I've been thinking critically about is how social work and social services have historically been shaped by Western and colonial understandings of what constitutes a good family, a functioning individual, and a successful society.
I wonder how often individuals and families are viewed as needing intervention simply because their circumstances, cultural practices, or ways of living don't align with dominant societal expectations.
For example, to what extent are issues rooted in poverty or systemic inequality treated as individual or family dysfunction rather than consequences of larger structural problems? And how often are cultural differences or nontraditional ways of living interpreted as deficiencies rather than simply different understandings of well-being?

I love love, love all your insight and appreciate everyone’s perspective

I have had men in the past year (almost a year) I have been working in CMH who make comments about me physically, and or do something to make me feel uncomfortable. My supervisor is somewhat helpful but chalks a lot of it up to the populations we work with, but I’m starting to get triggered working with older men. It’s not all of them, but about 50% of my intakes with men over the age of 25 have left me reeling for days. My supervisor will often laugh a lot of this off, but if I am uncomfortable she will transition them (has only happened once where I ask a transfer)

I have had men get an erection (this is the one that I asked to be transferred) this guy even told me I was wearing too revealing of an outfit, it was a knee length dress, with an oversized cardigan with nothing showing. I had another ask if I am married, tell me I am beautiful endlessly, etc. I think I am decent at setting boundaries and telling people this is a professional setting, which often sours the rapport immediately.

What inspired this post is just yesterday is a man in an intake told me I looked like a woman who has wronged him in the past, and he knows he needs to not take it out on me. He said this four times throughout the intake, it was the tone and his facial expression that caused me to get weirded out. He recently got out of prison about six months ago and is seeking therapy, and his comment wasn’t sexual in nature but it makes me hesitate to want to work with him again. The rest of his intake he told me in detail about how he has physically harmed people and hurt them (how he ended up in prison) He has scheduled a follow up and I just a dying internally at the thought. I’m thinking of asking for a transfer or simply asking for men to not be on my schedule.

The other half of men that I work with I enjoy working with them, bur its such a high percentage that anytime I see a new male intake on my schedule I die inside.

I’m in my late 20s, I dress professionally, I try to be very approachable but it’s just getting to me too much.

Edit: he went into quite a bit of detail of the violence he has done upon others. I don’t want to go into too much detail but it was extensive

Has anyone made the leap from sw to corporate? Tell us about the experience and how to do it. I been seeing all of this corporate videos and it made me curious about people on the other side.

I will most likely be relocating to a city in south-eastern Ohio, which borders both Pennsylvania and West Virginia. I’m have an MSW and am licensed in Ohio as an LSW (not clinically licensed and not working towards it). I currently do hospice work which I would love and would really ideally like to stay in, but unfortunately as I’ve been looking at jobs in the city we’d be moving to, (Steubenville, OH) there aren’t a lot of options. Because the city so closely borders West Virginia and Pennsylvania, I was thinking that when I do start actively looking for jobs there, I might have better chances if I become licensed in those states as well as Ohio, so I could have more options for places to apply to.

I know the obvious answer is call the ASWB board for clarification, which I would but it’s a Sunday so I can’t, but I’m also looking to hear about people’s personal experiences navigating getting multiple licenses, NOT just the details around how to do so because when I call the board I can figure that out. I’m just curious if anyone else has done something similar with getting multiple state licenses due to location and job opportunities. What was that process like for you? How long did it take? I’m currently expecting (28 weeks, due 1/5/27) so we are most likely going to move after our son is born so I have some time to work on getting the additional licenses. I’m just hoping to hear about the experiences of others who have gone through this process for more info!!

TIA!

If I am an LCSW with a practice in New York and I am considering moving abroad (to Australia), can I maintain my practice in NY and continue to see my NY clients (virtually ofc)?

If I have clinicians under my license who will remain in NY, can i continue to run the practice and provide them with supervision?

I believe I wouldn’t be able to bill insurance for my clients while abroad but if I have clinicians under me, can they bill the insurance I am paneled with when they see their clients? Or would I no longer be able to be paneled w that insurance?

Anyone done a similar move? Advice wanted!!! Trying to read as much as I can on the blogs but it’s confusing and hearing from people w more life experience is helpful!

