0:15:03.030,0:15:04.761 that provide consent[br]for you to talk to anyone else. 0:15:04.761,0:15:07.230 However, once you begin[br]actually working with a child, 0:15:07.230,0:15:10.190 it is important that you also[br]respect their confidentiality. 0:15:10.190,0:15:13.110 This means not being a revolving door[br]straight back to the parents that, 0:15:13.110,0:15:14.670 "Well, they're having a problem[br]with this, this and this, 0:15:14.670,0:15:15.790 these are their exact thoughts. 0:15:15.790,0:15:17.184 They feel this way about you." 0:15:17.184,0:15:20.720 Obviously, you keep legal guardians involved and updated on progress 0:15:20.720,0:15:22.760 to the extent that it's[br]beneficial to the child 0:15:22.760,0:15:24.800 and to the client[br]and that it is required of you, 0:15:24.800,0:15:28.040 but children can have confidentiality[br]even while they're children. 0:15:28.040,0:15:31.116 Collateral information can also be[br]obtained from past documents 0:15:31.116,0:15:33.200 if a client[br]has been with your agency before. 0:15:33.200,0:15:35.000 Maybe someone else three years ago 0:15:35.000,0:15:37.080 did an assessment[br]similar to the one you're doing. 0:15:37.080,0:15:40.040 You can look at that and obviously[br]information has changed since then, 0:15:40.040,0:15:42.640 but some may be the same, so you can[br]review that information with the client, 0:15:42.640,0:15:44.850 but maybe you don't have to[br]start from exactly square one. 0:15:44.850,0:15:48.020 Examples of presenting problems[br]if you are in micro social work, 0:15:48.020,0:15:50.100 maybe someone is coming in[br]struggling with substance abuse 0:15:50.100,0:15:51.420 and that's what they would like help with. 0:15:51.420,0:15:53.060 Maybe someone has a missing resource, 0:15:53.060,0:15:55.540 whether that's food, housing,[br]employment, healthcare, 0:15:55.540,0:15:57.780 maybe someone is coming in[br]with a mental health struggle, 0:15:57.780,0:16:00.820 maybe that's depression, maybe[br]that's anxiety, maybe that's psychosis. 0:16:00.820,0:16:02.700 Those are examples of, on a micro level, 0:16:02.700,0:16:04.860 what an individual[br]may be coming in with to you. 0:16:04.860,0:16:07.257 On a meso level,[br]a presenting problem could be 0:16:07.257,0:16:09.154 an elementary school[br]with low attendance rates 0:16:09.154,0:16:11.380 and they're wanting you to[br]intervene to help that out. 0:16:11.380,0:16:13.460 A high school with low graduation rates, 0:16:13.460,0:16:16.820 a geriatric care facility with a high rate[br]of depression among its residents. 0:16:16.820,0:16:18.820 Those are more meso, community based. 0:16:18.820,0:16:21.518 It's not a group, but it's not country. 0:16:21.518,0:16:23.300 Or, zooming out to macro social work, 0:16:23.300,0:16:25.660 a city with a really high rate[br]of unhoused people, 0:16:25.660,0:16:27.658 a state with[br]a high proportion of residents 0:16:27.658,0:16:31.100 who are just living paycheck to paycheck[br]or experiencing financial insecurity, 0:16:31.100,0:16:34.340 a social work board with[br]disproportionate pass rates by race. 0:16:34.340,0:16:36.580 These are examples of more macro problems 0:16:36.580,0:16:38.940 that social workers[br]may attempt to intervene with. 0:16:38.940,0:16:40.540 Some tips to assess well. 0:16:40.540,0:16:44.208 Spending sufficient time and effort[br]in the engagement stage 0:16:44.208,0:16:47.140 will likely lead to a more honest[br]and complete assessment. 0:16:47.140,0:16:49.020 If someone just came in,[br]they don't know you, 0:16:49.020,0:16:51.100 they don't trust you,[br]they don't know what you're doing, 0:16:51.100,0:16:52.380 they don't know what your goal is. 0:16:52.380,0:16:56.280 They're probably not going to be as[br]honest and open as if they do trust you, 0:16:56.280,0:16:58.720 do understand who you are,[br]do understand what your goal is. 0:16:58.720,0:17:01.280 Being receptive to clients'[br]answers to your questions, 0:17:01.280,0:17:03.160 no matter what they are, is important. 0:17:03.160,0:17:05.880 Part of this is understanding[br]how your body language comes across. 0:17:05.880,0:17:08.600 Part of it is ensuring[br]your responses aren't judgmental. 0:17:08.600,0:17:10.062 You are not there to judge a client. 0:17:10.062,0:17:13.480 You're there assessing needs so that[br]you can help them break down those needs. 0:17:13.480,0:17:15.680 Part of assessing is being[br]comfortable with silence. 