Scenario #2: Supporting an Individual with Addictions and Family Issues

Being a community support worker involves more than just practical skills. Good self-awareness, critical thinking, and the ability to think about one’s actions and choices are necessary for CSWs. Julia, a new CSW, was helping Marcus, a teenager who had problems with drugs and family issues. After a tough session where Marcus seemed unresponsive and withdrawn, Julia felt frustrated, and wondered if she was doing her job well. Instead of reacting badly or blaming herself, she took time to think about how she felt and what her expectations might have been. By being aware of her own emotions, she saw that her desire for validation was affecting how she worked with clients who didn’t respond right away.

Through honest self-reflection and thinking carefully about the situation, Julia changed how she approached future sessions. She asked her supervisor for feedback, reviewed her training on trauma-informed care, and reminded herself that change in clients is often slow and not always a straight path. This helped her build more patience and stay stronger emotionally. The habit of pausing to evaluate and adapt made her a better worker, helped her connect better with Marcus, and helped her grow professionally. Self-awareness and reflection are vital in human services because they keep workers grounded, help prevent burnout, and allow them to offer kinder, more effective support.