Practicum Reports

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Open Access
Becoming trauma informed: a research practicum exploring haven family support staff experiences of trauma informed care
(Faculty of Social Work, University of Regina, 2021-09) Gagne, Erin; Chalmers, Darlene; Gebhard, Amanda; Fletcher, Kara
The following report presents the findings from my research practicum with Haven Family Connections, Haven Family Support program in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan. The purpose of this research practicum was to assist the agency in meeting their identified need for staff capacity-building on vicarious trauma and trauma informed practice. The research practicum was guided by the following question: How can Haven Family Connections, Haven Family Support increase staff knowledge of vicarious trauma and trauma informed practice and improve their capacity in delivery of trauma informed services? A literature review was completed to determine emerging themes and identified key knowledge areas on trauma and trauma informed practice. This review also informed the development of a staff trauma informed practice self-assessment tool. The results of the self-assessment, which asked staff about their knowledge and skills related to trauma and trauma informed practice, informed staff focus groups and provided a baseline for assessing the current knowledge and skills of staff on trauma and trauma informed practice. Data collected from both the staff self-assessment tool and two focus groups were utilized in training recommendations and the development of a staff training guide. The findings revealed areas of strength as well as areas for further development in terms of staff training and practices.
Open Access
Cancer treatment as a place: ecofeminism as a social work framework
(Faculty of Social Work, University of Regina, 2016-05-17) Enns, Karen; Chalmers, Darlene; Jeffery, Bonnie
This paper is a reflection of my field practicum at the Saskatoon Cancer Centre from May11, 2015 to August 11, 2015. It explores ecofeminism as a guiding clinical framework with people who are receiving cancer treatment. A literature review highlights ecofeminism, oncology social work, ecosocialwork, ecopsychology, people as place, nature and ecology, and spirituality. It also provides a description of my learning goals, practice objectives, learning activities, a description of the practicum setting, the integration of theory and practice, challenges, ethics, and implications for future social work practice. This paper identifies the support for ecofeminism as an expanded framework for social work, with the potential to inform clinical practice in health care settings and influence the future of ecological social work theory and practice.
Open Access
Children’s mental health services: a practicum report
(Faculty of Social Work, University of Regina, 2019-02) Sidhu, Gurkirat; Chalmers, Darlene; Novotna, Gabriela
This report provides a critical review of my field practicum experience as a Master of Social Work (MSW) student at Children’s Mental Health Services within the Saskatchewan Health Authority. The focus of this field practicum was to work within a multi-disciplinary team to provide services to caregivers and children from birth to 11 years of age experiencing mental health challenges. This 450-hour field practicum was completed over 12 weeks under the supervision of my Professional Associate, a clinical social worker. I carried a small caseload of children and their families and provided direct counselling services and initial assessments. Included in the report is a description of the agency, my practicum goals and activities, a literature review, a reflection of theories which shaped my practice with discussion reflecting on ethical social work practice. I conclude the report with a reflection on my professional growth over the 12 weeks of my field practicum placement.
Open Access
Children’s mental health services: learning and exploring on a clinical playground
(Faculty of Social Work, University of Regina, 2020-10) Wilde, Kristin R.; Chalmers, Darlene; Milne, Lise
This practicum report is a summary and reflection of my learning and experiences at Children’s Mental Health Services in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan; a clinical field practicum in partial fulfilment of a Master of Social Work degree. The purpose of this 12-week practicum was to gain graduate level field experience using narrative therapy techniques in working with children and families accessing Children’s Mental Health Services. In addition to working as a member of an interdisciplinary team, I provided family, individual, and group-based therapy, assisted with various groups, and became familiar with an assortment of programs that are connected to Children’s Mental Health Services. The report begins with a discussion of my learning goals and outcomes, an overview of children’s mental health, and a description of the Saskatchewan Health Authority and Children’s Mental Health Services. A literature review of child development, narrative therapy, cognitive behavioural therapy, and trauma-informed care follows. I then discuss how these frameworks were integrated into my clinical social work practicum and include professional development opportunities, and social work values and ethical considerations. The report concludes with a summary and reflection of the personal and professional growth I realized by means of this practicum experience.
