Going by the data of the past few years, it is expected that the demand for social services will grow to a great extent in the next 10 years. As a result, it is expected that the number of social work jobs will also grow. As of now, the average job growth rate across all sectors, except social work, stands at 7 per cent worldwide. At the same time, the jobs in the social work segment have almost been doubled.
Back in 2014, the United States department of labor said that social services would add almost 75000 new jobs by 2024. If that happens, it will represent an increment of 12 per cent.
It is good news for all those who are into social work or pursuing a course in social work. Also, it would be a good thing for employees looking to reap the benefits of new talents in the field of social service.
In 2015, it was observed that licensed social workers could earn much more than those who were into social work voluntarily. Also, those having certain special days stood a chance to make even more. For example, those social workers in the healthcare sector or mental health or substance abuse Experienced the highest growth in terms of employment prospects and earning potential.
In metropolitan areas, the cost of living is high. As a result, the jobs, including those related to social work, tend to have good remuneration. However, it is equally important that social workers fill up vacancies in the rural regions.
All you need is an impressive social work resume highlighting the segments that are in most demand. Discussed below are the most prominent types of social work that can be done professionally:
Recovery Treatment and Substance Use Counselor
There are people or social workers who want to help people maintain and achieve sobriety. In the case of substance use and recovery treatment counselors, their need is expected to grow since more and more people are seeking treatment for substance abuse. Also, in recent times, the various programs for drug abuse treatment are fast becoming popular as an alternative to jail punishment.
Mental Health Counseling
Mental health counselors interact directly with people to help them manage their mental complications. These counselors also help to cope with challenging life situations. Mental health counselors can work in several ways, including within the various treatment programs or on their own.
Recently, more and more people have shown interest in seeking counseling and seeking treatment for mental illness. Therefore it is certain that this field will witness good growth.
Marriage and family counselor
Marriage and family counselors work with families, couples, and individuals to address interpersonal complications. They play a vital role and help couples navigate various issues at all stages of their relationship. In addition, they help to form a healthy and robust Bond among children and parents.
Medical social worker
Medical social workers work in a variety of health care environments. They act as patient navigators, therapists, or case managers based on the need. As the baby boomers become older, the demand for health care social work will go up. Consequently, this particular area would become a strong field for social work students to start their careers.
School Social Worker
School social workers help families, teachers, and students maintain good mental health and other behaviors. Apart from extending classroom and academic guidance at all educational levels, they also provide positive behavioral support. Such help can go a long way to change the school experience, especially for students who otherwise may have to struggle.
Foster care worker
The job of a Foster care worker is the first thing that most people think of when it comes to social work. A Foster care worker advocates for children in any foster care system. They ensure that children are adequately cared for and supported by the elders around them. The role of a Foster worker can be emotionally intense. However, it is also a rewarding one.
Family and child therapist
This segment of social workers focuses on addressing the requirements of children right from their toddlerhood and up to latency. These individuals specialize in mental illness, child development, play therapy, and attachment issues.
A family and child therapist is also responsible for developing child-related solutions arising from unhealthy social dynamics or family struggles.
CSR (Corporate Social Responsibility)
In the private sector, social work opportunities are more prevalent. Although it may appear to be counter-intuitive, it is a fact. A corporate social responsibility job gives an individual the opportunity to impact the environment and society positively. It is possible since large companies have a lot of resources at their disposal. Over the years, more and more companies have invested in sustainability programs. As a result, the demand for social workers in these fields has increased.
Therefore, it is clear that there is a wealth of opportunities in social work. Also, there is an increasing demand for professional social workers.
