This innovative textbook takes an integrated approach to the core theories, methods and skills at the heart of all good social work practice, demonstrating how practice both shapes, and is shaped, by professional purpose. Responding to the latest contemporary debates, advances and emerging social challenges in the field, this five-part book: - Covers a broad and diverse range of social work practice methods, from working with individuals and families through to community work, policy practice and system change. - Underlines the fundamental dimensions shaping the practitioner and their practice context, equipping the reader with how to form effective working relationships and tackle competing inter-agency priorities. - Engages with core theories, including eco social work and de-colonized perspectives. - Provides a dedicated section on communication skills, an important topic integral to all areas of practice. - Emphasizes the importance of self-care, along with professional boundaries in achieving good critically reflective practice. - Includes a range of exercises, examples and review questions to help readers consolidate their learning. This book offers a step-by-step discussion of topics that will empower social work students and practitioners alike to critically develop and refine their professional toolkit for purposeful and innovative intervention, reinforcing an understanding of how to achieve effective professional practice.

Autorentext
Karen Healy is Professor of Social Work in the School of Social Work and Human Services at The University of Queensland, Australia.