The role of the general practice social worker is a complex role that requires a variety of skills, and knowledge in order to help their clients. The definition of generalist practice has been debated by social workers and educators for decades (Hernandez, 2008; Landon, 1995). Discussed in this paper are a personal definition of generalist practice, and three specific terms of generalist practice related to the case of Charo, a Hispanic domestic violence survivor. The effectiveness and ineffectiveness of the terms are discussed as it relates to the case of Charo.
Definition of generalist practice
The generalist practitioner social workers role involves helping individuals, groups, families, and communities, with their issues. …show more content…
The first is empowerment, in which the client enrolled in English as a second language classes (ESL). In addition, case management, where the social worker utilized multiple services in helping with Charo’s needs. A solution-focused intervention was implemented as safety plan for her client, as well as domestic violence support group participation (Plummer, Makris, Brocksen, 2014).
Characteristics that make each an example of generalist practice
The characteristics of empowerment in the case of Charo, is that the social worker recognized a language barrier with her client, and offered a solution. Learning how to speak English enhances Charo’s job skills and opportunities. Characteristics of case management in Charo’s case range from multiple coordinated services, which included therapy, housing, child care, court services, and domestic violence support group (Plummer, Makris, Brocksen, 2014). The goal of case management is that all services provided to a client are accomplished and meet the needs of the client (Kirst-Ashman, Hull, 2015). Case management involves coordination of services provided by a variety of professionals (Kirst-Ashman, Hull, …show more content…
Empowerment is defined as a process of increasing interpersonal and personal power so that individuals can take the necessary steps to improve their life situation (Gutierrez, 2001, p. 210). The social worker utilized case management, which is effective in Charo’s case by utilizing multiple services simultaneously in an effort to assist her with her ongoing needs. Those services range from a safe house, counseling and court services. The role of case management is not new to the profession of social work (Kirk-Ashman, Hull, 2015).
If there is any ineffectiveness to be noted in case of Charo, and general practice, it would be that Charo’s husband was deported. It is not clear if the husband completed his therapy in the batterer’s intervention program (BIP).
The effectiveness of solution-focused intervention is evident in Charo’s case in that a plan was implemented resulting in an agreement to participate in domestic violence group therapy. Part of the solution-focused intervention entailed Charo moving into a safe house, which is effective in providing a safe environment for her family (Plummer, Makris, Brocksen,