Direct Social Work Practice: Theories and Skills for Becoming an Evidence-Based Practitioner

Using a case-based approach to connect the classroom and the practice environment, this foundational text incorporates a broad set of themes that include advocacy, social justice, global focus, ethics, theory, and critical thinking. Integrated, up-to-date, evidence-based content related to diversity, social justice, and international issues helps readers develop the basic skills of engagement, assessment, intervention, and reflective practice, as well as the key skills needed for the field experience. Each chapter of the book is mapped to the latest Educational Policy and Accreditation Standards (EPAS) to aid schools of social work in connecting the course content with monitored outcomes.

Mary C. Ruffolo, PhD, LMSW, is a professor with the University of Michigan’s School of Social Work. She teaches classes on topics related to assessment and interventions with children, adolescents, adults, families and small groups. Dr. Ruffolo’s research emphasizes the development, evaluation, and sustainability of evidence-based or evidence-informed practices in public behavioral health settings, as well as in integrated health environments. 

Brian E. Perron, PhD, is an associate professor with the University of Michigan′s School of Social Work. He teaches classes on topics related to diagnosis and treatment of mental health and substance use disorders. Dr. Perron is also actively involved in research related to these topics, with an emphasis on clinical assessment, measurement, evidence-based practices, and predictive modeling. 

Elizabeth H. Voshel, LMSW, ACSW, is an associate clinical professor and director of field instruction with the University of Michigan’s School of Social Work. She has been a leader in the school’s integrative learning effort and teaches a capstone seminar. Voshel has presented nationally and internationally on field instruction curriculum and social work ethics and was employed for 22 years by the US Department of Veterans Affairs.