Clinical Social Work ― Definition, Practice, and Vision

Dr. Dorfman begins by placing social work in a historical setting. She introduces the social reformers and settlement workers who inaugurated many aspects of the field, and then moves on to today's movers and shakers. She lays out the philosophical and ethical foundations upon which clinical social work is built, and offers concrete definitions of the "what, where, and how" of the profession. There is full description of the phases of client contact - from initial interview and assessment to intervention strategies and eventual termination of therapy.
In keeping with the author's emphasis on imparting a full and practical view of the field, she offers an unusual chapter addressing issues that do not often receive attention in traditional educational formats, but are nonetheless some of the most sensitive and important for the clinical social worker. Here, Dr. Dorfman considers such key questions as, What do I do about a sexually seductive client? Is clinical social work dangerous? Is it OK to advertise? How does managed care affect me?
Clinical Social Work is a "must read" for those already in the field as well as anyone contemplating social work as a profession, because it provides a sense of the challenges and possibilities that await. This multidimensional perspective is invaluable for helping to turn principles into effective - and fulfilling - practice.

Rachelle A. Dorfman, Ph.D., is a Professor in the Department of Social Welfare, School of Public Policy and Social Work, University of California at Los Angeles.