Open Access
Community Living Division: a field practicum placement
(Faculty of Social Work, University of Regina, 2018-01) MacInnis, Christina; Chalmers, Darlene; Johner, Randy
This comprehensive report outlines my field practicum experience with Community Living Division in Prince Albert, Saskatchewan. Over a period of three months, I provided support to persons with intellectual disabilities, accessing resources from the Client Services Unit and Outreach and Prevention Services. Based on my experiences, the concept of ideology will be explored in the context of societal, agency and personal perspectives. The application of critical disability theory and systems theory will be used in the analysis of oppression, as demonstrated within the medical model and group home settings. Additionally, the strategies and skills utilized during the field practicum will be summarized and ethical considerations presented. The report will conclude with a discussion surrounding professional development and implications for future social work practice.
Open Access
Counselling in child and youth mental health: a field practicum report
(Faculty of Social Work, University of Regina, 2019-01) Silzer, Colette; Chalmers, Darlene; Novik, Nuelle
This report discusses my clinical experience and integration of theory and practice while completing a Master of Social Work field practicum. The practicum was completed at Youth Community Counselling (YCC) with Mental Health and Addictions Services (MHAS) in Saskatoon within the Saskatchewan Health Authority (SHA). The objective of my practicum placement was to gain graduate level practice experience with youth diagnosed with complex mental health issues via individual counselling and family therapy sessions. The therapeutic framework integrated into my practice with individuals and their caregivers included Trauma Informed Care (TIC), Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), and Solution Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT), from a Strengths-Based Perspective (SBP). The report begins with my learning objectives, practicum activities, and my direct practice learning experiences in my placement setting. I then present information on mental health and the process of assessment and diagnosis within my practicum placement, followed by a review of the literature on the theories integrated into my practice and a reflection on the theories. Lastly, I discuss values and ethics in relation to my practicum learning experience, and conclude the report with a final summary reflection.
Open Access
Exploring the lived experiences of siblings who grow up with a sibling diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder
(Faculty of Social Work, University of Regina, 2016-07) Day, Amanda; Johner, Randy; Chalmers, Darlene; Novik, Nuelle
This research project explores the lived experiences of young adults who are living with a sibling diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) by asking one methodological question: What are the lived experiences of young adults who lived with a sibling diagnosed with ASD in Saskatchewan? The research practicum employs a phenomenological approach, which includes semi-structured interviews and participant derived photographs, involving 5 adult siblings in Saskatchewan. A different relationship, but it is not one that is less became the essence shared within the different lived experiences of the study participants. The essence was impacted by two major themes identified throughout the analysis, including challenging and positive experiences. Subthemes that emerged from the challenging theme include the diagnosis and complex and layered. Positive experiences subthemes include reciprocity and bonding. These themes are discussed, along with the implications for social workers and future research.
Open Access
Integrating a narrative approach in clinical practice with youth experiencing disordered eating and in family therapy
(Faculty of Social Work, University of Regina, 2017-04) Yablonski, Kayly; Chalmers, Darlene; Novotna, Gabriela
This report examines my experience as a Master of Social Work student during my field practicum placement with the Youth Community Counselling Program (YCC), with Mental Health and Addiction Services, Saskatoon, Sk. The purpose of this practicum was to gain graduate level experience and knowledge in providing services to youth and families experiencing disordered eating, and in providing therapy to families accessing services through Mental Health and Addiction Services. I provided individual counselling and family-based treatment, participated in the development of a research project, and worked as part of an interdisciplinary team. This report presents my learning through the integration of theory and social work practice. I explore the literature on evidence-based practice for working with youth and their families, with a focus on counselling approaches incorporating narrative therapy, structural family therapy, attachment theory, family systems theory, and family-based treatment. I also discuss the relationship between my ideological views, values, ethics and self-reflection in supporting young people and their families. The report concludes with discussion of my learning outcomes, intersectional analysis, and ethical considerations.
