Practice with High-Risk Clients

High-risk clients present a major challenge to the service system and to direct practice. The literature, however, provides us with technologies that are less than effective in working with high-risk clients. Understanding the subjective reality of high-risk clients, advocating for them, and forming a bond with them may enhance practice with this special population. A successful practice model should be based on a combined approach of advocacy/empowerment and primary relationship. Two case studies are provided to illustrate this approach.