Occupation information for Mental Health and Substance Abuse Social Workers District Of Columbia

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Typical education needed for entry: Master's degree

Typical work experience needed for a job in this occupation: No work experience

Typical on-the-job training once you have a job in this occupation: Internship/residency

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• Counsel clients in individual or group sessions to assist them in dealing with substance abuse, mental or physical illness, poverty, unemployment, or physical abuse.
• Collaborate with counselors, physicians, or nurses to plan or coordinate treatment, drawing on social work experience and patient needs.
• Monitor, evaluate, and record client progress with respect to treatment goals.
• Interview clients, review records, conduct assessments, or confer with other professionals to evaluate the mental or physical condition of clients or patients.
• Supervise or direct other workers who provide services to clients or patients.
• Modify treatment plans according to changes in client status.
• Assist clients in adhering to treatment plans, such as setting up appointments, arranging for transportation to appointments, or providing support.
• Educate clients or community members about mental or physical illness, abuse, medication, or available community resources.
• Counsel or aid family members to assist them in understanding, dealing with, or supporting the client or patient.
• Increase social work knowledge by reviewing current literature, conducting social research, or attending seminars, training workshops, or classes.

Tools:

• Desktop computers
• Notebook computers
• Personal computers

Technology:

• Desktop publishing software
• Electronic mail software
• Internet browser software
• Medical software
• Office suite software

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