[Episode 147] Today's Social Work Podcast is about the brain. I spoke with Loyola University Chicago School of Social Work associate professor James Marley, Ph.D. in 2016 about the structure of the brain, neurotransmitters, and how social workers can use this information to work with clients, particularly around issues of medications.
In today’s interview, we talk about how trauma literally writes itself into the brain; why understanding neuroplasticity gives hope to clients who feel stuck; the importance of being a critical consumer of neuroscience headlines—because clients read them too; and how social workers—often the first to hear about new symptoms or med side effects—can respond with confidence and compassion. We also get into brain basics: structures like the prefrontal cortex and limbic system, neurotransmitters like serotonin and dopamine, and how meds like SSRIs trick the brain into adjusting. We talk about how social workers can talk about the medical side of medication without talking beyond our training, including the neurobiology of side effects, withdrawal, and why you shouldn’t go cold turkey off your meds. If you’ve ever felt underprepared to talk about the brain—or wondered why it matters for your practice—this episode is for you.
Now, I know what you're thinking. 2016? But you're posting this almost a decade later. Yes. That is true. The interview was fantastic and has been listened to by thousands of BSW and MSW students at Loyola University Chicago's School of Social Work. But, the information is so good that I wanted to get it to everyone (and Jim approved).
Download MP3 [45:07]