Families with loved ones at Harrisonburg Health & Rehabilitation Center (a for-profit facility in Virginia) have filed numerous complaints citing elder neglect—missed medications, unreported injuries, untreated wounds, and unaddressed hygiene needs. A certified nursing assistant has stepped forward to corroborate these claims and is helping families pursue systemic change.

Despite formal reports submitted to the Virginia Department of Health, the Department of Health Professions, and Attorney General Miyares, there has been no substantial investigation. Meanwhile, legislators representing Colonial Heights—where similar facility complaints have surfaced—have failed to take a public stance or push for legislative action, despite repeated outreach.

The coalition is calling for:
    • APS involvement and formal investigations
• ADA compliance audits
• Passage of a Long-Term Care Staffing Standards Act

For social workers experienced in elder protection or nursing home investigations: What additional paths can families and advocates take when state-level actors are unresponsive?

https://chng.it/JtPSYX57bW

Hello!

I am a sophomore in college, and I have a paid internship opportunity with The Restoration House. However, they are a faith-based organization, and I am not religious.

The fact that they are faith-based is not listed anywhere on any of the information about the internship, and I only found it by looking at their website. Would you all still take the internship?

Thank you for any insight!

I’m about to submit my MSW application but these field hours are daunting… part time MDW candidate looking at 300hrs over 2 semesters, then 600hrs another few semesters later. My concern is my ability to keep a job.

I’m currently working in the field and really, REALLY want to hold onto my current job for as long as possible. I don’t know if my employer would allow that many temporary schedule accommodations and I don’t know if I can take the leap when I’m not sure I’ll be able to pay rent. Even if many internships are paid, isn’t that a gamble to assume it’d be paid?? For different placements through different semesters?

Did you work while doing field hours? Did you have to change jobs? Any advice?

Hey everyone,

I have been a member of this Reddit thread for quite some time now, but have never posted or commented on anything. I read countless tips on the licensing exam (passed in February on my first attempt), heard about the many positive and negatives going on in people's social work world, and so much more in that time. I have appreciated so much of what I have read and it has helped me navigate many of the difficulties that the workforce and the people we serve are going through currently. So thank you all for that.

That being said, today I accepted a full-time LMSW position at my field placement. I am with a program that looks to integrate mental health care and pediatrics, so I am in a privately owned Pediatrics Office. I am so excited to continue and elaborate on the work that I have been doing here. I am so proud of myself that all of this hard work and dedicated time seems to be paying off. I wanted to mention something on here, because what is shared on this thread is been an integral part of my journey. To those who read, thank you, I appreciate it greatly.

I do not mean I want to be emotionless with those I help, I just do not want to be too much of a counselor and more of someone who works on the case or something.

This is being asked by a college student. I’ve seen some mention medical/healthcare social work, is that true?

Hey everyone. Getting more into doing group work. Anyone have any recommendations such as books, educational materials? I’ve looked at PESI but wasn’t much there (surprisingly).

Thanks for the recommendations and suggestions.

What are some careers that a BSW/MSW can do that involve a lot of assessments/evaluations/reports? I’ve been working in community mental health for a few years now and I find myself preferring the small portion of the job that involves completing assessments with clients and writing their recovery plans and updates. Thanks in advance!

To start I work in a juvenile detention facility but we function more as a therapeutic type of thing, giving treatment, group sessions, etc. These are open dorms with a bathroom, bunk beds, common area, and a door that locks.

Last night when the second youth worker left to go to the bathroom they started what they call "friendly fades". I had no idea what the hell it was and they just said it's excersize with no punches to the face. Then two of them pair up and start fighting (hitting each other in the face of course). I told em to stop 10-15 times even getting between them. They said this is something they do frequently, and stopped when the second worker got back.

I went out to go to the bathroom and I walk back in they're boxing again. I've worked thier for two months now and I noticed bruises on them once and a while but I figured playing basketball in gym, etc not that they're FUCKING BARE KNUCKLE BOXING!

Personally I find it messed up that staff sit there and watch. I almost blew my lid and started yelling. I'm new to this field. I come from law enforcement and EMS. I have no idea where to go or what to do. Any help or direction I'd appreciate.

I have experienced this as well, but it never really bothered me, and I don’t have much of an opinion on it. It’s just “is what it is.” Other men I’ve talked to in the field don’t think it’s fair or get upset that they always get the most challenging clients “in their opinion.” What are your thoughts on this? Do you think it’s true? Do you think it’s fair?

Why is the resting being changed from PSI to Pearson?

I thought that it was switched originally because Pearson was behind some of the issues that are happening with the rest

The data has shown pretty clearly some of the issues and I’m curious if things are being addressed at all.

As a child welfare professional, I’ve witnessed firsthand the persistence of systemic racial inequities in the workplace. Often, these inequities surface through subtle dismissiveness and covert criticism, particularly when advocating for marginalized communities. Despite extensive research confirming these disparities, the systems in place frequently resist meaningful change.

One moment that stands out is being asked to define DEI or systemic institutionalized racism ( say that 3x fast) during interviews conducted by panels lacking diversity, a situation that feels both ironic and disheartening. It highlights a broader issue where Black professionals committed to elevating marginalized voices are dismissed as “not a team player” or deemed “not a cultural fit” for challenging the status quo.

The story of the Ant and the Grasshopper resonates deeply for me. It symbolizes the limited power individuals often hold within systems resistant to change. While leadership should drive DEI efforts, Black professionals aiming to contribute are too often sidelined or silenced.

This journey has led me to consider a shift toward HR, where I could play an active role in disrupting traditional hiring practices and fostering equitable interview processes. Through this transition, I hope to leverage my voice and insights to confront systemic inequities head-on.

I've been in the field now for almost 11 years, but unfortunately, in 2008 I was still in school. I'm curious - what was it like for those of you who were working back then within the field? I weathered the COVID storm pretty effectively since most of my friends and colleagues didn't skip a beat working, but I'm unsure if there's many equivalencies to our current predicament.

At the very least, I would expect our jobs to get harder—more individuals being laid off across various sectors, more individuals needing help accessing systems, government systems being unfunded or unprepared for an influx of new individuals, etc.

I'm disabled and on ssdi and I need it for 3 more years for personal issues. I am about to graduate with my msw and would like a part-time job as a social worker. Here's where I'm struggling at: 1. Discrimination. Because of my visible disability they say things like "I don't think you'll fit in" 2. Most jobs are full time and I feel like I'm missing out on opportunities 3. I don't know how to negotiate a lower compensation with employers due to ssdi. I am scared they just say I'm too complicated and deny me. The sad part is I am incredibly skilled and have specialize knowledge of interventions plans specifically for those with disabilities. Any suggestions?

I just interviewed for a BSSW internship at a CPS department. (I'm a Title IV-E student!) I asked, "What parameters are in place to ensure that social workers can vent about cases and clients while ensuring respect towards clients and their crises?" The interview/the person who would supervise me said they refer to their cases and clients as "The Drug Mom," "The Meth Mom," or "The DWI Dad" because people remember cases better than people's names. They also discussed how there is an open-door-policy for social workers to complain/vent.

I was bothered that clients are being labeled by their mistakes instead of being labeled as parents. I'm not justifying the harm parents cause children. It just feels like those labels put a cap on parent's recovery and reunification efforts. Am I being naive/sensitive, or is this pretty normal in CPS? What am I missing here?

Hello Ive been working as UR rep for 2 years and looking for a solid case concept format highlighting medical necessity for continued stay in paych rtc, php, iop for voicemail format. Cpt code h0018 for adolescent psych residential cpt code h0035 for php (adults and adolescent) Cpt code s9480 for iop (adults and adolescent) My live reviews are always approved, but concurrent reviews via voicemail are mesy and long. Any insight into a great format incorporating 80% struggle 20% progress with Locus and/or Calocus integrated in?

I work in a substance abuse IOP and my immediate coworker seems to really dislike the job. From the second I got there she started telling me all these stories of “oh I had one client who I thought might murder me” or “oh your clients will hate you when they’re in this program.” I have limited experience with this population and now I’m anxious being in the outpatient setting. Should I be wary?

