Seeing the Invisible – Social Work Practice within Traumatic Brain Injury

Capability level: Emerging, Evolving

Event description:

Acquired Brain Injury (ABI) often presents as an “invisible” disability—its impacts on cognition, emotion, communication, and behaviour can be profound, yet are frequently misunderstood or easily overlooked in everyday interactions. For social workers, this can create unique challenges when supporting individuals whose needs may not be immediately apparent but who experience significant barriers to independence, relationships, and wellbeing. This webinar offers an opportunity to deepen professional knowledge and confidence in working with people affected by ABI, moving beyond surface-level understanding to consider the nuanced realities of living with this condition.

Through real-world case examples, guided reflective exercises, and evidence-informed practice strategies, participants will explore how to engage with clients and families in ways that are both empathetic and practical. The session will highlight common presentations of ABI, the psychosocial impacts that can follow, and the importance of trauma-informed and strengths-based approaches. Social workers will also gain insights into interdisciplinary collaboration, advocacy, and service navigation, equipping them to respond with greater awareness and skill across diverse practice settings.

Who should attend?

This webinar is catered to any Social Worker or health care professional wanting to develop a greater understanding of Acquired Brain Injury and social work practice.

Learning Outcomes

By the end of this program, participants will be able to:

• Explore the definitions of ABI and TBI, and uncover their common causes and wide-ranging impacts
• Examine the vital role of social work across hospital and community settings
• Integrate trauma-informed and person-centred approaches into everyday ABI support
• Implement practical strategies for communication, advocacy, and effective care coordination

Event structure:

Introduction (5 minutes)

Learning Session 1: Define ABI and TBI and describe common causes and impacts (20 mins)

Learning Activity 1: Group Discussion (10 mins)

Learning Session 2: The role of SW in the field of ABI and challenges of working in this area (20 mins)

Learning Activity 2: Case Study (10 mins)

Learning Session 3: Identifying practical strategies for communication, advocacy, and care coordination (15 mins)

Conclusion + Q&A (10 minutes)

Can't attend live? Your registration includes a copy of the presentation slides and 2 weeks' free access to the event recording.

AASW Credentials: Disability, Mental Health (General), Clinical SW