This World Social Work Day, celebrated today, 18 March, SANCA Wedge Gardens pays tribute to its social workers who play a pivotal role at the substance use treatment centre by providing multifaceted services that are crucial for its clients’ effective treatment and long-term recovery.
Wedge Gardens’ social workers, including Amanda van Staden, Laetitia Goosen, Philani Khumalo and Senamile Mackaukau, provide a range of services to clients, including comprehensive assessment and individualised treatment planning.
According to SANCA Wedge Gardens’ manager Adèl Grobbelaar, a comprehensive assessment includes a psychosocial assessment to understand the person’s history, circumstances and the impact of substance use on their life.
“This includes evaluating factors like family dynamics, social support, employment, education and mental health.”
The psychosocial assessment also includes the development of an individualised treatment plan to ensure a holistic approach to recovery.
In terms of therapeutic intervention and counselling, individual counselling enables the social workers to address underlying issues contributing to substance use, such as trauma, grief, anxiety and depression; while group therapy fosters a supportive environment for clients to share their experiences, develop coping skills and build peer support networks.
“Our social workers also engage families in therapy to address dysfunctional patterns, improve communication and promote healthy relationships,” says Adèl.
“Our social workers also co-ordinate care with other professionals involved in our clients’ treatment, such as doctors, psychiatrists and probation officers,” she adds.
Discharge planning and aftercare
Relapse prevention planning is a crucial step in client care.
“Our social workers work with our clients to develop relapse prevention plans, identifying triggers and developing coping strategies,” Adèl explains.
They also assist in developing aftercare plans, which may include ongoing therapy, support group participation and community resources; and facilitate clients’ reintegration into the community by providing support and guidance.
“In essence, social workers bridge the gap between our clients, their family, SANCA Wedge Gardens and the wider community,” says Adèl.
“They provide vital support in navigating the complex challenges of recovery and are essential members of the rehabilitation team, providing crucial support and guidance to people and families affected by substance use.
“Their expertise in assessment, counselling, case management and resource co-ordination is vital for promoting long-term recovery and well-being,” she adds.
For more information about SANCA Wedge Gardens, visit www.wedgegardens.co.za
