Category: Environmental Justice, Social Justice, Social Work Category: Environmental Justice, Social Justice, Social Work (show less) Other: Wisconsin Other: Wisconsin (show less)

Since the earliest days of social work practice, social workers have dealt with environmental issues, advocating alongside diverse populations to address disproportionate environmental impacts on systemically marginalized populations, including those living in poverty, populations of color, persons with disabilities, and women. In the face of the accelerating climate crisis, social workers must proactively engage with clients and communities and respond to the growing impacts of environmental injustices. This session will discuss the emerging field of social work called Ecosocial Work Practice and the ways in which social workers can address environmental issues and lead for a more climate secure and justice collective future. Practice examples across the micro, mezzo, and macro will be offered with specific examples for theories, interventions, and frameworks.

• 3 Learning Objectives for the course

1. Explore concepts related to mental health and climate change and social work practice
2. Understand applicability of climate change mental health impacts for social work practice
3. Develop awareness of important environmental and climate justice issues as related to mental health social work practice