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Degrees and Schools
Individuals who are interested in pursing a career as a mental health or substance abuse social worker can attend a program leading to a bachelor's, master's or doctoral degree in social work. Many positions require a master's degree or higher. Some masters-level programs offer a concentration in mental health and/or substance abuse but even programs that don't offer this concentration typically offer coursework in these topics. Many students earn a master's in social work after obtaining a bachelor's degree in another related area. Social work programs can be found at large universities as well as at numerous smaller schools.
Coursework
Those who attend a social work degree program and who intend to work in the mental health or substance abuse fields may take courses similar to those listed below:
- psychosocial functioning
- mental health assessment
- alcohol, drugs and their effects on social functioning
- clinical practice in substance abuse
- clinical practice in group treatment
- treatment of mental disorders
- mental health policy
- applied psychosocial practice
Online Classes and Programs
A significant number of online social work programs are available at the bachelor's, master's and doctoral levels. For those students who will continue to work while studying, these programs offer a good alternative to traditional programs. Since online schools cater to students across the country, individuals will need to verify that the online program meets all the requirements of licensing, certification or registration that their state requires. Students should also be aware that, unlike at traditional schools, they will likely have to arrange their own field placements, which are a requirement of social work programs.
Employment Requirements
Mental health and substance abuse social work positions typically require candidates have a master's degree in social work or higher although some positions only require a bachelor's degree. Depending on the state, the social worker will also need to be licensed, certified or registered. Education and experience requirements for licensing vary by state and also vary by employer and position. Some positions will require that students have completed their field practice in a relevant mental health or substance abuse facility.
How to Evaluate Schools and Programs
Individuals comparing social work programs should consider the following questions:
- Field Practice - Are field placements available which match the student's career goals? How are placements secured?
- Concentration - Is there an option to concentrate in mental health and substance abuse social work? If not, are there enough courses available that focus on these areas?
- Licensing Requirements - Does the program offer the courses and field experience required by the relevant state licensing board? If not, is there a way to meet the requirements outside of the program?
- Financial - What are tuition and fee costs? What type of financial aid is available? Will the amount of loans that need to be taken out be reasonable, given a graduate's likely salary?
- Accreditation - Is the school accredited by a regional accrediting agency? Is the program accredited by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE)?
Mental Health and Substance Abuse Social Workers Job Description
Individuals whose lives are impaired by mental illness or substance abuse typically need outside help to treat their illnesses. Mental health and substance abuse social workers are dedicated to helping these people make significant improvements in their lives through informed assessment, counseling and treatment. They may work in psychiatric hospitals, outpatient mental health centers, substance abuse rehabilitation centers, employee-assistance departments and as private practice counselors. Mental health and substance abuse social workers may fulfill one or more of the following roles:
- clinical social worker
- mental health therapist / counselor
- mental health screener
- substance abuse counselor
- employee-assistance counselor
Some of the tasks a mental health and substance abuse social worker may be responsible for include:
- conducting assessments
- providing individual and group therapy
- monitoring and evaluating patient progress
- providing prevention education
- creating treatment plans
- providing crisis intervention
- advising and educating patient families
Resources
National Association of Social Workers - This membership organization supports the advancement of the social work profession through professional development, publications, specialty certification, research and social policy advocacy.
Mental Health America - This is a network of over 300 affiliates that is dedicated to helping American's lead mentally healthier lives. They advocate for policy changes, educate the public and deliver programs and services.
US Government Substance Abuse & Mental Health Services Administration - The SAMHSA administers government-funded programs to assist those in need of mental health and substance abuse services. They also administer health data collection programs to help lawmakers make informed policy decisions regarding prevention and treatment of mental health disorders and substance abuse.
American Mental Health Counselors Association - The AMHCA aims to enhance the profession of mental health counselors through professional development, education, advocacy and licensing. They have a membership of almost 6000 counselors.
NAADAC - Association for Addiction Professionals - This organization provides education, advocacy, standards of practice, professional development and research to support professionals who treat those with addictions.
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