Connecting Voices Newfoundland and Labrador College of Social Workers - | NLCSW
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Connecting Voices
Newfoundland a nd Labrador College of Social Workers
Natuashish, NL. Photo submitted by Anja Spears MSW, RSW
Inside
Feature
July 2021 • Vol. 25 No. 2
A Letter from an Outsider Cultural Competence & Social Work
Practice
.......................................... Page 5
BY ANJA SPEARS MSW, RSW
S-E-X and Social Work
A couple of years ago, my Innu colleagues and I participated in facilitator training .......................................... Page 9
for a provincial standardized parenting program. Shortly thereafter, as a Prevention
Are you Covered? How Social Workers
Social Worker with the Innu Round Table Secretariat, I co-facilitated this parenting can Protect Themselves from Risk and
program in Natuashish. Liability
........................................ Page 11
The program was tailored to first time parents of young children in need of support
and new learning. While it was informative and likely met the needs of some A Fresh Start with
people, it was a ‘one size fits all’ approach, with very specific, restrictive, and Accounts that Count
........................................ Page 12
inflexible material. Grounded in a Western colonized perspective, the program
addressed how to raise little ones, and recommended supports and resources that it Harm Reduction in
deemed necessary. Social Work Practice
........................................ Page 15
I quickly learned that parenting in Natuashish is unique to the Mushuau Innu and
CASW Distinguished Service
that providing support and information needs to reflect the community. Innu
Award Winner 2021:
parenting involves the collective – moms, dads, grandfathers, grandmothers, Shelly Birnie-Lefcovitch PhD
aunties, uncles, siblings, extended family, foster parents, and more. It means ........................................ Page 23
caring for a cousin needing kinship placement; raising little ones when you already
NLCSW Pride in the Profession
have raised your own; taking in a youth coming home to Natuashish; caring for a
Award Winner 2021:
grandchild; or raising siblings when your parents cannot. Tammy Manning MSW, RSW
........................................ Page 25
See full story on page 5
Vision Statement
• Excellence in Social Work
NLCSW Goals:
2021-2022 Board of Directors • Regulate the practice of social work fairly and objectively
Chair • Advance excellence in the practice of social work
Cheryl Mallard • Promote the profession of social work
Vice Chair
Nadine Calloway
Editorial Policy
Connecting Voices is a publication of the Newfoundland and
Past President/Chair Labrador College of Social Workers that facilitates information
Henry Kielley sharing among the membership. It is published two times a year
(January and July).
Executive Member at Large
The NLCSW Editorial Committee accepts articles throughout
June Kirkland-Smith the year. However, the deadline for article submissions for
the January edition is November 1 and for the July edition the
Member at Large deadline is May 1.
Lesley Bishop
The Editorial Committee is interested in articles, commentaries and
Avalon East Representative book reviews that address some of the following areas:
Stephanie Mealey
• social work practice and promotion
Eastern Representative • professional issues
• social and legislative issues
Lana Park
• social work research, theory, practice and education
• ethics
Central Representative
• community development
Keith Parsons • social work leadership
Western Representative The editorial committee reserves the right to reject any article or
Richard Lamb return it to the author for revision prior to publication, as well as to
edit submitted material for clarity and conciseness.
Labrador/Grenfell Representative
Natalie Hopkins-Andrews Article submissions and photographs must be submitted
electronically.
Public Representative
Advertising space by organizations, groups or businesses is
Maria Rotondi available in the Connecting Voices publication.
Public Representative Publication of articles and advertisements does not imply
Geoff Peters endorsement by the NLCSW.
Public Representative A complete copy of Connecting Voices Editorial Policies
Rebecca Roome are available on the NLCSW website
https://nlcsw.ca/practice-resources/connecting-voices
Public Representative
Vacant Editorial Committee Members
Annette Johns, (co-editor, NLCSW staff) Erin Daley
Deanne O’Brien, (co-editor) June Kirkland-Smith
Board Liaisons Nicole Browne Simone Pelley
Lisa Brushett Adrienne Foley (NLCSW staff)
CASW Representative Amanda Collier
Glenda Webber
Address
Student Representative
P.O. Box 39039, St. John’s, NL A1E 5Y7
Vacant Tel: 709-753-0200 Fax: 709-753-0120
e-mail: info@nlcsw.ca homepage: nlcsw.ca Twitter: @NLCSWca
Connecting Voices, July 2021 – Page 3
Editorial
Resilience and Social Work Practice
BY ANNETTE JOHNS MSW, RSW stellar publication that showcases social
work practice in this province. While it
I am a huge fan of Leonard Cohen.
takes tremendous planning to publish
One of my favorite songs performed
each edition of Connecting Voices, it
by Cohen is Anthem. “There is a crack,
is also a very rewarding experience.
a crack in everything. That’s how
However, this publication and the work
the light gets in.” This lyric resonates
of the Editorial Committee would not
with me in so many ways. Nothing
be possible without the willingness
is perfect – there will be cracks and
of social workers throughout NL to
bumps along this journey we call life.
write about their social work practice
But there is always light, always hope; Happy Valley-Goose Bay is embracing and professional experiences. Over
change can be positive, even if it is harm reduction. Building Resilience. the years, hundreds of social workers
not anticipated or expected. This lyric Anja Spears writes about her work in have shared their knowledge,
speaks to me in terms of resilience. As Natuashish and how she continues to expertise, and experience through
social workers, we see resiliency in learn from the community to inform Connecting Voices. This is our
our clients and communities, and the her practice. Building Resilience. history; this is our profession. The
positive changes that follow adversity. This is only a snapshot of some of Editorial Committee looks forward
We see our colleagues embrace change the wonderful articles you will find in to continuing to receive articles from
and do what is necessary to provide this edition of Connecting Voices that social workers across diverse fields
clients with the necessary services and speak to the concept of resilience and of practice. We invite articles that
supports they require – even when highlight the knowledge, creativity, explore social work interventions,
living and working through a global and expertise of social workers in this theory, community-based practice,
pandemic. COVID-19 hit the world beautiful and resilient province. work with children, youth, or seniors,
unexpectedly and we had to quickly
We also highlight our 2021 Award ethics and research related to social
adjust. But where there was a crack,
Recipients. Shelly Birnie-Lefcovitch work practice. In addition, photo
there was light, and as a profession we
PhD is the recipient of the Canadian submissions highlighting our province’s
have continued to adapt, grow, and
Association of Social Workers scenery and landscapes are greatly
thrive.
