Phases of the model

There are several clearly identifiable phases in the application of the task-centered model:

Firstly, the social worker helps the service user articulate the specific problems as the service user sees them. In this phase active listening is important.
Secondly, the social worker assists the service user to break down and detail the problem areas, redefining these where necessary. Distressed or anxious service users sometimes cannot 'see the wood for the trees'.
Finally the social worker encourages the service user to prioritise the problems according to the service user's own views. Sometimes an external constraint (for example the threat of eviction) is most pressing, but otherwise the priority depends on the urgency as perceived by the service user.

Using the task-centered approach the social worker and service user will work in parnership to: