“We actually are re-teaching them on how to define social work, to deal with crisis intervention, and problem solving,” said Dr. Marvin Ali of Ali Consulting Services.
Yesterday was the first of the four-day training for social services staff and counselors from different agencies such as the Division of Youth Services, the Community Guidance Center and the Head Start program.
Ali said the 30 participants will achieve a better understanding of social services and its key elements.The training is a federal mandate to provide college credits to the participants and is being conducted in collaboration with Northern Marianas College’s continuing education program.
NMC regent Maria “Malua” T. Peter, who also works for Head Start, said the participants will earn three credits from NMC.
Ali said social workers in the U.S. need to get a bachelor’s degree but for the CNMI, they have created a credential program.
It would be a “disservice” to the client population if the service provider has no sufficient educational foundation, although some have acquired their knowledge through years of experience in the field, he said.
Training participants are required to do homework, laboratory work as well as take tests and quizzes.
Community Guidance Center administrative officer Matilde Rosario said the training will allow their counselors to enhance their skills on social services.
Rosario said although their clients are satisfied with their services, some of their counselors have yet to undergo the training provided by Ali.
Through the training, DYS supervisor Laura Ogumoro said their staff will be in a better position to provide services to the community, especially to the families referred to their agency for assistance purposes.
“We will engage in a learning activity that will help them improve their skills and knowledge as social workers,” she said.
The training will help them address problems regarding child abuse, neglect cases, juvenile delinquency, and detention-related matters, she added.
