Social work notes can feel endless—whether you’re in school social work, clinical practice, or private settings. But what if your notes were more than paperwork? In this video, I’ll show you how to reframe documentation as a tool for advocacy, growth, and even job security.I’ll share how numbers tell your story, how to make them work for you (not against you), and why your internship documentation is more transferable than you think. Whether you’re a new social work intern or a seasoned LCSW, this perspective shift will help you build confidence and clarity in your practice.What you’ll learn in this video:Why documentation is your secret advocacy toolHow to use your notes to show your impactTips for easing documentation stressHow school-based experience translates into clinical roles🔗 Grab my documentation tracker here: https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Digital-Case-Load-Tracker-school-social-workers-counselor-google-sheets-4749133🔔 Subscribe for more tools, real talk, and support for your social work journey!______________________________________________________❀ 𝑺𝑶𝑪𝑰𝑨𝑳𝑺 Instagram: https://bit.ly/2F3vQVh
Listen on Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/social-work-scrapbook/id1786359210Shop | https://www.amazon.com/shop/socialworkscrapbook?ref_=cm_sw_r_cp_ud_aipsfshop_aipsfsocialworkscrapbook_2WPW0GN9CE9XRFBDVZCQWebsite | https://socialworkscrapbook.wordpress.com/☞ collaboration enquiries: lauren.e.gutierrez@gmail.com.·:*¨ 𝑭𝑨𝑸 ¨*:·. ✧ name: Lauren✧ location: Texas ✧ credentials: LCSW-S
🚨 Starting your social work internship or practicum placement? Whether you’re in a BSW program or MSW program, these are the 3 things I wish I knew before starting my field placement. This video covers how to handle internship nerves, why shadowing social workers is essential, and how to learn from clients in your social work practice.
If you’re preparing for your first day as a social work intern, you’ll learn:
✅ Why being nervous is a GOOD sign and how to use it to your advantage
✅ How to get on the calendars of multiple social workers to find your own style
✅ Why your clients will be your biggest teachers (even the challenging ones)
Whether you’re looking for field education tips, internship advice for social work students, or just want to reduce stress before your placement, this video will give you practical, real-world strategies from a practicum coordinator.
In this cozy, honest kickoff to the new school year, I’m getting real about burnout, perfectionism, energy leaks, and why we have to stop expecting smooth sailing—especially as empaths, parents, and social workers. I'm talking straight from my older sister heart, sharing advice I wish I had before the back-to-school chaos, plus breaking down the “Marigold Effect” and avoiding emotional walnut trees 🥴🌳
If you're a therapist, counselor, teacher, or deeply feeling human—this one's for you. We’re not just showing up for others—we’re reclaiming our energy, protecting our hope, and letting go of the Pinterest-perfect pressure 💛
Timestamps below & links in the comments!
00:00 – Why I had to speak up (burnout + back-to-school pressure)
02:20 – Social media fatigue + merging my profiles
03:50 – Advice I’d give if I weren’t afraid to hurt your feelings
04:55 – Cut the Pinterest pressure! No one cares about bento boxes
06:00 – It’s okay if the first week is rocky—expect transition
08:25 – Stop skipping meals! Empath hormones need fuel
09:45 – Your energy is sacred: protect it
10:35 – The Marigold Effect vs Walnut Trees
12:30 – Traits of energy-draining people
14:35 – Don’t be your kid’s walnut tree
16:10 – Hope matters: the spark kids feel at the start of the year
18:50 – Delegate! Being needed isn’t your whole personality
20:30 – Say no to protect your yes
21:00 – Final love note + new beginnings
// watch MORE full videos for school social workers → | https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QMFUT-L_TEk&list=PLtzpeRNiPkZdwppi1z6ui-GXuYXTJl5z3&pp=gAQB
______________________________________________________
❀ 𝑺𝑶𝑪𝑰𝑨𝑳𝑺
Instagram: https://bit.ly/2F3vQVh
my big breakthrough-- When Saying Sorry Feels Like a Death—You’re Probably Healing! In this deeply personal episode, I open up about my struggle with apologizing, what I’ve learned and how apology is more than guilt—it’s acknowledgment, healing, and connection.This is for the empaths, the gentle parents, the cycle breakers—the ones working through ancestral patterns and learning to lead with heart. I also reflect on recent headlines, including the Bryan Kohberger sentencing in the Idaho student murders and the emotional weight of victim impact statements.Whether you’re navigating marriage, motherhood, or your own emotional growth, this episode is a reminder: Sorry is a full sentence. 💛🪞Timestamps, resources, and carousel below! ❀ 𝑺𝑶𝑪𝑰𝑨𝑳𝑺 Instagram______________________________________________________0:00 – Sorry is a full sentence1:06 – Getting called out by my husband and mom2:55 – Why I struggle with apologizing4:58 – What my husband taught me about guilt 6:30 – How society fumbles apologies7:58 – Public example: Hill Country flood response9:16 – Teenagers as mirrors for emotional accountability10:00 – Bryan Kohberger sentencing & refusal to apologize11:45 – The power and purpose of victim impact statements13:32 – Casual apologies in professional life 15:12 – Learning to say sorry without justifying16:18 – Who needs your apology? 16:52 – Final takeaway
🔔 Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share this if it resonated.
