Clinical Social Workers and You

A large and diverse field, social work refers to any number of methods of improving people’s lives. While some clinical social workers may work for some branch of a state run social program (including Child Protective Services) others work primarily as therapists, similar to counselors.

There are various stages in a person’s life when they may find themselves requiring the assistance of a clinical social worker. And while not everyone will require a CSW’s assistance, they do touch the lives of thousands of people every day. Among those most affected by the role of a social worker are:

Children

Clinical social workers often work within schools, counseling children with emotional or behavioral problems. Sometimes, these problems are signs of a deeper issue; including abuse in the home or an underlying learning disability. A social worker can also facilitate meetings between parents, teachers, and student, as well—helping to create an individualized education plan (IEP) that will help those students achieve their highest potential.

Foster children and those that have been removed from their parental home also spend time with a clinical social worker. CSWs help ensure that a child’s transition from one home to another is as smooth as possible. It is not uncommon for social workers to be present during court ordered supervised visitations when abuse has been suspected.

The Homeless

The transition from homelessness can be exceedingly difficult, especially because finding employment without an address can be next to impossible. Social workers work with homeless people in hospitals and halfway houses, helping them to find employment and temporary housing. Social workers who are employed by the state often advise those that are on welfare as well, helping them get back on their feet.

People Struggling with Substance Abuse

Substance abuse programs often call for counseling programs, and many of these are led by clinical social workers. CSWs lead individual and group therapy sessions (whether sought out personally or court ordered) which are essential to a full and healthy recovery from drug, alcohol, or sexual dependency.

The Mentally Ill

Hospitalized patients who are psychologically distressed or in need of psychiatric care are often assigned a clinical social worker to look out for their best interests. Many times, these patients cannot make decisions on their own, and need someone to help decide on the best course of care for them. CSWs help plan their medical treatment, as well as set up after care and living arrangements.