Assignment Prompt & Instructions
[>Sociology homework help](https://www.sweetstudy.com/fields/social-science-sociology)
Please see attached file
**files (2)**
– ## Itisonethingtoreadaboutanevidence.docx
– ## week1assignment.docx
**## Itisonethingtoreadaboutanevidence.docx**
It is one thing to read about an evidence-based practice and understand its potential value; it is another to actually implement that practice. This jump from understanding to application requires critical and systematic thinking on the part of the social worker. When treating clients, social workers must ensure that the evidence-based practice is appropriate for the client and the problem—and that the client supports its use. To earn that support, the social worker should present the client and stakeholders with a plan for implementation and evidence of the EBP’s efficacy and suitability.
Many may attempt to apply an evidence-based practice that seems to be strongly supported by research, only to become frustrated or confused when their efforts do not yield the same positive results as the research. This discrepancy can occur because they have failed to recognize the differences between conditions in their practice environment and the conditions of the study—or differences in the demographic and cultural characteristics of the client groups. Moreover, they may have failed to consider and adequately plan for issues that could arise during implementation.
In this Assignment, you return to your chosen client from the Week 1 Assignment and carefully consider the factors and steps involved in applying an EBP with that client in your practice.
To Prepare
· Select one evidence-based practice that you researched for your client for the Week 1 Assignment and return to the peer-reviewed research article demonstrating the effectiveness of this practice.
· Note any similarities or differences between the conditions in which the evidence-based practice was implemented in the study and the conditions in which you would implement it at your field agency or practice setting.
· Consider the steps you would take to implement the EBP and factors that would support or limit these steps.
By Day 7
**Submit** a 2- to 3-page paper that analyzes the implementation of the evidence-based practice in your field agency or practice setting:
· Provide a brief description of your agency or practice setting (two sentences).
· Explain any differences between the conditions of the study and the conditions at your field agency or practice setting. Explain the potential impact these differences could have on successful implementation.
· Describe the steps that would be required to implement the evidence-based practice in your field agency or practice setting, including:
· Any factors that would support each step and how you would leverage them
· Any factors that would limit or hinder each step and how you would mitigate them
· Draw conclusions about:
· The anticipated results of the implementation in your practice setting
· Whether your results will be similar or different from the research results in the article
Use the Learning Resources and peer-reviewed scholarly journal articles to support your paper. Make sure to include appropriate APA citations and a reference list.
NOTE: week 1 Assignment attached separately.
**## week1assignment.docx**
1
Evidence-based Intervention Plan for Jake Levy Case Study
WEEK 1 assignment
SOCW-6311
02/27/2026
**Evidence-based Intervention Plan for Jake Levy Case Study**
Jake is a 31-year-old Iraq veteran who presents to the VA with behavioral and psychological concerns affecting is daily functioning and family system since return to civilian life 10 months ago. Jake was recently diagnosed with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and reports experiencing sleeping difficulties, heart palpitations, and moodiness along with heavy drinking nearly every day. He also reported that he was not engaged with his sons at all and kept to himself when he was at home. He reports fighting a lot with his wife and drinks to take edge off and help him sleep. Based on the assessment, there are two primary issues requiring intervention, including severity of PTSD symptoms and alcohol misuse, utilized as a maladaptive coping mechanism.
Jake’s severe PTSD symptoms are concerning, including sleeping difficulties, palpitations, moodiness, irritability, emotional withdrawal and avoidance behaviors. PTSD severe anxiety disorder associated with experiences of an event that leads to psychological trauma. This disorder has had significant impacts on Jakes’ emotional regulation, occupational functioning and interpersonal relationships with his family and others (Schnurr et al., 2022). The symptoms have hindered his ability to engage with the wife and children emotionally, leading to marital struggles and isolation. The impact of these symptoms on the individual includes impaired social functioning, psychological distress and reduced quality of life.
Alcohol misuse is also another critical issue in this case. Jake drinks heavily as a coping mechanism to manage PTSD symptoms, such as, difficulty sleeping and emotional regulation struggles. He reports drinking heavily during week days (four to five drinks in the evenings) and weekends (eight to ten drinks). The heavy drinking pattern risks exacerbating Jake’s PTSD symptoms, including family dysfunction and emotional withdrawal. It also puts him at risk of alcohol use disorder. Santa Ana et al. (2021) asserts that the co-occurrence of substance use with PTSD leads to exacerbations if not managed concurrently. Hence, Jake’s alcohol use issue should be addressed along the PTSD symptoms to avoid exacerbations. It requires evidence-based interventions that address symptoms linked to past traumas while promoting healthy behaviors and coping mechanisms.
