Learning Resources

Required Readings

Toseland, R. W., & Rivas, R. F. (2017).
An introduction to group work practice
(8th ed.). Boston, MA: Pearson.
Chapter 6, “Planning the Group”

Plummer, S.-B., Makris, S., & Brocksen, S. (Eds.). (2013).
Sessions case histories
. Baltimore, MD: Laureate International Universities Publishing.

“The Petrakis Family” (pp. 20–22)

Proudlock, S., & Wellman, N. (2011). Solution-focused groups: The results look promising. 
Counselling Psychology Review
, 
26
(3), 45–55.

Required Media

Walden University. (n.d.).
MSW interactive home page
[Multimedia]. Retrieved from https://class.waldenu.edu

Note:

The “Petrakis Family” video sessions can be viewed using this program resource.

  

Assignment 1: Planning a Group

When a client is dealing with several problems at one time, it can be difficult to determine which type of treatment group would be most beneficial. Some types of treatment groups may overlap in addressing certain problems or issues. The literature is helpful in assisting the clinical social worker in determining the type, purpose, and goals of the treatment group.

For this Assignment, review the “Petrakis Family” case history and video session.

In a 3- to 4-page paper, describe a treatment group that would help Helen Petrakis in one of the following areas: (a) caregiving, (b) sandwich generation, (c) serving as a family member of an individual with addiction.


Review and briefly summarize the literature about the social issue that is the focus of your group (caregiving, sandwich generation, or addictions).

Write a plan that includes the following elements:

Type of treatment group

Purpose of the group

Membership

Method to recruit

Composition

Size

Open/closed

Monitoring




By Day 7