Essential Theories, Ideas and Skills for Effective Social Work Practice

Raquel Warley, PhD, MSW, is an associate professor and former director of field education in the School of Social Work at California State University, Los Angeles.

I. Introduction 1. Case Study II. Values, Ethics, and Obligations 2. Social Work Values 3. Professional Ethics 4. Legal Obligations of Helping Professionals 5. Ethical Decision-Making 6. The Nature of Social Work Practice II. Preparing for Effective Practice 7. Engagement, Rapport, & the Working Alliance 8. Self-Exploration 9. Preparatory Empathy III. Assessment 10. Narrative Therapy 11. Information Gathering 12. Biological Aspects of Human Functioning 13. Psychological & Social Aspects of Human Functioning IV. Treatment Planning 14. Problem Identification & Definition 15. Outcome Goals 16. Preliminary Planning 17. Contracting V. Overview of Treatment 18. Behavioral Intervention 19. Cognitive-Behavioral Intervention 20. Psychodynamic Therapy 21. Crisis Intervention 22. Group Work 23. Family Therapy VI. Conclusion 24. Terminating with Clients