Careers In Social Work: What You Need To Know

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The field of social work is broad and offers career options for all education levels. If you are interested in social work and want to make a difference in the lives of families and children, many careers in social work can allow you to do so.

This article discusses some common social work careers, including salary information and education requirements. People who are empathetic and enjoy working with others are best suited for careers in social work.

Education requirements for social work jobs range from associate to doctoral degrees depending on your chosen career path. Below are explanations of the various degree options for those who want to work in social work careers.

A bachelor’s degree in social work provides graduates with the knowledge and skills required to work in entry-level social work roles, apply for state licenses and certifications and pursue graduate degrees, such as a master’s in social work.

For this degree, expect coursework to cover social services, human behavior, alcoholism and chemical dependence and social work research. Most curriculums also require a social work practicum.

A bachelor’s degree in social work typically takes four years to complete, and many universities offer online programs.

A master’s degree in social work brings together clinical and community-based studies to create a comprehensive program for those who already have bachelor’s degrees. This master’s degree helps students grow their leadership skills. Graduates can pursue social work careers as case managers, researchers, clinicians and administrators.

In this degree, coursework may cover social welfare history and policy, diversity and social justice, human behavior and social work practice. Learners typically must complete a field practicum as well.

A master’s degree in social work usually takes two years to earn, and many universities offer online programs.

A doctorate in social work is an advanced practice doctorate designed for agency and community leaders and entrepreneurs. This degree helps seasoned professionals broaden their knowledge as scholars, innovators and leaders. Doctoral programs typically require learners to have a master’s degree and several years of post-master’s work experience.

This degree explores leading public discourse, executive leadership, research and financial management for social change. Doctoral students must complete a capstone project, too.

You may earn a doctor of social work (DSW) or a Ph.D. in social work. These programs vary in scope and time commitment, but they typically take two to five years to complete. Many universities offer online programs.

We sourced the below salary data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) and Payscale.

Median Annual Salary: $38,520 as of 2022

Education Needed: Social and human service assistants need at least a high school diploma and on-the-job training. Individuals entering this field typically have certificates or associate degrees in related subjects, which include human services, social or behavioral science and gerontology.

Career Overview: Social and human service assistants play an important support role for families. Job responsibilities may include:

Median Annual Salary: $59,990 as of 2022

Education Needed: Health education specialists should hold a bachelor’s degree in health education, social science or a related field. Employers may require certification. In some cases, candidates may need a master’s or doctoral degree.

Career Overview: Health education specialists work to improve clients’ well-being by teaching principles and behaviors that contribute to wellness. Job responsibilities may include:

Median Annual Salary: $74,240 as of 2022

Education Needed: Social and community service managers should have at least a bachelor’s degree in social work or a related field. Some positions may require a master’s degree.

Career Overview: Social and community service managers work with community organizations to help promote public well-being. Job responsibilities may include:

Median Annual Salary: $55,350 as of 2022

Education Needed: Social workers typically have a bachelor’s or master’s degree in social work. Becoming a licensed clinical social worker involves additional training. Each state has its own licensing requirements.

Career Overview: Social workers work in a variety of settings to assist people in preventing and coping with mental, behavioral and emotional challenges. Licensed clinical social workers also diagnose and treat these conditions. Job responsibilities may include:

Average Annual Salary: Around $65,000 as of December 2023

Education Needed: LCSWs must hold a graduate degree. Just as the job title states, LCSWs must earn licensure as well.

Career Overview: Licensed clinical social workers and social workers have similar responsibilities. LCSWs also help clients manage mental health challenges through psychological counseling and therapy. Job responsibilities may include:

Average Annual Salary: Around $47,000 as of December 2023

Education Needed: Child, family and school social workers should hold at least a bachelor’s degree in psychology or another counseling-related field. These social workers typically need state certification as well.

