Date of Conferral
10-6-2026
Date of Award
October 2026
Degree
Doctor of Social Work (DSW)
School
Social Work
Advisor
Debra Wilson
Abstract
The social work practice problem identified in this generic qualitative study was the gap in clinical self-efficacy and means-efficacy among licensed clinical social workers (LCSWs) concerning assessment and diagnosis. The perceived influence of a specialized certification on the self-efficacy and means-efficacy of LCSWs certified as Amen brain health professionals in clinical practice was explored. Bandura’s self-efficacy theory and Eden’s means-efficacy construct framed the study. Despite multiple recruitment efforts, semistructured Zoom interviews were completed with only three eligible LCSWs certified as Amen brain health professionals. Interview data were analyzed using Braun and Clarke’s thematic analysis, with NVivo support. Although saturation was not achieved or claimed, information power was applied retrospectively to evaluate the adequacy and limitations of the three-participant dataset. Participants perceived Amen certification as supporting clinical confidence and providing a useful framework, tools, and resources. However, they did not describe it as a standalone source of efficacy. Their efficacy developed cumulatively over time through certification, supervision, broader training, repeated practice, feedback, and support. The findings are specific to this highly specialized sample. The implications for positive social change include the potential for social work practitioners, leaders, and educators to highlight clinical preparation, useful resources, supervision, and professional development that support ethical, individualized, client-centered care.
Recommended Citation
Moore, Lila, "Self and Means Efficacy Perceptions of Amen Certified Brain Health Professional Social Workers in Clinical Practice" (2026). Walden Dissertations and Doctoral Studies. 20872.
https://scholarworks.waldenu.edu/dissertations/20872
