Clinical Social Worker

What is a clinical social worker?

A clinical social worker is a professional who helps to assess and alleviate problems related to personal, family, or social situations. Clinical social workers are a vital part of the rehabilitation multidisciplinary team, and help provide support for the patient and family, coordinate discharge planning and insurance benefits, and assist with financial problems and family conflicts.

The entry level degree is a bachelor's in social work (B.S.W.), however most clinical social workers have earned at least a master's degree in social work (M.S.W.), and have completed at least two years of postgraduate, supervised, clinical social work employment. A doctorate in social work is also available (D.S.W., Ph.D.). 

Clinical social workers may practice in a variety of settings, including the following:

• Hospitals

• Psychiatric care settings

• Community organizations

• Industrial health centers

• Schools

• Home health settings

• Private practice

• Private social service agencies

Clinical social workers qualify as approved providers in most managed care and insurance plans.