Distinguished Service Award, and welcomed. More information
This edition of Connecting Voices Tammy Manning MSW, RSW is the regarding Connecting Voices including
highlights the work of social workers recipient of the Newfoundland and the Editorial Policies can be accessed at
in diverse fields of practice across Labrador College of Social Workers Connecting Voices | NLCSW. If you
Newfoundland and Labrador (NL). Pride in the Profession Award. It is have any questions, please feel free to
Amy Sheppard writes about a program always so wonderful to celebrate our reach out to me at ajohns@nlcsw.ca.
through Stella’s Circle that helps esteemed colleagues in the summer We hope you enjoy reading this online
women who have been incarcerated edition of our newsletter as their summer publication of Connecting
obtain necessary identification and to words are passionate and inspirational. Voices. As you go about your summer,
set up bank accounts that allow them to Congratulations Shelly and Tammy.
I encourage you to think about how
transition back into their communities.
Connecting Voices is an esteemed you see resilience in your work, your
Building Resilience. Jade Pardy writes
publication, and I am so grateful and communities and in your personal
about the importance of adopting harm
proud of the work of the Editorial lives. Let’s shine the light together; as
reduction in our work and how the
Committee in producing a high quality, things will grow where we never
Mokomi Status of Women Council in
thought was possible.
Deadline for submission for the next edition
of Connecting Voices is November 1 • 2021
Page 4 – Connecting Voices, July 2021
Executive Director
Perception of Regulation
BY LISA CROCKWELL MSW, RSW Social Workers Act to change to the knowledge and skill acquired through
Newfoundland & Labrador College education (the accredited degree) –
The NLCSW Board of Directors met
of Social Workers (NLCSW) was the populations we serve deserve no
virtually in June to develop the NLCSW
intended to clarify the primacy of the less. If regulation did not exist, title
strategic plan for the next three years.
regulatory mandate. Throughout this and practice would not be reserved
This level of planning usually happens
time the vision Excellence in Social for members of the profession. How
at an in person meeting however
Work has been retained. would social work as a profession
like every other activity
thrive in this scenario? What
completed during this global
would this say about the
pandemic, plans had to be
important work which is
readjusted. Despite the virtual
completed daily?
format, board members were
fully engaged in the process NLCSW embodies a broad
contributing their diverse view of regulation meaning
perspectives while integrating that it is not only the role of
feedback obtained from regulatory bodies to register
members, committees and those qualified to practice
staff. but to support ethical and
professional practice through
During discussion, the topic
practice resources, continuing
of perception of regulation
education opportunities,
arose. This has special
practice support and working
significance since the name
with all stakeholders. As we
of our organization changed
advance this strategic plan
to the NL College of Social
Virtual Meeting of NLCSW’s Board of Directors with it will include an emphasis
Workers on September
Facilitator Lynn Morrissey not only on the continued
30th, 2020. While the
production of these resources
communication indicated
On a national scale these are and activities but on working towards
New Name: Same Mandate strategic
changing times for the regulation of visibility and value in daily practice.
planning was an opportunity to revisit
professions and there is a need to Another significant conversation
the clarity of that regulatory mandate.
be clear regarding the role, scope, centered on the importance of
The conversation considered and importance of regulation. The diversity, equity, and inclusion
that NLCSW evolved from the perception of regulation which is recognizing that these values are
Newfoundland Branch of the Canadian guiding the development of the imbedded in regulatory documents
Association of Social Workers which strategic plan is as follows: social work which govern the profession - the
was founded in 1951. The branch of regulation is about knowledgeable social work code of ethics, ethical
the national association later became practitioners acting with integrity guidelines, and standards affirm the
the provincial social work association, and upholding the code of ethics and profession’s commitment to these
the Newfoundland Association of ethical principles in the best interest of values. The continuing education
Social Workers (NASW). Volunteers the public. This perception is reflected sessions offered through NLCSW
at the time advocated for professional in the mission statement and the and available on our YouTube channel
regulation and the name changed values. exemplifies how this is illustrated in
to the Newfoundland & Labrador
Professions are regulated to ensure that practice. The thoughtful reflections
Association of Social Workers of the board of directors will result in
members of the public are receiving
(NLASW) when the organization was a strategic plan which will continue
the services of qualified practitioners
given the responsibility in legislation to emphasize integrity, respect, and
whether those services are offered
to regulate social work practice in collaboration: the NLCSW
in direct or indirect practice. Social
1992. The 2020 amendment to the perception of regulation.
work practice requires the advanced
Connecting Voices, July 2021 – Page 5
Cover Story continued experiences by teaching them to do and children need. It is to bring
parenting ‘right.’ Directing parents as parents together, remembering that the
As social workers, we specialize in to what they need to change, what they community as a collective has always
critical reflection. When working with need to do better, and how their families taken responsibility for children. The
Innu families, here are some questions need to look - in order to be ‘good’ - will support of the entire community is
we can ask ourselves – What are Innu not facilitate change. vital in nurturing and enhancing the
parents saying they need? What strengths of Innu parents and children.
challenges are parents facing? What There is a role for social work in
is the history? What learning spaces collaborative, community-led practice. We need to support healing; work
feel safe? Who are the knowledge As a non-Indigenous social worker in an together for family-centered solutions;
keepers that parents need as teachers? Indigenous community, I learned that centre culture as the foundation of
What supports are meaningful and my role is not to offer support as colonial parenting; share Innu wisdom, history,
healing for parents? What does it systems have deemed necessary. My and experience; and ensure that
mean to offer standardized programs role is to take a back seat and create parents and caregivers feel confident in
in community social work? What are space for Indigenous-led supports and their ability to raise children in healthy,
the messages conveyed by facilitating healing. Parenting supports need to positive, and supportive environments.
