November Reflection Log

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School

Salem State University *

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Course

700

Subject

Sociology

Date

Feb 20, 2024

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docx

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4

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November Reflection Log Emilie Grant School of Social Work, Salem State University SWK 721: Field Education 1 Nanci Lytes, LICSW November 17, 2023
As I continue to move forward in my fieldwork placement at Eliot Community Human Services, I am engaged in a process of both professional and personal development. My field instructor has highlighted the principles outlined in the NASW Code of Ethics and the competencies detailed in my learning agreement in our weekly supervision. This weekly interaction has allowed me to ask questions regarding implementing evidence-based practices most appropriate for my diverse clientele. Employed at the organization for the last two years, my role as a recovery coach did not focus in detail on the array of evidence-based practices supported by the organization, as my role has not been clinical. It was not until recently that I began learning and looking into detail what evidence-based practices are highly used and how to use them when working with my clientele from a clinical lens. Within this organization, there’s a solid commitment to keeping its practices sharp and effective, which is why there's a big emphasis on ongoing training continuously being provided. The agency makes learning convenient for its staff by offering online and in-person training sessions. This way, no matter how busy or if transportation issues arise, there's always a chance to improve our skills. Some of the evidence-based practices demonstrated in training include cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), motivational interviewing (MI), eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR), and Trauma- informed care. Eliot also focuses on practical, on-the-ground approaches like case management, therapeutic group therapy, recovery coaching, and peer support, which benefit our hands-on work. This culture of learning means that we're always equipped with the latest and best strategies to meet the complex needs of our clients, making sure that no one falls through the cracks and everyone gets the proper support needed.
My experience with my field instructor has been extremely helpful to my growth in this placement. I am so grateful that the dilemma with my field instructors has been resolved because I now have more consistency, resulting in more profound knowledge. It's one thing to learn about theories in school but another to apply them in real-life situations with my active clients. My weekly supervision has helped me bridge the gap. She’s always there to offer clinical insights and wisdom from years of experience. With her help, I've navigated the challenges that come with the territory, understanding not just the textbook approach but how to use them in the therapeutic process. Her guidance has been crucial in helping me learn to balance research-based interventions with an empathetic understanding of where each client is coming from. I am learning more and more that this is what good practice is about. In the day-to-day hustle of the job, I've noticed how naturally I've begun to incorporate motivational interviewing and a strengths-based approach into my practice. We recently discussed these two methods in the SWK 704 Social Practice course. Each client I encounter is at a different stage in their recovery journey. By focusing on their strengths and using motivational interviewing, I can ask questions that get to the depth of their experience. This approach helps me to create a space where clients feel understood and connected. Many clients seek services during their tough times, feeling defeated and hopeless. During these times, recognizing and affirming their strengths and the support systems they have, and those they can access can turn things around for them. A sense of hope goes a long way. I’ve understood that self-awareness is critical. It's all about looking inward and understanding how my experiences and biases could influence my work. This self-reflection is essential to being a social worker because it helps ensure I'm giving the best care possible. It's about being mindful of how I interact with clients and always striving to be genuine and
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effective. This ongoing self-examination ensures that I'm not just going through the motions but making a difference in the lives of the people I work with, despite their backgrounds or readiness to change. It's a journey that requires me to adapt and grow constantly. I'm not just learning about evidence-based practices; I'm living them. This has offered me a whole new perspective on ways to engage through a clinical lens. This experience is shaping me into the kind of social worker I aspire to be—one who serves with dedication, acts with integrity, and always puts the welfare of my clients first. It's a lot more than what I expected from a practicum. It's the real-world application of everything I've learned and preparing me for a future where I can make a difference with a broader scope of tools.