March is Social Workers Month! Here is a list of resources for social work

March serves as a reminder of the critical role social workers play in community improvement, advocacy and support for vulnerable populations. Social Workers Month is an opportunity to acknowledge the dedication and impact of these professionals who navigate complex social issues to foster change and improve lives.

In celebration and support of social workers, we’ve compiled a comprehensive list of resources that can aid in their challenging yet rewarding work.

Educational and Training Resources

National Association of Social Workers (NASW)

The NASW offers a plethora of resources, including professional development courses, ethics consultations and legal issue support. As the largest membership organization of professional social workers in the world, NASW offers the most up-to-date information on policy updates, social work standards and advocacy efforts.

Council on Social Work Education (CSWE)

The CSWE provides accreditation to social work programs and offers resources for educators and students alike. Their website includes educational policies, standards and a directory of accredited programs. There are over 750 members, including accredited baccalaureate and master’s degree programs, as well as individual social work educators, practitioners and agencies.

Social Work Today Magazine

Social Work Today offers articles on various social work topics, continuing education opportunities and industry news. It’s a great way to stay informed about the latest trends and research in the field. The magazine covers topics such as behavioral health, addiction, health care and aging, with the option to subscribe for just $14.99 a month.

Tools for Practice

Social Work Toolkits

There are a handful of social work toolkits available online that offer practical support through case studies, practice tools and video content. For instance, the NASW has a toolkit with hands-on counseling activities and workshops to help social workers talk to parents and teachers.

Other toolkits worth checking out are the Development Toolkit from the School Social Work Association of America (SSWAA) and the Social Workers Toolbox, which includes free downloads for worksheets, booklets, assessment templates, story books and more.

TherapyNotes

TherapyNotes provides practice management software tailored for the needs of therapists, psychologists and social workers. It offers note-taking, billing and scheduling tools to streamline administrative tasks. Using this software, social workers can meet clients in-person or over the phone, document session notes and send bills. A free demo and trial are included.

Support and Advocacy

Social Work Helper

This online magazine and social networking community provides news, information and resources to help social workers and other helping professionals address personal and global challenges. You can subscribe to the newsletter for free, as well as receive exclusive content, invitations and discounts in your inbox each week.

The New Social Worker

The New Social Worker is an online magazine dedicated to social work students and recent graduates. It features articles, resources and job postings to support new professionals in the field. Subscribe to the newsletter for free and even submit or search for events in your area. And, if you head over to the Products section of the website, you can access social work and nonprofit books to help you on your journey.

Mental Health and Well-being

SAMHSA (Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration)

SAMHSA offers resources for mental health and substance use issues, including treatment locators, professional training and grant opportunities. Their extensive library and data archive can support social workers in research and practice. The government-backed site also provides a number of links and helplines to support individuals in need, such as the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline.

Psychology Today’s Therapist Directory

This directory is a valuable tool for social workers seeking to refer clients to mental health professionals. It provides detailed profiles of therapists, psychiatrists and other mental health practitioners. All you need to do is enter your location, and a list of qualified mental health professionals will turn up.

Advocacy and Human Rights

Human Rights Campaign (HRC)

The HRC provides resources and support for social workers advocating for LGBTQ rights. Their reports, toolkits and training can enhance social workers’ ability to serve these communities effectively. We highly recommend this resource for social workers who work with LGBTQ individuals, especially those who are trans, HIV+ and people of color.

National Center for Victims of Crime

This organization offers resources, training and advocacy tools to support victims of crime. Social workers can access materials to aid in navigating the legal system and supporting trauma survivors. Considering that at least 70 percent of adults in the U.S. have experienced some type of trauma, it’s important for social workers to understand the implications of these events.

Social Worker Programs in NJ

Social Workers Month is a time to celebrate the profession and its vital contribution to society. The resources listed here represent just a fraction of the support available to social workers. By leveraging these tools, social workers can continue their essential work.

VNA Health Group offers numerous support services through home care, hospice, CFHI and the Ryan White program. Social workers deliver many of these services in a caring, compassionate manner, ensuring everyone can achieve their best level of health and well-being. To learn more about our children and family programs, contact VNA Health Group today.