**Evidence-Based Intervention for PTSD Symptoms**
Cognitive processing therapy (CPT) is an evidence-based intervention suggested to address PTSD. It is a trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy that helps individuals to identify and maladaptive beliefs linked to past traumas. It also helps to enhance an individual’s emotional regulation and reduce avoidance behaviors.
**Annotation of Research Article that supports the use of CPT**
CPT is an evidence-based approach that leads to measurable improvements in PTSD symptoms as evidenced by a randomized control trial Schnurr et al. (2021). The study conducted an investigation to compare the impacts of CPT and prolonged exposure therapy among U.S. veterans diagnosed with PTSD. The study included 900 veterans diagnosed with PTSD receiving treatment via Veterans Affairs health care centers. The researchers randomly placed participants into CPT or prolonged exposure therapy. They used standardized clinical measures to assess PTSD symptoms throughout the treatment period and follow-up periods.
The study results revealed significant reductions in PTSD symptoms among participants receiving CPT, including enhanced emotional functioning and improved quality of life. CPT significantly reduced trauma-associated symptoms, such as, avoidance behaviors, trauma-related thoughts and emotional distress (Schnurr et al., 2020). The study design as a randomized control trial, large sample size and use of standardized clinical measures support the use of CPT as an evidence-based intervention for addressing PTSD symptoms.
**Evidence-based Intervention for Alcohol Misuse**
Motivational Interviewing (MI) is suggested as an evidence-based intervention by Santa Ana et al. (2021) for tackling behavioral change and increase motivation to reduce the use of substances, such as alcohol. Individuals who are hesitant to treatment, such as attending alcoholic anonymous like Jakes can benefit from MI. Randomized control trials like that of Santa Ana et al. (2021) has shown its effectiveness in improving engagement with individuals battling with substance use disorders, including alcohol misuse.
**Annotation of Research Article that supports the use of MI**
Santa Ana et al. (2021) investigated the effectiveness of using group MI among veterans with substance use disorders. The veterans who attended VA health care centers were randomly assigned to either MI or standard treatment. Throughout the intervention period and follow-ups, the researchers evaluated frequency of substance use, severity of substance use and motivation for change. The study results showed increased motivation to reduce alcohol use and change behavior among veterans receiving MI (Santa Ana et al., 2021). The participants also demonstrated willingness to adopt positive coping mechanisms and increased treatment engagement. In this study, MI is supported as an evidence-based intervention for alcohol misuse through the randomized control design, measurable treatment outcomes and veteran-specific sample.
**Interventions Evaluation and Suitability to the Case Study**
Based on Jake’s psychosocial challenges and clinical needs, CPT and MI are highly appropriate interventions. Jakes presents emotional distress, avoidance behaviors and maladaptive thoughts related to trauma during combat in Iraq. These symptoms are consistent with PTSD and the use of CPT can help him understand and process his past traumatic experiences and learn healthy coping strategies to counter those (Chemark et al., 2019). The end result is strengthened interpersonal relationships, ability to get along with his family and improved emotional functioning. MI is also suitable to this case as it demonstrates the motivating towards changing heavy alcohol drinking. Its non-confrontational approach and client-centeredness enhances client autonomy, self-effectiveness and willingness for change. Reduced alcohol use can strengthen the family’s relationships and address frequent fights with the wife. These interventions complement each other and address maladaptive coping mechanisms and address past trauma.
Overall, the client’s severe PTSD symptoms and heavy alcohol use impair the client’s well-being, daily functioning and family relationships. Cognitive processing therapy can help alleviate the severe PTSD symptoms while MI can motivate the client to avoid heavy drinking and increasingly engage with the treatment. The client will benefit from these interventions by improving his emotional regulation, interpersonal relationships, daily functioning and strengthened family relationships.
References
Chermack, S. T., Bonar, E. E., Goldstick, J. E., Winters, J., Blow, F. C., Friday, S., Ilgen, M. A., Rauch, S. A. M., Perron, B. E., Ngo, Q. M., & Walton, M. A. (2019). A randomized controlled trial for aggression and substance use involvement among Veterans: Impact of combining Motivational Interviewing, Cognitive Behavioral Treatment and telephone-based Continuing Care.
_Journal of Substance Abuse Treatment_,
_98_, 78–88. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jsat.2019.01.001
Santa Ana, E. J., LaRowe, S. D., Gebregziabher, M., Morgan-Lopez, A. A., Lamb, K., Beavis, K. A., Bishu, K., & Martino, S. (2021). Randomized controlled trial of group motivational interviewing for veterans with substance use disorders.