Open Access
“It’s not about the waffle maker:” trauma-informed social work practice
(Faculty of Social Work, University of Regina, 2018-04) McAvoy, Michelle; Fletcher, Kara; Chalmers, Darlene
This report highlights my Master’s in social work practicum experiences in private practice providing trauma-informed therapy to clients who have experienced varying degrees of interpersonal trauma. The purpose of the practicum was to enrich my theoretical understanding of trauma-informed practice and enhance my clinical skills in direct social work practice with clients who have experienced trauma. This report summarizes my experiences as a clinical social worker in a private practice setting. I begin with an overview of my personal and professional experiences and highlight the rationale for my practicum placement. I then discuss my literature review defining the term ‘trauma,’ and discuss cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and attachment theory as foundational theories that guided my clinical work. I outline important aspects of trauma-informed practice and integrate a conceptual framework I used. Throughout this paper, I blend professional and practicum experiences regarding theoretical and practical applications of social work tools to client experiences. I note challenges and ethical considerations of trauma-informed practice and conclude with a brief summary and recommendations for future social work practice.
Open Access
Knowing my child: family-centric parent engagement and ADHD at school
(Faculty of Social Work, University of Regina, 2021-12) Thiessen, Nicole; Milne, Lise; Chalmers, Darlene
The intent of this report is to explore family-centric parent engagement from an analytic auto-ethnographical perspective in the school environment with parents that have a child diagnosed with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). Completed under the umbrella of Prairie Spirit School Division (PSSD), the largest rural school division in Saskatchewan, the qualitative research outcomes detailed in this document will examine current literature on family-centric parent engagement and ADHD within schools and provide an analysis of data collected through five qualitative interviews with parents. The themes of parental stigma, relationships, school systems failure, and parent voice emerged as critical considerations regarding family-centric parent engagement in schools with families that have children diagnosed with ADHD. The knowledge gained through examining this lived experience is a critical consideration connecting the concept of parent engagement with alternate ways of engaging families that have a child diagnosed with ADHD. This is an important connection in the field of school social work that will provide best practice recommendations for school counsellors and educators who work with families who have children diagnosed with ADHD. Recommendations provided to PSSD regarding best practice for working with families who have children diagnosed with ADHD are included.
Open Access
A narrative way of being
(Faculty of Social Work, University of Regina, 2016-02) Corbeil, Anjeanette; Halabuza, Donalda; Chalmers, Darlene
The helping relationship is intricately bound with genuine honour and ethical responsibility. Being invited into another’s story of hardship and uncertainty carries a profound obligation that holds a powerful opportunity for human connection and influence. Narrative therapy offers a respectful, reflective approach to the helping relationship and therapeutic process that celebrates collaborative effort and impact. Genuine curiosity and the art of storytelling spark insight and inspiration as they hold the power to leave a lasting impression. As a social work practice reflection, this discourse includes an outline of my practicum objectives, shares skills and stories discovered and reveals an honest exploration of my personal and professional growth through appreciating a narrative way of being.
Open Access
A narrative way of being
(Faculty of Social Work, University of Regina, 2016-05-17) Corbeil, Anjeanette; Halabuza, Donalda; Chalmers, Darlene
The helping relationship is intricately bound with genuine honour and ethical responsibility. Being invited into another’s story of hardship and uncertainty carries a profound obligation that holds a powerful opportunity for human connection and influence. Narrative therapy offers a respectful, reflective approach to the helping relationship and therapeutic process that celebrates collaborative effort and impact. Genuine curiosity and the art of storytelling spark insight and inspiration as they hold the power to leave a lasting impression. As a social work practice reflection, this discourse includes an outline of my practicum objectives, shares skills and stories discovered and reveals an honest exploration of my personal and professional growth through appreciating a narrative way of being.
