Document Type
Thesis
Date of Degree
2008
Degree Name
MSW (Master of Social Work)
Degree In
Social Work
First Advisor
Susan Murty
Second Advisor
Julia Kleinschmit Rembert
First Committee Member
Julia Kleinschmit Rembert
Second Committee Member
Mercedes Bern-Klug
Third Committee Member
Yvonne Farley
Abstract
This thesis addresses how personal therapy for therapists, with specific focus on social workers, is personally and professionally beneficial. A thorough review of the literature highlights the efficacy of psychotherapy, risks facing mental health professionals, and an examination of the relationships between personal improvement and professional development. My own research into the attitudes toward and experiences with personal therapy among MSW's in South Dakota expands upon the existing literature, further discussing the association between personal and professional as shown in the quantitative and qualitative data that emerged from my study. Finally, this paper explores the ways in which the personal value of self-care and the professional value of care-for-clients interact vis-à-vis ethical obligations to self, client, and colleagues, and competent social work practice.
Keywords
Personal therapy, self-care, competence
Pages
vii, 76 pages
Bibliography
Includes bibliographical references (pages 64-70).
Copyright
Copyright 2008 Brian Reed Smith