Career Overview: Child, family and school social workers provide support to families and children who may be considered at risk. They may work with clients in their homes, at schools or in other environments. Job responsibilities include:

A bachelor’s degree in social work qualifies graduates for some job opportunities in the field. A master’s degree qualifies professionals to diagnose and treat conditions and provide individual and group therapy. A master’s degree equips you with the education you need to pursue a career in social work.

Pay rates for social work vary greatly depending on the field and specific job responsibilities. The median annual salary for social workers in the United States was $55,350 as of 2022.

The highest-paying careers in social work are in hospitals, local government and ambulatory healthcare services. In May 2022, social workers in state, local and private hospitals earned a median annual wage of $66,300.

Social Security rule for beneficiaries who keep working is ‘poorly understood,’ report finds

Clinical Supervision and Licensed Supervisors Therapists in Olney, MD

Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C

Verified

Ms. Wells is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, Board Certified Supervisor , Court Approved Parent Coordinator (PC), and EMDR Trained therapist who offers more than 25 years of experience treating children, adolescents, & adults. She specializes in working with individuals & families who may be experiencing trauma/PTSD, anxiety, depression, OCD, ADHD, or other behavioral disorders. Ms. Wells has advanced training & certifications in EMDR, Trauma/PTSD, Anxiety, Parent Coordination& Mediation. Lastly, she is a breast cancer survivor who specializes in assisting women & families thrive during & after treatment.

Ms. Wells is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, Board Certified Supervisor , Court Approved Parent Coordinator (PC), and EMDR Trained therapist who offers more than 25 years of experience treating children, adolescents, & adults. She specializes in working with individuals & families who may be experiencing trauma/PTSD, anxiety, depression, OCD, ADHD, or other behavioral disorders. Ms. Wells has advanced training & certifications in EMDR, Trauma/PTSD, Anxiety, Parent Coordination& Mediation. Lastly, she is a breast cancer survivor who specializes in assisting women & families thrive during & after treatment.

Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, CCTP

I am a board certified supervisor & have been a licensed Social Worker since 2007 & practicing therapy since 2013.

I believe in the relationship between therapist & the people on their journey in therapy as a pivotal & paramount role in the therapeutic process. The right match is critical for continuing therapy & having a rewarding & fulfilling experience. I believe in a strengths based, supportive approach with an integrative & humanistic perspective while looking at the whole person as each area of life influences our mental health & daily functioning. It is my privilege to bear witness & walk with the people I serve while on their journey. Your story matters. I believe all of us are significant & what happens to you is unique & important.

I am a board certified supervisor & have been a licensed Social Worker since 2007 & practicing therapy since 2013.

I believe in the relationship between therapist & the people on their journey in therapy as a pivotal & paramount role in the therapeutic process. The right match is critical for continuing therapy & having a rewarding & fulfilling experience. I believe in a strengths based, supportive approach with an integrative & humanistic perspective while looking at the whole person as each area of life influences our mental health & daily functioning. It is my privilege to bear witness & walk with the people I serve while on their journey. Your story matters. I believe all of us are significant & what happens to you is unique & important.

Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C

I offer supervision for graduate level clinicians seeking clinical licensure.

Children, adolescents and young adults sometimes experience stress related to school, activities, challenges at home, or periods of transition. These stressors may lead to mood swings, changes in behavior and difficulty expressing emotions and thoughts. My role as a therapist is to help kids and young adults cope with stress and learn strategies to maintain an emotionally balanced life. I provide a comprehensive diagnostic evaluation and then work with individuals and families to develop an individualized treatment plan that draws from the client's existing strengths. I utilize evidence-based treatment primarily drawing from CBT.

I offer supervision for graduate level clinicians seeking clinical licensure.

Children, adolescents and young adults sometimes experience stress related to school, activities, challenges at home, or periods of transition. These stressors may lead to mood swings, changes in behavior and difficulty expressing emotions and thoughts. My role as a therapist is to help kids and young adults cope with stress and learn strategies to maintain an emotionally balanced life. I provide a comprehensive diagnostic evaluation and then work with individuals and families to develop an individualized treatment plan that draws from the client's existing strengths. I utilize evidence-based treatment primarily drawing from CBT.

