Learn How to Be a Social Worker

Discovering that you want to help people through mental health or substance abuse is an inspiring and influential motive. Learning to be a social worker or a substance abuse social worker is one of the best ways to help people overcome their struggles. Addiction is a “social disease” and a brain disease. Many factors contribute to the cause of it. Environmental and neurobiological factors are the primary culprits to the manipulation of the brain, causing improper functioning. Social workers understand the depth of addiction and help people get to the root of the problem. 

What Does a Social Worker Do? 

Specifically, an addiction social worker can help an addict identify the severity of their drug abuse. Becoming physically dependent on substances contributes to mental health conditions, and vice versa. In this case, a social worker will recognize all symptoms or signs and diagnose the individual with a dual diagnosis. Social workers work as advocates, encouraging the client to learn and practice skills to effectively avoid triggers or succumbing to cravings. 

A social worker conducts assessment interviews, evaluating the behavior and symptoms of the patient. After the tests, the specialist will determine the condition of the client and establish a treatment plan that will best benefit them. During treatment, the social worker’s responsibility is to complete regular reports of the client’s progress. 

How Long Does It Take To Be a Social Worker?

There are pros and cons to being a social worker. It takes a strong mentality and a compassionate soul to stay committed to the line of work. A person with these responsibilities may be placed in difficult or dangerous situations since they are dealing with people who may be under the influence of illegal or hard drugs at the time of the interview. Social workers must be prepared to deal with difficult people becoming upset or violent. 

However, social workers make an impressive impact on people’s lives and dedicate their time to serving communities. First, a person must have a bachelor’s degree in social work or a similar field like psychology, sociology, or public administration. It’s essential that at the college that is attended that the credits are valid under the Association of Social Work Boards. 

How many years of college to be a social worker? A four-year degree in the field of social work is necessary, and receiving a master’s degree or an additional two years of school provides even more opportunities and higher pay. Training and licensing requirements must be completed, and a master’s degree is required to be a licensed social worker. 

Average Salary of Social Worker 

As a social worker, a comfortable income is expected. The further along a person goes in their career, experience accumulates, and their skills and experience are more desirable. The median annual earnings of social workers are $51,760 per year. Salaries may differ and can range between $29,000 to over $80,000 a year. Again, over time and with enough experience, a social worker can surpass $80,000, and the top ten percent receive this amount with significant benefits. 

Resources at Better Addiction Care 

For more information on how to be a social worker, speak to professionals associated with Better Addiction Care. We have specialists in all areas of addiction work, such as Christian substance abuse counseling, holistic drug rehabs, and low-cost rehabs. From the drug detox process to relapse prevention plans, we have you covered. If you or a loved one is struggling with addiction or a mental health condition, don’t wait to reduce adverse symptoms and get back on track in life. 

Speak to a specialist at Better Addiction Care by calling 800-429-7690, and start your recovery journey today!

Related Readings: 

The Psychology of Addiction

Holistic Approaches Counseling