Evidence-Based Practice in Clinical Social Work

Evidence-Based Practice in Clinical Social Work introduces the key ideas of evidence-based clinical social work practice and their thoughtful application. It intends to inform practitioners and to address the challenges and needs faced in real world practice. This book lays out the many strengths of the EBP model, but also offers perspectives on its limitations and challenges. An appreciative but critical perspective is offered throughout. Practical issues (agency supports, access to research resources, help in appraising research) are addressed - and some practical solutions offered. Ethical issues in assessment/diagnosis, working with diverse families to make treatment decisions, and delivering complex treatments requiring specific skill sets are also included.

I. What is Evidence Based Practice and How It Influences Clinical Practice?- Introduction and Overview.- Three Perspectives on Evidence Based Practice.- The Steps of EBP in Clinical Social Work: An Overview.- Assessment in Clinical Social Work and Identifying.- Practice Information Needs.- Locating Practice Research.- Evaluating Research: Research Designs in EBM/EBP.- Evaluating Research: Other Issues of Research Methodology in EBM/EBP.- Meta-analysis and Systematic Reviews: Aggregating.- Research Results.- Shared Decision Making with the Client.- Finalizing the Treatment Plan and Practice Evaluation.- II. Case Examples of Evidence Based Practice.- Sam: An Older, Gay Man who appears Depressed.- Ray: A Man Fearful of Panic Attacks.- Sally: A 12 year old who has Reactive Attachment Disorder.- Newman and Loretta: Parents of Arthur, a Man who has Schizophrenia.- Jin: 16 year old Korean-American Male with Drinking Issues.- Jennifer: A Young Homeless Woman who has Borderline Personality Disorder.- III. EBP in Clinical Social Work Education and Ongoing Issues.- Evidence Based Practice: Teaching and Supervision.- Continuing Issues Regarding EBP in Practice.- Conclusion.- References.- Glossary.- Appendix A: An Outline for a Biopsychosocial Assessment and Intervention Plan.- Appendix B: A Bullet Point Summary of the Merits and the Limitations of EBP.