Licensed Professional Counselor, EdD, LCPC

Verified

You are experiencing anxiety, depression, complicated grieving, or trauma recovery, often amid life's transitions. You may be in the LGBTQ+, grieving, cancer, or chronic illness communities. You are transitioning from college to the working world, considering marriage, coping with the loss of a spouse through divorce or death, loss of your job, have children leaving your nest, or parents struggling to age well. You may be transitioning from the working world to retirement and wondering if you have made meaningful contributions. You are ready to examine yourself authentically, building a less chaotic life through psychotherapy.

You are experiencing anxiety, depression, complicated grieving, or trauma recovery, often amid life's transitions. You may be in the LGBTQ+, grieving, cancer, or chronic illness communities. You are transitioning from college to the working world, considering marriage, coping with the loss of a spouse through divorce or death, loss of your job, have children leaving your nest, or parents struggling to age well. You may be transitioning from the working world to retirement and wondering if you have made meaningful contributions. You are ready to examine yourself authentically, building a less chaotic life through psychotherapy.

Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC

Verified

Dedicated to fostering mental well-being across diverse age groups, I excel in aiding children and parents through the complexities of various emotions and behaviors. Specializing in enhancing communication within couples, my expertise lies in navigating relationship challenges. Additionally, I guide adults through life transitions, anxiety, and depression, facilitating a path toward personal growth.

Dedicated to fostering mental well-being across diverse age groups, I excel in aiding children and parents through the complexities of various emotions and behaviors. Specializing in enhancing communication within couples, my expertise lies in navigating relationship challenges. Additionally, I guide adults through life transitions, anxiety, and depression, facilitating a path toward personal growth.

Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, CAGCS

Grief is a deep sorrow we experience after we are faced with losses in our lives. These losses can be because of someone we knew and loved, or a life transition. These losses can be expected, such as a loved one dying from an illness, or sudden, such as someone dying by suicide. Regardless of the reasons for the grief, everybody grieves differently. It is important to also remember that loss and grief are not only the result of a death. Many people grieve due life changes such as the loss of a job, a marriage etc..

Grief is a deep sorrow we experience after we are faced with losses in our lives. These losses can be because of someone we knew and loved, or a life transition. These losses can be expected, such as a loved one dying from an illness, or sudden, such as someone dying by suicide. Regardless of the reasons for the grief, everybody grieves differently. It is important to also remember that loss and grief are not only the result of a death. Many people grieve due life changes such as the loss of a job, a marriage etc..

Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C

Verified

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker providing individual psychotherapy in Olney, Maryland. I specialize in depression, anxiety, life transitions, divorce. I hold a Master of Social Work degree from the University of Maryland School of Social Work with a clinical concentration and specialization in families and children. I have 24 years of experience in the field of Social Work and have been in private practice in Olney for 20 years. I am currently only working with adult clients. I am a participating provider with many insurance companies. My office hours hours are 9-5 Monday-Friday. I look forward to working with you.

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker providing individual psychotherapy in Olney, Maryland. I specialize in depression, anxiety, life transitions, divorce. I hold a Master of Social Work degree from the University of Maryland School of Social Work with a clinical concentration and specialization in families and children. I have 24 years of experience in the field of Social Work and have been in private practice in Olney for 20 years. I am currently only working with adult clients. I am a participating provider with many insurance companies. My office hours hours are 9-5 Monday-Friday. I look forward to working with you.

Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, CCATP-C

Verified

I have 15 years of experience as an LCSW-C supporting, educating and holding emotional space for teens and their families. I have post graduate training with a Certification in Child and Adolescent Therapy, a Certification in Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT) and am a Certified Anxiety Treatment Professional. I am also trained as an ADHD Coach with teens and young adults. I work colaboratively with adolescents, young adults and their families dealing with issues of anxiety, depression, parenting, family conflicts, sexuality, and childhood traumas. I partner with parents and schools to support client with ADHD and educational issues.