Western, colonized, and rigid parenting shift from ‘here is what I have decided Doing so, will foster growth and change
instruction to Indigenous peoples? How that you need to know’ to creating in the community, in parents, and
do we move from identifying parents as space for parents to recognize what ultimately, in children.
the problem to lifting them up - while they know already and what they have
As social workers, we must recognize
recognizing their unique challenges and learned from those around them and
that ‘one size fits all’ does not, in fact,
their undeniable resilience and strength? before them. Parents are a source of
fit all - and that community social work
How do we centre Indigenous culture in immeasurable knowledge and expertise
must centre community at the core of
supporting parents and children? about the challenges and barriers facing
all support. Listen. Create space. Open
Mushuau Innu, necessary supports,
Colonial government systems and your heart and your mind. Challenge
and, most importantly, the strengths and
policies have a long history of passing yourself to unlearn. Make room for new
resilience of parents, children/youth,
judgment and working to assimilate growth and understandings of ways of
and the community.
Indigenous families. Standardized, living and healing.
Western parenting programs fail to My experience facilitating parenting
To the Innu community – parents,
recognize the unique experiences of sessions in Natuashish taught me
children/youth, health staff, leadership,
Indigenous communities and to provide that my role is not to tell people how
Elders, friends, colleagues – thank you
relevant, Indigenous-led community to parent. It is to support parents,
for teaching me. The best part of this
supports. It is not only ineffective, but community helpers, health workers,
journey is knowing that the learning is
deeply harmful to try to mold Indigenous Elders, and others in the community
endless and that I am learning
families into Western, colonized ‘family’ in sharing their knowledge and
every day.
experiences of what Innu parents
Cultural Competence & Social Work Practice
BY ANNETTE JOHNS MSW, RSW Practice for Social Workers in NL. • Social workers seek to understand
Social Workers in this province have a the values, beliefs, traditions and
Respect for diversity is a core value
professional responsibility to be aware historical context of clients and
outlined in the Canadian Association
of and adhere to these Standards of incorporate this knowledge into
of Social Workers (2005) Code of
Practice. social work assessments and
Ethics. Social workers advocate for
In terms of culture and diversity, the interventions.
social justice and work to address
inequalities, oppression, discrimination, following standards are outlined in the •Social workers seek strategies to
and racism. Social workers also have an NLCSW (2020) Standards of Practice: resolve potential communication
ethical responsibility to ensure cultural • “Social workers demonstrate the use misunderstandings and involve the
competence in their practice. This of effective intervention skills when proficient use of a cultural consultant
is outlined in the Newfoundland and working with clients from diverse and/or interpreter as necessary.
Labrador College of Social Workers cultural backgrounds. •Social workers engaged in the
(NLCSW) (2020) Standards of supervision of social work practice
Page 6 – Connecting Voices, July 2021
integrate cultural awareness and Ethical Compass – Cultural for Cultural Competence in Social
sensitivity in continued learning and Competence in Social Work Work Practice Explanatory Document
skill development. CPE Sessions – Fostering “Cultural competence is an on-going
2SLGBTQ+ Diversity, Equity & process of learning, reflection, and
•Social workers ensure that cultural professional growth” (p.5).
issues are addressed when providing Inclusion in the Workplace
social work services through Effective Practice and Service References
electronic technology” (p.13). Delivery for Inuit: Understanding Newfoundland and Labrador College
Historical Trauma of Social Workers (NLCSW). (2020).
In addition to the Standards of Standards of practice for social workers
Practice, NLCSW continues to develop Fostering Cultural Competence
in Practice in Newfoundland and Labrador.
practice resources and facilitate https://nlcsw.ca/sites/default/files/
continuing professional education Aboriginal Community inline-files/Standards_of_Practice.pdf
(CPE) sessions to provide guidance to Social Work: Committing to
social workers and raise awareness of Anti-Oppressive Practice Newfoundland and Labrador College
the issues impacting diverse cultures. of Social Workers (NLCSW). (2016).
As you review the standards, practice Standards for Cultural Competences
This includes the following: resources and education webinars, in Social Work Practice Explanatory
Standards for Cultural think about how this applies to your Document. https://nlcsw.ca/sites/
Competence in Social Work practice and what steps you need to default/files/inline-files/Standards_
Practice Explanatory Document take to continue to strive for cultural for_Cultural_Competence_
competence. As noted in the Standards Explanatory_Document_1.pdf
Book Review
Neglected No More by André Picard (2021)
BY JUNE KIRKLAND-SMITH MSW, understanding of eldercare can only suggestions as to
RSW enhance our practice. how to better
serve the elderly
As someone who has not worked with Picard describes the eldercare system
population.
the elderly population, my curiosity as fragmented, underfunded and
about the position of the elderly in unsupported and attests that the Picard’s writing is
society has been nudged during the system is long overdue for review and smooth and easy to follow. Although
pandemic. In the first wave of the revision. He points to the numerous the book highlights some statistics
pandemic, our country faced the loss of problems in eldercare exposed during and factual information, it provides
mainly elderly people, particularly those the pandemic outlining inadequate accessible reading for anyone wishing
in long-term care arrangements. This personal care, abuse, overmedication to gain a deeper understanding of
was very distressing and I wondered and much more. The book provides eldercare. It is a book that can prompt
what this says about how we treat and several accounts of personal journeys reflection on personal and professional
view senior citizens in this country. into eldercare and family members’ values and how we may unintentionally
struggles to secure appropriate, kind, participate in the structural processes
André Picard, a Health Reporter and
and loving care for aging parents. that oppress the elderly. Through
Columnist for the Globe and Mail, was
We receive a glimpse into the lives of reading this book, we are forced to
interviewed recently and referenced
several citizens who saved and planned examine the aging process, how this
his book, Neglected No More:
for their later years only to discover fits with our values about society’s
The Urgent Need to Improve the
that they never had enough to provide vulnerable, our own families and at
Lives of Canada’s Elders in the
for their needs. There is information some point, ourselves. The book offers
Wake of the Pandemic. I read the
about the services provided in Canada some hope as there are suggestions for
book and recommend it to any social
and where our country falls short in ways to improve care and motivate the
worker. Although we may not all
meeting the full needs of the elderly. reader to reflect on the ways we can
work directly with elderly people, we
Picard highlights other eldercare better show respect, gratitude and
work with families and having a better
services around the world and offers care to those who deserve more.
