Who are Social Workers and What Do They Do?
Social workers with a Master of Social Work (MSW) have completed a graduate program, which included both classroom study and clinical internships. They are licensed as Clinical Social Workers (LCSW) in the State of California after they complete a minimum of two years post-Masters training and pass written and oral State Board exams.
Social Workers are found in a variety of settings including private practice, mental health agencies, medical centers, and community agencies. They help people with their social, emotional and economic problems through counseling and by referring clients to appropriate services in the community.
In health settings, social workers help patients and families deal with concerns resulting from an illness such as a brain tumor. Here are some common problems patients and families may need help with:
- Loss of income
- Disability benefits
- Transportation
- Arranging for help at home
- Maintaining health insurance coverage
- Understanding and coping with cancer
- Anxiety and depression
- Reactions of family, friends, and children
- Being a caregiver
- Finding support groups or other helpful organizations
- Work related issues
