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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.
List of contents
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
About the author
Dr. Yodit Betru, a licensed clinical social worker, has practiced in various settings, including schools, shelters, jails, child welfare agencies, and private and public mental health agencies. Currently, she's a college professor and director of the master of social work program at the University of Pittsburgh, specializing in trauma, race-based stress, and homelessness. She maintains a small private counseling practice and serves on the boards of community organizations aiding women, children, and families.
Summary
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.