Connecting Voices, July 2021 – Page 7
Ethics
Ethical Resources at Your Fingertips
BY ANNETTE JOHNS MSW, RSW Standards of Practice, explore the The Committee released a new practice
components of ethical decision-making, resource called Documentation
A client asks me not to record
examine ethical theory and risk tolerance Matters in 2019. This resource offers
something in their file. What
and how these impact one’s practice, documentation tips to social workers
should I do?
consider the importance of critical in a short and concise format. Seven
What do we mean by cultural reflection and professional judgment, publications of Documentation Matters
competence? and find an ethical decision-making have been released to date.
A neighbour just asked me for model that can be used in practice. This
You will also find an ethics ‘feature
professional advice. How should model provides a series of questions for
article’ in publications of Connecting
I respond? consideration for thinking through the
Voices that is written by members of
dilemma. You can refer to this document
What do I need to document in the Ethics Committee. These articles
in your practice, when consulting with
terminating a social work service? address an ethical topic that is discussed
colleagues or a manager/supervisor, or
by the committee and provide a
As a profession, it is our shared when providing field instruction to social
framework for examining the ethical
commitment to a code of ethics that work students completing their field
issues and complexities. Connecting
keeps us ethically grounded and focused practicums.
Voices publications, dating back to 2008,
on the best interests of clients. It is in The NLCSW receives frequent can be found on the NLCSW website.
this spirit that the Newfoundland and consultation requests from members
Labrador College of Social Workers While the committee is busy developing
pertaining to informed consent and
(NLCSW) Ethics Committee continues ethical resources for social workers, it
documentation. In 2017, the Ethics
to examine ethical issues in social work is important to note that the committee
Committee developed Self-Assessment
practice and develop ethical resources can also provide ethical consultation to
Tools for Informed Consent and
that social workers can use in their members. If there is an issue you would
Documentation. This document
practice. The questions posed above like to bring forward to the committee
provides checklists that social workers
are some of the topics that have been for discussion, please connect with
can use to reflect on and evaluate their
covered in resources produced by the the Annette Johns, staff lead for the
own practices pertaining to informed
committee. The purpose of this article committee, at ajohns@nlcsw.ca. Also,
consent and documentation, and
is to put a spotlight on these resources, if you have a topic idea or suggestion
identify areas for continuing professional
as it is a professional responsibility to the committee should consider for
education. The checklists, while not
be aware of one’s ethical obligations in a Documentation Matters or Ethical
intended to be included in social work
practice. Compass publication, please let us know
records, can be used in discussions with
– we would love to hear from you.
In 2015 (updated in 2020), the Ethics peers, managers, and supervisors to
Committee produced an Ethical identify best practices or provide the This article highlighted some of the
Decision-making Resource Guide. basis for social work documentation practice resources the Ethics Committee
This guide, which is grounded in the audits. works diligently to produce to assist
Canadian Association of Social Workers social workers in navigating ethical
Since 2018, the Ethics Committee has
(CASW) Code of Ethics and professional issues in practice. These resources
also produced regular publications
literature is a resource that social workers complement the other practice resources
of the Ethical Compass. The issues
can use to navigate ethical complexities developed by the NLCSW, including
covered in this publication have been
in practice and make ethical decisions. regular publications of Practice Matters
identified by social workers as part of
It captures best practices and presents as well as guideline documents on issues
the NLCSW ethical consultation process
an ethics informed process for decision- pertinent to social work practice.
and from a review of ethical trends
making. Yet it is succinct and user- in practice, making this a timely and As an added bonus, reading practice
friendly. It is the perfect desk reference relevant resource for social workers resources developed by the NLCSW
along with the CASW Code of Ethics across diverse areas of practice. To date, can be claimed as CPE credits on your
and Guidelines for Ethical Practice and 13 editions of the Ethical Compass have annual registration renewal. This would
NLCSW Standards of Practice. been released covering a variety of be captured as elective credits under
In this guide, you will find reference to ethical topics. self-directed learning.
the CASW Code of Ethics and NLCSW Happy Reading!!
Page 8 – Connecting Voices, July 2021
The Newfoundland and Labrador College of Social Workers (NLCSW) has
a wealth of practice resources available to social workers. Members can
easily access the full range of resources at www.nlcsw.ca.
Make these resources part of your everyday social work toolkit!
Social Work Toolkit
Standards of
Explanatory Documents Guideline Documents Interpretative Documents
Practice
YOUR SOCIAL WORK TOOLKIT EXPLAINED
Outlines the practice requirements that must be adhered to by social workers in Newfoundland &
Standards of Labrador to ensure safe, ethical and competent social work practice. These are informed by the
Practice Canadian Association of Social Workers (CASW) Code of Ethics and Guidelines (2005).
• Standards of Practice for Social Workers in Newfoundland and Labrador (2020)
Explanatory Provides information and direction on the Standards of Practice.
Documents • Standards for Cultural Competence in Social Work Practice Explanatory Document (2016)
• Standards for Social Work Recording Explanatory Document (2014)
• Standards for Technology Use in Social Work Practice Explanatory Document (2012)
• Standards for Supervision of Social Work Practice Explanatory Document (2011)
• Standards for Child Custody and Access Assessments Explanatory Document (2007)
Guideline Provides information and guidance on issues related to social work practice and affirms
Documents professional responsibilities.
• Interjurisdictional Social Work Practice FAQ and Practice Guideline for Social Workers in NL
(2021)
• Social Workers and Diagnosis Using the DSM-5 Practice Guideline (2020)
• Guiding Framework for Social Workers Concerned About the Professional Practice of a
Colleague (updated 2020)
• Resource Guide for Private Practice (updated 2020)
• Informed Consent with Children & Youth (2019)
• Enduring Power of Attorney, Substitute Decision-Maker: What is the Role of Social Work
(2019)
• Medical Assistance in Dying: What Social Workers Need to Know (2016)
• Social Work and Decision-Specific Capacity Assessments (2012)
• Complementary and Adjunct Therapies and Techniques: A Guide for Registered Social
Workers (2011)
Interpretative Provides information, clarification and commentary on professional and ethical issues in social
Documents work practice.
