Integrated social work refers to the use of a holistic approach in the practice of social work. It is a method of using all the methods of social work in coming up with lasting solutions to the problems and situations of individuals.
An example occurs in working with children who are in conflict with the law. A social worker, to ensure effective problem solving does not only deal with the juvenile, must involve the family or families involved and the community in which the child lives. To add to his or her knowledge base of solving such problems, the social worker thus needs to conduct social research and administration.
In integrated social work, there is a need to use these social methods together with the theories, values, and ethics of social work practice.