Book chapter
Exploring Opportunities for Critical Mental Health Social Work in Direct Practice: Navigating Oppressive Practices
Social Work in the Mental Health Field: From Power Analysis to Practice, pp.55-68
SpringerBriefs in Social Work Series, Springer, 1st
02/2026
Appears in Recent Faculty of Health Publications
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Abstract
This chapter explores opportunities for critical social work in direct practice and the complexities involved in navigating oppressive practices in the mental health system, moving beyond the buzzwords of ‘recovery’, ‘strengths-based’, and ‘trauma-informed’ practice. Examples include how an analysis of power can inform strategic multidisciplinary teamwork undertaken by social workers, to create possibilities beyond the constraints of diagnostic thinking, and opportunities to engage in systemic advocacy to navigate and challenge harmful, risk-averse practices. Various practices of resistance are identified, including ways to foster creativity and joy in mental health social work practice.
Details
- Title
- Exploring Opportunities for Critical Mental Health Social Work in Direct Practice: Navigating Oppressive Practices
- Creators
- Louise Whitaker - Southern Cross UniversityKatherine Reid - Queensland University of TechnologyEmma Tseris - The University of SydneyHollie BallingallAshlea BorgBinti JonesAlex OlsenAimee PittLisa Thorpy
- Publication Details
- Social Work in the Mental Health Field: From Power Analysis to Practice, pp.55-68
- Series
- SpringerBriefs in Social Work Series
- Publisher
- Springer; Cham
- Edition
- 1st
- Number of pages
- 110
- Identifiers
- 9783032083067; 3032083060; 9783032083050; 991013357510002368
- Copyright
- © 2026 The Author(s), under exclusive license to Springer Nature Switzerland AG
- Academic Unit
- Social Work; Faculty of Health
- Language
- English
- Resource Type
- Book chapter