_Drug and Alcohol Dependence, 223_, 108716. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.drugalcdep.2021.108716
Schnurr, P. P., Chard, K. M., Ruzek, J. I., Chow, B. K., Resick, P. A., Foa, E. B., Marx, B. P., Friedman, M. J., Bovin, M. J., Caudle, K. L., Castillo, D., Curry, K. T., Hollifield, M., Huang, G. D., Chee, C. L., Astin, M. C., Dickstein, B., Renner, K., Clancy, C. P., Collie, C., … Shih, M. C. (2022). Comparison of Prolonged Exposure vs Cognitive Processing Therapy for Treatment of Posttraumatic Stress Disorder Among US Veterans: A Randomized Clinical Trial.
_JAMA Network Open_,
_5_(1), e2136921. https://doi.org/10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2021.36921
**## week1assignment.docx**
1
Evidence-based Intervention Plan for Jake Levy Case Study
WEEK 1 assignment
SOCW-6311
02/27/2026
**Evidence-based Intervention Plan for Jake Levy Case Study**
Jake is a 31-year-old Iraq veteran who presents to the VA with behavioral and psychological concerns affecting is daily functioning and family system since return to civilian life 10 months ago. Jake was recently diagnosed with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and reports experiencing sleeping difficulties, heart palpitations, and moodiness along with heavy drinking nearly every day. He also reported that he was not engaged with his sons at all and kept to himself when he was at home. He reports fighting a lot with his wife and drinks to take edge off and help him sleep. Based on the assessment, there are two primary issues requiring intervention, including severity of PTSD symptoms and alcohol misuse, utilized as a maladaptive coping mechanism.
Jake’s severe PTSD symptoms are concerning, including sleeping difficulties, palpitations, moodiness, irritability, emotional withdrawal and avoidance behaviors. PTSD severe anxiety disorder associated with experiences of an event that leads to psychological trauma. This disorder has had significant impacts on Jakes’ emotional regulation, occupational functioning and interpersonal relationships with his family and others (Schnurr et al., 2022). The symptoms have hindered his ability to engage with the wife and children emotionally, leading to marital struggles and isolation. The impact of these symptoms on the individual includes impaired social functioning, psychological distress and reduced quality of life.
Alcohol misuse is also another critical issue in this case. Jake drinks heavily as a coping mechanism to manage PTSD symptoms, such as, difficulty sleeping and emotional regulation struggles. He reports drinking heavily during week days (four to five drinks in the evenings) and weekends (eight to ten drinks). The heavy drinking pattern risks exacerbating Jake’s PTSD symptoms, including family dysfunction and emotional withdrawal. It also puts him at risk of alcohol use disorder. Santa Ana et al. (2021) asserts that the co-occurrence of substance use with PTSD leads to exacerbations if not managed concurrently. Hence, Jake’s alcohol use issue should be addressed along the PTSD symptoms to avoid exacerbations. It requires evidence-based interventions that address symptoms linked to past traumas while promoting healthy behaviors and coping mechanisms.
**Evidence-Based Intervention for PTSD Symptoms**
Cognitive processing therapy (CPT) is an evidence-based intervention suggested to address PTSD. It is a trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy that helps individuals to identify and maladaptive beliefs linked to past traumas. It also helps to enhance an individual’s emotional regulation and reduce avoidance behaviors.
**Annotation of Research Article that supports the use of CPT**
CPT is an evidence-based approach that leads to measurable improvements in PTSD symptoms as evidenced by a randomized control trial Schnurr et al. (2021). The study conducted an investigation to compare the impacts of CPT and prolonged exposure therapy among U.S. veterans diagnosed with PTSD. The study included 900 veterans diagnosed with PTSD receiving treatment via Veterans Affairs health care centers. The researchers randomly placed participants into CPT or prolonged exposure therapy. They used standardized clinical measures to assess PTSD symptoms throughout the treatment period and follow-up periods.
The study results revealed significant reductions in PTSD symptoms among participants receiving CPT, including enhanced emotional functioning and improved quality of life. CPT significantly reduced trauma-associated symptoms, such as, avoidance behaviors, trauma-related thoughts and emotional distress (Schnurr et al., 2020). The study design as a randomized control trial, large sample size and use of standardized clinical measures support the use of CPT as an evidence-based intervention for addressing PTSD symptoms.
**Evidence-based Intervention for Alcohol Misuse**
Motivational Interviewing (MI) is suggested as an evidence-based intervention by Santa Ana et al. (2021) for tackling behavioral change and increase motivation to reduce the use of substances, such as alcohol. Individuals who are hesitant to treatment, such as attending alcoholic anonymous like Jakes can benefit from MI. Randomized control trials like that of Santa Ana et al. (2021) has shown its effectiveness in improving engagement with individuals battling with substance use disorders, including alcohol misuse.
