Clinical Social Work Practice with Muslim Clients: A Relational Approach

Abstract

This chapter provides the student practitioner with background information about the beliefs and traditions of Muslims and guidance on effective clinical social work practice with this population. The information and discussion also may be valuable to advanced practitioners without experience in relational practice especially with Muslim clients. The authors paint a picture for the practitioner of the socio/historic context in which American Muslims live. Discussion about the intergroup diversity of the community, as well as the intrapersonal diversity of each American Muslim, will facilitate practitioners’ broader understanding of their Muslim client, the client family, and their representative community. The case vignette provides an illustration and understanding of the relational therapeutic experience of a clinical practitioner working with a Muslim family and the challenges both clinician and client experience in negotiating the treatment process. The diversity in cultural backgrounds and religious practice among Muslim individuals and families is reiterated throughout the chapter.