The therapy called Centered Therapy, or Task-Centered Therapy, was created in the 1970s by Laura Epstein and William J. Reed (NASW, 2004; University of Chicago, 1996; Oxford Bibliographies, 2013). Epstein, a well-known figure in short-term psychotherapy, emphasized involving clients in decision-making during therapy sessions. This approach led to positive outcomes that allowed clients to conclude therapy (NASW, 2004). Throughout the 20th century, this method was tested and used in clinical social work practice (University of Chicago, 1996). William J. Reed, an influential scholar in social work and founder editor of NASW press journal Social Work Research also contributed to the development of this therapeutic approach (Oxford Bibliographies, 2013).
Reid’s Task-Centered Therapy method in clinical settings is well-known for its practicality and modernity, as it allows clients to relate to the issues at hand. Professor Hitchcock, president of University of Albany (1996), states that Reid’s research and methodology have been at the forefront of the field of social welfare, involving a symbiotic relationship between theoretical understanding and practical application for his students. Group four chose to further explore this topic because of its effectiveness in clinical settings. The task-centered model starts at the micro level within individuals and extends to group settings, ultimately working in favor of clients by reducing their need for therapy in the long run. While Task-Centered Therapy is similar to Psychodynamic practice, it differs in that it empowers clients to regain confidence and achieve their goals. In contrast, Psychodynamic practice aims to solve immediate problems but often results in clients returning to resolve the same issues.
Task-Centered Therapy is a foundational model that emphasizes clients’ strengths and collaborative problem-solving to achieve successful outcomes. It allows clients to actively participate in planning, implementing, and evaluating tasks based on their own abilities. This approach fosters client motivation and enhances decision-making skills. The number of sessions can range from six to twelve, lasting approximately eight months or longer if needed. Task-Centered Therapy focuses on long-term goals and is effective for both individual clients and group therapy. According to Reid (1997), the therapy aims to assist clients in identifying and resolving problems, as well as implementing necessary tasks in their daily lives. The practice incorporates elements from Behavior Therapy, Problem-solving Therapy, and Learning Therapy.
Reid and Epstein wanted to modify the approach they were using because they found that it was not solving challenges in a timely manner for most clients. The initial sessions had the best results, but as the sessions progressed, the number and impact of accomplishments decreased. One major difference with this model is that termination is discussed at the beginning of the sessions. The task-centered model is based on the principle of eclecticism, where a variety of theories are used to define and assess clients’ problems, guide efforts to resolve these problems, and be testable. In other words, the client learns by doing and is allowed to define the problems and come up with potential solutions. This approach typically takes 6 to 12 weeks with about 8 sessions.
The number of goals in TCP is usually small, typically no more than 3. The model consists of an initial phase, a middle phase, and a termination phase. While Behavior Therapy focuses on the client’s problems and behaviors through specific tasks, TCP emphasizes having clients perform tasks outside of sessions and collaborate on creating solutions. Problem-Solving Approach Therapy aims to change behaviors through specific tasks, while TCP focuses more on individual clients’ needs through research and models. Learning Theory Approach involves completing tasks assigned by a Social Worker, similar to TCP’s emphasis on learning new behaviors through task completion (Reid, 1997). The assessments in task-centered theory usually involve speaking to the client and using surveys. TCP is highly effective when combined with other types of practice.
The eco map is a widely used counseling tool for both individuals and groups, helping them identify challenges, strengths, and potential solutions. The process begins by listening to the client’s perspective on their challenges and determining the most important ones to address for improving their quality of life. This approach involves input from both the practitioner and the client to establish goals and develop actions needed to achieve those goals. Initially, these actions are conceptualized and then broken down into realistic steps that can be accomplished. Progress towards these achievements is reviewed together in subsequent sessions, making necessary adjustments along the way.
After diagnosing the issues and achieving progress towards established goals, therapy can focus on addressing new challenges. When working with clients, it is crucial for social workers to explain their role, clarify the purpose of therapy, and involve clients in determining tasks. This involvement helps clients understand what will occur during therapy sessions while also building trust in the abilities of the social worker (Mohan, 2010).
After the initial meeting, the Social Worker can identify the problem and its context, select the target problem(s), prioritize the important targets, explore the target problems, set goals, and have a contract with the client. Involving clients during goal setting helps them want to fulfill the goals and increases their confidence level for reaching successful goals. The Task-Centered model was developed from the behavioral model, the problem-solving approach, and learning theory. Reid and Epstein wanted to modify this approach because they discovered that most clients didn’t find it to be solving challenges in a timely manner. The first few sessions achieved the best results in a relatively short amount of time, but as the sessions progressed, the accomplishments seemed to occur less frequently and weren’t as impactful. One major difference with this model is that termination is addressed at the beginning state of the sessions with the client.
According to Oxford Bibliographies, the task-centered model is based on eclecticism principles. This means it can draw on various theories to define and assess clients’ problems, guide problem-solving efforts, and be testable (2013). Essentially, it focuses on learning through action and allows clients to define their problems and create potential solutions. Typically lasting 6 to 12 weeks with around 8 sessions, this model aims to achieve a small number of goals, usually no more than 3. It consists of three phases: initial, middle, and termination phases. The Task-Centered Theory primarily relies on client communication for assessments, often starting with a survey. It is highly effective when combined with other counseling approaches and commonly used for both individual and group counseling. Additionally, clients frequently use an eco map to visualize challenges, strengths, and solutions.
The process starts by listening to the client’s perspective on the future challenges. Identifying which challenges are most important in order to develop solutions that enhance their quality of life. The client takes the lead in this session, while the practitioner and client collaborate to determine the solutions. Goals are established and actions are developed to achieve these goals. The actions start with a broad concept and are then broken down into feasible and realistic accomplishments. These accomplishments are reviewed in subsequent sessions, and either success or adaptation is observed. Once a diagnosis has been made and progress towards the goal has been achieved, the next set of challenges is addressed in a similar way. The practitioner and client mutually agree that sufficient progress has been made. Thus, the termination process is successful and the client possesses enough life skills to make better choices. Alongside Task Centered Therapy, there are also other related approaches that can benefit the three phases within Task Centered Therapy.
The first model is the Behavioral model, which serves as a broad model for many sub models. In terms of basics, the behavioral model encompasses an individual’s learning and actions, as well as their behavior and actions in specific situations. The Problem Solving Approach involves individuals encountering a problem and learning how to arrive at a rational conclusion. This approach is both descriptive and prescriptive, allowing for examination of past, present, and potential future problems and their solutions in a consistent and generalizable systematic manner. For each step towards a solution, various types of research must be conducted to successfully complete the process and ultimately find a viable solution (Lipuma, 2010). Throughout the Problem Solving Process, individuals confront the difficulty they are experiencing and seek possible outcomes to improve their situation. Finally, the Learning Theory encompasses the process in which individuals acquire information and apply it.
Task-Centered Therapy is effective because of key factors. It includes three client phases. The first phase centers on problem assessment and goal-setting. The second phase aids the client with essential services such as CPS and DCFS, to support their desired results. Lastly, the termination phase involves follow-up by the social worker to evaluate progress made throughout the process. Goal-setting is vital for client success. In the initial phase, social workers work together with clients to establish achievable goals within a twelve-week timeframe.
The Task-Centered Approach has both strengths and limitations. One of its strengths is its emphasis on client goal setting and problem-solving within a short time frame. However, it is limited in duration, typically lasting only twelve weeks, which may not be suitable for individuals with complex situations or those requiring more attention. It is worth noting that Task-Centered Therapy has been proven effective in enabling clients to establish specific, measurable, and achievable goals within 8-12 sessions. While this approach benefits various clients, it may not be suitable for all.
Task-centered therapy is effective for a range of clients, including those who are about to be discharged from hospitals, school students with behavioral issues, and individuals in community mental health settings (Kelly, 2008). This approach can be used at different levels – micro, mezzo, and macro. At the micro level, individual clients work together on specific and measurable tasks to achieve their agreed-upon goals. Mezzo level implementation involves working with families or groups to establish overarching objectives. Furthermore, task-centered therapy can also be applied at a macro level to accomplish large-scale goals within societies or communities. It is essential that these goals are specific, measurable, achievable, and have the necessary resources available.
Tasked centered therapy emerged as a social work practice model approximately four decades ago (Kelly, 2008). Since then, numerous studies have been conducted to evaluate its effectiveness in various settings such as schools, child welfare services, and hospitals. Research demonstrates that tasked centered therapy is highly successful and offers valuable psychotherapeutic techniques and casework interventions (Kelly, 2008). However, some studies indicate that this approach may potentially lead social workers to become overly focused on finding solutions for their clients. Nevertheless, when implemented correctly, tasked centered therapy has consistently proven to be a reliable and beneficial practice within the field of social work.
