ProSocial Podcast

Be ProSocial
  • 0.0 (0)
  • Relationships

The ProSocial Podcast invites dialogue across differences to promote peaceful pluralism. We seek viewpoint and political diversity which strengthens the social fabric of our world. We seek to humanize, strive for dialogue, and stand for ethical principles. We authentically: a) Welcome open inquiry, free thought, and free speech b) Discuss vigorously and respectfully c) Challenge totalitarian orthodoxy d) Support others who do the same prosocialworkers.substack.com

  1. After Conversion Therapy: Ethics, Identity, and Client Self-Determination

    Apr 12

    After Conversion Therapy: Ethics, Identity, and Client Self-Determination

    In this episode of the ProSocial Podcast, social workers and hosts Matthew Watson, Zander Keig, and Dr. Nafees Alam welcome psychologist and scholar Dr. Lee Beckstead for a nuanced discussion of Chiles v. Salazar and its implications for mental health practice. Moving beyond simplistic narratives surrounding conversion therapy bans, the panel explores a pressing ethical concern: whether ideological activism and professional cancellation within mental health care risk replacing one form of coercion with another. Drawing on his personal experience as a conversion therapy consumer and decades of clinical and research work, Dr. Beckstead outlines core principles of ethical, client‑centered care, particularly approaches that avoid imposing predetermined identity outcomes. The conversation emphasizes pluralism, humility, and client self‑determination, highlighting the importance of addressing minority stress and distress while fostering skill‑building, resilience, and thoughtful identity development without prescribing who clients must become. The episode also examines the dangers of one‑size‑fits‑all therapeutic models, the importance of distinguishing different forms of identity‑related distress, and the need for adversarial collaboration rather than ideological enforcement. Ultimately, the discussion invites clinicians and policymakers alike to reconsider what truly makes therapy ethical - and genuinely therapeutic. ProSocial Workers is a subsidiary of the Institute for Liberal Values, a registered 501(c)(3) non-profit organization promoting pluralistic, free, and democratic societies. The Institute for Liberal Values is ProSocial Workers’ fiscal sponsor. Social workers and others seeking continuing education credit may learn more by going to ProSocialWorkers.com ProSocial Workers, provider #2002, is approved as an ACE provider to offer social work continuing education by the Association of Social Work Boards (ASWB) Approved Continuing Education (ACE) program. Regulatory boards are the final authority on courses accepted for continuing education credit. ACE provider approval period: May 6, 2025 - May 6, 2026. Social workers completing this course receive 1 ethics continuing education credits. * Credits: All Night by AudioCoffee | https://www.audiocoffee.net/ Music promoted by https://www.chosic.com/free-music/all/ Creative Commons CC BY-SA 3.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0/ This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit prosocialworkers.substack.com

    1h 27m
  2. When the State Enters the Therapy Room

    Apr 1

    When the State Enters the Therapy Room

    October 7, 2025 Oral Arguments: Chiles vs. Salazar March 31, 2026 Supreme Court Opinion This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit prosocialworkers.substack.com

    1h 17m
  3. Empowered Humanity Theory and Social Work Practice

    11/30/2025

    Empowered Humanity Theory and Social Work Practice

    This podcast explores the application of Empowered Humanity Theory (EHT) within social work practice, emphasizing its alignment with the National Association of Social Workers (NASW) Code of Ethics. Developed as a neuroscience-informed framework, EHT cultivates three core attitudes—Value-Centered Identity, the Dignity Lens, and a Compassionate-Inquisitive Mindset—supported by daily practices that build awareness, equanimity, compassion, and recognition of common humanity. Social workers face high exposure to trauma, ethical complexity, compassion fatigue, and emotionally charged cases. EHT provides tools for self-regulation and co-regulation, enabling practitioners to remain grounded in values during crises. By filtering decisions through chosen values, honoring the dignity of every client, and replacing judgment with curiosity, social workers strengthen therapeutic alliances and reduce bias. The NASW Code of Ethics emphasizes service, dignity and worth of the person, social justice, integrity, and the importance of human relationships. EHT reinforces these values by anchoring practice in compassion, reframing social justice through dignity, aligning identity with integrity, and fostering curiosity and presence in relationships. Ultimately, EHT offers social workers a practical, dignity-based framework to sustain resilience, prevent burnout, and embody ethical principles in daily practice. Takeaways * The empowered humanity theory strengthens wellbeing. * It cultivates three core attitudes. * A valued-centered identity is crucial for personal growth. * Filtering thoughts through core values aids decision-making. * Gratitude, dignity, and humor are essential core values. * Living authentically means aligning actions with values. * External labels should not dictate our identity. * Guidance comes from within, not from societal expectations. * Personal difficulties can be navigated through core values. * Striving for wholeness from the inside out is key. ProSocial Workers is a subsidiary of the Institute for Liberal Values, a registered 501(c)(3) non-profit organization promoting pluralistic, free, and democratic societies. The Institute for Liberal Values is ProSocial Workers’ fiscal sponsor. This course was recorded on November 21, 2025. It is intended for a beginning social worker audience, while also appealing to other helping professionals. Social workers and others seeking continuing education credit may learn more by going to ProSocialWorkers.com ProSocial Workers, provider #2002, is approved as an ACE provider to offer social work continuing education by the Association of Social Work Boards (ASWB) Approved Continuing Education (ACE) program. Regulatory boards are the final authority on courses accepted for continuing education credit. ACE provider approval period: May 6, 2025 - May 6, 2026. Social workers completing this course receive 1 ethics continuing education credits. * Credits: All Night by AudioCoffee | https://www.audiocoffee.net/ Music promoted by https://www.chosic.com/free-music/all/ Creative Commons CC BY-SA 3.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0/ This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit prosocialworkers.substack.com

