School Social Worker Career Information

Aids students with behavioral, mental, emotional or physical problems: Counsels students whose behavior, school progress, or mental or physical handicap or condition indicates need for assistance. Consults with parents, teachers, and other school personnel to determine causes of problems and effect solutions. Arranges for medical, psychiatric, and other tests and examinations that may disclose causes of difficulties and indicate remedial measures. Attempts to alter attitudes and behavior of parents and teachers that cause or aggravate problems. Recommends change of class or school, special tutoring, or other treatment to effect remedy. Serves as liaison between student, home, school, and community resources, such as family service agencies, child guidance clinics, courts, protective services, doctors, and clergy members. Serves as consultant to school personnel regarding students or situations which are not referred for direct service. May lead group counseling sessions to enhance social development of individual members and provide peer support in areas such as grief, stress, or chemical dependency. Usually required to have knowledge and skill in casework methods acquired through degree program at school of social work and certification by state department of education.