toggle mobile menu Menu
toggle search menu

Site Navigation

Supplemental

Menu

Social worker

Top of the page

Social worker

Social workers are health professionals who use counseling to help people function in their environment, improve their relationships with others, and solve personal and family problems. They also help people locate and access appropriate resources for their particular needs.

A social worker may work in a hospital, community organization, or private counseling. Most social workers concentrate on a specific area of practice. For example, clinical social workers provide psychotherapy or counseling and a range of diagnostic services in public agencies, clinics, and private practice. Child or adult protective services social workers investigate reports of abuse and neglect and intervene if needed. And medical social workers provide counseling in hospitals, nursing homes, and rehabilitation facilities to people who are receiving therapy for physical problems or problems related to substance use.

Most social worker positions require a master's degree (MSW). But many social worker positions, such as a child protective services social worker, require a bachelor's degree (BSW) only. All 50 states require licensing, certification, and registration of social workers. Requirements vary from state to state.

This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise, Incorporated disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use. Healthwise is a URAC accredited health web site content provider. Privacy Policy. How this information was developed to help you make better health decisions.

To learn more, visit Healthwise.org

© 1995- Healthwise, Incorporated. Healthwise, Healthwise for every health decision, and the Healthwise logo are trademarks of Healthwise, Incorporated.

Take Care, Someone Needs You.

You take care of others, so take care of yourself. Let us be your partner in health, whether you're recovering from an injury, checking in for your annual exam, or enjoying an online class.

Because when you take care of yourself, everyone around you benefits.

Connect with Us
Contact Us In Boise (208) 381-2222