Empathy
Empathy is the ability to understand and feel what another person is experiencing from their point of view. In social work, empathy is essential as it helps build trust, connection, and rapport with clients. It allows professionals to offer emotional support while maintaining objectivity.
Empathy involves active listening, non-judgmental behavior, and being emotionally present. It helps clients feel heard, respected, and valued. By practicing empathy, social workers can better assess client needs and respond appropriately, making it a foundational value in ethical and effective practice.