    1h 4m
  4. Dialogue Practice in Clinical Social Work

    11/29/2025

    Dialogue Practice in Clinical Social Work

    Summary In this episode of the Pro Social podcast, Matthew Watson and Dr. David Derozotes explore the significance of dialogue in social work, particularly in clinical practice. They discuss how dialogue can bridge differences, foster relationships, and create inclusive communities. The conversation delves into the skills required for effective dialogue, the importance of ground rules, and the application of psychological paradigms in dialogue practice. Dr. Derozotes shares insights on internal dialogue, the dynamics of couples and family therapy, and the role of dialogue in addressing societal issues. The episode concludes with creative approaches to enhance dialogue and the potential for dialogue to transform communities. Takeaways * Dialogue is essential in clinical social work practice. * Dialogue can bridge differences and foster relationships. * The skills of dialogue are applicable across micro, meso, and macro levels. * Facilitating dialogue requires creating a safe and inclusive space. * Ground rules are crucial for effective dialogue. * Listening for understanding is more important than speaking. * Dialogue can be both a means and an end in therapeutic settings. * Internal dialogue influences our external interactions. * Creative approaches can enhance dialogue effectiveness. * Dialogue can help address societal issues and promote peace. Chapters * 00:00 Introduction to Dialogue in Social Work * 03:33 The Importance of Dialogue in Clinical Practice * 06:30 Bridging Differences through Dialogue * 09:32 Understanding Dialogue Practice * 12:30 Dialogue as a Means of Co-Creation * 15:33 Engagement and Assessment in Dialogue * 18:26 Applying Psychological Paradigms to Dialogue * 21:28 Internal Dialogue and Self-Reflection * 24:27 Dialogue in Couples and Family Therapy * 27:24 Group Dialogue and Community Building * 30:38 Ground Rules for Effective Dialogue * 34:22 Creating Inclusive Communities in Education * 38:30 Ground Rules for Effective Dialogue * 40:29 The Art of Sharing Perspectives * 44:27 Navigating Hierarchies in Dialogue * 47:25 Dialogue as a Tool for Peace * 49:51 Real-Life Examples of Dialogue Transformations * 53:17 Creative Approaches to Break the Ice Dr. David Derezotes relevant works: * Derezotes, D.S. (2025). Climate change in person, community, planet. San Diego. Cognella. * Derezotes, D.S. (2022). Inclusive social work practice. San Diego, Cognella . * Derezotes, D.S. (2020). The Eternity dialogue: Understanding global transformation. San Diego, CA: Cognella. * Derezotes, D.S.(2014), Transforming historical trauma through dialogue. Thousand Oaks, CA: Sage. Two Films reference in the podcast: * Another Side of Peace — a 2004 documentary that follows Roni Hirshenzon (an Israeli father who lost two sons) and his work with Palestinian partners leading dialogue and reconciliation efforts * “Two Rivers” (featured in the Toward Right Relationship program) — a short documentary used in reconciliation workshops that follows a rural community undertaking steps toward right relationship with local Indigenous peoples (this project is based in the Pacific Northwest; the Friends Peace Teams page describes the film and its use). If you recall a small-town, community-workshop kind of film, this might be it — though it’s described on the Friends Peace Teams resource and is centered in Washington state rather than Oregon. ProSocial Workers is a subsidiary of the Institute for Liberal Values, a registered 501(c)(3) non-profit organization promoting pluralistic, free, and democratic societies. The Institute for Liberal Values is ProSocial Workers’ fiscal sponsor. This course was recorded on November 6, 2025. It is intended for a beginning to intermediate social worker audience. Social workers and others seeking continuing education credit may learn more by going to ProSocialWorkers.com ProSocial Workers, provider #2002, is approved as an ACE provider to offer social work continuing education by the Association of Social Work Boards (ASWB) Approved Continuing Education (ACE) program. Regulatory boards are the final authority on courses accepted for continuing education credit. ACE provider approval period: May 6, 2025 - May 6, 2026. Social workers completing this course receive 1.5 clinical continuing education credits.Credits:All Night by AudioCoffee | https://www.audiocoffee.net/Music promoted by https://www.chosic.com/free-music/all/Creative Commons CC BY-SA 3.0https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0/ This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit prosocialworkers.substack.com

