The first thing I want to be clear about is that the case review needs to include the people who worked the case. So the review process is collaborative - done with, not to. Because this so how we want practitioners to work with families. Then it’s preparation. Essential in any review process Step one is to go through all the details and the work that was done. Mark out all the prices you think were done really well, then the worrying pieces. Be very clear and specific in this. Have examples to support your statements for both the good and the worrying. Then, develop questions for those involved to get them to think about what was good and what could have been improved Share your thoughts and then work through it together.

I know that balancing empathy with objectivity during a challenging case review is essential for effective decision-making. I approach each case by actively listening to the client’s experience while also grounding my assessment in evidence-based practices. I’ve found that maintaining this balance allows me to remain compassionate and supportive while ensuring that I make informed, objective recommendations that best serve the client’s needs.

I have placed reminders in my home car and work space to remind me to maintain Roger's client centered needs and meditation and prayer before interacting with clients. Nevertheless I still experience a lower level of counter transference when I ignore my rituals. Clients often speak from traumatic reactions when their misperception of my helper role as either the enemy or the enabler who must do their work for them. Many conversations about my role as an case manager or counselor or empowering agent engaged in the best practices for clients to make decisions after exploring several options. I believe the clients benefit from making consciences decisions benefits clients

Understanding someone else’s perspective, can truly be the pinnacle and defining moment of learning and growth. Note I never said ‘agreeing’ with someone else’s perspective, but understanding (truly), why they think the way they do and say the things they say. When I sit in to evaluate cases, I always try and think ‘deeper’, to understand why something is said or why something was done. Only this can help get to the ‘root’ of the problem.

Balancing empathy and objectivity in a challenging case review requires a structured approach. Begin by actively listening to the client’s narrative, demonstrating empathy through compassion and understanding, which helps to establish trust and rapport. Acknowledge their feelings and perspectives, while also maintaining a professional distance to ensure objectivity. Utilize evidence-based practices and standardized assessment tools to guide your analysis, ensuring that decisions are grounded in facts rather than solely emotional responses. Document your observations comprehensively, highlighting both the emotional context and the objective data relevant to the case. Regularly reflecting on your biases and seeking supervision