Clinical Social Work as a Career

A licensed clinical social worker has achieved a specific qualification within the general field of social work. The primary goal of any social worker is to assist individuals who are struggling in their lives. Those who want to make a positive impact in the lives of other people may want to consider a clinical social work career.

What Is Clinical Social Work?

Clinical social work involves assisting individuals, families and groups within a community. Clinical social workers assess and treat people struggling with problems related to mental, emotional and behavioral issues. In social work careers, professionals are advocates for individuals who need assistance.

What Do Clinical Social Workers Do?

A clinical social worker might work with adults, children or the elderly. Licensed clinical social worker jobs offer several areas of specialization. 

• Family: This type of social work includes working with families encountering difficult situations that affect the entire family. This may involve counseling couples who are struggling with marital problems or helping parents make decisions regarding their children.
• Children: A clinical social worker who specializes in working with children may address mental, emotional and behavioral problems. They would diagnose and treat conditions such as depression, anxiety, ADHD and bipolar disorder. They might also counsel children who have suffered from neglect and abuse.
• Geriatric: Geriatric clinical social worker jobs involve helping elderly individuals. Areas of employment could include nursing facilities, assisted living centers and hospitals.
• School: A clinical social worker in a school setting may counsel children who have behavioral or emotional problems. There would likely be positions available for a clinical social worker at the elementary, middle and high school levels.
• Substance abuse: An individual specializing in this area of social work would evaluate and counsel those who are struggling with a variety of drug and alcohol problems. A clinical social worker would be able to diagnose patients and help create a treatment plan. Places of employment might include schools, hospitals and rehabilitation facilities.
• Administrative: Clinical social workers in administrative roles would help create policy and implement various social programs.

What Education Is Required to Be a Clinical Social Worker?

The educational requirements for MSW jobs begin with receiving a bachelor's degree in social work, psychology or a related field such as child development. The next step would be to earn a master's degree in social work. It is important to note that becoming a licensed clinical social worker requires a master’s degree in social work. Different states will have various requirements regarding how much clinical experience is needed. An exam in social work must be taken to receive an official license. A licensed clinical social worker has achieved the most advanced certification that can be obtained in the field.

Getting Started in a Clinical Social Worker Career

To begin an exciting career as a clinical social worker, you'll want to find out more information regarding what is required and the steps you need to take. Invo-Progressus provides a variety of service opportunities in several fields including clinical social work. Contact Invo-Progressus for further information regarding MSW jobs and career opportunities.