How hard is it to become a social worker?

To be successful in this career, you must be well-versed in the resources and programs available to assist your clients. You must understand the terms, program benefits and/or lack thereof, entry requirements, restrictions, and available services. Social workers must always be on the lookout for ever-changing program trends.

Similarly, social workers in advocacy roles must keep abreast of all proposed changes in policy and legislation on the local, state, and national political spectrum.

Licensed clinical social workers (LCSWs) are specialists accredited to treat mental and behavioral health problems. LCSWs need a master's degree in social work (MSW). Students enrolled in an MSW program study the clinical practice, diagnostic, and therapeutic techniques for mental, emotional, and behavioral health issues.

As mental health providers, clinical social workers have a great deal of responsibility to their clients. They also work with other health practitioners, including doctors, in assessing patients' mental health conditions and planning for intervention.

Here are a few examples of how social workers might assist the vulnerable populations they serve:

• Starting support groups

• Delivering individual therapy and counseling

• Devising rehabilitation and treatment plans

• Advocating for resources through social services, programs, and other assistance

The BLS reports that the best social workers have high emotional intelligence and can be empathetic, even when working with challenging populations. To help them in this sometimes difficult task, skills like active listening, reading social cues, and being aware of potential problems are important for success in the field.