Professional Roles

Social workers who specialize in child and adolescent health may embody a breadth of professional roles in a wide variety of settings.

Scroll through the gallery below to learn about the different types of social workers that engage with children and adolescents.

School Social Worker: works within schools to support students’ mental health, address behavioral issues, assist with special education plans (IEPs), and connect families with community resources
Pediatric Medical Social Workers: support children and families in healthcare settings by providing counseling, coordinating care, and helping them cope with chronic illness, hospitalization, or terminal conditions
Clinical Child and Adolescent Social Worker (LCSW or LICSW): provide psychotherapy and mental health counseling for young clients experiencing trauma, anxiety, depression, or behavioral disorders
Child Protective Services (CPS) Social Worker: investigates reports of child abuse or neglect, ensures child safety, and facilitates family reunification or alternative placements when necessary
Child and Family Social Worker: helps families overcome challenges like poverty, domestic violence, or substance abuse that impact children’s well-being and development
Early Intervention Social Worker: assesses developmental delays in infants and toddlers (ages 0-3) and helps families access therapy, education, and support services