**Annotation of Research Article that supports the use of MI**
Santa Ana et al. (2021) investigated the effectiveness of using group MI among veterans with substance use disorders. The veterans who attended VA health care centers were randomly assigned to either MI or standard treatment. Throughout the intervention period and follow-ups, the researchers evaluated frequency of substance use, severity of substance use and motivation for change. The study results showed increased motivation to reduce alcohol use and change behavior among veterans receiving MI (Santa Ana et al., 2021). The participants also demonstrated willingness to adopt positive coping mechanisms and increased treatment engagement. In this study, MI is supported as an evidence-based intervention for alcohol misuse through the randomized control design, measurable treatment outcomes and veteran-specific sample.
**Interventions Evaluation and Suitability to the Case Study**
Based on Jake’s psychosocial challenges and clinical needs, CPT and MI are highly appropriate interventions. Jakes presents emotional distress, avoidance behaviors and maladaptive thoughts related to trauma during combat in Iraq. These symptoms are consistent with PTSD and the use of CPT can help him understand and process his past traumatic experiences and learn healthy coping strategies to counter those (Chemark et al., 2019). The end result is strengthened interpersonal relationships, ability to get along with his family and improved emotional functioning. MI is also suitable to this case as it demonstrates the motivating towards changing heavy alcohol drinking. Its non-confrontational approach and client-centeredness enhances client autonomy, self-effectiveness and willingness for change. Reduced alcohol use can strengthen the family’s relationships and address frequent fights with the wife. These interventions complement each other and address maladaptive coping mechanisms and address past trauma.
Overall, the client’s severe PTSD symptoms and heavy alcohol use impair the client’s well-being, daily functioning and family relationships. Cognitive processing therapy can help alleviate the severe PTSD symptoms while MI can motivate the client to avoid heavy drinking and increasingly engage with the treatment. The client will benefit from these interventions by improving his emotional regulation, interpersonal relationships, daily functioning and strengthened family relationships.
References
Chermack, S. T., Bonar, E. E., Goldstick, J. E., Winters, J., Blow, F. C., Friday, S., Ilgen, M. A., Rauch, S. A. M., Perron, B. E., Ngo, Q. M., & Walton, M. A. (2019). A randomized controlled trial for aggression and substance use involvement among Veterans: Impact of combining Motivational Interviewing, Cognitive Behavioral Treatment and telephone-based Continuing Care.
_Journal of Substance Abuse Treatment_,
_98_, 78–88. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jsat.2019.01.001
Santa Ana, E. J., LaRowe, S. D., Gebregziabher, M., Morgan-Lopez, A. A., Lamb, K., Beavis, K. A., Bishu, K., & Martino, S. (2021). Randomized controlled trial of group motivational interviewing for veterans with substance use disorders.
_Drug and Alcohol Dependence, 223_, 108716. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.drugalcdep.2021.108716
Schnurr, P. P., Chard, K. M., Ruzek, J. I., Chow, B. K., Resick, P. A., Foa, E. B., Marx, B. P., Friedman, M. J., Bovin, M. J., Caudle, K. L., Castillo, D., Curry, K. T., Hollifield, M., Huang, G. D., Chee, C. L., Astin, M. C., Dickstein, B., Renner, K., Clancy, C. P., Collie, C., … Shih, M. C. (2022). Comparison of Prolonged Exposure vs Cognitive Processing Therapy for Treatment of Posttraumatic Stress Disorder Among US Veterans: A Randomized Clinical Trial.
_JAMA Network Open_,
_5_(1), e2136921. https://doi.org/10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2021.36921
**## Itisonethingtoreadaboutanevidence.docx**
It is one thing to read about an evidence-based practice and understand its potential value; it is another to actually implement that practice. This jump from understanding to application requires critical and systematic thinking on the part of the social worker. When treating clients, social workers must ensure that the evidence-based practice is appropriate for the client and the problem—and that the client supports its use. To earn that support, the social worker should present the client and stakeholders with a plan for implementation and evidence of the EBP’s efficacy and suitability.
Many may attempt to apply an evidence-based practice that seems to be strongly supported by research, only to become frustrated or confused when their efforts do not yield the same positive results as the research. This discrepancy can occur because they have failed to recognize the differences between conditions in their practice environment and the conditions of the study—or differences in the demographic and cultural characteristics of the client groups. Moreover, they may have failed to consider and adequately plan for issues that could arise during implementation.
