Social Work at Therapy Pro: A Client Story
Therapy Pro Social Worker, Jared, shares his client’s story* to give insight into the clinical lens social work offers and its function in a multidisciplinary team (MDT).
Client Story Background
Johnathan is a 65-year-old man with Parkinson’s disease, epilepsy, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). He has been estranged from his family and lives alone. Johnathan uses an electric wheelchair and finds joy in walking his best friend, his dog.
After attempting to reconnect with old friends, Johnathan was robbed and left homeless.
Social Work in the MDT
It was after this event that Jared was introduced to Johnathan. After gaining an understanding of Johnathan and his goals and desires, Jared liaised with the support coordinator and supports in Johnathan’s previous hometown.
First and foremost, Jared sourced temporary accommodation for Johnathan.
During this time, Johnathan’s occupational therapist provided face-to-face functional assessments, and Jared provided therapeutic support and biopsychosocial assessments. This assessment information and support were communicated between the MDT.
Johnathan has since been approved for residential care and significant therapeutic support. The support coordinator has identified Specialist Disability Accommodation (SDA) with a like-minded individual for Johnathan.
Johnathan can continue living with his dog and walk her to the local botanic gardens. He continues to engage with social work support via telehealth on a weekly basis.
“Johnathan has a unique world perspective, and I find myself reflecting on my life and values after our conversations.”
World Social Work Day 2023
Jared reflects on how he has grown professionally and personally from his client and how this year’s theme for World Social Work Day, ‘Respecting Diversity Through Joint Social Action’, resonates with this client story. Jared shares that the case was quite layered, and it took a cohesive team to source an outcome.
“A single approach won’t work for everyone. Sometimes, a certain perspective may seem obscure to most people, but in the right light, it’s just what someone needs.”
Reflecting on the theme of World Social Work Day, this story exemplifies the synergy that can occur with a collaborative MDT. It represents the diversity in outcomes and the diversity found in teams with different skill sets working together with a common purpose: to provide high-level care and support to a person in need.
*Client details have been de-identified
More Information
Head to our Social Work services page for more information on how our Therapy Pro social workers support individuals in many ways.
View Jared’s profile for a look at his areas of experience and service locations or contact us directly below with any questions:
