By ellie
Imagine a moment when you felt truly understood—when someone listened, not just to your words, but to the emotions behind them. That connection is at the heart of emotional intelligence (EI), a skill that shapes the way we navigate our relationships, our careers, and even our own inner world. What is Emotional Intelligence? At its … Continued
By andrewwalsh
According to a study by the Federation of Community Social Services, 70% of direct care workers expressed that stress was the biggest factor that impacted them in the workplace4. This raises and important question, how can we better support our team members who face the emotional and mental toll of working with vulnerable populations? As … Continued
By andrewwalsh
By andrewwalsh
In community social services, maintaining healthy boundaries is crucial for both effective client support and sustainable practice, yet navigating these boundaries can be complex in day-to-day work. This resource collection – featuring a focused 5-minute video, specialized guides for both organizations and frontline workers, along with practical handouts – provides strategies and tools to help … Continued
By andrewwalsh
In community social services, boundaries serve as essential safeguards for both clients and staff, ensuring equitable, and effective relationships. While individual staff members must maintain their own boundaries, employers and managers play a crucial role in creating an environment that supports and reinforces these practices. Why Boundaries Are Important When boundaries become blurred, organizations often … Continued
By andrewwalsh
As community social service workers, we enter this field driven by compassion and a genuine desire to help others. However, our ability to provide effective, sustainable support depends on establishing and maintaining clear boundaries. This guide explores the essential aspects of healthy boundaries and provides practical strategies for implementing them in your daily practice. Understanding … Continued
By andrewwalsh
Social service work is deeply rewarding, but it also comes with inherent risks, as workers often become emotionally and mentally invested due to the nature of the work. Recognizing the psychological demands and expectations that accompany this work is crucial for addressing psychological hazards, safeguarding worker wellness, and preparing them for the emotional challenges they … Continued
By andrewwalsh
For Community Social Services Watch this insightful one-hour webinar focused on two valuable resources designed to enhance mental health outcomes and foster a psychologically safe workplace in the Community Social Services (CSS) sector. In this session, participants will gain an understanding of psychological health and safety, why it’s critical for organizational well-being, and how they … Continued
By andrewwalsh
By andrewwalsh
Front-line workers in community social services dedicate themselves to supporting others, often facing emotionally intense situations. While deeply meaningful, this work can sometimes lead to vicarious trauma, an emotional toll that arises from witnessing the trauma of those you serve. Understanding vicarious trauma, recognizing its signs, and implementing strategies to safeguard your well-being are essential to sustaining … Continued
