The way we use language is important and can have a large impact on how we make people feel. We can reinforce negative stereotypes and biases, or we can promote empowerment and individuality. You likely would not want to be introduced only as “the short woman” or “the old man” or “the black person”. That...Read More

During my time at the Kentucky River Children’s Advocacy Center (the Care Cottage), I was able to witness the collaboration of individuals when working with various clients. This is coined multidisciplinary teamwork because individuals from various disciplines are working together on child abuse cases to make sure they are proceeding as required and the needs...Read More

As a social worker, you will often encounter individuals with a history of trauma. Caring for the needs of clients with trauma exposure is challenging and requires a special approach. Throughout my social work program, I’ve learned about trauma informed care, however, it wasn’t until my senior practicum — working in a residential treatment facility...Read More

I completed a college practicum at a drug treatment center. There were many treatment options at this facility from a 28-day residential program, to an eleven-month long-term inpatient/outpatient program. Part of my practicum experience was to help a clinical staff member run group therapy. Group therapy offered me a unique opportunity to connect with the...Read More

When people think of social workers, they often think of poverty alleviation and child welfare, but the truth is they do so much more. Social workers can be found in hospitals, helping people cope with acute conditions and chronic illness. They provide therapy and work in community health centers, nursing homes and homeless shelters. They...Read More

Life can be a difficult road to navigate with all its twist and turns. As a social worker, it is our responsibility to provide the best road map we can for others and to stand with people as they navigate the road ahead. Choosing to be a social worker is born out of “an outgrowth...Read More

Deciding to be a social worker is deciding to live your life in service to others. Social workers are on the front lines, advocating for those in need and being a safe haven for those they help. They walk alongside people and help them navigate the complications and hardships of life. As a profession, it...Read More

Here I am nearing the end of my college career as a social work student, quarantined during a worldwide pandemic, COVID-19. Due to COVID-19, we aren’t allowed to go inside any restaurants, have any large gatherings, and if we must go out for essentials, we must practice social distancing to avoid contracting and spreading the...Read More

According to the American Society on Aging, social workers are reporting elder self-neglect among individuals age 65 and older as a significant and growing problem. The Elder Justice Act (2010) defines elder self-neglect as the "inability, due to physical or mental impairment or diminished capacity, to perform essential self-care."  Unfortunately, social workers indicate elder self-neglect...Read More