One theory that human service professionals use in working with
clients is the problem solving method or the strengths based model.
This model allows for clients to identify the problems and focus on
resolution. Human service professionals take time to make positive
relationships with clients, then help their clients identify strengths
and resources available to them, and then intervention begins. With
this process, "the helper encourages the client to think about past
problems or situations that were resolved effectively."(Woodside,
2018) Emphasizing strengths, resources, coping, possibilities, and
resilience, helps the client better understand their problem and the
situation, and how to effectively solve it. This approach focuses on
positives, and allows for the client to develop problem-solving skills
on their own so well to the point where they will no longer need
services. For example, when a human service professional is talking to
a client about a DUI they may have received, they can help the client
focus on the strengths of staying sober, the strengths of asking for
help, and all the positive things the client did throughout this journey
to help them start problem solving.
Resources:
Woodside, M. R., & McClam, T. (2018). An Introduction to Human
Services (9th ed.). Cengage Learning US.
https://mbsdirect.vitalsource.com/books/9781337671262