    57 min
  5. The Secret to Raising Resilient, Confident, Independent Children in the Next Generation

    11/27/2025

    The Secret to Raising Resilient, Confident, Independent Children in the Next Generation

    In this podcast, Nicole Runyon, a Licensed Master Social Worker and parenting coach in Michigan, presents the challenges faced by the I-Generation, particularly focusing on the mental health crisis among this population. She identifies the three D’s: disorder, dysfunction, and disconnection, and emphasizes that the mental health symptoms observed in this cohort are often misunderstood messages indicating deeper issues. Runyon critiques the current mental health system’s inability to effectively address these challenges. She also presents parenting styles and approaches that change across time according to a child’s developmental needs. She concludes with some strong recommendations for parents to facilitate social, emotional, and intellectual development in their children. Takeaways * We are experiencing a crisis with our children today. * The current cohort of kids is referred to as the I-Generation, which includes children from Gen Z and Gen Alpha. * Three concerning risks among Gen Z are referred to as the 3 D’s: disorder, dysfunction, and disconnection. * 40% of Gen Z has a mental health diagnosis. * Mental health symptoms are messages from the youth. * Behaviors labeled as problems are often misunderstood. * The mental health system is not working for Gen Z. * We need to listen to the canaries in the coal mine. * Understanding youth behavior is crucial for effective intervention. * A new approach is needed to address these mental health challenges. ProSocial Workers is a subsidiary of the Institute for Liberal Values, a registered 501(c)(3) non-profit organization promoting pluralistic, free, and democratic societies. The Institute for Liberal Values is ProSocial Workers’ fiscal sponsor. This course was recorded on November 6, 2025. It is intended for a beginning social worker audience, while also appealing to parents and other helping professionals. Social workers seeking continuing education credit may learn more by going to ProSocialWorkers.com ProSocial Workers, provider #2002, is approved as an ACE provider to offer social work continuing education by the Association of Social Work Boards (ASWB) Approved Continuing Education (ACE) program. Regulatory boards are the final authority on courses accepted for continuing education credit. ACE provider approval period: May 6, 2025 - May 6, 2026. Social workers completing this course receive 1.25 general continuing education credits.Credits:All Night by AudioCoffee | https://www.audiocoffee.net/Music promoted by https://www.chosic.com/free-music/all/Creative Commons CC BY-SA 3.0https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0/ This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit prosocialworkers.substack.com