I have 15 years of experience as an LCSW-C supporting, educating and holding emotional space for teens and their families. I have post graduate training with a Certification in Child and Adolescent Therapy, a Certification in Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT) and am a Certified Anxiety Treatment Professional. I am also trained as an ADHD Coach with teens and young adults. I work colaboratively with adolescents, young adults and their families dealing with issues of anxiety, depression, parenting, family conflicts, sexuality, and childhood traumas. I partner with parents and schools to support client with ADHD and educational issues.

Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, Health , Coach

Verified

Are you experiencing major anxiety and/or depression? Are you stuck in a place of chronic overwhelm? Do you have chronic fatigue, joint aches, pain, digestive issues no matter what you try? Is your child experiencing mental health and/or behavioral issues? As a clinical social worker for the last 25 years and a Health Coach for 11, I combine an integrative and holistic approach to emotional AND physical well-being. We all deal with daily stress, loss, and crisis, but if we feel better physically and learn tools and techniques how to handle the stress, we will be better equipped to face the challenges that are presented to us.

Are you experiencing major anxiety and/or depression? Are you stuck in a place of chronic overwhelm? Do you have chronic fatigue, joint aches, pain, digestive issues no matter what you try? Is your child experiencing mental health and/or behavioral issues? As a clinical social worker for the last 25 years and a Health Coach for 11, I combine an integrative and holistic approach to emotional AND physical well-being. We all deal with daily stress, loss, and crisis, but if we feel better physically and learn tools and techniques how to handle the stress, we will be better equipped to face the challenges that are presented to us.

In our office, clients are our guests. You are welcome - as an individual or a family - into a safe space, a second home. And as our guest, you will experience a comforting environment where you can share your most vulnerable moments openly, in confidence, and without judgment. Together, we will identify and address your concerns and your goals. Throughout the process, there will be reflection, learning and laughing on the way to clarity and empowerment.

In our office, clients are our guests. You are welcome - as an individual or a family - into a safe space, a second home. And as our guest, you will experience a comforting environment where you can share your most vulnerable moments openly, in confidence, and without judgment. Together, we will identify and address your concerns and your goals. Throughout the process, there will be reflection, learning and laughing on the way to clarity and empowerment.

Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, C-DBT

Verified

I am currently licensed at the clinical level (LCSW-C) to practice social work in Maryland. I utilize a direct, yet warm and affirming approach in therapy. Each client is unique and I work hard to assist clients in achieving his or her treatment goals through Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Solution- Focused Therapy. Much of my work focuses on Mindfulness and supportive therapies.

I am currently licensed at the clinical level (LCSW-C) to practice social work in Maryland. I utilize a direct, yet warm and affirming approach in therapy. Each client is unique and I work hard to assist clients in achieving his or her treatment goals through Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Solution- Focused Therapy. Much of my work focuses on Mindfulness and supportive therapies.

Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, ACS

Welcome! Everyone has a unique story and I believe that therapy is a safe place to come and explore that story. My therapeutic style includes facets of CBT , and incorporates a variety of techniques based on my client's individual needs, including mindfulness, strength- based approaches, and play-therapy. Using active conversation and encouragement, my collaborative, client-centered approach helps my clients to gain a sense of their own individuality and uniqueness.

Welcome! Everyone has a unique story and I believe that therapy is a safe place to come and explore that story. My therapeutic style includes facets of CBT , and incorporates a variety of techniques based on my client's individual needs, including mindfulness, strength- based approaches, and play-therapy. Using active conversation and encouragement, my collaborative, client-centered approach helps my clients to gain a sense of their own individuality and uniqueness.

I offer individual therapy to adults as well as clinical supervision and consultation.