________________________________________________
Users of this Podcast may save and use information contained in the Podcast only for personal or other non-commercial, educational purposes. No other use, including, without limitation, reproduction, retransmission or editing, of this Podcast may be made without the prior written permission of Lauren Gutierrez, which may be requested by contacting lauren.e.gutierrez@gmail.com
This podcast is for educational purposes only. The host claims no responsibility to any person or entity for any liability or damage caused or alleged to be caused directly or indirectly as a result of the use or interpretation of the information presented herein.
Have you ever outgrown a place that once felt like home? In this heartfelt goodbye, I share my emotional and professional journey as I close the chapter on over a decade in school social work. Whether you’re a social worker, empath, or creative soul navigating change, this video offers insight, encouragement, and transparency.
💛 In this episode, I reflect on:
My beginnings in middle school social work
The full-circle moments with teen parents and high school students
Becoming a field instructor, speaker, and adjunct professor
My decision to leave and the emotional weight of closing a chapter
What’s next in higher ed and creative work
🎓 If you’re a BSW, MSW, empath, or educator looking for inspiration, this one’s for you.
🔗 Watch on youtube: https://youtu.be/92qFOnXiTqk?si=vWRUxwC6jz-vmKVS
📩 Connect: instagram.com/socialworkscrapbook
🎧 Listen to the podcast: Social Work Scrapbook (YouTube Podcasts)
Burnout isn’t about doing too much—it’s about doing things that aren’t aligned. In this heartfelt episode, I open up about the real roots of burnout, especially for empaths, social workers, and those in healing professions. We’re diving deep into compassion fatigue, misaligned ambition, and that all-too-familiar guilt—as both a professional and a parent.
Whether you’re new to the field or years in, this video is a reminder that burnout is not your fault, and realignment is your path forward. If you're craving meaningful work, soulful rest, and emotional clarity—this space is for you. 🌿
💬 Let’s talk about:
The silent danger of misaligned ambition
Why "shoulds" are stealing your peace
Summer mom guilt and working through it
Building a career that feels like home (not just looks like one)
How to honor your energy and rewrite burnout stories
🎯 This is the pep talk every empath needs.
✨ You’re not alone if you feel heavy, overextended, or caught in codependent loops—especially if you're a social worker or empath. This episode is your monthly moment to realign. 📓 Grab your favorite pen, journal, and let’s do this ritual together.🎧 In this reflective journaling ritual, we’re setting intentions, planting seeds for emotional safety, and creating space to dream again. Whether you're healing from burnout, craving softness, or navigating tough family dynamics, this is your safe space to exhale and begin again.💫 What you’ll do in this video:Reset your nervous system through breath work and groundingVisualize and manifest emotional safety at home and in relationshipsPlant seeds for your future self using present-tense affirmationsReconnect with your inner child through journalingSet energetic boundaries for softness and growthLearn to combat overthinking and people-pleasing as blocks🎥 Let’s reimagine softness as strength. This is your permission to feel, dream, and begin again.
⏱️ Timestamps:
0:00 – Intro: Needing an Energetic Exhale
1:00 – Why This Ritual Is For You (Empaths + Social Workers)
2:00 – What It Means to Plant Seeds for Ourselves
2:45 – Emotional Safety + Healing Family Dynamics
4:00 – Breathwork & Journal Prompts Begin
5:00 – Manifestation Prompts (Present-Tense Seeds)
6:15 – Inner Child Healing Reflection
7:40 – Visualizing Your Softest Home
8:30 – Spiritual Anchors: Water, Salt, Crystals
9:00 – The Shadow Side: Overthinking + People Pleasing
10:15 – Takeaway & Reminder: You Deserve Peace
I Left My Dream Job as a School Social Worker... Here's Why (+ Real Talk on Impostor Syndrome)
Are you a social worker, helping professional, or big-hearted empath questioning your next step? 😔 This video is for you. I’m opening up about leaving my role as a school social worker after 12 years, the transition to higher education, and how I’ve battled imposter syndrome every step of the way.