• Ethical Decision-Making in Social Work Practice (updated 2020)
• Self-Assessment Tools for Informed Consent and Documentation (2017)
• Practice Matter Series
• Ethical Compass Series
• Documentation Matters Series
Connecting Voices, July 2021 – Page 9
Clinical
S-E-X and Social Work
BY RICK PARSONS MSW, RSW to respectfully use our client’s occur when these needs are unmet.
preferred pronouns, learn about our
Foreplay How do you incorporate being sex-
client’s gender identity, and be non-
positive into your assessment and
Do you have satisfying sex? When judgmental about our client’s sexual
practice?
do you feel most ‘turned on’ and orientation. Being sex-positive means
erotic with your partner? Do you feel having or promoting an open, tolerant, From a clinical perspective, enhancing
sexual desire? How do you satisfy or progressive attitude towards sex your assessment to incorporate sex,
those desires? Do you feel close and and sexuality. Sex-positivity is an first means asking for permission
emotionally connected when you have attitude towards human sexuality that to ask about sex, starting with
sex with your partner(s)? In individual, regards all consensual sexual activities general questions and then getting
couples or relationship therapy, these as deeply healthy and pleasurable, more specific, learning about one’s
are some possible questions to ask encouraging sexual pleasure and relationship with sex, asking about
clients when addressing concerns experimentation. Being sex-positive affection and physical touch, efforts to
about sexual function and physical means creating a validating, safe resolve sexual issues (discrepancies,
and mental health, and in helping our space in our practice for clients, desire, arousal, sexual trauma), and
clients to improve intimacy, attachment and developing comfort with asking then asking more specific questions
and processing emotions. clients questions about sex in terms of and details regarding sex if permission
pleasure, exploration, arousal, desire, is given by the client.
In May 2019, I completed the Intensive and fantasies. It is critical for social
Sex Therapy Training Program at workers to remain non-judgmental Increasing your sex assessment with
the University of Guelph. Within and not bring our own values into our clients means gaining comfort in
my private practice, I was noticing a practice with clients. asking clients sex-related questions
pattern with clients seeking therapy such as: Do you have any concerns
to resolve sexual issues. Later, I How do we practice being about your sexual relationship? How
completed emotionally-focused sex-positive and what are the important is it that we address that in
therapy (EFT) training, and recently, advantages of incorporating it into our work? Can we talk about these
I completed a master class in EFT our social work practice? concerns together? What have you
and Sex Therapy. These advanced tried so far to deal with the identified
Asking sexual health and sex-focused
trainings have enriched my clinical problem? When are you most likely
questions can help clients feel safe
practice, increased my comfort to have trouble getting or maintaining
and comfortable in sharing these
level in asking sex-related questions an erection? Do you have trouble
more intimate aspects of themselves,
in assessment, and improved my having an orgasm? Do you feel sexual
and thus increase building a trusting
competency in doing sex therapy with desire? How do you satisfy those
relationship with their social worker.
clients. desires? Building a sex-positive culture
Asking specific questions about their
in your practice means inquiring if your
When most of you read the title, you level of satisfaction with regard to their
clients are having fulfilling sex with
probably thought about malpractice sexual needs, degree of arousal and
themselves or their partner(s).
within social work practice. This pleasure, erotic desires, vulnerabilities,
is not the case in this article. This and sexual fantasies can often provide Inquiring about someone’s sex life
article focuses on building a sex- us with information pertaining to their can seem personal and very private
positive approach and incorporating mental health, emotional needs, and to start, however isn’t asking about
sex-focused assessments into your quality of life. If our emotional and physical health issues, mental health
practice. Let’s talk about sex (even sexual needs are unmet, one may difficulties, and life stressors personal
when it’s hard to do)! have increased feelings of anxiety, and private as well? Most people
low mood, depression and decreased have a hard time being vulnerable
What does it mean to be sex- self-esteem and self-worth. Assessing and talking about our challenges
positive? emotional and sexual needs can help and emotions. As a society, we have
It is important for social workers in understanding how infidelity may been working tirelessly on increasingPage 10 – Connecting Voices, July 2021
mental health awareness. Building sex by the Canadian Association of Social Plateau
assessments into our practice will help Workers (CASW) Code of Ethics, it
I could easily keep going but hopefully
normalize sex, decrease the stigma is important in building a space for
this helps in being somewhat more
and taboo of talking about sex, and our clients to feel safe and accepted
comfortable with inquiring about sex
improve one’s mental health as our as we work toward establishing a
with your clients. Finally, be curious,
bodies respond to sex by releasing a trusting relationship, and helping them
respectful, and non-judgmental. If
“neurochemical cocktail” of happy and to resolve their sexual and emotional
you remain uncomfortable or on
pleasant hormones such as dopamine, challenges. Be non-judgmental
unchartered territory, seek consultation
serotonin, and oxytocin. Who doesn’t toward relationship structures that
or refer your client to a social worker,
want more of those good feelings? are not considered “traditional” (i.e.,
sexologist, psychologist, or physician
straight, two-person relationship
As part of social work assessment, we who has experience in the area. If you
between a male and female). Be
can ask about sex to gain insight into are comfortable, go talk about sex!
non-judgmental and open-minded of
their sexual health – Is it positive? Is Being sex-positive in your social work
other relationship structures such as
it respectful? Is it free of coercion, practice normalizes sex and provides
same-sex relationships, polyamorous
discrimination and violence? Asking clients with an opportunity to talk
relationships, triads also known as
questions regarding sexual fulfillment about safety, intimacy and excitement
“trouples”, consensual non-monogamy,
can help us to understand our client’s as they work toward mental wellness
closed loop relationships, and mixed
relationship with sex and their and building secure attachment.
orientation marriages. Educate
attachment history, and provide us
yourself and develop an awareness of
with more information on the possible
potential relationship dynamics within References
manifestation of physical and mental
these relationship structures by being
health issues – as sexual health issues Canadian Association of Social
curious with your client(s). Also, be
can be displayed as physical and Workers. (2005). CASW Social Work
aware that one may be interested in
mental health issues. Code of Ethics. Ottawa: Canadian
atypical sexual/erotic practices and
interests different from our own – also Association of Social Workers (CASW).
Being Non-Judgmental
known as BDSM or “kink”. Kleinplatz, P. (2012). New Directives
As social workers, it is essential to be
in Sex Therapy: Innovations and
non-judgmental in our practice. Not
Alternatives (2nd edition). New
only is this one of our core values set
York, NY: Routledge.
