Advanced SW Practice II Initiating and Contracting with the Group.

This document is an academic assignment titled "Initiating and Contracting with the Group" for a course in Advanced Social Work Practice (Advanced SW Practice II). It outlines the plan for forming a therapeutic group for victims of sexual assault, detailing the selection process, group structure, and methods for establishing confidentiality, informed consent, and group rules. I. Group Composition and Structure Membership: The group will include 12 selected individuals who have been victims of sexual assault, comprising both males and females from all demographics and social characteristics. Selection Criteria: Members will be selected using group therapy questionnaires to ensure diversity in coping mechanisms, experiences, and expertise. Rationale for Diversity: Diverse characteristics present varying alternatives, perspectives, and options on strategies members can use to address their challenges. Membership Type: The group will have open membership, which is appropriate for treatment facilities due to rapid turnover rates and helps maintain the group size if members leave. Session Format: Sessions will be three hours long and conducted three times a week, though members can communicate their preferred attendance routine. II. Contracting and Rule Establishment Confidentiality and Informed Consent Confidentiality will be addressed during the first group meeting to familiarize members with its importance. Confidentiality: Members will be informed of the importance of keeping personal information confidential outside therapy sessions and the consequences of breaching confidentiality. Members will also be notified of circumstances where the leader may be legally and ethically required to breach confidentiality. Informed Consent: Ensures members make informed choices. Consent is obtained by communicating the group process, its structure, and its objectives. Participation will be voluntary, and members will sign a consent form after being clearly informed of their ethical and legal rights regarding confidentiality. Establishing Rules Group rules will be established at the first group meeting. Rules will be set collaboratively by suggesting or brainstorming with the members to allow them to contribute suggestions they believe will be effective. The leader will review the suggested rules for effectiveness and purpose.