The task-centered approach has been implemented and tested in various settings and with different client groups. When working with culturally diverse clients, workers should first assess the alignment between the cultural values of the client and the assumptions underlying Task-Centered. TC workers should familiarize themselves with the client’s cultural background but also recognize the uniqueness of each client to avoid stereotyping. In other words, task-centered workers should anticipate that cultural traits will differ among members of the same cultural group due to factors like acculturation, generation, gender, and socioeconomic status. For culturally diverse populations, TC is generally in line with commonly held values across cultures. The following TC characteristics are particularly applicable when working with culturally diverse clients: (1) utilization of various intervention strategies; (2) emphasis on accomplishing tasks; (3) provision of short-term services; (4) availability of individual, group, and family models; (5) respect for problems defined by the client; (6) engagement with collaterals; (7) consideration of environmental contexts; and (8) focus on changing oppressive environments (Lum 1996).
Social workers are increasingly working with clients from different cultural backgrounds. To effectively serve these clients, task-centered practitioners should consider various social and cultural factors. While all cultural groups have similar basic needs, their interpretations, perceptions, and responses to these needs can differ significantly across cultures. A client’s worldview, values, beliefs, and help-seeking practices can greatly impact the treatment process and outcome. Therefore, social work practice models that embrace commonly held values across cultures and adapt to cultural variation are particularly beneficial. The task-centered approach is a viable option for social work practice with culturally diverse clients (Reid 1996).
TC workers, acting as cultural brokers, can provide valuable assistance to clients who are not fully assimilated by addressing culturally related issues that may directly hinder treatment. These workers can utilize culturally relevant collaterals as contributors or resources in finding solutions to these problems. The task-centered model is based on diversity principles and utilizes various theories that help define and assess clients’ living issues, guide efforts to resolve them, and be subject to testing. Practitioners can employ a range of intervention strategies, considering ones that align with each client’s cultural context. TC not only offers a variety of intervention strategies but also encourages workers to explore other approaches supported by different practices. Child protective services referred Chaundra, recognizing her willingness to improve her lifestyle.
Chaundra acknowledged her downfall and expressed a desire to evolve as a responsible mother and a respected member of society. During her progress, she confronted her fears, remained steadfast in her efforts to enhance her daily functioning, embraced change, and readily responded to assigned tasks. In overcoming her victim mentality, Chaundra acquired the ability to move forward with a positive mindset and behavior. The adoption of Task-Centered Therapy Practice in this model enabled Chaundra to view life from a different perspective and recognize the opportunities available for her and her family upon leaving the world of prostitution. This approach not only helped her develop self-worth and confidence but also provided resources for job training and placements that allowed her to explore various options. Ultimately, Task-Centered Therapy Practice laid a solid foundation for Chaundra to embark on a new life with tools that would contribute to a brighter future for her and her family.
Reference
Fortune, Anne, and William J. Reid. 2011. Task-centered social work. In Social work treatment. 5th ed. Edited by Francis J. Turner, 513–532. New York: Oxford Univ. Press. Kelly, M. (2008). Task-Centered Practice. In Encyclopedia of Social Work. : Oxford University Press. Retrieved 19 Sep. 2013, from http://www.oxfordreference.com/view/10.1093/acref/9780195306613.001.0001/acref-9780195306613-e-388 Lipuma, J. M. (2010). ENG 352-Technical Communications. NJIT Open Courseware Consortium (OCW) Project. Retrieved from http://ocw.njit.edu/csla/eng/eng-352-lipuma/index.php Merrill, M. (2007). A Task-Centered Instructional Strategy. Journal Of Research On Technology In Education, 40(1), 5-22. Mohan, B. (2010). The Encyclopedia of Social Work (20th ed.). Research On Social Work Practice, 20(2), 242-243. doi:10.1177/1049731509347888 National Association of Social Worker. (2004). NASW Foundation National Programs. NASW Social Work. Retrieved from http://www.naswfoundation.org/pioneers/r/reid.html
Reid, W. J. (1997). Research on task-centered practice in Social Work Research, 21(3), 132-137.
Rooney, R. H. (2006). The book “Direct Social Work Practice”, 9th edition, focuses on the Task-Centered Approach and covers pages 643-645.
