Essentials of Social Work Practice: A Concise Guide to Knowledge and Skill Development introduces readers to core concepts and skills that are vital to cultivating a successful social work practice. Unique in approach, the book clearly connects human behavior theories to engagement, assessment, goal-setting, intervention, and evaluation, while also illustrating the fluidity between micro, mezzo, and macro level activities.

Over the course of eleven engaging chapters, students are introduced to the helping process, ethical standards, and strategies for working with individuals, groups, and families. They learn about contemporary service delivery models and cutting-edge programs that exemplify strength-based, ethically-oriented, and culturally relevant practice. Narratives and dialogues throughout provide detailed depictions of the use of core skills to bridge the gap between concepts and practice. A variety of creative tools and techniques are offered for use with diverse clients. Every chapter features self-care strategies to facilitate coping with common stressors in social work. The final chapter emphasizes lifelong learning and informs readers of vital resources for on-going professional development.

Essentials of Social Work Practice prepares future social workers to employ strategic interventions, reflect upon their strengths and needs as a practitioner, and maintain personal health and wellness throughout their career. The book is an exemplary resource for foundational courses in social work.

Kathleen F. Cox is a licensed clinical social worker and Professor Emerita at California State University, Chico. She received her MSW from San Diego State University and her Ph.D. in social work from the University of Southern California. She has conducted research and published numerous articles in the areas of strength-based practice with high risk youth/families and self-care for human service professionals. She has extensive experience as a clinical social worker, clinical supervisor, and program director serving youth in the juvenile justice, child welfare, and mental health systems. Dr. Cox is the lead author of Self-Care in Social Work: A Guide for Practitioners, Supervisors, and Administrators.