In this Assignment, you return to your chosen client from the Week 1 Assignment and carefully consider the factors and steps involved in applying an EBP with that client in your practice.
To Prepare
· Select one evidence-based practice that you researched for your client for the Week 1 Assignment and return to the peer-reviewed research article demonstrating the effectiveness of this practice.
· Note any similarities or differences between the conditions in which the evidence-based practice was implemented in the study and the conditions in which you would implement it at your field agency or practice setting.
· Consider the steps you would take to implement the EBP and factors that would support or limit these steps.
By Day 7
**Submit** a 2- to 3-page paper that analyzes the implementation of the evidence-based practice in your field agency or practice setting:
· Provide a brief description of your agency or practice setting (two sentences).
· Explain any differences between the conditions of the study and the conditions at your field agency or practice setting. Explain the potential impact these differences could have on successful implementation.
· Describe the steps that would be required to implement the evidence-based practice in your field agency or practice setting, including:
· Any factors that would support each step and how you would leverage them
· Any factors that would limit or hinder each step and how you would mitigate them
· Draw conclusions about:
· The anticipated results of the implementation in your practice setting
· Whether your results will be similar or different from the research results in the article
Use the Learning Resources and peer-reviewed scholarly journal articles to support your paper. Make sure to include appropriate APA citations and a reference list.
NOTE: week 1 Assignment attached separately.
**## week1assignment.docx**
1
Evidence-based Intervention Plan for Jake Levy Case Study
WEEK 1 assignment
SOCW-6311
02/27/2026
**Evidence-based Intervention Plan for Jake Levy Case Study**
Jake is a 31-year-old Iraq veteran who presents to the VA with behavioral and psychological concerns affecting is daily functioning and family system since return to civilian life 10 months ago. Jake was recently diagnosed with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and reports experiencing sleeping difficulties, heart palpitations, and moodiness along with heavy drinking nearly every day. He also reported that he was not engaged with his sons at all and kept to himself when he was at home. He reports fighting a lot with his wife and drinks to take edge off and help him sleep. Based on the assessment, there are two primary issues requiring intervention, including severity of PTSD symptoms and alcohol misuse, utilized as a maladaptive coping mechanism.
Jake’s severe PTSD symptoms are concerning, including sleeping difficulties, palpitations, moodiness, irritability, emotional withdrawal and avoidance behaviors. PTSD severe anxiety disorder associated with experiences of an event that leads to psychological trauma. This disorder has had significant impacts on Jakes’ emotional regulation, occupational functioning and interpersonal relationships with his family and others (Schnurr et al., 2022). The symptoms have hindered his ability to engage with the wife and children emotionally, leading to marital struggles and isolation. The impact of these symptoms on the individual includes impaired social functioning, psychological distress and reduced quality of life.
Alcohol misuse is also another critical issue in this case. Jake drinks heavily as a coping mechanism to manage PTSD symptoms, such as, difficulty sleeping and emotional regulation struggles. He reports drinking heavily during week days (four to five drinks in the evenings) and weekends (eight to ten drinks). The heavy drinking pattern risks exacerbating Jake’s PTSD symptoms, including family dysfunction and emotional withdrawal. It also puts him at risk of alcohol use disorder. Santa Ana et al. (2021) asserts that the co-occurrence of substance use with PTSD leads to exacerbations if not managed concurrently. Hence, Jake’s alcohol use issue should be addressed along the PTSD symptoms to avoid exacerbations. It requires evidence-based interventions that address symptoms linked to past traumas while promoting healthy behaviors and coping mechanisms.
**Evidence-Based Intervention for PTSD Symptoms**
Cognitive processing therapy (CPT) is an evidence-based intervention suggested to address PTSD. It is a trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy that helps individuals to identify and maladaptive beliefs linked to past traumas. It also helps to enhance an individual’s emotional regulation and reduce avoidance behaviors.
**Annotation of Research Article that supports the use of CPT**
CPT is an evidence-based approach that leads to measurable improvements in PTSD symptoms as evidenced by a randomized control trial Schnurr et al. (2021). The study conducted an investigation to compare the impacts of CPT and prolonged exposure therapy among U.S. veterans diagnosed with PTSD. The study included 900 veterans diagnosed with PTSD receiving treatment via Veterans Affairs health care centers. The researchers randomly placed participants into CPT or prolonged exposure therapy. They used standardized clinical measures to assess PTSD symptoms throughout the treatment period and follow-up periods.
