A narrative research of Taiwan clinical social worker's professional self in the helping process

Abstract

This research is a narrative analysis of Taiwan clinical social workers’ professional selves in their helping process. According to interviews, the two roles of clinical social workers involve professional expertise and the helping relationship. Although these participants agree on the importance of professional expertise, they cannot describe what it is; yet they clearly point out that forming such a relationship carries certain connotations. The article reveals that when giving help to clients, using the professional self is conducive to forming relationships with clients. The author highlights these key values in the research as reflecting an affinity with that in western literatures, especially Carl Roger's person-centered therapy. Nevertheless, the author considers it far more difficult for Taiwan clinical social workers to successfully integrate the professional self, than for their Western counterparts. Based on the research findings, the author hopes this article can contribute to clinical social work practice, social work education and future research.