A network approach to clinical social work

This article describes a technique that attempts to combine the best of the traditional clinical psychotherapeutic method with the advantages of a social systems approach. The technique is based on the assumption that the solution to a variety of human dilemmas lies within the collective resources of an individual's social network. The vehicle for accomplishing this is the Network Session in which professional, care-givers meet with a client and his natural social network to facilitate client growth, and to design and implement a strategy for more effective service delivery. Two case studies are included to demonstrate the method.The authors wish to acknowledge the helpful comments of Joseph Greaney and Ellen Galligan.