Social workers assist individuals and groups with problems such as poverty; illness; substance abuse; child, spouse, or elder abuse; lack of financial management skills; emotional and mental health disorders; and inadequate housing.  Social workers often assist health care providers with connecting individuals to health care and social support resources.  There are five types of certified/licensed social workers: social work associate, licensed social worker, advanced practice social worker, licensed master’s social worker, and advanced clinical practice social worker.

Areas of Specialization
Social workers may choose to specialize in many areas. Specializations include school, clinical health care, child welfare, hospice, family, criminal justice and industrial or occupational social work. Other specialization areas are psychotherapy, drug and alcohol counseling, case management, and adult and child protective services.

Work Environment
Social workers often work independently, but they may also work within a team that consists of physicians, psychologists, lawyers, nurses, therapists, teachers, clergy, and other professionals concerned with a client’s welfare. They also consult and work with members of the client’s family. Working conditions vary within the nature of the work, type of employer, and the location. Social workers may find employment in agency offices, hospitals, clinics, schools, family service centers, private practice, prisons, or courts of law. Some positions require travel.