A private social work practice is run by an independent social worker. While it used to be unheard of for a licensed clinical social worker to pursue an independent career path, it is now fairly common. These self-employed social workers are governed by a regulatory body and are expected to keep up with their education. They are frequently hired by private, public, and governmental organizations.
Government agencies with limited resources and budgets may benefit from the availability of an independent social worker. They can hire a flexible, experienced service provider for a fraction of the cost of hiring a full-time employee, and it allows their employees to focus on other important tasks. People may find that an independent social worker has more time to address their specific concerns on a private level.
An independent social worker will meet with clients to discuss their specific situations at the start. Based on this conversation, the social worker will assess their needs and make recommendations for social services that are appropriate for them. On behalf of their clients, the social worker will communicate with specific service providers and health specialists.
Social workers help people cope with their various life situations by working with individuals, families, and communities. Dealing with dysfunctional family conflicts and relationship issues, dealing with crippling or life-threatening health conditions, battling mental illness and substance abuse, surviving sexual abuse, and coping with unemployment and homelessness are all examples of these situations. Social workers assist with child adoption and fostering, as well as elderly care. They assist young people in resolving issues such as academics, truancy, and teenage pregnancy, among other things. A social worker can make a huge difference in people’s lives, but the job can be extremely stressful and is best suited to strong-willed, self-motivated people.
A bachelor’s degree, a master’s degree, or a more advanced qualification in social work, sociology, psychology, education, or any other related discipline is required to begin a career as a social worker. In order to practice, social workers must have a professional license or certification in addition to a graduate degree. In both rural and urban areas, a qualified independent social worker can find a variety of social worker job opportunities. Salary for social workers is determined by their level of experience, location, and type of work.