Social Worker
Kyra Lemons
What do they do?
Social workers help people solve and cope with problems in their lives. Some social workers diagnose and treat mental, behavioral, and emotional issues.
Environment
Social workers are employed in a different settings for example: mental health clinics, schools, child welfare and human service agencies, hospitals, and private practices. They usually work full time and need to work evenings, weekends, and even holidays.
How do you become one?
Most social workers need a bachelor’s degree in social work. Clinical social workers must have a master’s degree and two years of post-master experience in a supervised clinical setting. Clinical social workers also have to be licensed in the state they practice in.
Pay
In May 2012, the median annual wage for social workers was $44,200
Job Outlook
Employment of social workers is projected to grow 19 percent from 2012 to 2022, that is faster than the average for all occupations. Employment growth will be driven by increased demand for health care and social services, but will vary by specialty.