Task centred social work is one of the best known and most strongly supported approaches to social work practice. This text is a radical departure from traditional literature on social work methods. The main reference point is the voice of practitioners, service users and carers, as researched and developed by the authors over twenty years. Case studies are used throughout the book to build on the experiences of practitioners and the people with whom they have worked, demonstrating practical skills for: study and analysis teaching and learning practicing task-centred social work review and continuing development. The Task-Centred Book is a core text for both undergraduate social work courses and continuing professional development training, as well as being a practical book for the active professional which will support the development and implementation of task-centred practice.

This substantially revised, expanded and updated edition of the popular Handbook of Theory for Practice Teachers is a comprehensive summary of the theory, knowledge, research and evidence relating to practice learning in social care. Focussing on knowledge-based practice with a focus on improving outcomes, the five sections of the book cover: * the reasons and circumstances in which people may become social work service users * a holistic consideration of assessment in general and specific contexts, including risk assessment and management * methods of intervention, including cognitive behavioural social work, task centred practice, advocacy, crisis intervention, family therapy and group care * the legal, policy, research and evidence context in which assessment and intervention occur, as well as interdisciplinary work and organisational aspects of social work practice * reflective practice, evaluation and evidence based practice as integral parts of social workers' engagement with the complex needs of individuals outside the existing parameters of policy or research findings. This key text is essential reading for students, practitioners and teachers in social work.

What do social workers need to know in order to practise skilfully and effectively? Edited by three Social Work's leading scholars, the second edition of this highly respected textbook helps bridge the gap between social work theory and the challenges of day-to-day practice. Versatile and thoughtful, the book's simultaneous accessibility and depth make it essential reading suited for both social work students at undergraduate and post-qualifying level. Practitioners, too, will learn and benefit from the insights collected together in this valuable addition to their bookshelf.

Based on the papers of the Conference on applications of task-centered treatment, held at the University of Chicago, 1975.

The text is a comprehensive guide to the most commonly used theories and methods in social work practice. The introductory chapter covers the similarities and differences between a theory and a method, as well as psychosocial theories and concepts. Each subsequent chapter then explores in detail how to implement theories and methods, their strengths and limitations, alongside case examples, critical thinking questions and suggested further resources. Key features: • Illustrative case studies • Exercises • Case examples • Critical thinking questions • Further readings/resources • Revised content, including the addition of genograms and ecomaps This is a practical and essential guide for all social work students, practitioners, and practice educators who are working with students in field placements. The book is an updated third edition to a successful and established series. “The clarity with which Teater describes complex concepts for social workers is refreshing. This book will help promote understanding and best practice whilst being firmly grounded in key theories. It is a 'must have' for all social workers wherever they practise!” Dr Jonathan Parker, Professor of Society & Social Welfare, Bournemouth University, UK “This latest edition of 'Theories and Methods' is as solid as its predecessors academically, with a clear and easy to follow structure that makes it accessible in a way many such books are not. I have used previous editions in many situations, settings and levels, and endorse this latest as a must-have for anyone involved with social work. Explanation is clear and the use of tables, diagrams and cases bring the theory alive and enable users to realistically transfer theory to practice. The use of exercise and questions provide a springboard to deeper learning as do the handy references and pointers to further reading at the end of each chapter. Inclusion of sections such as the 'cultural and ethical considerations' lend themselves to self-analysis, exploration and ultimately self-development. A dream of a book to work with as an academic, tutor, practice educator and trainer...as well as student.” Michele Winter, Independent Social Worker & Teacher/Trainer, Social Care Training “I can wholeheartedly recommend this revised and updated edition of Barbra Teater’s highly successful book. It remains essential reading for practitioners, undergraduate and postgraduate students of social work. The book provides a compelling and easily accessible analysis of key theories and methods. It challenges both students and practitioners to consider and reconsider how they can apply theories and methods to practice more effectively.” Prof Hugh Mclaughlin, Manchester Metropolitan University, UK “What a great book – Barbra Teater and colleagues have managed to bring together a wealth of learning about different theories and methods of social work intervention in a clearly written and accessible format. Each chapter is focused on the application of theory to practice, and as such helps to act as a bridge from the classroom to direct work with individuals, families and groups. This new and updated edition is very likely to be one of those books that students have by their side throughout their studies, and bring with them into professional practice after graduation.” Dr John Devaney, Centenary Professor of Social Work, University of Edinburgh, UK

This fully updated and expanded third edition of a classic text provides a comprehensive introduction to key theory, knowledge, research and evidence relating to practice learning in social work and social care. It outlines the theories that underpin social care practice, the main assessment models and interventions, and also offers guidance on the effective implementation of assessment across a range of professional contexts. Contributors from research, policy-making and practice backgrounds offer guidance on how to apply policy and research findings in everyday practice while ensuring that the complex needs of each individual service user are met. This third edition also features new chapters on group work, social pedagogy and personalisation. The Handbook for Practice Learning in Social Work and Social Care is an essential resource for ensuring effective evidence-based practice which will be valued by students, educators and practitioners alike.

This is a new edition of the wildly successful everyday reference for social workers. Like the first edition, it has been crafted with the help of an extensive needs assessment survey of educators and front-line practitioners, ensuring that it speaks directly to the daily realities of the profession. It features 40% new material and a more explicit focus on evidence-based practice.