​Trauma does not discriminate. It can happen to anyone no matter their circumstances. Fortunately, there are also treatments that can help. In my 18+ years of experience, I have born witness to the incredible resilience of individuals who have experienced trauma and firmly believe that recovery is possible. I have expertise in working with survivors of all forms of trauma including (but not limited to) service members, veterans, journalists (awarded certificate through JTSN), childhood abuse, chronic invalidation, developmental trauma, intergenerational trauma, race-based trauma, and interpersonal violence.

I offer individual therapy to adults as well as clinical supervision and consultation.

​Trauma does not discriminate. It can happen to anyone no matter their circumstances. Fortunately, there are also treatments that can help. In my 18+ years of experience, I have born witness to the incredible resilience of individuals who have experienced trauma and firmly believe that recovery is possible. I have expertise in working with survivors of all forms of trauma including (but not limited to) service members, veterans, journalists (awarded certificate through JTSN), childhood abuse, chronic invalidation, developmental trauma, intergenerational trauma, race-based trauma, and interpersonal violence.

Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, LCSW

Verified

**I am also a Board Certified Supervisor with the Board of Social Work Examiners in Maryland**.

My goal as a therapist is to provide a safe, supportive and nonjudgmental environment, to build a healthy and strong therapeutic relationship in order to start the healing process. By working together you will explore and process feelings, beliefs, or behaviors, and identify personal goals to improve problem areas in your life. I work with adolescents, adults and families. I specialize in treating numerous presenting problems including, depression, anxiety, ADHD, behavior management, life transitions and bipolar disorder.

**I am also a Board Certified Supervisor with the Board of Social Work Examiners in Maryland**.

My goal as a therapist is to provide a safe, supportive and nonjudgmental environment, to build a healthy and strong therapeutic relationship in order to start the healing process. By working together you will explore and process feelings, beliefs, or behaviors, and identify personal goals to improve problem areas in your life. I work with adolescents, adults and families. I specialize in treating numerous presenting problems including, depression, anxiety, ADHD, behavior management, life transitions and bipolar disorder.

Counselor, LCPC, ACS, ADS

Verified

LCPC, Board Approved Supervisor , Auricular Detoxification Specialist (ear acupuncture) and Reiki Master Practitioner dedicated to supporting clients on a journey of emotional and spiritual healing.

Integrative psychotherapist with 10+ years of clinical counseling experience in public and private practice.

LCPC, Board Approved Supervisor , Auricular Detoxification Specialist (ear acupuncture) and Reiki Master Practitioner dedicated to supporting clients on a journey of emotional and spiritual healing.

Integrative psychotherapist with 10+ years of clinical counseling experience in public and private practice.

Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C

If you or your child are struggling with Depression, Anxiety or Behavioral challenges and you are not quite sure where to start, let us begin the journey towards healing together. Are you hoping to find ways for you or your child to learn to both express their emotions and gain insight into them? With over 20 years experience providing mental health services to children, teens and adults, I am here. I will join with you and/or your child as we identify measurable goals towards mental health improvement together. Much of my career has been spent as a Clinical Supervisor at agencies such as Sheppard Pratt Health and Kennedy Krieger.

If you or your child are struggling with Depression, Anxiety or Behavioral challenges and you are not quite sure where to start, let us begin the journey towards healing together. Are you hoping to find ways for you or your child to learn to both express their emotions and gain insight into them? With over 20 years experience providing mental health services to children, teens and adults, I am here. I will join with you and/or your child as we identify measurable goals towards mental health improvement together. Much of my career has been spent as a Clinical Supervisor at agencies such as Sheppard Pratt Health and Kennedy Krieger.

Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C

I am a Board Approved Licensed Clinical Supervisor in the State of Maryland, providing supervision toward licensure for MSW students and clinical supervision for LMSWs working toward advanced licensure.