NLCSW Private Practice Roster
The NLCSW maintains a voluntary roster of social work private practitioners. The following social workers have elected to
be included on the roster. They meet the criteria for private practice in the profession of social work in Newfoundland &
Labrador. Contact information for these social workers is available on our website – https://nlcsw.ca/social-work-in-nl/
private-practice
Kayla Baker MSW, RSW Rosemary Lahey MSW, RSW Wanda O’Keefe MSW, RSW
Maureen Barry MSW, RSW Barbara Lambe BSW, RSW Marjorie Parsons MSW, RSW
Mona Budden MSW, RSW Denise Lawlor MSW, RSW Ruth Parsons PhD, RSW
Angel Compton-Osmond MSW, RSW Greg McCann-Beranger MSW, RSW Maxine Paul MSW, RSW
Agatha Corcoran MSW, RSW Sheri McConnell PhD, RSW Gladys Perry MSW, RSW
Tobias Dunne MSW, RSW Cyril McLaughlin MSW, RSW Michelle Power MSW, RSW
Shannon Furey MSW, RSW Georgina Mercer MSW, RSW Trudy Smith MSW, RSW
Wanda Green MSW, RSW Catherine Morris MSW, RSW Neil Stokes MSW, RSW
Bonnie Hancock-Moore MSW, RSW Raylene Noftall MSW, RSW Lisa Wade MSW, RSW
Darrell Hayward BSW, RSW, M.Ed.,
C.C.C.Connecting Voices, July 2021 – Page 11
Practice
Are you Covered? How Social Workers can Protect
Themselves from Risk and Liability
BY BMS GROUP or when working in multiple places of breach can be triggered by something
employment. as simple as someone overhearing a
First let’s start with a case study.
teleconference session, or as complex
Farah is employed as a social The PLI coverage available through the
as a computer hack that results in the
worker in a hospital. Recently, CASW member insurance program
involuntary disclosure of the private
she was notified by her provincial provides insurance protection for actual
information of hundreds of clients.
regulatory body that a former or alleged injuries, negligent acts, errors
client had made a complaint against or omissions arising out of the delivery Cyber security continues to be one of
her alleging that Farah behaved of your professional services as a social the fastest growing areas of risk, and the
unprofessionally and was biased worker. Coverage insures payment of healthcare sector is not immune. Social
in her provision of care. Farah both compensatory damages and legal workers may benefit from securing a
turned to the hospital’s professional costs associated with a claim. separate Cyber Security and Privacy
liability insurance policy for Liability insurance policy to better
PLI through the CASW member
representation and protection. manage the risk of holding increasingly
program starts at $130/year for $5M
Unfortunately, as is the case with large quantities of personally identifiable
limits and comprehensive coverage,
many hospital policies, Farah is data of clients, employees, and others,
including for:
only covered if she is named in a and to mitigate the reputational damage
Civil action. Complaints made to a • Regulatory Legal Expense that could result from a data security
regulatory body of social workers, • Criminal Defence Reimbursement breach.
such as claims of unprofessional • Coroner’s Inquest Legal Expense
Cyber, and other specialized insurance
attitude or improper conduct, are • Abuse Therapy and Counselling
products, such as Commercial General
often excluded from an employer’s Fund & more
Liability and business insurance, are
policy. Farah is unsure what to do
For social workers providing e-services, available to social workers through the
next and she’s worried about her
it’s important to note that the CASW CASW program.
ability to finance an adequate legal
defence. PLI policy will extend to protect you
Participating social workers also have
for professional services you provide
direct access to a range of experts
A review of claims made to the Canadian to your clients anywhere in the world,
including knowledgeable brokers at
Association of Social Workers (CASW) provided you are delivering these
BMS Canada Risk Services Ltd. (BMS)
liability insurance program suggests services from within Canada, and
for any coverage-related questions and
that regulatory complaints make the claim or complaint is filed within
pro bono legal services from Gowling
up more than 70% of claims against Canada. Prior to working with clients
WLG (Canada) LLP, one of the most
participating social workers. Those in another jurisdiction, it is always
highly recognized legal defence firms
relying on employer coverage would important to verify with your regulatory
in medical defence and professional
be left to independently secure legal body and the regulatory body in the
liability in Canada. This free,
representation to defend against these province or territory in which your
confidential legal advice is designed
claims and would be responsible for the client resides to confirm that you are
to help avoid or reduce the probability
associated costs. adequately licensed to practice in your
of a claim or complaint and is available
client’s place of residence.
The above scenario illustrates one to participating members should you
of the reasons why many social If you are interacting remotely with have questions related to an actual or
workers employed in public practice clients and are managing your client files potential professional liability claim.
have decided to purchase their own electronically, as many social workers
We encourage you to visit
independent professional liability now are, it’s also important to be aware
www.casw.bmsgroup.com for more
insurance (PLI). Another common of additional exposures in relation to
information. You can also connect with
reason is to secure protection for work potential security breaches or cyber
BMS through the toll-free CASW line at
delivered outside of the employment incidents, such as phishing emails
1-844-583-7747 or email
setting, such as advice, volunteer work, or ransomware attacks. A privacy
casw.insurance@bmsgroup.com.Page 12 – Connecting Voices, July 2021
Initiatives
A Fresh Start with Accounts that Count
BY AMY SHEPPARD BSW, MGS, prison while awaiting sentencing I can see people willing to learn
RSW could be released on the day she about how they can do more to
appears in court if the judge grants make a difference. NLCU has been
Have you ever lost your wallet? It is a “time served.” Without any release understanding of the many barriers
painful process to replace all your IDs, planning, the woman may be leaving involved and accommodating when
your bank card, and cancel your credit the prison with no arrangements for working with our participants.
cards. But we get it all figured out. housing or income, and sometimes
For many of the women I work with, with no personal IDs. This innovative and collaborative
they lose all their personal items when program not only helps marginalized
they go to prison, and so much more. In 2018, NLCU approached Stella’s women connect with a business
When women are released from Circle to see how they could help our institution in their community, but
prison without IDs or a bank account, participants and the pilot program, also strengthens their relationship
it is difficult to rent an apartment, A Fresh Start: Accounts that Count, with the Just Us Women’s Centre.
