verbal communicator on a professional level. Throughout my experience at DCF and with my classes, I’ve grown to understand that practice makes perfect. Most of what I do at DCF consists of writing, whether that is assessments, dictations, forms, affidavits, etc. Our work as social workers reflects not only us as individuals, but also our department. Assessing our clients is a form of verbal communication and then gets documented into our system. Since I’ve first begun assessing my clients, I’ve gained further skills in that area. Since the assessment involves a great deal of questions, I’ve learned how to elaborate more with my clients and reach for feelings. When a new case opens, I ensure that whatever issue the case opened up for I will focus on that during the assessment. For example, if my case opens up because of substance use, I will make an effort to elaborate further in that area. I’ve learned to perform well with experience and feedback from my mentor and supervisor. Although I have gained many skills and have improved as a writer, I still much more to acquire.
It is essential that I continue to broaden my writing ability and stay on top. The more experience and skills that I gain, the more helpful I will be for my clients. I also believe that I still must learn additional information approaching substance and alcohol use. I don’t expect myself to become an expert overnight, but I am confident along the way. I love learning and am constantly finding new ways to broaden my ability to fulfill my role. My long-term goal is to become a supervisor; therefore I want to make sure I have learned all the proper skills necessary to assist my workers in becoming
successful.