SW 501 Theory and Practice of Social Work I: Individuals and Families

This course introduces the student to the foundational problem-solving approach to social work practice through engagement, assessment, intervention, and termination with individuals and families. Students will critically examine the main theories that inform clinical direct practice. Ethical decision making, incorporation of social work values, and multicultural competence will be stressed. The course will support students in establishing methods of empathic communication with the client, development of goals that target client concerns, evaluation of family systems and group dynamics, and implementation of effective change-oriented strategies. (3)