get income support, or look for a job. was launched. This program offers Even for those women who do not
Basics such as replacing your bank quick access to emergency funding complete the process to establish a
card become huge barriers when to obtain IDs, assists women in bank account, there are still positive
already dealing with other challenges, opening a bank account with NLCU, impacts. Any connection with the
like having no phone or home. and provides a small monetary Just Us Women’s Centre is helpful.
stipend in their account. To date, The timing may not have been right,
Launched in 2009, the Just Us we have helped 26 women open but the women now know that the
Women’s Centre, is a program of bank accounts and get IDs. We resources at the Centre are available
Stella’s Circle that addresses the recently expanded the program to when they are ready. Recovery is
needs of criminalized women. assist women leaving custody after not a linear journey, and the Just
We offer therapeutic groups, provincial or federal sentences. Many Us Women’s Centre is there to help
individual counselling and concrete women have experienced barriers to navigate community systems, when
supports both in the community establishing bank accounts, not only the time is right for them.
and at the Newfoundland and those leaving remand.
Labrador Correctional Centre for We often refer to the Drop in the
Women (NLCCW). The provision Women who have participated in the Bucket analogy. Every time we help
of services in the face of systemic program provided feedback that it is someone, we add a drop in their
barriers involves some creativity and a needed service, and that they were bucket. Sometimes the buckets are
partnerships with others who are able treated with respect while dealing in disrepair and need mending. So,
to “think outside the box.” Such is with staff at NLCU. As one woman the first drop may not have much
the case with the banking partnership noted, “The lady (at the bank) was so impact. Over time, however, many
with the Newfoundland and Labrador friendly and really nice. Now I can drops can make a difference. We
Credit Union (NLCU). get some food for myself and some don’t always know at what stage we
chocolate! I’m going to get a phone are intervening in a person’s life, but
During the past 12 years, staff at the first, though. Thank you so much.” we continue to add the drops as we
Just Us Women’s Centre have seen work to help them fill their bucket
the challenges for women who leave Working with NLCU to create an over time.
prison from remand status. Remand innovative partnership has resulted
is when a person is held in custody in a reflection of my own social work NLCU employees are incredibly
prior to a trial. The challenge for values and my practice. I see the positive and supportive and we
those who are remanded is that stigma as a result of criminalization look forward to our continued work
they have no release date, making and it is disheartening to hear what together to make a difference in our
planning for release complicated. A women go through. However, community.
woman who has been remanded to through our partnership with NLCU,Connecting Voices, July 2021 – Page 13
Topics
Whistleblowing in the Field of Social Work:
Accountability and Professional Practice
BY REBECCA FRENCH BSW, RSW This legislation provides a confidential uphold ethical standards and may blow
avenue for provincial government the whistle when faced with, what
Over the past decade, the act
employees to request advice or they perceive as, unethical conduct.
of whistleblowing has picked up
disclose wrongdoing that is occurring Similarly, Getz (2013) believes social
momentum due to the prevalence
in their workplace. As per the workers should ask themselves, “are
of high profile whistleblowing
legislation, wrongdoing includes clients/patients being seriously harmed
cases, where the anonymity of
an act or omission that creates a [or at risk of serious harm]?”, and if
the whistleblower(s) has remained
substantial and specific danger to the the answer is yes, they have an ethical
protected. Particularly, throughout
life, health or safety of a person, as duty to disclose the harm, even if
2019-2020, the world watched as an
well as knowingly directing a person to that means implicating a colleague’s
impeachment scandal unfolded with
commit a wrongdoing. This legislation misconduct or negligence.
the then President of the United States
also prohibits reprisals against
at the center. This impeachment Getz (2013) also reviews what steps
individuals who report wrongdoing.
was initiated due to a staff member should be considered before a social
The OCR is the office tasked with
blowing the whistle. In the Canadian worker decides to blow the whistle. I
investigating these disclosures under
context, we have recently watched have adjusted these steps to reflect the
PIDA.
whistleblower complaints directed NL context.
towards former Governor General, As social workers are often responsible
Evidence: Is there any physical or
Julie Payette, result in her resignation for working with marginalized
documented evidence of wrongdoing?
and a final report which contained nine populations, much of the work we do is
Are there others who will consider
recommendations. targeted at trying to ensure individuals
disclosing with you?
are safe. However, members of the
These cases and my current position as
public service generally know when Impact: What are the potential
an Investigator with the Office of the
questionable conduct or activities consequences of the disclosure for
Citizens’ Representative (OCR) piqued
are occurring in their workplace, yourself? What are the potential
my interest to research whistleblowing
specifically those which may place consequences for allowing the
trends as it relates to social workers.
an individual at a higher risk of harm. wrongdoing to continue unreported?
I also hope to encourage dialogue
Statistics show that 42% of Canadian
around the significance of Motivation: Are you motivated due
workers have observed some form
whistleblowing, particularly in to your moral courage and strong
of workplace misconduct, and nearly
professions who adhere to a Code ethical values, or are you motivated
half of them failed to report such
of Ethics. out of self-interest (e.g., seeking
misconduct (Ipsos Reid, 2013).
retaliation)?
For those who are unfamiliar with
A 2017 study conducted by Raymond,
the term “whistleblower,” this is Potential other alternatives: Have
Beddoe and Staniforth, found that
someone who identifies an unethical, you spoke with any of the following
social workers identified a variety of
unlawful, harmful, dangerous or to discuss your concerns prior to
serious concerns in regard to unethical
injurious situation in the workplace and whistleblowing: HR manager,
organizational practice that were
discloses it to someone who has the supervisor, regulatory body (NLCSW),
believed to contribute to unsafe praxis.
power to investigate the wrongdoing union, legal counsel, the police,
It was found that when practitioners
(McDonald and Ahern, 2002). Occupational Health and Safety, or the
are deterred from speaking out,
harmful situations can escalate Employee Assistance and Respectful
In July 2014, the Public Interest
(Raymond et al., 2017). Therefore, Workplace Division.
