Kendra Shaw Crutcher Guest Blogger Kendra Shaw Crutcher, BA, MSW Candidate, earned her Bachelor of Arts in General Studies with a concentration in Psychology from Alabama A&M University. She is currently pursuing her Master of Social Work at Capella University, where she integrates academic training with hands-on practicum experience at Lewis Mentoring. She is happily married and a devoted mother to two biological…
The legal system can be overwhelming and complex, especially for individuals facing issues such as family disputes, guardianship and conservatorship, involuntary petitions, child custody battles, criminal charges, or housing and financial instability. Social workers play a critical role in helping individuals navigate the court system by providing emotional support, resources, and advocacy. Let’s briefly explore how social workers assist individuals…
When a loved one becomes involved in a legal case, whether it’s child custody, elder guardianship, or another sensitive matter, you may hear the term “guardian ad litem” or “GAL”. If a GAL has been appointed by the court, it is essential to understand their role and how to work with them effectively. What is a Guardian ad Litem? A guardian…
What is Probate Court, the Pros & Cons, and how to Avoid It When someone passes away, their estate—property, assets, and debts—must be sorted out. Enter probate court, the legal process that oversees this transition. This is what most people think about when they hear “probate court,” but did you know, there’s more to it than that? When an individual…
When a loved one becomes unable to make financial, medical, or personal care decisions, the court may step in to assign a conservator or guardian to protect their well-being. While these legal designations serve an important role in helping vulnerable individuals, they can also be complex and emotionally charged. Families often struggle to understand how the system works, what their…
Planning for the future isn’t always easy, especially when it comes to making decisions about finances, assets, healthcare, end-of-life care, and ongoing support for loved ones with special needs. However, taking the time to create an Advance Directive can provide clarity, control, and peace of mind – ensuring that your wishes, and those of your loved ones, are honored in…
Caregiver Stress Syndrome, Coping Skills, and Outsourcing to Local Resources Caring for someone with disabilities or a chronic or terminal illness is different than caring for someone expected to recover. The information presented here isn’t about how to provide care to your loved one; you’re already doing that. This information is about you—the caregiver—and how to cope when the stress…
Healthcare providers continue to embrace more holistic views of wellness as we acknowledge how a person’s health is shaped not only by clinical treatment but also by social, emotional, and environmental factors. Enter social prescribing, a groundbreaking approach that connects individuals to non-medical services to improve their overall health and wellbeing. While this model originated in the UK, it’s gaining…
Navigating healthcare, social services, and support systems can be overwhelming, especially when managing complex needs for yourself or a loved one. This is where case managers become an important partner in your care journey. A case manager is responsible for coordinating care, connecting clients to resources, and ensuring they receive the necessary services to improve their well-being. However, not all…
Dementia affects millions of individuals and their families each year. Watching a loved one experience cognitive decline can be overwhelming, emotional, and confusing. Knowing what steps to take when you first notice signs, how to work with agencies after a diagnosis, and why social workers are invaluable partners in the care journey can help you and your family navigate this…