💥 Whether you're a student social worker, considering a career pivot, or simply feeling not “good enough” in your current role—this episode is packed with truth, encouragement, and practical tips you can use right now.
✨ In This Episode You'll Learn:
Why I left school social work after 12 years
What it’s really like to pivot to higher education
Raw answers to your Instagram Qs about career change, pay, and readiness
The truth about self-doubt, imposter syndrome, and confidence
How to stop waiting for confidence and build it instead
4 practical confidence-building strategies (including my FAVORITE one!)
The role music and micro-bravery play in mindset shifts 💪🏽
The legacy of connection with students & what one said that shook me 🧡
⏱ Timestamps:
0:00 – Intro & Heart of the Case welcome
1:40 – Why I left school social work
5:12 – Career Q&A from Instagram: pay, burnout, summers off
10:45 – Impostor syndrome hits different in new roles
13:30 – Practical strategy #1: Name it, then frame it
15:45 – Strategy #2: Borrow confidence (and music recs!)
18:20 – Strategy #3: Micro-bravery explained
21:30 – Strategy #4: Build your confidence archive
24:00 – A final pep talk for social workers feeling scared to grow
26:15 – Listener emoji challenge + feedback invite 👻
🎯 This video is for:
Current or future social workers thinking about career changes
Helpers and empaths feeling stuck or burnt out
Anyone exploring higher education or academic roles
First-gen professionals seeking purpose and confidence
You, if you need a real pep talk from someone who gets it
🛠️ Helpful Resources Mentioned:
🎧 Kendrick Lamar’s Man at the Garden – total affirmations anthem
🎙️ Podcast Ep 14 – "How to Start Fresh and Attract Positivity"
💬 Comment below:
Have you ever felt called to change direction but doubted yourself? What did your ghost emoji moment look like? 👻
🔔 Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share this with your social work bestie or colleague who needs encouragement today
This week, we’re not just talking about a prison break — we’re talking about the emotional escapes we all try to make when our needs go unmet.
In this episode of Heart of the Case, I’m breaking down the wild (and weirdly relatable?) 2015 escape from Clinton Correctional Facility in Dannemora, New York — where two inmates charmed their way into a prison worker's heart and out of a maximum-security prison.
But here’s the twist: this isn’t just about hacksaws in hamburger meat and a “Shawskank” love triangle. It’s about codependency, self-sabotage, and the quiet prisons we build in our minds — the ones built from loneliness, low self-worth, and emotional hunger.
✨ Come for the true crime. Stay for the therapy session you didn’t know you needed.
We’re unpacking:
The psychological profile of Joyce “Tilly” Mitchell
How childhood trauma shaped the escapees
Why smart women sometimes make wild emotional choices
How unmet emotional needs can cloud judgment
episode mentioned: Trauma Bonding + Breaking Free- https://youtu.be/CtRTtVte7bg?si=9Nl9hBjrh9NaGpGR
Spring is here, but let’s be real—new beginnings don’t always feel refreshing. Maybe you’re stuck in a rut, drained by all the doomsday chatter, or just feeling meh about where you are. In this episode of Heart of the Case, we’re diving deep into the power of shifting your mindset, flipping negative “what ifs” into positives, and protecting your peace in a chaotic world.