0:17:15.680,0:17:19.666 Some topics discussed in assessment[br]may be tough for a client to open up about 0:17:19.666,0:17:20.960 and tough for a client to speak about. 0:17:20.960,0:17:22.680 Holding space for that is important. 0:17:22.680,0:17:24.840 Just because this is[br]an everyday part of your life, 0:17:24.840,0:17:26.740 discussing[br]whichever topics you're discussing, 0:17:26.740,0:17:28.960 does not mean that it's[br]an everyday part of your client's life 0:17:28.960,0:17:30.705 and does not mean[br]that they are comfortable with it. 0:17:30.705,0:17:32.450 They may be very willing to talk about it, 0:17:32.450,0:17:35.010 but sometimes[br]there's discomfort that comes up 0:17:35.010,0:17:37.380 and being comfortable with just[br]letting them take a second 0:17:37.380,0:17:39.690 holding space for them,[br]letting them speak on their own terms. 0:17:39.690,0:17:43.431 Going back to our handy dandy[br]code of ethics, this is 1.07 0:17:43.431,0:17:45.970 "Social workers should respect[br]clients' right to privacy. 0:17:45.970,0:17:49.347 Social workers should not solicit[br]private information from or about clients 0:17:49.347,0:17:51.530 except for[br]compelling professional reasons. 0:17:51.530,0:17:54.810 Once private information is shared,[br]standards of confidentiality apply. 0:17:54.810,0:17:58.104 Social workers may disclose[br]confidential information when appropriate 0:17:58.104,0:18:00.049 with valid consent from a client 0:18:00.049,0:18:02.890 or a person legally authorized[br]to consent on behalf of a client. 0:18:02.890,0:18:04.849 Social workers should protect[br]the confidentiality 0:18:04.849,0:18:07.607 of all information obtained[br]in the course of professional service 0:18:07.607,0:18:09.620 except for[br]compelling professional reasons. 0:18:09.620,0:18:13.037 General expectation that social workers[br]will keep information confidential 0:18:13.037,0:18:15.193 does not apply[br]when disclosure is necessary 0:18:15.193,0:18:18.980 to prevent serious, foreseeable[br]and imminent harm to a client or others. 0:18:18.980,0:18:21.470 In all instances,[br]social workers should disclose 0:18:21.470,0:18:23.794 the least amount of[br]confidential information necessary 0:18:23.794,0:18:25.310 to achieve the desired purpose. 0:18:25.310,0:18:27.255 Only information that is directly relevant 0:18:27.255,0:18:29.190 to the purpose for which[br]the disclosure is made 0:18:29.190,0:18:30.270 should be revealed." 0:18:30.270,0:18:32.676 We've discussed the first two[br]steps of the helping process: 0:18:32.676,0:18:34.070 engagement and assessment, 0:18:34.070,0:18:35.350 and I think it's important[br]to circle back 0:18:35.350,0:18:37.737 to those principles[br]of the social work profession 0:18:37.737,0:18:40.191 to see how they can connect[br]in the first two steps. 0:18:40.191,0:18:42.200 These are kind of[br]reflection questions for you. 0:18:42.200,0:18:44.360 What does it look like[br]to help people in need 0:18:44.360,0:18:47.220 and address social problems[br]through engagement and assessment? 0:18:47.220,0:18:48.120 How can you do that? 0:18:48.120,0:18:51.760 How can social injustice be challenged[br]through engagement and assessment? 0:18:51.760,0:18:54.760 How can you respect the inherent[br]dignity and worth of the person 0:18:54.760,0:18:56.400 through engagement and assessment? 0:18:56.400,0:18:59.256 How can you centralize[br]the importance of human relationships 0:18:59.256,0:19:00.790 through engagement and assessment? 0:19:00.790,0:19:04.360 How can you be trustworthy[br]through engagement and assessment? 0:19:04.360,0:19:07.881 How can you ensure that you are[br]practicing within your area of competence 0:19:07.881,0:19:10.043 through both engagement and assessment? 0:19:10.043,0:19:12.810 If you are curious what happens[br]when you're a social worker, 0:19:12.810,0:19:15.210 after you engage a client[br]and after you assess, 0:19:15.210,0:19:16.388 then make sure to subscribe 0:19:16.388,0:19:18.890 so that you'll be around [br]and see whenever part two is posted, 0:19:18.890,0:19:21.290 where we will get into both[br]planning and intervention, 0:19:21.290,0:19:24.890 and then part three, where we will[br]get into evaluation and termination. 0:19:24.890,0:19:26.198 I hope this is helpful to you 0:19:26.198,0:19:28.450 no matter where you're at[br]in your social work journey, 0:19:28.450,0:19:31.490 and I hope that there are many[br]little reasons to smile in your day today. 0:19:31.490,0:19:32.900 I'll see you next time. 0:19:32.900,0:19:37.780 [music...]