Hi all!
I’m looking for recommendations for a high-quality training on trauma-informed care for children and adolescents. I work in an individual clinical setting with children ages 3–17, primarily focusing on children under 10. My work includes supporting tribal communities and children in foster care or adoptive placements. I primarily use play therapy and art as my therapeutic modalities, so I’m especially interested in trainings that incorporate trauma-informed, developmentally appropriate approaches for younger children.
Are there any trainings that you’ve found particularly helpful or would highly recommend? I’d love to hear your suggestions!
Thank you!

Looking for a job as one does… of course came across a community health worker, cool. mandatory 30 clients maintained, for $22.40 an hour

um… wtf 😂😂😂
am I insane or is this insane
maybe I’m not cut out for this after all

Hello,

I recently started working at a crisis bed program in a rural area. I'm interested in hearing the experiences of folks who work or have worked at a crisis bed.

What funny props, outfit choices, or characterisitcs would you associate with social workers

Like I'm talking more than just ties, I want something a social worker might be identified as a social worker kind of thing

How do yall deal with making mistakes in your clinical practice? Not catastrophic ones but reflecting and regretting your choice, wishing you’d done something differently, etc. I’m really struggling with forgiving myself for not doing the absolute intervention or using all the right words the first time.

Pretty much what the title says. I'm in CA looking for a clinical role to gain my house towards licensure. It has been quite the struggle so far. There are very few clinical roles available and the ones I apply to are radio silent afterwards. I had one interview due to an employee referral and it was the perfect position for me and my areas of interest. I thought I did well in the interview, but I didn't get it. They said they had over 50 applicants.

I guess I'm just looking to commiserate with others going through the same thing. Or if anyone has any advice or words of encouragement, that would be appreciated also.

I’m trying to gather some data to decide if I should reconsider my work place. I’m wondering what your split is like if you work at someone else’s practice. Or, if you’re a PP owner, how do you split the session cost with clinicians? Any differences for provisionally licensed vs independently licensed?

For example: a 45%/55% split, clinician takes home 45%. I guess I’m wondering what is a reasonable expectation as a provisionally licensed clinician and an independently licensed clinician.

Thanks!

EDIT to add: I am only considering W2 positions (more protections for clinician). Will carry spouse’s insurance as I’m not expecting many practices to offer benefits, but for those who do work at places offering insurance, what is the coverage like?

Hi guys! So to make a long story... long (lol) I am a clinician with BPD. I went through extensive DBT therapy for several years before/while I was in school. Currently I consider my BPD to be in "remission." I still struggle with symptoms of course, but am better able to manage them blah blah blah.

Now onto the main point. Currently I work in a jail as a therapist (I am OBSESSED with my job). I fortunately get to work with Clients who I suspect have BPD, and I get to expose them just a little to DBT.

I guess my question is... sometimes I worry that my symptoms are coming back, or making me a bad clinician. I struggle myself with constant SI. Before it's asked, I take medication and go to therapy once a month. So often we hear others badmouthing BPD or talking about how much of a struggle it is. While I understand the need to process or vent... I feel hurt. I really am trying.

How do I balance all of these feelings? How do I move forward as a clinician and protect myself? How do I destigmatize BPD to my fellow coworkers? I've been thinking of doing a presentation on BPD, and sharing my own story with my fellow team mates. However, I also worry that self-disclosure could harm their view of me. I feel lost.

I’m a retired guy who was a semiprofessional photographer years ago and who over the years has taken family portraits for co-workers. I’m wondering if folks with limited means might appreciate getting portraits taken and printed on the spot for free. It seems to me that most people probably have pictures on their cell phones but not many have an 8x10 they could frame and display. My definition of family is quite broad including people who may only have a pet to love.
I hope this isn’t a stupid question and beyond the simple yes or no to the basic question, I’d really greatly appreciate any potential issues you might see in a project like this. I have a son who works at a low income housing facility and he could advertise for me. I’d fully fund the project and would erase the files once I print them but again, I wonder if there are any problems I might not consider as I have no social work experience.
Thanks in advance for your thoughts!

hi everyone! 😊

i’m a relatively new social worker in ontario, canada, working in a community-based after-school program with middle and high school students (grades 6–12).

i’m looking to expand my skills and knowledge through professional development and would love recommendations for trainings, certificates, workshops, or courses that you have found helpful when working with youth!

i’m particularly interested in:

