Financial Social Work in Service Delivery

Presenters: Claire Fultz, DSW, MSW, MSc, LCSW-C, CCM, Certified Financial Social Worker & Kathleen Sisti, LMSW

Financial social work techniques are frequently underutilized or lacking in service delivery yet are crucial for supporting clients in having a healthier financial future and in achieving wellness. Such techniques include principles from behavioral economics which support clients with developing coping strategies for healthier spending habits and achieve greater financial well-being.

Reeta Wolfsohn, CMSW who founded the Center of Financial Social Work, defines financial social work as “a behavioral model that moves clients beyond basic needs with a psychosocial, multidisciplinary approach focused on the thoughts, feelings and attitudes that determine each person’s relationship to and behavior with money.” In this workshop, participants will explore these principles and learn valuable techniques to incorporate in their work with clients.
As a result of this training, participants will:

1. Differentiate Behavioral and Traditional Economic Theories - Identify the principles of behavioral economics and how they differ from traditional economic theories.

2. Analyze Influences on Financial Behavior – Identify how individuals develop spending and saving habits through family, friends, media, and personal values, and explore therapeutic and coaching techniques that support motivation and behavioral change.

3. Apply Behavioral Economics and Financial Social Work in Practice – Integrate behavioral economics and financial social work techniques into service provision to enhance client financial stability and decision-making.

1.5/Category 1 CEU's