Casestudy1 x
Case study 1
Kelly is a 30-year-old woman who has recently separated with 3 children who has come to your service for help and attends with her mother Amanda, aged 54.
Kelly has 3 children. Samuel aged 13, Caitlin aged 9, Sampson aged 7. The children’s father Noah has filed for visitation rights for the children and is currently filing for sole custody. Kelly reports that Noah was emotionally and physically violent with her when they were together which is the reason why she left the relationship. Kelly states that Noah currently has supervised access at the local child protection office. Caitlin, Kelly’s daughter is having difficulties with reading and writing at school as reported by her teacher. Kelly reports that she has noticed that Caitlin seems odd and withdrawn. Caitlin’s teacher has mentioned to Kelly that she thought Caitlin might have autism but as yet no formal diagnosis has been made. No referrals to any other professional organisational service apart from yourself has been made either.
Kelly’s new partner William aged 34 is a refugee from Iraq. Kelly is very upset as they recently received a letter from the Australian Government advising that William is being deported. Kelly asks whether you can work with the embassy to see what needs to be done to keep William in the country. William currently works as a brick layer and all of his workmates are illegal immigrants. William also has issues with alcohol at times which Kelly says he uses to relieve stress. William is reported to be a good father to all of Kelly’s children and Kelly states that they are happy in their relationship. Kelly tells you that William is shy of social workers because of trauma that he experienced during his escape from his country and he does not trust anyone in power. He also is more comfortable speaking his own language.
Kelly has a mum, Amanda (50) who is married to her step father Liam (54). Kelly has an older brother Colby (35) and a younger sister Brittany (28).
Kelly says that the family identifies as Aboriginal and as part of the Aboriginal health service the children do swimming lessons, have regular health checks and see the dentist. Kelly is aware they have a Psychologist at the service but does not feel it would be confidential enough and prefers to talk to you.
The family have had no contact with child support in the past. Kelly tells you she has tried very hard to be a good mum and even took some courses offered by the Aboriginal service such as circle of security and positive parenting. She feels these have been very helpful to her. Kelly reports that her two boys are doing well at school and play touch football however with her family allowances struggles to pay the registration as she is only employed casually at Kmart.
Kelly wants you to write a report for the court outlining her ability to be sole custodian of her children and also wants you to speak to the school about more support for her children as well as help her keep William in the country.
1.
To demonstrate an understanding of Attachment theory and child centered approach in the case and how it can be solved As a social work counsellor ?