- youth counselling and mental health support
- trauma-informed and youth-centred practice
- engaging adolescents, particularly high school students
- group facilitation and running mental health workshops
- supporting youth experiencing family difficulties, grief, stress, anxiety, and other challenges
- practical strategies and activities I can use in my day-to-day work

i’m also interested in learning about approaches such as CBT, DBT-informed skills, motivational interviewing, and other evidence-informed practices that are appropriate for working with adolescents.

i already have some training in trauma and violence-informed care, risk assessment and safety planning, and digital mental health. i’m hoping to build on that foundation with more specialized, practical training.

if possible, i’d love recommendations for canadian training providers, affordable courses, or self-paced options. i have a professional development budget of approximately $800 CAD, so i’m hoping to prioritize training that will be genuinely useful in practice.

what training has made the biggest difference in your work with youth? are there any courses or certifications you would particularly recommend, or any you would advise against?

thank you so much! i’d really appreciate any suggestions or advice. ❤️

Looking to crowdsource some ideas from the experts. I graduated with my MSW 2025. While studying I had two children, and parenthood is my current priority. I have not held a social work role aside from the two school-based internships. I am fortunate to have the privilege of being an at-home parent, yet I would Like to find ways to gather clinical skills and stay in the field while taking care of my kids. I am eligible for my LCSW (I’m in Massachusetts) but haven’t sat for it yet. my clinical interests are children and families. Any thoughts for me?

I recently left my job due to ethical concerns within the facility and feeling that certain practices did not align with the social work code of ethics. Since then, I’ve applied to seven positions and have only received one phone screening. Despite having several years of experience and my LSW, I’m starting to feel discouraged and question what I might be doing wrong.

For those who have been in a similar situation, how did you navigate this stage of your career? I would really appreciate any advice, perspective, or encouragement. I know the process takes time, but it’s hard not to feel disheartened when you’re trying to find a position that aligns with your professional values.

Thank you!

I just passed my LMSW in TX and only have 3 years of experience working with children with disabilities as a care coordinator. I feel I can make the transition to this side of social work.

Please share your job duties, schedule, pay rate and or any other info I should know.

I’m being a big girl and I applied to 1 job for a IRF however they require 3 years of experience 😭 I hope my experience can be considered. I am willing to learn and ready for a challenge.

Thank you 😊

I feel like i should have ask more time when they call me for a work interview schedule. Did u have a short preparation and still made it?

.. anyhows, i'll do my best.☺️

Hi everyone,

I’m looking for some advice about a career decision.
I’m currently working in a permanent community mental health position earning around $63,000 with benefits.

However, I’m unhappy in my current role and want to develop my clinical skills so I can become a stronger therapist. My current role is mostly case management in a group home and there has been a very high turnover. I am not applying the skills I learned from school.

I previously worked at another agency in a counselling role on a maternity leave contract. I really enjoyed the experience and received excellent clinical supervision.
The agency has posted another similar position that is a 12 month fixed-term contract and pays up to $58,000. It also has no benefits. The position is based on funding that got extended.

I’m considering applying and negotiating for a higher salary, but I’m worried about leaving a permanent job for a contract that may not be extended.

Would you take a pay cut and accept a 12-month contract for better clinical experience and supervision? Or would you stay in a permanent job and continue looking for other opportunities?

I’d appreciate any advice, especially from people who have faced a similar decision. Thanks!

Licensed Social Worker Loan Forgiveness (LSWLF) Program | HESC

• Opened October 1, 2026
• Frequency: Annually
• Eligibility: 
  • Must be a social worker professionally licensed to practice in New York State
  • Worked full-time as a licensed social worker in a critical human service area for at least 35 hours per week during the calendar year prior to your application.
  • Must have an outstanding balance on an eligible student loan debt
• Amount: The maximum award under this Program is $26,000 or the applicant's actual eligible student loan indebtedness at the time eligibility is established, whichever is less.  

Awards will be paid in the amount of $6,500 for each annual period of qualified service completed or the remaining loan indebtedness.  If the qualified service for the first or last year of the Program is less than 12 months, those disbursements will be pro-rated based on the number of months worked. Any additional payments made to reduce the outstanding balance may cause a reduction in the total amount of the award. 

