USC Caseworker Certification

Caseworker Certification Program

This certification program has moved to Olivet Nazarene University's Bridge Online Learning System.
Please reach out to your division's CCP Manager or complete the form at the bottom of the page to learn more.

The Caseworker Certification Program will ensure that the Central Territory’s direct service providers all receive a baseline of knowledge to perform their position’s responsibilities. The program’s curriculum is comprised of nine modules that provide an introduction to The Salvation Army’s policies, key social work concepts, and case management skills. The curriculum supports several initiatives such as the Pathway of Hope and the revised Faith in Action textbook distributed in 2017. Most importantly, social services staff will learn about The Salvation Army’s culture and its mission-driven approach. A consistent training schedule is clearly needed to strengthen the level of services being offered at all levels.

A WELCOME MESSAGE FROM COMMISSIONER BRAD BAILEY

The program includes nine modules:

MODULE 1: Overview

Overview of The Salvation Army
Working on behalf of The Salvation Army requires an understanding both of the history of that organization as well as the principles by which it shaped its social ministry and continues that ministry in 128 countries today. This module sets forth that history, including the historical events and theological commitments that account for the advancement of The Salvation Army into social ministries. The guiding principles for The Salvation Army’s social ministry will also be examined.

MODULE 2: Ethics

Boundaries and Ethics in Social Services
This module is an introduction to ethical social services practices and the importance of adhering to The Salvation Army Social Services Code of Ethics. Confidentiality of records and proper sharing of client records will be covered, as will the complexity of following client self-determination. Understanding the reality of dual relationships will be explained, in addition to procedures for anticipating and managing challenges in dual relationships. The ethical challenges posed by social media and electronic communication will be addressed.

MODULE 3: Safety

Safety and Security in Case Management
Case managers often find themselves meeting with clients in various settings, including Corps’ offices, in residential facilities, in client homes or in the community. Being able to identify and prepare for potential risks that may be encountered while working as a caseworker will be discussed. Tips to keep yourself safe and aid in decelerating escalating behaviors will be identified.

MODULE 4: Skills

Starting Places and Interviewing Skills
Building on previous modules, this module introduces participants to concepts and values that are instrumental in effective case management; including the stages of change, the strengths perspective, and hope. Participants will gain a level of understanding of the necessary communication skills for case management.

MODULE 5: Effectiveness

Engagement, Understanding, and Effective Documentation
In the beginning of the case management process with a client, workers need to both engage with the client and also begin to understand the client. This module is an introduction to engagement and empathy, and also provides information and tools for understanding a client’s situation in context. It also involves guidelines for writing accurate and effective case notes.

MODULE 6: Goals

Achieving and Maintaining Goals in Case Management
Once the worker and participant have established goals, the difficult work of helping the client reach those goals and maintain gains begins. The use of action steps, strategies to overcome barriers/challenges, and approaches for maintaining gains/stability will be covered. The integration of pastoral care into the helping process will be covered. Additionally, going beyond case management, community collaboration, and advocacy will be introduced.

MODULE 7: Cultural

Cultural Competency
The work that is done at our Corps and other sites centers on people. Those individuals have varying cultural backgrounds that influence how they interact with the world around them. The worker must be able to practice in a culturally competent manner in order to communicate effectively with clients and deliver quality services. One area in which cultural differences can come into play is working with individuals who are gay, lesbian, bisexual, or transgender. Being self-aware and mindful of one’s social identity will be explored in this module. A cultural model of care will be discussed as well as an understanding of the biases that make this model essential, as well as legal obligations and best practices.

MODULE 8: Populations

Specialized Populations
In alignment with the mission of The Salvation Army, we provide case management services to all persons without discrimination. This module introduces participants to four areas where additional knowledge and skills are needed to practice compassionately and effectively. For many of those who come to The Salvation Army for assistance or to move forward with their lives, issues in social functioning—behavioral health concerns and substance abuse or addiction—are significant challenges. A basic understanding of these helps us to be more effective. An understanding of the range of disabilities and approaches for treating those with disabilities effectively and with dignity is also essential. A different type of issue—being trapped in trafficking—also prevents individuals from full participation in society, and workers need to be aware of the extent of human trafficking and signs that someone is being trafficked.

MODULE 9: Development

Personal Development for Caseworkers
As a caseworker, you clearly understand the importance of self-care, because when you neglect to take good care of yourself—mentally, emotionally, physically, and spiritually—it can leave you feeling drained and overwhelmed. Over time, if you continue to give and give, without taking good care of yourself, you will likely experience burnout. The purpose of this course is to teach you important ways of thinking, being, and doing that will lead you to feeling more in control of your day (and life), more fulfilled in your work, and more impactful in your service.

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