Transitioning into social work for a career but lacking licensing

June 18, 2019 7:43 AM

Interesting in hearing from Mefi's who are social workers, MF therapists, etc. with tips on how to transition into the social work field prior to getting my licensing and still pursuing my undergrad degree. What resources should I be utilizing to create a solid network, obtain paraprofessional positions in the field, etc?

I have social work experience in grief counseling, domestic violence hotlines, and AIDS caregiving as a volunteer up to this point.

posted by Lipstick Thespian to Work & Money (5 answers total)

Because of the extensive internship requirement while getting your degree where you are at is just fine. If your looking for internships in a particular area the experience you have will be helpful.

Your volunteer experience may give you a more realistic view of what social work is like. I think what you've listed is great.

Good luck going forward!

There are lots of positions in direct care (group homes ect) that don't require much in way of education to do, if you are looking for employment at the moment. I worked at a supportive living as overnight staff for years.

I've also seen individuals do clerk work at hospitals while pursuing degrees in nursing or social work.
posted by AlexiaSky at 8:11 AM on June 18, 2019

When I was getting my BSW and after I finished (but before getting my MSW) I worked in my area of interest doing activities and rec therapy. I did hands-on caregiving, too. It helps you get an idea of what the different agencies are like and builds skills in working with your chosen population.

But, I echo AlexiaSky; when you get to your field practicum, you'll be getting the experience that people are looking for. Use your volunteer work to help you figure out what kind of field placement to look for to maximize your time there!
posted by assenav at 10:01 AM on June 18, 2019

There are lots of positions in direct care (group homes ect) that don't require much in way of education to do, if you are looking for employment at the moment. I worked at a supportive living as overnight staff for years.

A friend of mine who was preparing to apply to MSW programs did something similar - I don't recall her exact title, but she worked at an inpatient psych hospital and assisted with patient care. (She has since completed her degree and is working as a school counselor.)
posted by showbiz_liz at 10:15 AM on June 18, 2019

I am not personally a social worker but I have known people who volunteered with crisis hotlines either before or during their MSW program. I see you've already done that, on second read through.
posted by arachnidette at 2:45 PM on June 18, 2019

Best answer: You can pursue Utilization Review or case management from inpatient or outpatient mental health facilities.

I have hired several people in your position. You would be part of the treatment team discussing the clinical symptoms of the patient, plan for adjusting medications and participate in discharge planning. You would relay this information to the managed care companies to request additional time for treatment. Duties would also include reviewing charts for medical necessity, working on appeals for denied authorizations as well as completing audits and reports.
posted by IndigoOnTheGo at 5:50 AM on June 20, 2019