As your counselor my goal is to serve as your guide while you navigate through life's transitions. My goal is to guide you unpack the barriers that hinder you from reaching your potential. I tailor treatment to meet your needs and will work collaboratively with you to move forward. I have experience working with clients from all backgrounds and experiences and I specialize in working with the LGB, Trans and Non binary community, racial and ethnic minority identity exploration. I have experience helping heal the trauma experienced by refugees, asylees and immigrants, and from childhood abuse.

I am a Board Approved Licensed Clinical Supervisor in the State of Maryland, providing supervision toward licensure for MSW students and clinical supervision for LMSWs working toward advanced licensure.

As your counselor my goal is to serve as your guide while you navigate through life's transitions. My goal is to guide you unpack the barriers that hinder you from reaching your potential. I tailor treatment to meet your needs and will work collaboratively with you to move forward. I have experience working with clients from all backgrounds and experiences and I specialize in working with the LGB, Trans and Non binary community, racial and ethnic minority identity exploration. I have experience helping heal the trauma experienced by refugees, asylees and immigrants, and from childhood abuse.

I have degrees in business as well as in counseling; currently serving as a clinical supervisor .

Are you facing a challenge/hurdle that is hindering your career goals, affecting relationships, or your general ability to function? Are you feeling overwhelmed by life's demands or a recent event that has occurred in your life? Are you at a transitional point in your life or in your career? If so, I would love to work with you, assist you in building self-confidence, in processing the root cause of the challenge, and in making your way to the other side where success awaits you!

I have degrees in business as well as in counseling; currently serving as a clinical supervisor .

Are you facing a challenge/hurdle that is hindering your career goals, affecting relationships, or your general ability to function? Are you feeling overwhelmed by life's demands or a recent event that has occurred in your life? Are you at a transitional point in your life or in your career? If so, I would love to work with you, assist you in building self-confidence, in processing the root cause of the challenge, and in making your way to the other side where success awaits you!

Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C

I also provide Board certified supervision .

Something in your life isn't going well. Unsatisfactory relationships, overwhelming anxiety, or negative mood may be getting in your way. You worked on it alone, but the situation isn't better. Psychotherapy is a way for us to address challenges together, fix a situation in your life, or cope better with what can't get fixed. Psychotherapy is our work of addressing human struggles. Your struggles may be eased by engaging in this work. Work guided by empirical research, supported with dignity, and engaged with imaginatively within a supportive relationship.

I also provide Board certified supervision .

Something in your life isn't going well. Unsatisfactory relationships, overwhelming anxiety, or negative mood may be getting in your way. You worked on it alone, but the situation isn't better. Psychotherapy is a way for us to address challenges together, fix a situation in your life, or cope better with what can't get fixed. Psychotherapy is our work of addressing human struggles. Your struggles may be eased by engaging in this work. Work guided by empirical research, supported with dignity, and engaged with imaginatively within a supportive relationship.

Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C

Accepting New Clients! Lisa is a Licensed Certified Social Worker-Clinical & a board-approved clinical supervisor . With thirty years of eclectic clinical experience & eighteen years of behavioral health leadership experience, Lisa has helped a variety of people with diverse needs. This includes children, adolescents, adults, families, couples, parents, groups, communities, students, & professionals experiencing depression, anxiety, ADHD, stress, compassion fatigue, burnout, life changes, & workplace challenges. Empathy, compassion, trust, and unconditional regard are the foundation of the therapeutic relationship with Lisa.

Accepting New Clients! Lisa is a Licensed Certified Social Worker-Clinical & a board-approved clinical supervisor . With thirty years of eclectic clinical experience & eighteen years of behavioral health leadership experience, Lisa has helped a variety of people with diverse needs. This includes children, adolescents, adults, families, couples, parents, groups, communities, students, & professionals experiencing depression, anxiety, ADHD, stress, compassion fatigue, burnout, life changes, & workplace challenges. Empathy, compassion, trust, and unconditional regard are the foundation of the therapeutic relationship with Lisa.

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