Healthcare Social Worker
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Healthcare Social Workers are licensed mental health practitioners who work in hospitals, clinics, and other healthcare settings providing emotional, mental, and social support to patients and their families. Healthcare Social Workers help patients cope with the stress of illness, injury, and medical procedures and help patients navigate the healthcare system.
Education
Healthcare Social Workers need a Master of Social Work (MSW) degree from a Council on Social Work Education (CSWE)-accredited program. Most MSW programs take two years to complete and include coursework in social work theory and practice, human behavior and the social environment, research methods, and field work. In addition to their MSW, Healthcare Social Workers must also be licensed by the state in which they practice.
Skills and Qualities
Healthcare Social Workers should have strong communication and interpersonal skills, as well as the ability to work independently and as part of a team. They should also be compassionate and understanding, and have a strong commitment to helping others.
