Social Work Practice in Health: An Introduction to Contexts, Theories and Skills

Health services practice or working with clients facing health issues requires diverse approaches and wide-ranging knowledge. In this fully revised and expanded second edition, Melissa Petrakis draws on the experience and expertise of leading researchers and practitioners to provide a guide to the disparate settings in which social workers are engaged and the conceptual frameworks and skills needed for effective practice.

Including new chapters on compassion in healthcare, neoliberalism and health, social justice, suicidal distress, and health social work in regional, rural and remote settings, the book begins by examining the nature of health social work and considers its core values and principles. Part I also provides an overview of the social determinants of health. Part II explores key areas of practice including trauma-informed practice, mental health, aged care, dual diagnosis and working with people living with disability. Part III looks at politicised issues, reform agendas in the field including indigenous approaches to health, refugee health, and concludes by considering how a focus on well-being informed by Maori approaches could provide new insights into better practice.

Underpinning the book throughout is a clear guide to assessment procedures, case management, strengths-based practices and developing effective partnerships and collaboration. All this makes Social Work Practice in Health a key reference tool for social work students and practitioners.