Doin’ The Work – Practice Thoughts

Whose Problem Is It?

In this edition of Practice Thoughts, I examine how assessment becomes inaccurate and harmful when sociocultural and political context is ignored. I explore how distress is often mislocated within individuals, families, and communities rather than understood as a response to structural conditions, and why locating the problem accurately is central to ethical, effective practice—especially in moments shaped by fear, policy, and systemic harm.

anti-oppressive practice

inclusive clinical practice

social work education

therapist reflections

Honoring How Clients Define Family

In this edition of Practice Thoughts, I explore how assumptions about family shape assessment, documentation, and ethical decision-making across practice settings. Drawing from practice experience, I examine why honoring how clients define family is a core part of anti-oppressive work, how dominant cultural definitions of family are reinforced through systems and policy, and the harm that can occur when practitioners override clients’ language and lived realities—even unintentionally.

anti-oppressive practice

inclusive clinical practice

social work education

therapist reflections

More on Social Justice Based Practice

In this edition of Practice Thoughts, I explore what it means to be open about our anti-oppressive and social justice–based approaches in clinical practice. Drawing from real-world examples and the Liberation Health Model, I consider the benefits and challenges of being explicit about these frameworks from the start—how doing so can strengthen trust, clarity, and alignment with clients, while also raising important questions about context, vulnerability, and authenticity in our work.

anti-oppressive practice

inclusive clinical practice

social work education

therapist reflections

Social Justice Based Practice

In this edition of Practice Thoughts, I look at common critiques of social justice–oriented and anti-oppressive practice in clinical work. Drawing from real examples, I explore ideas about neutrality, difference, and humanity in practice, highlighting how flexibility, reflection, and systemic awareness can support meaningful, client-centered change.

anti-oppressive practice

social work education

Exploring Anti-Oppressive Practice

In this first edition of Practice Thoughts, I reflect on how anti-oppressive practice (AOP) was missing from my formal social work education, even after years in the field. I share how activism and organizing shaped my understanding of justice-based practice, explore core themes of AOP, and offer practical ways to integrate collaboration, advocacy, and critical reflection into client-centered work.

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