You’ll learn how to break free from feeling idle, set firm but loving boundaries, and manifest a season of growth, renewal, and alignment—even when everything around you feels heavy. Let’s rewrite the script, step into spring with intention, and remind ourselves that we are always manifesting—so let’s make it count. 🌸✨
videos mentioned:
Selena Episode:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kBfKE5IOsH8
Selena was more than just the Queen of Tejano Music—she was a trailblazer, an icon, and a beloved figure whose life was tragically cut short by someone she trusted. In this episode of *Heart of the Case*, we break down the devastating story of Selena’s murder, exploring **the dangers of unchecked obsession, manipulation, and toxic workplace relationships.**💔 Why did Yolanda Saldívar become so obsessed?🚩 What red flags did Selena and her family miss?⚖️ With Yolanda up for parole in 2025, should she ever be released? Spoiler alert she was NOT!As an empath, setting boundaries can be difficult, especially in professional settings. Let’s talk about how we can protect ourselves from emotional manipulation in the workplace and beyond.Episodes and Links:Leaving a toxic relationship: Ep 10: https://youtu.be/CtRTtVte7bg?si=zZu_rtjiNVHsrBp9Netflix— Selena: Season 2 Ep 6: Lo mas Bello (meeting Beyonce)
🚨 Did I accidentally manifest my entire social work career? Looking back, every choice I made—internships, mentors, even the books I obsessed over—lined up too perfectly for it to be a coincidence. But if manifestation is real, what does that mean for my next career move? 🤯
In this episode of Heart of the Case, I’m breaking down how I unknowingly manifested my school social work career 12 years ago and what that means for where I’m headed now. If you’re feeling stuck, questioning your path, or wondering how to actually align with your dream job, this one’s for you. ✨
🎙 What You’ll Learn:
✅ The small, subconscious choices that shape your career (without you realizing it!)
✅ How to intentionally manifest your next move—even if you don’t believe in “woo-woo” energy
✅ Why your current habits, network, and thoughts are secretly designing your future
✅ How to use the pizza order analogy to finally get clear on what you want
💡 Spoiler alert: I’m at another career crossroads, and I’m using these same principles to navigate what’s next. If you’ve ever felt lost or in-between, this episode is packed with insights (and some funny metaphors) to help you trust your journey.
VIDEOS Mentioned:
Job Interview Tips || https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fqwQXzKyqbo&list=PLtzpeRNiPkZf4VPfrp-zXarsCCJi5I4_e
Becoming a Therapist|| https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=E8R3GVnj6Go
🚀 Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe if you want more episodes on career shifts, manifestation, and making bold moves in life! Let’s chat in the comments
When school isn’t a safe place, where can students turn? In this episode of Heart of the Case, we’re diving into the heartbreaking story of Jocelynn Rojo, an 11-year-old Texas student whose experiences with bullying, threats of ICE involvement, and a school system that failed to protect her led to an unimaginable tragedy.
We’ll explore what we know about Jocelynn’s school experience, the warning signs that were ignored, and how policies like David’s Law (Texas’ anti-cyberbullying legislation) play a role in cases like this. Plus, we’ll discuss how schools can do better—and what we, as a community, can do to support vulnerable students.
💬 Poll: Do you think schools do enough to communicate with parents? Vote now and let me know your thoughts.
📌 Resources & Links:
🔗 Episode 2: social work +parenting
🔗 David’s Law & Anti-Bullying Resources: https://www.davidslegacy.org/
🔗 Mental Health Support for Youth & Immigrant Families
🎙️ If this episode resonated with you, please leave a review and rating—it helps more people find the podcast and continue these important conversations. Share your thoughts on Instagram (@socialworkscrapbook) or YouTube, and let’s keep this discussion going.
🚨 Have you ever felt like you met the perfect person—only to watch them transform into a nightmare?In this gripping episode of Heart of the Case, we dive deep into love bombing, narcissistic abuse, and the dangerous cycle that traps victims in toxic relationships. My guest, Melissa Fulgeri, bravely shares her personal experience of being manipulated, controlled, and ultimately breaking free from the grasp of a narcissist.🔍 In this episode, we explore:✅ What is love bombing? The early-stage tactic narcissists use to reel victims in.✅ How the cycle of abuse plays out: Idealization → Devaluation → Discard.✅ Why leaving a narcissist is so difficult (and how trauma bonding keeps you stuck).✅ Gaslighting & manipulation tactics used to keep you confused and doubting yourself.✅ The psychological & emotional impact of narcissistic relationships.✅ Steps to break free and heal after enduring narcissistic abuse.✅ How to rebuild self-worth and recognize red flags in future relationships.💔 If you’ve ever felt trapped in a toxic relationship, or you want to protect yourself and others from narcissistic abuse, this episode is a must-listen.🎧 don’t forget to share this episode with anyone who needs to hear it!
Follow me on Instagram
When does love stop feeling like love? In this episode of Heart of the Case, we take a deep dive into the heartbreaking story of Gabby Petito and the warning signs hidden in her relationship with Brian Laundrie. From their whirlwind engagement to the tragic road trip that ended in her murder, we explore the emotional toll of coercive control, dating violence, and how fear often hides in plain sight. Was Gabby trapped in a cycle of manipulation? Could love bombing have played a role in the highs and lows of their relationship?