Disclosure and Whistleblower
Protection Act (PIDA) was passed in Raymond et al. (2017) determined that I appreciate and acknowledge that
Newfoundland and Labrador (NL). social workers have a responsibility to one of the greatest challenges inPage 14 – Connecting Voices, July 2021
whistleblowing arises when the
unethical practices occurring
are supported by the employer Emotionally Focused Therapy
or supervisor. However, we as
professional social workers need to Externship (EFT) Online
Atlantic Canada
be able to do what is right by our
professional Code of Ethics (Barsky,
2010). Thus, Barsky (2010) proposes
that, “the key question is not simply January 21 – 22, 2022 and
‘Should I blow the whistle?’ but ‘How
can I blow the whistle in a manner February 4 – 5, 2022
that is most likely to achieve my goals
and minimize risks to myself and
others?’” (p.4). 10 am – 6 pm (AST)
The OCR is committed to procedural
ONLINE, LIVE via ZOOM
fairness and the principles of natural
justice in dealing with members of
the public service. I welcome you to
contact our office at 1-800-559-0079
or citrep@gov.nl.ca if you wish to
discuss PIDA.
References
Barsky, A. (2010). Social workers Optional home room
as whistle blowers. The New Social
Worker, 17(3), 4-5.
Saturday January 29,
from 10 am – noon (AST)
Ipsos Reid. (2013). “Four in Ten
(42%) Employed Canadians Have
Observed Some Form of Workplace
Misconduct; One in Five (17%) For more info:
Cite Witnessing Privacy Violations” drrobertallan.com/new-events
p. 1. Retrieved from https://www.
or email: efttrainingatlantic@gmail.com
ipsos.com/sites/default/files/
publication/2013-07/6187.pdf
Getz, L. (2013). Ethical Dimensions
of Social Work Whistleblowing.
Social Work Today, 13 (4), (12-14). Did you know? NLCSW's YouTube channel
McDonald, S., & Ahern, K. (2002). is a valuable source of continuing professional
Physical and emotional effects
of whistleblowing. Journal of education (CPE).
Psychosocial Nursing and Mental
Health Services, 40(1), 14-27. Any webinars viewed through the channel
can be claimed as required credits under the
Raymond, S., Beddoe, L., &
Stainforth, B. (2017). Social workers’ workshop category.
experiences with whistleblowing:
To speak or not to speak?
Aotearoa New Zealand Social Work,
29(3), 17-29.Connecting Voices, July 2021 – Page 15
Perspectives
Harm Reduction in Social Work Practice
BY JADE PARDY BSW, RSW known as the “not in my back yard” Remember that simply navigating the
phenomenon. system can be emotionally harmful.
When you hear the term “harm
Provide as many services in house as
reduction” what comes to mind? For The lack of community support
possible or support your clients by
most of us, we immediately think of and acceptance creates a distrust
accompanying them to appointments
harm reduction in terms of illicit drugs. between service users and providers,
elsewhere.
Mitigating the risks associated with making it even more difficult to build
substance use is certainly of utmost relationships. This means we are Ask yourself the following, “Is this the
importance amidst an opioid crisis in all missing opportunities to provide safest and least harmful way to go about
our country. However, this is not the lifesaving services and information. this?” If the answer is no, what changes
only component of harm reduction. Imagine a world that promoted and can you make to support the person’s
Chances are, you already practice harm accepted supervised injection sites and safety as much as possible?
reduction in your own life and may not the distribution of safe supplies as much
The Mokami Status of Women Council
even realize. as the use of seatbelts - a world free of
(MSWC) in Happy Valley-Goose
judgment, where people felt they were
When we choose to wear a seatbelt Bay recently received funding for
valued members of society regardless of
in a vehicle, we are practicing harm harm reduction work from Reaching
their circumstances. Personally, I believe
reduction. In 2017, 1841 fatalities and Home Indigenous NL. The funding
the answer to our opioid crisis begins
154,886 injuries were recorded from has allowed MSWC to hire a Harm
with how we treat people in our work.
motor vehicle collisions in Canada Reduction Researcher position for one
Whether you work with people who
(Transport Canada, 2017). We usually year, followed by a Harm Reduction
use drugs or not, there are many ways
do not get into a vehicle with intentions Coordinator for two additional years.
to implement harm reduction in your
of causing injury to ourselves, but Our aim is to increase our current
practice. Survivors of intergenerational
there are certainly risks involved. For programs and policies from a renewed
trauma, sexual abuse, and domestic
some of us, riding in a vehicle is simply harm reduction lens, as well as provide
violence can all benefit from harm
unavoidable, much like substance new additional programing to meet the
reduction. Here are some tips:
use for those who are chemically needs of our community. If you have
dependent. So, we take the necessary Create a harm reduction policy at your been doing work in harm reduction
precautions to ensure we are being as place of work and implement it. Did or have any input to provide in this
safe as possible despite the risk of injury. you know that as of the end of 2015, area, I would love to hear from you!
Newfoundland and Labrador had only I can be reached at jade.pardy@
This example of how we all practice
two provincial policy documents that mokamiwomen.ca.
harm reduction is highly accepted by
mentioned the words “harm reduction”?
society. The notion of keeping ourselves
These documents vaguely mentioned
as safe as possible is so ingrained in References
unspecified harm reduction 5 times,
us that we seldom even think about
mentioned needle/syringe distribution Hyshka, E., Anderson-Baron, J.,
why we do these things. So why does
twice, and did not mention anything else Karekezi, K. et al. Harm reduction in
society struggle with the same concept
related to harm reduction (Hyshka et al., name, but not substance: a comparative
for people who use drugs?
2017). analysis of current Canadian provincial
Unfortunately, stigma surrounding and territorial policy frameworks.
Provide your clients with as much
addiction remains high. For some, harm Harm Reduct J 14, 50 (2017). https://
freedom of choice as possible. Even
reduction methods with people who doi.org/10.1186/s12954-017-0177-7
if you have exhausted all options and
use drugs can be controversial. Things
there is no choice to be made, your Transport Canada. (2017). Canadian
like distributing safe injection supplies or
language and phrasing can make an Motor Vehicle Traffic Collision Statistics.
inhalation kits are sometimes perceived
impact. https://tc.canada.ca/en/canadian-
as enabling. Others support harm
motor-vehicle-traffic-collision-
reduction methods theoretically, but Work on building genuine relationships
statistics-2017
struggle with supporting real action in with your clients. Assess their needs.
their neighborhoods or communities, Never make assumptions.You can also read
