Gifts From Unexpected Places

Abstract

When I was a new social worker, a series of events changed my clinical practice. I believed academic pursuits and scholarly work were the key components to cultivating my clinical skills. My education had elucidated the importance of taking the time to listen to the patient’s narrative to optimize their care. I recognized the value of listening and yet I was mystified and frustrated by my lack of success at building rapport with patients. I began my quest to find a mentor and discovered him in a most surprising place. I learned the best strategies to help people were not always found in books or taught in school. Some of the greatest gifts come from unexpected places.