    1h 19m
  6. Experiential Political Resilience in Social Work Practice

    11/18/2025

    Experiential Political Resilience in Social Work Practice

    Summary In this episode of the ProSocial podcast, hosts Matthew Watson and Zander Keig engage with Jacob Winkler, a group therapist, to explore the concept of political resilience and the role of process groups in fostering honest communication. The conversation delves into the importance of emotional engagement, navigating difficult conversations, and the theoretical foundations of group therapy. Jacob shares insights on how to handle conflict, the significance of humanizing differences, and the challenges of uncertainty in discussions. The episode emphasizes the need for social workers to develop political resilience and the ethical considerations in promoting dialogue across diverse viewpoints. This conversation delves into the complexities of group therapy, exploring themes of self-awareness, the integration of light and darkness within individuals, and the dynamics of attraction and boundaries in group settings. The speakers discuss the importance of navigating chaos, fostering political and viewpoint diversity, and the ethical considerations of expression in therapeutic environments. They reflect on personal experiences and the transformative power of group therapy in promoting emotional growth and resilience. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Pro Social Workers and Political Resilience 02:51 Jacob Winkler’s Background and Process Groups 05:47 The Importance of Emotional Engagement in Groups 08:45 Navigating Political Conversations in Group Settings 11:31 Defining Success in Political Resilience 14:26 Theoretical Foundations of Group Therapy 17:23 Handling Conflict and Emotional Responses 20:14 Humanizing Political Differences 23:20 Promoting Viewpoint Diversity in Social Work 37:12 Navigating Conflict in Professional Settings 40:22 The Nature of Group Dynamics 43:02 Understanding Who is Drawn to Process Groups 45:39 The Role of Leadership in Group Settings 48:26 Exploring the Balance of Light and Dark 51:29 The Importance of Acknowledging Our Shadows 54:39 Self-Awareness and Its Impact on Relationships 58:00 The Complexity of Truth and Honesty 01:01:14 The Challenge of Chaos in Group Settings 01:05:50 The Lifelong Journey of Personal Growth 01:07:43 The Interplay Between Group Work and Personal Relationships 01:11:30 Exploring Group Dynamics in Couples Therapy 01:14:36 Navigating Flirtation and Rejection 01:17:19 The Boundaries of Expression in Group Dynamics 01:19:20 Embracing the Child Within: Disinhibition in Groups 01:21:07 Political Views and Emotional Reactions in Group Settings 01:23:49 The Role of Group Leaders in Fostering Authenticity 01:27:16 Creating Safe Spaces for Social Workers 01:29:18 Expanding Emotional Range for Pluralism 01:31:07 Braver Angels and the Power of Dialogue 01:34:49 Theoretical Orientations in Group Therapy 01:37:23 Finding Local Group Therapy Resources 01:39:34 The Messiness of Social Work and Authentic Dialogue ProSocial Workers is a subsidiary of the Institute for Liberal Values, a registered 501(c)(3) non-profit organization promoting pluralistic, free, and democratic societies. The Institute for Liberal Values is ProSocial Workers’ fiscal sponsor. This course was recorded on October 6, 2025. It is intended for a beginning to intermediate social worker audience. Other helping professionals may also find the content relevant to their practice. Learn more about receiving continuing education credit for this course by going to the ProSocial Workers website. ProSocial Workers, provider #2002, is approved as an ACE provider to offer social work continuing education by the Association of Social Work Boards (ASWB) Approved Continuing Education (ACE) program. Regulatory boards are the final authority on courses accepted for continuing education credit. ACE provider approval period: May 6, 2025 - May 6, 2026. Social workers completing this course receive 1.5 clinical continuing education credits. Credits: All Night by AudioCoffee | https://www.audiocoffee.net/ Music promoted by https://www.chosic.com/free-music/all/ Creative Commons CC BY-SA 3.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0/ This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit prosocialworkers.substack.com

    1h 36m
  7. The Dialectical Social Worker

    11/01/2025

    The Dialectical Social Worker

    Summary In this episode of the Pro Social Podcast, Matt Watson, Zander Keig, and Amanda Smith delve into the principles of Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) and its application in social work. They discuss the importance of dialectical thinking in navigating emotional complexities, the significance of validation in relationships, and the necessity of self-care for social workers. The conversation emphasizes the relevance of DBT skills in managing conflict and fostering understanding in diverse social work settings, ultimately advocating for a more compassionate and effective approach to social work practice. DBT has great potential to to promote dialogue across differences and integrate competing principles and viewpoints. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Dialectical Social Work 02:50 Amanda’s Journey in Mental Health 05:50 Understanding Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) 08:36 The Evolution of DBT and Its Applications 11:43 Dialectical Thinking and Its Relevance 14:35 Clinical Assumptions in DBT 17:48 Applying DBT Principles to Social Work 20:39 The Importance of Support for Social Workers 23:20 Navigating Dialectics in Conversations 26:41 Finding the Middle Path in Conflicts 29:11 Respect and Understanding in Social Work 32:13 Social Justice and Dialectical Thinking 46:36 The Importance of Open Dialogue 49:03 Validation in Social Work 55:19 Strategies for Effective Validation 01:00:24 Navigating Conflict and Differences 01:08:14 The Role of Validation in Problem Solving 01:10:20 Understanding Validation and Its Misconceptions 01:13:43 Coping with Emotional Dysregulation 01:18:04 Finding Support as Social Workers 01:21:22 Self-Determination in Social Work Practice Takeaways DBT is an evidence-based treatment effective for various populations. Dialectical thinking helps navigate complex emotional situations. Social workers need to practice self-care to be effective. Validation does not equal agreement; it acknowledges others’ perspectives. Conflict is a natural part of social work; managing it is essential. Practicing DBT skills can enhance emotional regulation. Social workers should seek support from colleagues and supervisors. Understanding different perspectives fosters healthier relationships. Self-determination is crucial for both clients and social workers. Dialectical thinking can help in navigating social justice issues. ProSocial Workers is a subsidiary of the Institute for Liberal Values, a registered 501(c)(3) non-profit organization promoting pluralistic, free, and democratic societies. The Institute for Liberal Values is ProSocial Workers’ fiscal sponsor. This course was recorded on October 14, 2025. It is intended for a beginning to intermediate social worker audience. Other helping professionals may also find the content relevant to their practice. Learn more about receiving continuing education credit for this course by going to the ProSocial Workers website. ProSocial Workers, provider #2002, is approved as an ACE provider to offer social work continuing education by the Association of Social Work Boards (ASWB) Approved Continuing Education (ACE) program. Regulatory boards are the final authority on courses accepted for continuing education credit. ACE provider approval period: May 6, 2025 - May 6, 2026. Social workers completing this course receive 1.5 clinical continuing education credits. Credits: All Night by AudioCoffee | https://www.audiocoffee.net/ Music promoted by https://www.chosic.com/free-music/all/ Creative Commons CC BY-SA 3.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0/ This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit prosocialworkers.substack.com

