Graduate student Greg Faupel understands the importance of using tact and natural conversation when broaching difficult topics with people struggling through addiction.
“When working with clients, you have to put yourself into their shoes,” said Faupel, who is pursuing a master’s degree in the 91Ï㽶¶ÌÊÓƵ–St. Louis . “Some clients need to seek immediate attention for their substance abuse issue, yet they may not be ready for commitment or fearful of judgment. Using motivational interviewing techniques helps the client find self-determination to move forward.”
Faupel believes a focus on empathy will strengthen his skills as a case manager and allow him to better assist clients who are on the cusp of addiction navigate drinking and drug use.
The School of Social Work’s newly implemented training program made possible through a federal grant will aid Faupel in meeting his goals.
SBIRT is an approach to substance and alcohol abuse intervention that can be utilized across a variety of social work specializations and settings.
Reviewed 2016-02-04