Open Access
The Pe-kīwēwin project: research practicum report
(Faculty of Social Work, University of Regina, 2017-06) Field, Elliot; Albert, Jason; Sinclair, Raven; Chalmers, Darlene
The Pe-kīwēwin (Coming Home) project is a 5-year long project designed to uncover policies that led to the Indigenous Child Removal System (ICRS) beginning in the 1950’s. The following is a research practicum report detailing my experience as a research practicum student on the Pe-kīwēwin project. My objectives on the project were to learn about Indigenous research methodology, to learn about and conduct archival research, and to review existing literature relating to child welfare and the ICRS. The report includes a discussion of practicum objectives. Literature pertaining to child welfare, transracial adoption, and Indigenous helping is examined. The methodology used to guide both the Pe-kīwēwin project and my research practicum is discussed. The report includes a discussion of research practicum findings, including how I was guided by theory and practice, consistent with social work values. Ethical considerations and personal challenges are explored. The report reviews completed practicum objectives. I examine implications of Indigenous knowledge and research on social work theory and practice. The report concludes with personal recommendations and an overview of my practicum experience.
Open Access
Reflective review on working with couples and others : integrating theory and practice
(Faculty of Social Work, University of Regina, 2015-04-02) Shewchuk, Norine; Watkinson, Ailsa; Chalmers, Darlene
This paper is an overview of a field practicum experience at Family Service Saskatoon, an organization located in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan. The paper provides an overview of the agency and the programs and services it offers, along with the goals and objectives for the practicum. The primary objective of the practicum placement focused on couple counselling. An overview of conducting couple counselling is presented along with a literature review exploring aspects of living in relationship that positively support a healthy couple relationship. The integration of social work practice and theory will be evident in the discussions. Attachment theory, emotionally focused therapy, cognitive behavioural therapy, and feminist theory are the primary theories addressed. The paper also incorporates an overview of the secondary activities conducted throughout the practicum including group work, presentations and a project. The types of clients served, the social conditions addressed and relevant research are discussed along with the new knowledge acquired and the challenges experienced. The paper concludes with my vision as to how I plan to contribute to the social work profession.
Open Access
Student stress survey: a pilot study at the Western College of Veterinary Medicine
(Faculty of Social Work, University of Regina, 2018-03) Pierson, Amanda; Chalmers, Darlene
This report presents the findings of a master of social work research practicum at the Western College of Veterinary Medicine (WCVM). The research question for this study asks: “What are the stressors for the students at the WCVM, and what practices could potentially mitigate their stress?”. The purpose of this research study is to pilot a survey for the WCVM student population that assesses the student’s objective and subjective stress, causes and symptoms of stress, the student’s current coping mechanisms for stress, and the effectiveness of the current practices in place. The aim is to identify the causes of stress and provide recommendations to the WCVM that may help alleviate stress experienced by veterinary medicine students, interns and residents. The report begins with an introduction explaining the purpose and goals of the research practicum. It follows with a review of the literature, which includes an overview of the search terms, and further explores suicide in veterinary medicine and the contributing factors to suicide risk, the impact of euthanasia on risk factors and on students, contributing factors to stress and burnout in veterinary medicine, gendered differences in reported stress, student stress and coping strategies in veterinary colleges, and student stress examined. The methodology is presented including the survey development, data collection methods, participant recruitment, procedures used, and a data analysis. The findings are discussed, including the themes that emerged from the data analysis and an overview of the survey findings. This paper concludes with recommendations for the WCVM for a future study.
Open Access
Why you have to get in the chute : reflections on the integration of social work services in the Western College of Veterinary Medicine
(Faculty of Social Work, University of Regina, 2015-04-02) Wasson, Erin; Chalmers, Darlene
This report is a reflection on and an analysis of my Master of Social Work (MSW) practicum journey. I provide an overview of my learning experiences with particular attention to my role in the creation of an organizational structure, clinical practice in this setting, my interactions with staff, students, and faculty of the WCVM (Western College of Veterinary Medicine), the integration of social work theory and practice, ethical considerations, and the literature as it pertains to the practicum context.

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