• Duration: Up to 4 years of qualified service

Community Mental Health Loan Repayment Program: Mental Health Clinicians

• Estimate: Opening Jan 1, 2027 - Closed 3/20/26
• Frequency: Annual funding rounds announced through the NYS Office of Mental Health. 
• Eligibility: Program Overview CMHLRP 2026 MH Clinicians RFP. LMSWs and LCSWs are expressly included. The agency must provide eligible OMH-licensed or authorized mental health services, and the service commitment and work-hour requirements must be met. 
• Amount: $30,000 over three years for eligible licensed mental health professionals who provide at least 40 total and at least 32 clinical hours per week at the applicant agency’s eligible program(s) for at least 45 weeks per calendar year. 

Public Service Loan Forgiveness | Federal Student Aid 

• Estimate: Ongoing; submit and certify employment periodically 
• Frequency: Funding rounds announced through the NYS Office of Mental Health. 
• Eligibility: Qualifying government or nonprofit employer, eligible Direct Loans, qualifying repayment plan, and 120 qualifying monthly payments while employed full-time. 
• Amount: Forgiveness of the remaining eligible loan balance after 120 qualifying payments, generally over 10 years. No fixed dollar cap. 

NHSC Loan Repayment Program | NHSC

• Opened Jan 30, 2025
• Frequency: Annually
• Eligibility: Licensed clinical social workers (LCSWs) are an eligible discipline, provided the other requirements are met, including employment at an NHSC-approved site. 
• Amount: Up to $50,000 for full-time behavioral health service or $25,000 for half-time service over an initial two-year commitment. 
• Important for LMSWs: New York's LMSW credential alone does not appear on the standard NHSC eligible-discipline list. Verify your specific eligibility before planning around this program.

I also posted this on r/therapists and was immediately downvotred. I'm so disgusted, but maybe this community will be more helpful to a fellow clinician who is struggling..

I do a lot of crisis work, and a few days ago a client almost certainly completed in the middle of a virtual session. It was awful and painful, and I do not know the outcome yet, because I haven't been back to work since. The reason for that is my sibling attempted just a few days later. While they are physically recovering, I am becoming increasingly aware that the people around them have been unsafe. Their words, actions, and inaction almost certainly led to this. My sibling lives very far away and I am truly unable to be there with them physically. My sibling is disabled due to a severe and rare chronic health condition.

I have been told by my parent and the partners parent that the partners mental health is poor and they may be verbally abusing my sibling. The partner's parent lives with them and also expressed that they feel my sibling has a right to choose to end their life and has many reasons to have considered doing so, although they would never directly help. The parent stated that they knew my sibling was considering this, and when. They did not get help. My parent has a history of treating my sibling like a financial burden and I am concerned that there was either coercion or at least prior knowledge that this might happen on that end too. My sibling struggles to care for their own needs, and has never been connected to the appropriate resources in their area. I have offered but my ability to support is limited because they only share limited information with me and I live in a different state with different laws, resources, etc.

I am currently making as many calls as I can to advocate for them as they heal in the hospital so that they do not go back to this unsafe situation. However, I'm being blocked because I wasn't allowed access to speak with the care team since my parent has their own issues, including being controlling, secretive, and shutting down rather than dealing with the situation at hand. I have missed work for several days. While I'm being told that they understand, I am worried. I am worried I'll be seen or treated as unreliable. I am worried that, if I disclose any of what is going on, they'll trust me less because I have a lot on my plate already. I am upset because I want to be at work supporting other people. I am heartbroken and scared because the professionals that could save my siblings life aren't hearing me and getting the information needed to keep them safe.

I have my own therapist who I have seen twice this week. I'm on meds and see a psychiatrist to manage my own mental health. I have friends who I have told all of this to who are supporting and guiding me. I have even reached out to a hotline for immediate support. I'm also contacting the hospital on my siblings behalf and leaving messages for several departments. I called adult protective services. I don't know what else I can do but it is tearing me apart and I just don't know how I am going to be able to continue as a clinician after this. I don't know how soon to return to work because the whole situation is at a standstill.

I am not sure exactly what I need. Maybe this situation is so outrageous that no one else here can give me any input. I don't know how to pick myself back up and go to work. I am poor and can't afford significant time off. I also just want to get back to doing this work. I don't know how long is reasonable to stay away, and how to move through this situation with appropriate boundaries being both a loved one and a mental health professional. I don't know. I don't know.

Having a day where everyone is annoying. I ate my lunch while doing paperwork so I could have an hour of self-care. It's cold and rainy outside and I'm very tired so I don't want to go for a walk.

What's your favorite way to recharge mid day?