Value 1: Respecting the Dignity and Worth of All People

Context for Practice; Clinical specialists establish professional relationships with service users facing challenges related to mental health, addiction, trauma, grief/loss/illness, and crisis situations. They also encourage, where appropriate, the involvement of families in the care process.

Standards of Practice: Clinical specialists shall uphold the dignity and worth of all service users by:

1.1.1. listening respectfully to service users, their families, and those close to them;

1.1.2. providing an emotionally supportive therapeutic relationship;

1.1.3. valuing the lived experiences of service users dealing with mental health, addiction, trauma, grief/loss/illness, and crisis issues, and acknowledging their impact;

1.1.4. being mindful of how age, cultural background, ethnicity, race, socioeconomic status, gender and gender expression might influence the therapeutic relationship;

1.1.5. working in partnership with service users and, where appropriate their families, ensuring a mutual approach in assessment and clinical intervention planning;

1.1.6. using inclusive language to bridge any gaps in experience, power, and personhood between the social worker and service users;

1.1.7. gathering and providing information in a way that respects service users’ experiences, beliefs, and feelings;

1.1.8. welcoming and valuing feedback from service users and, where applicable, their families;

1.1.9. encouraging active participation in decision-making at all levels of interaction, emphasizing the importance of self-determination;

1.1.10. adapting approaches to meet the needs and comprehension levels of different age groups, including children, young people, adults, and older individuals;

1.1.11. acknowledging and accommodating the diverse experiences and perspectives of all members when working with families and groups.

Context for Practice: Clinical specialists are dedicated to fostering a healing-oriented approach including the principles of hope, dignity, self-determination, and responsibility in their practice. This involves supporting service users in navigating their healing journeys, empowering them to make choices and define their paths toward well-being while adhering to legal standards and ethical responsibilities.

Standards of Practice: Clinical specialists shall demonstrate a commitment to healing by:

1.2.1 supporting service users in taking control of their healing and well-being by helping them to articulate their goals and desires, regardless of their legal circumstances (such as voluntary or involuntary participation in treatment);

1.2.2. collaborating with service users to leverage their experiences, expertise, and strengths throughout all stages of engagement, paying close attention to those dealing with issues related to mental health and wellness, addictions, trauma, grief, loss, illness, and crisis.

In addition, in instances where involuntary service is necessary, clinical specialists shall:

1.2.3. advocate for the reduction of coercion, seclusion, and restraint, ensuring that the rights and dignity of service users are at the forefront of care decisions.