Advanced Clinical Social Work Practice : Relational Principles and Techniques

Advanced Clinical Social Worktraces the development of relational ideas in psychodynamic practice from their origin in object relations and self psychology to their evolution in current relational theory, intersubjectivity, and attachment theory. The text also shows how social work practice has been infused with relational thinking from the beginning of the profession. Relational treatment includes an emphasis on openness and collaboration between client and therapist, mutual impact, the client's subjectivity, and the therapist's empathy, genuineness, and use of self in the therapeutic interaction. It focuses on the relationship and dialogue between client and therapist as crucial to the change process and shows the ways in which the therapeutic relationship is used to help clients and therapists bridge their differences, examine their similarities, overcome impasses, and manage enactments. The authors show how relational principles and techniques can be applied to multiple problems in social work practice, including life crises and transitions, physical and sexual abuse, mental disorders, drug addiction, and the loss of a loved one.The relational emphasis on the subjective experience of both client and therapist is beautifully illustrated throughout the book, drawn from the authors' clinical work with clients from diverse backgrounds, including gay and lesbian clients, immigrants, and clients of color. The authors also discuss the integration of relational constructs in short-term treatment and with families and groups. The book opens with a historical perspective on the role of relational thinking in social work and the evolution of relational theory in psychoanalysis. It presents an overview of the key concepts that comprise relational theory and its application throughout the treatment process, with diverse clients, and in different practice modalities. They conclude with a discussion of the challenges in learning and teaching new theoretical and practice paradigms, particularly in creating a more mutual exchange in the classroom and in supervision.