From Task-centered Social Work to Evidence-based and Integrative Practice ― Reflections on History and Implementation

The importance of evidence-based practice has been long established, but many organizations still struggle with integrating it into their culture. From Task-Centered Social Work to Evidence-Based and Integrative Practice shows how this can be done through case examples of successful implementations. The book is divided into two parts. The first explains the development of evidence-based practice and its application across areas of social work theory. The second section consists of illustrative case examples. This book will inspire readers to contribute to and disseminate research and improve their social work practice.

The authors value evidence as a resource for clinical decision-making and encourage the acquisition of practice-based evidence to complement and support published research. Lead editor Tina Rzepnicki says, "Sometimes the best available evidence is from one's own practice, as long as it is systematically gathered in a manner that ensures its validity. Not all evidence is equal; nor is all evidence of high quality. At the same time, high-quality evidence is not the exclusive domain of academics; there is a need for practice-based evidence." But practitioners should not stop with gathering and using their own evidence. If their new practice innovations work, they must disseminate and assist with adoption of their new techniques. This book will help readers overcome barriers to dissemination, including organizational factors and learning how to collaborate with clients and their family members, community representatives, staff, administrators, and academics.

Tina L. Rzepnicki (AM, PhD, University of Chicago) is the David and Mary Winton Green Professor at the University of Chicago School of Social Service Administration. She has taught and conducted research in support of EBP and on child welfare practice for more than thirty years. She has published numerous books and articles based on her research, including Using Evidence in Social Work Practice: Behavioral Perspectives (Lyceum Books).

Stanley G. McCracken (AM, PhD, University of Chicago) is senior lecturer at the University of Chicago School of Social Service Administration. For more than thirty years he has provided clinical services, staff training, and program consultation in mental health and substance abuse programs.

Harold E. Briggs (AM, PhD, University of Chicago) is professor of social work at Portland State University. He has published many books and articles, including Using Evidence in Social Work Practice: Behavioral Perspectives and Social Work Practice: Treating Common Client Problems (Lyceum Books). He is planning a fifth book with Lyceum on evidence-based management of organizations and people in caring communities in social work.