Assignment Task:
Respond to at least two colleagues in one or more of the following ways:
Compare your selection of theoretical elements to those your colleague chose and explain the implications of the similarities and differences on social work practice with clients with substance use disorders.
Describe an additional way that your colleague's theoretical elements align with strengths-based or client-centered approaches. Need Assignment Help?
Use the Learning Resources to support your posts. Make sure to provide APA citations and a reference list.
1-Amanda-
Post a description of what strengths-based and client-centered social work with clients with substance use disorders entails. Identify two or three elements of at least one other theoretical framework that you would like to integrate into your own practice with clients with substance use disorders. How will the addition of these theoretical elements be beneficial to your work with clients with substance use disorders? To what extent do these elements align with strengths-based and/or client-centered approaches?
Strengths-based and client-centered social work with clients with substance use disorders (SUDs) entails putting the client first by focusing on their strengths rather than their problems or issues, and recognizing that every client has strengths and capabilities that can be used for problem-solving and positive change. These approaches can help to empower clients by recognizing their strengths and resiliency while honoring their autonomy and self-determination, shifting the focus to one of hope. "Concentrating on strengths can provide structure and content for examination of realizable alternatives, for the mobilization of competencies that can make things different, and for the building of self-confidence that stimulates hope" (Kirst-Ashman & Hull, 2018, p. 29).
I am interested in learning more about Motivational Interviewing (MI) and recently purchased a book and workbook about MI for my internship. Elements of MI that I plan to integrate into my practice with clients with SUDs are expressing empathy and rolling with resistance/engaging in ambivalence. Expressing empathy through reflective listening is imperative to establish rapport and build client trust and safety. "There is evidence that helper empathy influences positive outcomes for clients and patients in many instances" (Capuzzi & Stauffer, 2020, p. 144). Rolling with resistance/engaging in ambivalence will be difficult for me as in my current line of work I am used to not arguing but rather pushing back gently and stating potential natural and logical consequences for choices. Resistance should signal that the social worker should change directions (Capuzzi & Stauffer, 2020). Adding these elements can benefit my work with clients with SUDs as it can keep the conversation collaborative, which can help preserve the client's sense of autonomy and demonstrate that ambivalence to change is normal and part of the process. Expressing empathy will help the client feel heard and understood which shows a genuine understanding of their experiences which honors the client and doesn't solely reduce them to their substance use experience.
References:
Capuzzi, D., & Stauffer, M. D. (2020). Foundations of addictions counseling (4th ed.). New York, NY: Pearson Education, Inc.
Kirst-Ashman, K. K., & Hull, G. H., Jr. (2018). Empowerment series: Understanding Generalist Practice (8th ed.).
2-Eric-
Description of what strengths-based and client-centered social work with clients with substance use disorders entails.
Strengths-based and client-centered approaches in social work with clients who have substance use disorders (SUDs) focus on honoring the client's experiences, resources, and capacity for change. These approaches move away from problem-saturated or deficit-based perspectives and instead emphasize hope, resilience, and empowerment. According to Pomeroy and Garcia (2018), strengths-based practice requires social workers to see beyond pathology and understand the client within their environment and context. A client-centered approach, rooted in Carl Rogers' person-centered therapy, ensures that the client is regarded as the expert on their own life. The social worker's role is to provide empathy, unconditional positive regard, and support for self-directed growth. This is especially important for clients with SUDs, who often face stigma and shame. These approaches restore dignity, build trust, and encourage meaningful engagement.
Identify two or three elements of at least one other theoretical framework that you would like to integrate into your own practice with clients with substance use disorders.
In addition to strengths-based and client-centered perspectives, I would integrate two elements from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Motivational Interviewing (MI) into my practice:
Cognitive Restructuring (CBT)-Helping clients recognize and challenge distorted thoughts that lead to substance use. For example, changing "I can't cope without using" to "I've handled stress before without substances."
Enhancing Motivation to Change (MI)-Using open-ended questions and affirmations to help clients resolve ambivalence and strengthen internal motivation for recovery.
Mekonnen and Lee (2022) highlight that combining CBT and MI with a client's strengths and values can be especially effective in treating SUDs, as it provides practical tools while still centering the client.
How will the addition of these theoretical elements be beneficial to your work with clients with substance use disorders?
Integrating these frameworks enhances my practice by offering both a supportive and structured approach. CBT techniques provide concrete strategies for relapse prevention, while MI enhances client readiness for change. When used alongside strengths-based and client-centered approaches, these frameworks support a comprehensive, respectful, and empowering model of care. Clients are not just passive recipients of treatment; they are active participants in their recovery journey.
To what extent do these elements align with strengths-based and/or client-centered approaches?
Both CBT and MI align with the core principles of strengths-based and client-centered approaches. MI, in particular, shares a philosophical foundation with client-centered therapy-it respects client autonomy and fosters collaboration rather than confrontation. CBT, while more structured, can still be client-centered when goals and interventions are co-created. Together, these models reinforce the social work values of self-determination, respect for the dignity of the client, and evidence-informed care.
References:
Mekonnen, A., & Lee, B. K. (2022). Evidence-based practice in substance use treatment: Integrating models to support client-centered care. Journal of Social Work Practice in the Addictions.
Pomeroy, E. C., & Garcia, R. B. (2018). Theoretical perspectives for direct social work practice: A generalist-eclectic approach (3rd ed.). Springer Publishing Company.