101578: Social Work Today July/August 2009

About the Course:

Tech-Savvy Social Work—Meeting the Digital Demand How has technology enhanced social service data management, outcomes measurement, and direct services to clients? Are there any risks?

Understanding Evidence Based-Practice in Behavioral Health What is evidence-based practice, and what are supporters and critics saying about it?

Creative Connections—Art Museums Reach Out to Persons With Disabilities Persons with disabilities benefit from art museum programs that encourage art making and appreciation.

Connecting With the Person Inside Alzheimer’s Communicating with people who have Alzheimer’s and other dementias can teach care professionals valuable lessons about interacting with respectful, nonjudgmental, positive regard.

Journal/Publisher:

Great Valley Publishing

Publication Date:

July/August 2009

Authors

Pamela Carter-Birken; Nancy Pearce, MS, MSW; Christina Reardon; David Surface

About the Authors:

Pamela Carter-Birken is a senior advisor in the Administration for Children and Families, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.

Nancy Pearce, MS, MSW, is a licensed geriatric social worker with more than 20 years of experience working in long-term healthcare and hospice settings. She specializes in dementia care and is the author of Inside Alzheimer’s: How to Hear and Honor Connections With Persons Who Have Dementia.

Christina Reardon is a freelance writer based in Harrisburg, PA, and an MSW candidate at Temple University.

David Surface is a freelance writer and editor based in Brooklyn, NY. He is a frequent contributor to Social Work Today.

Recommended For:

This course is recommended for social workers, psychologists, counselors, and other healthcare professionals who seek knowledge about mental health care. It is appropriate for all levels of knowledge.

Course Objectives:

1. Explain how technology is being used in social services today including the benefits and risks.

2. Recognize the barriers involved in connecting with individuals who have Alzheimer’s or other dementias and ways to address those barriers.

3. Discuss evidence-based practice in behavioral health and some of the controversies about its use.

4. Explain how art museums are implementing programs that reach out and engage people with disabilities.