SOCWK 5320 Advanced Practice With Groups

This advanced practice course builds upon foundational attending skills, group dynamics, and counseling theory to develop advanced competencies in facilitating therapeutic group interventions. Students refine skills in engaging, assessing, intervening, and evaluating with client groups using trauma-informed, theory-driven, and ethically grounded approaches. Emphasis is placed on reflective use of self, emotional regulation, power-sharing, and evidence-informed practice in group settings.

The course also explores the ethical integration of artificial intelligence (AI) and other digital tools in social work practice. Students examine the risks, benefits, and professional responsibilities associated with AI use in group work, including considerations related to confidentiality, informed consent, bias, documentation, and equitable access. Guided by the NASW Code of Ethics and current professional standards, students critically evaluate how technology can support or hinder ethical, client-centered group practice.

Prerequisite): SOCWK 5310 Clinical Assessment with Individuals and Families.