Clinical Supervision
The Domestic Violence Clinic (DVC) is a school based clinic which trains graduate social work students to provide individual, family, and group treatment for abused women and their children, and provides group counseling for men who are violent towards their intimate partners. In addition, it is a training center for clinicians and supervisors interested in meeting the requirements for the AAMFT (American Association of Marriage and Family Therapists). Supervision is done as a team in a group format.
Treatment
The relationship between students and their supervisors can have a significant impact on the learning process of social work graduates. Because of this relationship, one of the most important parts of graduate social work education is the practicum. The therapeutic strategies used in this setting model important and appropriate problem-solving interventions which will allow the students the opportunity to put into practice the theoretical material they have been learning in the classroom. It can also help the students to develop both knowledge and skills while providing an important community service. The supervisory process during the practicum will, therefore, enable the students to empower their clients.
Requirements
The Domestic Violence Clinic presently accepts three MSW interns (preferably two female and one male) each school year - although there are plans for expansion. These students must display maturity and have previously had some professional experience or paraprofessional experience relating to the area of violence. They require the ability to work with clients in difficult and sometimes desperate situations. Students video tape all of their interviews, and after reviewing their tapes, will bring excerpts to the weekly supervision sessions for discussion with the team. All team members (students and supervisors) are encouraged to participate in the analysis of these segments. One of the many advantages of group supervision is that it allows all the interns to feel included in the total learning process. It also encourages flexibility of approach and the acceptance of a diversity of therapeutic styles.
The MSW program is a 15 month program and a BSW is required for admission. The training at the clinic takes place two days a week from September through April and is part of an integrated graduate program which includes courses, supervision and a related research project.
Research Projects
All graduate students at the clinic undertake research projects related to some aspects of violence. As well, the clinic supervisors and consultants are involved in a variety of funded research endeavors. These include the relationship between substance abuse and violent behavior in men as well as investigating early detection and intervention with substance abuse within a number of community health service settings which deal with violence.
There are interesting opportunities for PhD students to become involved in the clinic and to undertake related research for their dissertations. For further information please contact a Clinical Supervisor.
