In the course Spiritual Diversity in Social Work Practice The Heart of Helping Edward R. Canda, Ph.D.and Leola Dyrud Furman, Ph.D. offer heartfelt information to all clinicians interested in the ethical application of Spirituality into the fabric of people helping. The text presents an integrated framework for dealing with the issues that professional helpers face in integrating spirituality.

Designed for classroom use and as a reference for social workers already in the field, the book is insightful as well as practical in its presentation of the rich variety of religious and spiritual concerns facing individuals, families, and communities. The authors explore existentialist, transpersonal, and holistic systems theories with Buddhist, Christian, Hindu, Islamic, Judaic, and Shamanistic traditions of helping.

Case studies, practical examples, insights from a national survey of social workers, and learning exercises support professional and personal growth. Each chapter closes with directed exercises that provide the clinician an opportunity to make personal applications in their own lives and clinical practices.

Educational Objectives

• Clinicians will be able to :
• Identify the primary mission and core values in the social work profession
• Identify the transemic approach to defining spirituality
• Identify the top descriptors used for Religion, Spirituality and Faith
• Identify social work implications within ethnic and spiritual diversity
• Understanding the implications of Zen Buddhism, Christianity, Islam, Hinduism, Judaism, Shamanism, Transpersonalism and Existentialism core beliefs on social work service
• Identify the principles and activities for spiritually sensitive administration
• Identify Erickson’s perspectives on spiritual development emerging throughout the life cycle
• Identify Fowler’s perspectives on spiritual development emerging throughout the life cycle
• Identify the ethical conditions for determining when and which spiritual activities are appropriate

Syllabus / Course Instructions

• The Course consists of reading the selected book, successfully completing an online posttest and filling out a course evaluation.
• The book is not included. It must be purchased separately. We have supplied a link to Amazon.com for your convenience.
• Purchasing your course will give you access to both a printable copy of the test and an online version. Print the test to use as a companion as you read the book and answer the questions.
• You cannot exit the online test once you begin, so have your answers available.