Child, Family, and School Social Workers
Child, family, and school social workers help people solve problems in their daily lives by providing counseling and connecting them with resources. They work with students facing challenges like bullying or family issues, counsel parents on child-rearing, and help families dealing with poverty, abuse, or mental health concerns. Using case management software and collaborating with schools, healthcare providers, and community organizations, they assess people's needs and guide them to services like job placement, housing assistance, or medical care. This career requires strong communication skills, empathy, and typically a bachelor's degree in social work, with opportunities to work in schools, hospitals, or community centers.
Did you know?
Most positions require a bachelor's degree in social work, psychology, or related field, with some states requiring specific certifications or licensure for youth services.
At a glance
Typical average pay
$57,800 Avg/yr
Growth
Stable
Top skill
Active Listening
Things to consider
Emotional Resilience and Self-Care
The role involves working with at-risk youth facing serious challenges, requiring strong emotional boundaries and consistent self-care practices to prevent burnout.
Career Advancement and Salary Expectations
Entry-level positions typically start around $35,000-$45,000 annually, with advancement opportunities to supervisory roles or specialized programs requiring additional experience or education.
Key responsibilities
Lead group counseling sessions that provide support in such areas as grief, stress, or chemical dependency.
Refer clients to community resources for services, such as job placement, debt counseling, legal aid, housing, medical treatment, or financial assistance, and provide concrete information, such as where to go and how to apply.
Counsel individuals, groups, families, or communities regarding issues including mental health, poverty, unemployment, substance abuse, physical abuse, rehabilitation, social adjustment, child care, or medical care.
Serve as liaisons between students, homes, schools, family services, child guidance clinics, courts, protective services, doctors, and other contacts to help children who face problems, such as disabilities, abuse, or poverty.
Evaluate personal characteristics and home conditions of foster home or adoption applicants.