Definition of Clinical Practice
| Clinical practice is defined as a model of practice that involves those activities with and on behalf of clients, especially those activities completed in the client’s presence and with the client’s collaboration. These activities are informed by an ecologically based biopsychosocial assessment. These interventive and change oriented activities are based on a range of theories with the clinical social worker selecting the one most appropriate for the client’s situation. These activities may take place in an individual, family, or group setting. While focusing on those activities done in direct contact with clients, clinical social workers must also be prepared to make indirect contacts on behalf of clients. Those contact functions include advocacy, consultation, referral, and supervision. All social workers, including clinical social workers, must be aware of the impact of social policies upon their clients, and as citizens knowledgeably engage in the democratic process in common struggle for economic and social justice. |