Relational Social Work Practice with Evangelical Christian Clients

Abstract

Regardless of the relational social worker’s religious beliefs, practice with Evangelical Christians requires an authentic relationship and a close examination of the diversity and relational aspects within this group. Relational theory provides valuable methods for working with this group. This chapter includes an overview of Evangelical Christian beliefs and practices, discussion of how both Evangelical and non-Evangelical relational clinicians can optimize the relational approach with the client, and a case study to provide context and recommendations for clinical and relational issues that the relational clinician may encounter when working with Evangelical Christian clients. In the case, the client’s problems and treatment are analyzed in light of relational issues, social construction of meaning, and the strengths perspective.