    1h 35m
  8. Social Work, Mental Health, and the 2nd Amendment

    10/10/2025

    Social Work, Mental Health, and the 2nd Amendment

    Summary In this episode of the Pro Social Podcast, Matt Watson and Paul Stayback discuss the intersection of social work, gun violence, and mental health. They explore the challenges of engaging with firearms owners in therapy, the importance of viewpoint diversity in social work, and the need for nuanced conversations about gun control and safety. Paul shares his journey into social work, his experiences with veterans, and the cultural barriers that prevent effective dialogue around firearms. The conversation emphasizes the importance of understanding and humanizing different perspectives to foster productive discussions and ultimately enhance community safety. Takeaways * Social work needs to embrace viewpoint diversity. * Gun violence is a complex societal issue, not just a gun issue. * Cultural competency is essential for engaging firearms owners. * Mental health issues should not lead to blanket judgments about rights. * Nuanced conversations are necessary for effective dialogue. * Social workers must meet clients where they are, without judgment. * Finding common ground on safety can bridge divides. * Engaging with firearms owners requires understanding their culture. * The media often oversimplifies complex issues like gun violence. * Social workers can advocate for responsible gun ownership practices. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Pro Social Workers and Paul Stayback 02:16 Paul’s Journey into Social Work 04:24 Cultural Perspectives on Mental Health 07:39 Gun Violence and Societal Outrage 09:11 The Role of Social Workers in Gun Control Conversations 10:54 Thought Diversity in Social Work 15:05 Engaging Across Differences 19:44 Finding Common Ground on Gun Safety 22:39 Articulating Both Sides of Gun Control 29:27 Regulating Gun Ownership 37:17 The Inevitability of Gun Ownership 39:22 Mental Health and Gun Ownership 49:37 Cultural Competency in Mental Health 58:39 Engaging Firearms Owners in Therapy 01:08:43 Addressing Gun Violence and Societal Issues This course was recorded on September 6, 2025. Learn more about receiving continuing education credit for this course by going to the ProSocial Workers website. ProSocial Workers, provider #2002, is approved as an ACE provider to offer social work continuing education by the Association of Social Work Boards (ASWB) Approved Continuing Education (ACE) program. Regulatory boards are the final authority on courses accepted for continuing education credit. ACE provider approval period: May 6, 2025 - May 6, 2026. Social workers completing this course receive 1 cultural competence continuing education credit. Intro and Outro Music: All Night by AudioCoffee | https://www.audiocoffee.net/ Music promoted by https://www.chosic.com/free-music/all/ Creative Commons CC BY-SA 3.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0/ This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit prosocialworkers.substack.com

    1h 6m
See All (14)

About

The ProSocial Podcast invites dialogue across differences to promote peaceful pluralism. We seek viewpoint and political diversity which strengthens the social fabric of our world. We seek to humanize, strive for dialogue, and stand for ethical principles. We authentically: a) Welcome open inquiry, free thought, and free speech b) Discuss vigorously and respectfully c) Challenge totalitarian orthodoxy d) Support others who do the same prosocialworkers.substack.com

Information

  • Creator
    Be ProSocial
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    14
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © ProSocial Workers
  • Show Website
    ProSocial Podcast