Interview With A Social Worker

             What research he does find time for is on medical and psychological aspects of disability and he then incorporates that into helping his consumers.
             The practice theory he tends to practice is Choice Theory (formerly Reality Therapy) which was developed by William Glasser. The reason he uses this is because as a Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor, he is to emphasize "consumer choice" by providing informed choices. With the information given to the consumer by the counselor, the consumer is then encouraged to make choices in order to achieve their vocational goals. Reality therapy focuses on solving problems and on coping with the demands of reality in society by making more effective choices.
             Andy worked with some social workers through the dept of Family and Youth Services (DFYS) in supporting mutual consumers and attending group meetings. He also consults with other counselors in his office and has meetings with his supervisor. He is also very active in the Deaf and HOH community and their functions. He gives lectures and lets the public at large know what services are available to them if they are in need. .
             One of the questions on the list I had he could not answer and that was about one issue in his practice that may be responsive to a macro intervention. His work is mainly consumer driven not family but it does entail interaction with community and doctors and equipment needed and helping set up classes at college. There are more but he does not look at it as a whole system theory or as a macro practice yet as I listen to him that is exactly what he does practice. .
             I asked him about NASW and he told me that he currently does not belong but did in college. Also because he is working as a Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor, NASW is not relevant right now, but there are similar organizations for voc rehab counselors. During his college years and NASW membership, his views of NASW were that it was a valuable membership experience because there was a wealth of resources and contacts throughout the United States.