Students

Integrating social work and legal practice

MSW student, Monika Touzin, reflects on her field placement at the Legal Help Centre.

Monika Touzin posts on the bulletin board at the Legal Help Centre.
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When Monika Touzin first walked into the Legal Help Centre (LHC) for an interview, she knew that it would be the right fit for her final advanced practice field placement.

“My conversation with LHC reflected their vast knowledge of the social issues commonly confronted by their clients and the care the staff put into the work they do. They showed how much they valued the role of the social work student in the organization,” says Touzin.

A typical day consists of clients droping in to meet with a law student to discuss their legal issues. They are provided with legal information and referrals. Since social and legal issues are often interrelated, clients may also meet with a social work student. 

“Once I gained an understanding of the social issue, I then provided them with a referral to a community organization that can help address the issue. Given the broad nature of issues faced by clients, I was always learning about new resources available in the community,” says Touzin.

I learned that effective social work means being adaptable, resourceful, and willing to learn something new every day.

Monika Touzin

While at her placement, Touzin was able to refer clients to community organizations in the areas of mental health, domestic violence, homelessness, and advocacy and follow up with them. She supported clients from diverse backgrounds, adapted to a fast-paced setting, and gained insight into community organizations and several areas of law. 

“I have worked with an interdisciplinary team on several projects and have also been provided the opportunity to attend court. These opportunities have strengthened my skills and increased my knowledge in community organizations,” says Touzin.

Thank you to the Legal Help Centre for providing Touzin with value hands-on learning and mentorship.

The skills, knowledge, and experience gained from my time at LHC will stay with me throughout my career as a Social Worker.

Monika Touzin

Become a Field Placement

Field placements provide supervised, hands-on opportunities for students to develop and apply the knowledge, values, ethics, and skills essential to social work practice.

Contact Karen McKim, Field Program Coordinator, if you are interested in becoming a field placement for social work students.