What is a social worker?

Within the hospital setting, a social worker is a person who is specially trained to counsel and assist in the emotional, social, environmental and financial needs of the heart patient and family. Social workers typically work for the hospital and serve as liaisons between medical staff and the family, both during and after hospitalization.

Social workers are health professionals who use counseling to help people function in their environment, improve their relationships with others, and solve personal and family problems. They also help people locate and access appropriate resources for their particular needs.

A social worker may work in a hospital, community organization, or private counseling. Most social workers concentrate on a specific area of practice. For example, clinical social workers provide psychotherapy or counseling and a range of diagnostic services in public agencies, clinics, and private practice. Child or adult protective services social workers investigate reports of abuse and neglect and intervene if needed. And medical social workers provide counseling in hospitals, nursing homes, and rehabilitation facilities to people who are receiving therapy for physical problems or addictive behaviors.

Most social worker positions require a master's degree (MSW). But many social worker positions, such as a child protective services social worker, require a bachelor's degree (BSW) only. All 50 states require licensing, certification, and registration of social workers. Requirements vary from state to state.