How are Social Workers using Digital Technologies?
Welcome back to the Social Work Café and the latest episode of the podcast.
Today, I am thrilled to introduce you to an exceptionally experienced and local social worker, Melinda Green.
Mel's career is a testament to her versatility and dedication, having taken on numerous roles, including lecturing and teaching in our social work programs.
Her extensive experience is particularly evident in her leadership positions, notably in her current role as the manager of the CSU student counselling and wellbeing service.
Our conversation focused on how Mel's team leverages digital technologies in their work.
Her team uses a variety of online methods such as phone calls, online platforms, and even email, long before the pandemic made it a necessity.
One of the key benefits Mel has observed in using these mechanisms is the increased accessibility of services for students, who can now reach counsellors from various geographic locations more swiftly.
This convenience is especially valuable for students juggling multiple responsibilities, allowing them to seek support at times that best fit their schedules.
Traditionally, clients come to the counsellor, but digital technologies have flipped this script, enabling counsellors to meet clients where they are.
This approach is highly client-centred, offering flexibility and convenience. However, it also presents ethical challenges. For instance, maintaining boundaries is crucial, such as ensuring sessions aren't conducted while someone is driving.
Privacy is another concern, particularly when sessions occur in personal spaces like bedrooms, or when dealing with serious issues like domestic violence with the perpetrator potentially nearby.
To navigate these challenges, having clear policies and procedures is essential. These guidelines help in making informed decisions and ensure practice aligns with relevant privacy legislation.
Mel also highlighted the importance of case note writing in the digital age, especially where cyberattacks are a growing concern.
Case notes are not just vital for capturing information but also represent a client's narrative. This underscores the responsibility of social workers to secure these notes, maintaining both privacy and the accuracy of the client’s story.
Mel shared invaluable advice on working ethically online.
She emphasised the importance of embracing digital technologies while engaging in constructive conversations with clients about their use.
This includes discussing potential issues like internet disruptions or distractions and ensuring clients understand how their information is kept private and secure.
As our conversation came to a close, I asked Mel about her favourite technique.
She highlighted the foundational microskills social workers use to get to know someone.
Mel applies these skills in her leadership role, in order to understand her team members’ strengths, support needs, and areas for development.
Her approach exemplifies how these basic, yet powerful techniques can be utilised to foster a supportive and effective team environment.
On that note, if you don’t hear from me, it’s because I am trying to get a job in her team!
Until next time,
Dr. B