The study results revealed significant reductions in PTSD symptoms among participants receiving CPT, including enhanced emotional functioning and improved quality of life. CPT significantly reduced trauma-associated symptoms, such as, avoidance behaviors, trauma-related thoughts and emotional distress (Schnurr et al., 2020). The study design as a randomized control trial, large sample size and use of standardized clinical measures support the use of CPT as an evidence-based intervention for addressing PTSD symptoms.
**Evidence-based Intervention for Alcohol Misuse**
Motivational Interviewing (MI) is suggested as an evidence-based intervention by Santa Ana et al. (2021) for tackling behavioral change and increase motivation to reduce the use of substances, such as alcohol. Individuals who are hesitant to treatment, such as attending alcoholic anonymous like Jakes can benefit from MI. Randomized control trials like that of Santa Ana et al. (2021) has shown its effectiveness in improving engagement with individuals battling with substance use disorders, including alcohol misuse.
**Annotation of Research Article that supports the use of MI**
Santa Ana et al. (2021) investigated the effectiveness of using group MI among veterans with substance use disorders. The veterans who attended VA health care centers were randomly assigned to either MI or standard treatment. Throughout the intervention period and follow-ups, the researchers evaluated frequency of substance use, severity of substance use and motivation for change. The study results showed increased motivation to reduce alcohol use and change behavior among veterans receiving MI (Santa Ana et al., 2021). The participants also demonstrated willingness to adopt positive coping mechanisms and increased treatment engagement. In this study, MI is supported as an evidence-based intervention for alcohol misuse through the randomized control design, measurable treatment outcomes and veteran-specific sample.
**Interventions Evaluation and Suitability to the Case Study**
Based on Jake’s psychosocial challenges and clinical needs, CPT and MI are highly appropriate interventions. Jakes presents emotional distress, avoidance behaviors and maladaptive thoughts related to trauma during combat in Iraq. These symptoms are consistent with PTSD and the use of CPT can help him understand and process his past traumatic experiences and learn healthy coping strategies to counter those (Chemark et al., 2019). The end result is strengthened interpersonal relationships, ability to get along with his family and improved emotional functioning. MI is also suitable to this case as it demonstrates the motivating towards changing heavy alcohol drinking. Its non-confrontational approach and client-centeredness enhances client autonomy, self-effectiveness and willingness for change. Reduced alcohol use can strengthen the family’s relationships and address frequent fights with the wife. These interventions complement each other and address maladaptive coping mechanisms and address past trauma.
Overall, the client’s severe PTSD symptoms and heavy alcohol use impair the client’s well-being, daily functioning and family relationships. Cognitive processing therapy can help alleviate the severe PTSD symptoms while MI can motivate the client to avoid heavy drinking and increasingly engage with the treatment. The client will benefit from these interventions by improving his emotional regulation, interpersonal relationships, daily functioning and strengthened family relationships.
References
Chermack, S. T., Bonar, E. E., Goldstick, J. E., Winters, J., Blow, F. C., Friday, S., Ilgen, M. A., Rauch, S. A. M., Perron, B. E., Ngo, Q. M., & Walton, M. A. (2019). A randomized controlled trial for aggression and substance use involvement among Veterans: Impact of combining Motivational Interviewing, Cognitive Behavioral Treatment and telephone-based Continuing Care.
_Journal of Substance Abuse Treatment_,
_98_, 78–88. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jsat.2019.01.001
Santa Ana, E. J., LaRowe, S. D., Gebregziabher, M., Morgan-Lopez, A. A., Lamb, K., Beavis, K. A., Bishu, K., & Martino, S. (2021). Randomized controlled trial of group motivational interviewing for veterans with substance use disorders.
_Drug and Alcohol Dependence, 223_, 108716. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.drugalcdep.2021.108716
Schnurr, P. P., Chard, K. M., Ruzek, J. I., Chow, B. K., Resick, P. A., Foa, E. B., Marx, B. P., Friedman, M. J., Bovin, M. J., Caudle, K. L., Castillo, D., Curry, K. T., Hollifield, M., Huang, G. D., Chee, C. L., Astin, M. C., Dickstein, B., Renner, K., Clancy, C. P., Collie, C., … Shih, M. C. (2022). Comparison of Prolonged Exposure vs Cognitive Processing Therapy for Treatment of Posttraumatic Stress Disorder Among US Veterans: A Randomized Clinical Trial.
_JAMA Network Open_,
_5_(1), e2136921. https://doi.org/10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2021.36921
**## Itisonethingtoreadaboutanevidence.docx**
It is one thing to read about an evidence-based practice and understand its potential value; it is another to actually implement that practice. This jump from understanding to application requires critical and systematic thinking on the part of the social worker. When treating clients, social workers must ensure that the evidence-based practice is appropriate for the client and the problem—and that the client supports its use. To earn that support, the social worker should present the client and stakeholders with a plan for implementation and evidence of the EBP’s efficacy and suitability.
