“It’s not about the waffle maker:” trauma-informed social work practice

Date
2018-04
Authors
McAvoy, Michelle
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Faculty of Social Work, University of Regina
Abstract

This report highlights my Master’s in social work practicum experiences in private practice providing trauma-informed therapy to clients who have experienced varying degrees of interpersonal trauma. The purpose of the practicum was to enrich my theoretical understanding of trauma-informed practice and enhance my clinical skills in direct social work practice with clients who have experienced trauma. This report summarizes my experiences as a clinical social worker in a private practice setting. I begin with an overview of my personal and professional experiences and highlight the rationale for my practicum placement. I then discuss my literature review defining the term ‘trauma,’ and discuss cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and attachment theory as foundational theories that guided my clinical work. I outline important aspects of trauma-informed practice and integrate a conceptual framework I used. Throughout this paper, I blend professional and practicum experiences regarding theoretical and practical applications of social work tools to client experiences. I note challenges and ethical considerations of trauma-informed practice and conclude with a brief summary and recommendations for future social work practice.

Description
A Practicum Report Submitted to the Faculty of Graduate Studies and Research In Partial Fulfillment of the Requirements for the Degree of Master of Social Work, University of Regina. 56 p.
Keywords
Trauma-informed therapy, Private practice social work, Social work in mental health, Cognitive-behavioral therapy
Citation