Becoming A Social Worker For Dummies

Be an agent of positive change with a rewarding career in social work

Social workers are trained to address major social issues and provide therapeutic services for children, youth, and families. Becoming a Social Worker for Dummies will introduce you to this empowering profession and teach you about the fulfilling career paths that focus on improving community and society. Learn what skills you need to be prepared to work in the field, and discover how you can enter a role that allows you to make a positive difference working with individuals, groups, organizations, systems, and even whole countries.

• Embark on a career that's satisfying, engaging, and financially sound
• Read about the different kinds of social work jobs available and pick the right path for you
• Learn how social work differs from other helping professions and bust common myths
• Get started on your journey toward working for equity and justice in your community

This clear, simple Dummies guide is for anyone who wants to learn more about the social work profession and its many sectors. Discover a career path where you can make a difference almost anywhere.

Introduction 1

Part 1: Getting Started with Social Work 5

Chapter 1: Seeing What Social Work Is All About 7

Chapter 2: Studying for a Career in Social Work and Choosing a Specialty 25

Chapter 3: Looking at the Helping Side of Social Work 47

Chapter 4: Navigating Race, Class, and Inequality Issues 67

Chapter 5: Supporting LGBTQIA+ Individuals 87

Chapter 6: Empowering Other Vulnerable Populations 105

Part 2: Exploring the Various Specialties in Social Work 127

Chapter 7: Assisting with Mental Health and Wellness 129

Chapter 8: Providing Trauma-Informed Care 149

Chapter 9: Helping People Overcome Substance Use and Addiction 171

Chapter 10: Adding Support in Health-Care Settings 197

Chapter 11: Working with Kids in Schools 211

Chapter 12: Community Organizing, Development, and Activism 235

Chapter 13: Enhancing Leadership Roles in Organizations 253

Chapter 14: Going Broad with Global Social Work 267

Part 3: Life in the Trenches 287

Chapter 15: Starting Your Life as a Social Worker 289

Chapter 16: Facing Tough Situations 303

Chapter 17: Exploring Professional Development 321

Part 4: The Part of Tens 333

Chapter 18: Ten Famous, Fabulous Social Workers 335

Chapter 19: Ten Jobs You Didn't Know Social Workers Could Do 341

Chapter 20: Ten Ways You Can Take Care of Yourself as a Social Worker 347

Index 357