Relational Theory for Clinical Practice (2^nd Ed.)

Relational Theory for Clinical Practice offers students and practitioners a conceptual framework for thinking relationally about social work with clients within a biological, psychological, and socio-cultural framework.

Integrating relational theory with the principles of clinical practice, and demonstrating how this can be applied to social work practice, this book has been revised and updated to be suitable for students. Using plenty of case material to demonstrate the theory in action, the new edition incorporates teaching points to aid readers in drawing out the practice principles developed in each chapter.

Keeping relationships at the center of the text, this edition includes substantially expanded chapters on assessment and intervention, and takes into account recent research on issues such as the impact of trauma and stress; neuroscience and brain research; and the necessity of practicing in a culturally sensitive way with diverse populations. It broadens the feminist focus of relational-cultural theory by extending and applying it to men also.

Designed for use on master's level courses in practice, as well as courses on human behavior and the social environment, this concise and practical book is a valuable text for social work and counseling students.

1. The History of Social Work Through a Relational Lens 2. Relational Theory in a Nutshell 3. The Client-Worker Relationship 4. Relational Theory and Empathy: A Feminist Perspective 5. Assessment: A Relational Point of View 6. Intervention: A Relational Point of View 7. Ethics and Values: A Relational Perspective

Sharon Freedberg is an Associate Professor in the Department of Social Work, and Interim Associate Dean of the School of Health Sciences, Human Services, and Nursing at Lehman College, City University of New York, USA.