Check Out All of the Different Career Paths You Can Choose as a Social Work Professional!
You decided to become a social work professional, because you’re committed to helping others. One of the best things about this field is the many career options it brings.
Whether you’re a student or new graduate trying to figure out your first job in social work or an experienced professional ready for a career change, there’s no shortage of options.
Here’s a look at five different types of jobs you can have in the social work field.
School Counselor
As a school counselor, you’ll work with students to help them develop necessary academic and social skills. This might involve helping them learn time management skills, figure out plans upon graduation, or even reporting potential cases of abuse to the proper authorities. You’ll likely need a master’s degree in counseling, psychology, or a related field.
The average annual salary for school and career counselors is $58,120, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Jobs are expected to increase 8% through 2029.
Rehabilitation Counselor
If you’re interested in assisting with clients with physical, mental, developmental, or emotional disabilities, a rehabilitation counselor could be your ideal job. In this role, you’ll help patients cope with the effects their disability has on their employment or ability to live independently. Some of your job duties might include arranging services for your clients, developing treatment plans, and advocating for their rights. You’ll likely need a master’s degree in rehabilitation counseling or a related field.
The average annual salary for rehabilitation counselors is $37,530, according to the BLS. Employment is expected to rise 10% — compared with 4% for all occupations — through 2029.
Licensed Clinical Social Worker
A social worker licensed to diagnose and treat clients experiencing mental, behavioral, and emotional disorders, these professionals help people change behaviors or cope with challenges. Serving individuals, groups, families, and couples, a licensed clinical social worker needs a master’s degree in social work and a minimum of two years of supervised clinical experience upon graduation.
The average annual salary for social workers is $51,760, according to the BLS. Jobs are expected to increase 13% through 2029.
Child & Family Social Worker
As a child and family social worker, you’ll be tasked with helping children and families in tough situations get the help they need. For example, you might help them find housing, childcare services, or apply for food stamps. If a child is in danger, you’ll also intervene to bring them to safety. You’ll need a minimum of a bachelor’s degree to become a child and family social worker.
The median annual salary for social workers is $48,430, according to the BLS. Jobs are expected to increase 13% through 2029.
Substance Abuse, Behavioral Disorder, and Mental Health Counselors
Working as a therapist or counselor offers several specializations, including substance abuse, behavioral disorder, and mental health. In this type of role, you’ll help patients suffering with substance abuse issues — i.e., alcoholism, drug addiction — eating disorders, mental health issues, or other psychological or behavioral concerns. For this type of job, you’ll need a bachelor’s degree, at minimum.
The average annual salary for a substance abuse, behavioral disorder, or mental health counselor is $47,660, according to the BLS. Employment for this type of job is expected to increase 25% through 2029.
Ready to take the next step in your social work career? If you would like to learn more about how we can help you find your next behavioral health position, contact us today at (513) 651-9500 or by email at [email protected].