Many may attempt to apply an evidence-based practice that seems to be strongly supported by research, only to become frustrated or confused when their efforts do not yield the same positive results as the research. This discrepancy can occur because they have failed to recognize the differences between conditions in their practice environment and the conditions of the study—or differences in the demographic and cultural characteristics of the client groups. Moreover, they may have failed to consider and adequately plan for issues that could arise during implementation.
In this Assignment, you return to your chosen client from the Week 1 Assignment and carefully consider the factors and steps involved in applying an EBP with that client in your practice.
To Prepare
· Select one evidence-based practice that you researched for your client for the Week 1 Assignment and return to the peer-reviewed research article demonstrating the effectiveness of this practice.
· Note any similarities or differences between the conditions in which the evidence-based practice was implemented in the study and the conditions in which you would implement it at your field agency or practice setting.
· Consider the steps you would take to implement the EBP and factors that would support or limit these steps.
By Day 7
**Submit** a 2- to 3-page paper that analyzes the implementation of the evidence-based practice in your field agency or practice setting:
· Provide a brief description of your agency or practice setting (two sentences).
· Explain any differences between the conditions of the study and the conditions at your field agency or practice setting. Explain the potential impact these differences could have on successful implementation.
· Describe the steps that would be required to implement the evidence-based practice in your field agency or practice setting, including:
· Any factors that would support each step and how you would leverage them
· Any factors that would limit or hinder each step and how you would mitigate them
· Draw conclusions about:
· The anticipated results of the implementation in your practice setting
· Whether your results will be similar or different from the research results in the article
Use the Learning Resources and peer-reviewed scholarly journal articles to support your paper. Make sure to include appropriate APA citations and a reference list.
NOTE: week 1 Assignment attached separately.
**## week1assignment.docx**
1
Evidence-based Intervention Plan for Jake Levy Case Study
WEEK 1 assignment
SOCW-6311
02/27/2026
**Evidence-based Intervention Plan for Jake Levy Case Study**
Jake is a 31-year-old Iraq veteran who presents to the VA with behavioral and psychological concerns affecting is daily functioning and family system since return to civilian life 10 months ago. Jake was recently diagnosed with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and reports experiencing sleeping difficulties, heart palpitations, and moodiness along with heavy drinking nearly every day. He also reported that he was not engaged with his sons at all and kept to himself when he was at home. He reports fighting a lot with his wife and drinks to take edge off and help him sleep. Based on the assessment, there are two primary issues requiring intervention, including severity of PTSD symptoms and alcohol misuse, utilized as a maladaptive coping mechanism.
Jake’s severe PTSD symptoms are concerning, including sleeping difficulties, palpitations, moodiness, irritability, emotional withdrawal and avoidance behaviors. PTSD severe anxiety disorder associated with experiences of an event that leads to psychological trauma. This disorder has had significant impacts on Jakes’ emotional regulation, occupational functioning and interpersonal relationships with his family and others (Schnurr et al., 2022). The symptoms have hindered his ability to engage with the wife and children emotionally, leading to marital struggles and isolation. The impact of these symptoms on the individual includes impaired social functioning, psychological distress and reduced quality of life.
Alcohol misuse is also another critical issue in this case. Jake drinks heavily as a coping mechanism to manage PTSD symptoms, such as, difficulty sleeping and emotional regulation struggles. He reports drinking heavily during week days (four to five drinks in the evenings) and weekends (eight to ten drinks). The heavy drinking pattern risks exacerbating Jake’s PTSD symptoms, including family dysfunction and emotional withdrawal. It also puts him at risk of alcohol use disorder. Santa Ana et al. (2021) asserts that the co-occurrence of substance use with PTSD leads to exacerbations if not managed concurrently. Hence, Jake’s alcohol use issue should be addressed along the PTSD symptoms to avoid exacerbations. It requires evidence-based interventions that address symptoms linked to past traumas while promoting healthy behaviors and coping mechanisms.
**Evidence-Based Intervention for PTSD Symptoms**
Cognitive processing therapy (CPT) is an evidence-based intervention suggested to address PTSD. It is a trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy that helps individuals to identify and maladaptive beliefs linked to past traumas. It also helps to enhance an individual’s emotional regulation and reduce avoidance behaviors.
