Problem:
Q1. Identify another strategy your peer could use to build trust with the Garcia's and explain how it would complement the strategies your peer described.
Q2. Describe additional ways your peer could partner with Ms. Garcia to support Alejandro.
Q3. Use in-text citations from the learning resources to support responses.
Peer Response: The Garcia family's experience with court-ordered therapy can feel challenging because their participation is necessary for reunification. This might lead Ms. Garcia and Alejandro to feel more afraid, mistrustful, and resistant. Instead of seeing therapy as a helpful and supportive space, they might perceive it as surveillance or punishment. The mother's evident anxiety and Alejandro's withdrawal highlight how the mandate can make them feel vulnerable and out of control. As a therapist, it's essential to recognize how required services can unintentionally create feelings of oppression if I don't take active steps to empower the family (National Association of Social Workers [NASW], 2021).
Building trust is all about creating a safe and understanding environment, where Ms. Garcia and Alejandro feel truly seen and respected. We start by clearly explaining what confidentiality means, what's required for court reports, and what therapy aims to achieve, so everyone knows what to expect and feels secure. Embracing cultural humility is also essential; asking about their values, traditions, and how they prefer to communicate helps us honor their unique voices. Respecting Ms. Garcia's independence is essential; supporting her choices about her healing journey-whether related to housing or parenting-while gently encouraging Alejandro to express his own sense of self, appropriate to his age, fosters growth and confidence. Together, we can help both mother and child set gentle, meaningful goals for therapy, allowing them to feel empowered and more connected throughout the process. These approaches reflect the NASW Code of Ethics, emphasizing dignity, self-determination, and culturally responsive practice.
Alejandro's well-being is closely linked to Ms. Garcia's stability and safety. To effectively support him, it's crucial to assist her in managing her trauma, fears, and dependence on an abusive partner. I would collaborate with Ms. Garcia by providing education on domestic violence, trauma's impact on children, and available resources for safe housing. Supporting her parenting skills can boost her confidence and strengthen their bond with her son. Referrals to support groups or individual counseling for intimate partner violence can reduce her feelings of isolation. Enhancing family sessions with positive interactions and open communication fosters a stronger connection. By addressing Alejandro's therapeutic needs and empowering Ms. Garcia, we can help them develop a resilient, healthy relationship and move beyond their previous struggles. Need Assignment Help?
References:
Antonopoulou, V., Killian, M., & Forrester, D. (2024). Measuring family stress levels and engagement in child protection social work: an explorative analysis of parental stress and social worker practice skills. Journal of Children's Services, 19(2), 123-134.
Lalayants, M., & Merkel-Holguin, L. (2025). Bridging the gap: The role of parent advocates in enhancing child protective services practice. Children and Youth Services Review, 175.
Child Welfare Information Gateway. (2021). Family engagement: Partnering with families to improve child welfare outcomes.. U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Administration for Children and Families, Children's Bureau.
National Association of Social Workers. (2021). Code of ethics of the National Association of Social Workers.
Nissen, M. A., & Engen, M. (2021). Power and care in statutory social work with vulnerable families. Ethics & Social Welfare, 15(3), 279-293.