How can she build in safeguards for herself and her clients? Given the lack of professional social work supervision in this situation, where can Angelina seek consultation?
Social worker Angelina Pettit enjoyed practicing in a faith-based agency, where she found deep personal meaning in her work with clients. However, the work was complicated by the agencyís integral connections with her church. Her husband, Philip, a group leader in their church, invited Jacob and Raymond, two single men in his group and the church who were also Angelinaís clients, to their home for Christmas dinner. Angelina generally felt successful in managing her dual relationships, but it seemed this situation was hitting ìtoo close to home.î Their coming to dinner could challenge her sense of professionalism regarding dual relationships. But, she felt compelled to follow her faith and belief that individuals should not be alone during the Christmas season, and that celebrating community and being loved within the church family was important.
Communicating with Philip about when and whom they would invite over for dinner or a visit is imperative, and would provide a safeguard for Angelina and her clients. If Philip would have discussed with Angelina that he was going to invite Raymond and Jacob over for dinner, then they could have decided together if that was the best decision. Not to communicate prior to an invitation may increase the possibility of having more chances for dual relationships to occur.
Angelina could contact other professional social workers and establish an accountability group. A number of social workers, including those who were in her social work classes, may reside in the area, and contacting them to begin this group could occur with relative ease. Also, practicing social workers must participate in continuing education credits. While at conferences where she could receive these credits, Angelina could pursue other social workers who might be practicing in other agencies where dual relationships might become problematic. This consultation might provide her with support and understanding when dealing with difficult practice situations. Angelina could have shared her dilemma with other social work practitioners, and they could have provided her with options or advice about what to do. Moreover, being a part of a professional community also provides accountability during messy times.
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