ABSTRACT
This chapter focuses on engagement and considers two facets of the planned change process: assessment and planning. It discusses the history of assessment and the importance of client goals and considers approaches and skills through the lenses of theory and diversity. The chapter also discusses the assessment of resources and explores approaches to pursue when resources are inadequate and two areas of challenges for assessment and planning. Narrative theory is consistent with the mission and values of the social work profession's commitment to "individualizing each client as unique, respecting each client's story, respecting cultural differences, and separating one's own beliefs and values from those of clients through self-understanding, and conscious use of self". Throughout the history of social work, three classic theories have influenced assessments: psychoanalytic theory, attachment theory, and cognitive theory. Similar to a narrative approach, a solution-focused intervention builds on a strengths perspective and uses solution-related language to empower clients toward self-initiated change.
