The Generalist Social Work Model
The generalist practitioner has the following skills and capacities:
- The generalist practitioner possesses a deep and abiding commitment to the values of social work, to include respect for the individual and for client self determination.
- Is committed to ethical practice.
- Upholds the integrity of the social work profession.
- Advances social justice through planned change, particularly on behalf of underserved and oppressed groups within the community.
- Develops the capacities of individuals, groups, families, and communities.
- Engages the client in a helping process that empowers them to find creative solutions to their own seemingly difficult situations.
- Is an advocate for clients when their needs are not being met, and takes advantage of opportunities within and outside the work setting to advocate on behalf of those who are most vulnerable.
- Uses the problem solving model to assess a client's situation, plan for change, intervene, and evaluate the outcomes of the planned intervention.
- Incorporates the role of the research practitioner into their generalist practice model.