We’ll also set the stage for our next episode, where I’ll share my personal experience with love bombing and how to spot the early red flags before it's too late. Plus, don’t miss the interactive poll on Instagram: Have you ever experienced love bombing?
💬 Let’s talk: Drop a comment, vote in the poll, and don’t forget to leave a ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ review if this episode resonated with you! Your support helps bring awareness to these important conversations.
🌟 Everyone is You Pushed Out 🌟
Are your thoughts shaping your reality more than you think? In this episode ofHeart of the Case, we’re diving deep into theEveryone is You Pushed Out concept, breaking it down with real-life examples, funny metaphors, and actionable steps to help you transform your relationships and mindset.
Whether you’re dealing with toxic coworkers, dating struggles, or just trying to stay sane in today’s world, this episode will show you how to shift your perspective and attract better experiences.
Spoiler alert: The energy you put out matters more than you realize!
🔮Listen now to learn:
✅ How your mindset shapes your interactions (without you even realizing it)
✅ Funny and tangible examples ofEveryone is You Pushed Out in action
✅ How to shift your energy to improve relationships and attract respect
✅ Ways to use the Law of Attraction in today’s unpredictable world
🎧Love this episode?
👉 Subscribe for more deep dives into mindset, true crime, and personal growth!
👉 Share this with a friend who NEEDS to hear this!
👉 DM me on Instagram@socialworkscrapbook with your biggest takeaways!
Love, passion, obsession… and murder. This Valentine’s Day, Heart of the Case dives into the chilling story of Jodi Arias and Travis Alexander, a relationship fueled by intense emotions, blurred boundaries, and a deadly obsession. Was Jodi struggling with deep-seated mental health issues? Could the warning signs have predicted the brutal crime that shocked the nation?
Join me as we explore the psychology behind toxic love, the dangers of obsession, and what we can learn about setting boundaries in relationships. Plus, stay tuned for the next episode, where I’ll share my own story and unpack the red flags of love bombing.
🔔 Don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review! Your support helps bring more eye-opening cases to Heart of the Case
In this episode of Heart of the Case, I reflect on the emotional weight of Inauguration Day and the arrival of a new president, unpacking what these moments mean for personal and collective growth. Join me as I explore the power of slowing down instead of chasing New Year’s resolutions, finding positivity amidst change, and recognizing the signs that you need to hit pause. Learn practical tips for embracing rest, staying hopeful during transitions, and honoring the lessons of self-awareness and balance. If you're feeling overwhelmed by the pace of life, this episode is for you. Tune in now!
Please rate and review 💗
In this gripping episode of Heart of the Case, we explore the heartbreaking story of Amanda Todd, a 15-year-old girl from Canada whose viral YouTube video revealed the devastating impact of cyberbullying and online harassment. Amanda’s story is a chilling reminder of the dangers lurking online and the urgent need to protect teens in today’s digital world.
Join me as we uncover the events leading to Amanda’s tragic passing, the relentless pursuit of justice against her predator, and the ongoing advocacy work by her family. This episode also dives into what parents, educators, and social workers can do to help teens navigate the challenges of online life, from privacy concerns to mental health support.
Whether you’re a parent looking for guidance, a social worker seeking insights, or someone passionate about creating safer online spaces, this episode is for you.
👉 Tune in now to learn how Amanda Todd’s story can inspire change.
🔗 Don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe for more stories blending true crime, heart, and social work insights.
Let's work together, social work supervision
Follow my social work vlogs
In this episode of Heart of the Case, we shift from the unsettling true crime case of JonBenét Ramsey to a heartfelt conversation about navigating our kids’ safety and privacy in the digital age. As parents, sharing family memories online—whether on Facebook, Instagram, or YouTube—can feel like walking a tightrope between preserving precious moments and protecting our children from unseen risks.
I’ll share my own journey as a mom who was once hesitant to post but found incredible joy in documenting our family memories on The GutiLife YouTube channel. We’ll discuss different perspectives on sharing kids’ lives online, practical tips for keeping them safe, and the meaningful impact these digital ‘scrapbooks’ can have on family bonds.
Whether you’re a parent who shares often or one who prefers to keep things private, this episode offers insights, reflections, and a whole lot of heart. Tune in and let’s find the balance together.
Family Vlog: https://youtube.com/@thegutilife5302?si=_oSexP9CueAYSJhG
Social Work Vlogs: https://www.youtube.com/@SocialWorkScrapbook