**Annotation of Research Article that supports the use of CPT**
CPT is an evidence-based approach that leads to measurable improvements in PTSD symptoms as evidenced by a randomized control trial Schnurr et al. (2021). The study conducted an investigation to compare the impacts of CPT and prolonged exposure therapy among U.S. veterans diagnosed with PTSD. The study included 900 veterans diagnosed with PTSD receiving treatment via Veterans Affairs health care centers. The researchers randomly placed participants into CPT or prolonged exposure therapy. They used standardized clinical measures to assess PTSD symptoms throughout the treatment period and follow-up periods.
The study results revealed significant reductions in PTSD symptoms among participants receiving CPT, including enhanced emotional functioning and improved quality of life. CPT significantly reduced trauma-associated symptoms, such as, avoidance behaviors, trauma-related thoughts and emotional distress (Schnurr et al., 2020). The study design as a randomized control trial, large sample size and use of standardized clinical measures support the use of CPT as an evidence-based intervention for addressing PTSD symptoms.
**Evidence-based Intervention for Alcohol Misuse**
Motivational Interviewing (MI) is suggested as an evidence-based intervention by Santa Ana et al. (2021) for tackling behavioral change and increase motivation to reduce the use of substances, such as alcohol. Individuals who are hesitant to treatment, such as attending alcoholic anonymous like Jakes can benefit from MI. Randomized control trials like that of Santa Ana et al. (2021) has shown its effectiveness in improving engagement with individuals battling with substance use disorders, including alcohol misuse.
**Annotation of Research Article that supports the use of MI**
Santa Ana et al. (2021) investigated the effectiveness of using group MI among veterans with substance use disorders. The veterans who attended VA health care centers were randomly assigned to either MI or standard treatment. Throughout the intervention period and follow-ups, the researchers evaluated frequency of substance use, severity of substance use and motivation for change. The study results showed increased motivation to reduce alcohol use and change behavior among veterans receiving MI (Santa Ana et al., 2021). The participants also demonstrated willingness to adopt positive coping mechanisms and increased treatment engagement. In this study, MI is supported as an evidence-based intervention for alcohol misuse through the randomized control design, measurable treatment outcomes and veteran-specific sample.
**Interventions Evaluation and Suitability to the Case Study**
Based on Jake’s psychosocial challenges and clinical needs, CPT and MI are highly appropriate interventions. Jakes presents emotional distress, avoidance behaviors and maladaptive thoughts related to trauma during combat in Iraq. These symptoms are consistent with PTSD and the use of CPT can help him understand and process his past traumatic experiences and learn healthy coping strategies to counter those (Chemark et al., 2019). The end result is strengthened interpersonal relationships, ability to get along with his family and improved emotional functioning. MI is also suitable to this case as it demonstrates the motivating towards changing heavy alcohol drinking. Its non-confrontational approach and client-centeredness enhances client autonomy, self-effectiveness and willingness for change. Reduced alcohol use can strengthen the family’s relationships and address frequent fights with the wife. These interventions complement each other and address maladaptive coping mechanisms and address past trauma.
Overall, the client’s severe PTSD symptoms and heavy alcohol use impair the client’s well-being, daily functioning and family relationships. Cognitive processing therapy can help alleviate the severe PTSD symptoms while MI can motivate the client to avoid heavy drinking and increasingly engage with the treatment. The client will benefit from these interventions by improving his emotional regulation, interpersonal relationships, daily functioning and strengthened family relationships.
References
Chermack, S. T., Bonar, E. E., Goldstick, J. E., Winters, J., Blow, F. C., Friday, S., Ilgen, M. A., Rauch, S. A. M., Perron, B. E., Ngo, Q. M., & Walton, M. A. (2019). A randomized controlled trial for aggression and substance use involvement among Veterans: Impact of combining Motivational Interviewing, Cognitive Behavioral Treatment and telephone-based Continuing Care.
_Journal of Substance Abuse Treatment_,
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Santa Ana, E. J., LaRowe, S. D., Gebregziabher, M., Morgan-Lopez, A. A., Lamb, K., Beavis, K. A., Bishu, K., & Martino, S. (2021). Randomized controlled trial of group motivational interviewing for veterans with substance use disorders.
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Schnurr, P. P., Chard, K. M., Ruzek, J. I., Chow, B. K., Resick, P. A., Foa, E. B., Marx, B. P., Friedman, M. J., Bovin, M. J., Caudle, K. L., Castillo, D., Curry, K. T., Hollifield, M., Huang, G. D., Chee, C. L., Astin, M. C., Dickstein, B., Renner, K., Clancy, C. P., Collie, C., … Shih, M. C. (2022). Comparison of Prolonged Exposure vs Cognitive Processing Therapy for Treatment of Posttraumatic Stress Disorder Among US Veterans: A Randomized Clinical Trial.
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