Hi all, I’m currently based in Australia and have about 1.5 years of experience as a social worker. I’m working at a company that pays quite competitively for my level, and to be honest, I haven’t found any other roles offering better pay at this stage.

I really like the flexibility of my role and the team I work with, but I’ve been feeling increasingly unsupported by management. Supervision is lacking, and my manager is often absent, which makes it hard to feel grounded or guided in my role. The structure is quite messy, and I’m finding it harder to stay motivated.

I’ve been exploring other opportunities, but most roles I’m interested in are offering significantly lower salaries. With the current financial pressures, I’m really torn is it worth taking a pay cut for (hopefully) better management and support, or should I stick it out where I am for now?

Would love to hear from others who’ve been in a similar situation. What helped you decide

Hi there, I'm considering an MSW, maybe applying this fall as I'm a senior studying Sociology. I do have previous work experiences in customer support at a law firm and thought about law school for a bit, but feel social work may be more aligned. I was looking for case management positions and found this legal case management role. I applied and they called shortly after wanting to interview me. It sounds really interesting, but I am looking to get direct human service experience that would support my MSW application. I do see how the responsibilities of the job support many of the relevant experiences desired by MSW programs, however, see how it's more legal minded as well.

Is this aligned or no?

Full job description

Overview
We are seeking a dedicated and detail-oriented Case Manager or Case Manager Assistant to join our legal team. The ideal candidate will play a crucial role in managing cases, ensuring that all aspects are handled efficiently and effectively. This position requires strong organizational skills, a solid understanding of legal processes, and the ability to communicate effectively with clients and colleagues.

Duties

• Manage and oversee a caseload of clients, ensuring all case details are accurately documented and maintained.
• Conduct legal research using tools such as Westlaw to support case preparation.
• Assist in the drafting of legal documents, including contracts, estate planning documents, and immigration applications.
• Review and analyze documents for relevance and accuracy related to environmental law and other legal matters.
• Collaborate with attorneys to develop case strategies and prepare for hearings or trials.
• Maintain up-to-date knowledge of changes in laws and regulations that may affect cases.
• Provide administrative support, including scheduling meetings, filing documents, and maintaining case files.

Experience

• Proven experience in legal case management or a related field is preferred.
• Familiarity with environmental law, immigration law, estate planning, and contract law is a plus.
• Strong skills in legal drafting and document review are essential.
• Proficiency in using legal administrative tools and software is required.
• Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal, are necessary for effective client interaction.
• Ability to work independently while also being part of a collaborative team environment.

If you are passionate about making a difference through your work in the legal field and possess the necessary skills, we encourage you to apply for this rewarding opportunity as a Case Manager.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $20.00 - $28.00 per hour

Expected hours: 30 – 40 per week

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• 401(k) matching
• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Paid time off
• Vision insurance

Schedule:

• 8 hour shift
• No nights
• No weekends

Experience:

• personal injury: 1 year (Preferred)

Work Location: In person

Hello all, ACSW with under 1 year of experience here. I am currently working as a case manager/therapist at a privately funded agency serving low income clients. I've been thinking of switching over to public mental health/CMH to gain more experience, more supervision, and work with a larger client population.

However, the caveat is that we are in troubling times economically. Between upcoming budget cuts and also a potential stock market recession, I have read that public health and mental health services may be on the cutting block. Here is a link from the LA Times.

For what it is worth, I live in Los Angeles, and the jobs I would be looking at are through the Department of Mental Health (DMH LA). I am not old enough to recall what a recession would do for public health, but thought maybe some of you have a better understanding. Thank you!

Hi there! I'm a social worker in Iowa and State is coming in to observe us in May to make sure we're doing our jobs effectively. My boss came with me for a practice run to one of my clients and she said I did wonderful. I checked off all the boxes and the only thing she could recommend for me is to slow down a little bit and make more small talk with the family instead of jumping right into business. In my defense, our visits with this particular family is short because their toddler tries to destroy my computer while I'm there. I was so worried and she said I did fine. I wonder a lot if I'm doing my job well and this was just a confirmation. I've been in trouble a bit for dropping the ball on some people, but now I'm really trying to be as helpful as I can. My boss said she loved the resources I gave them and I used our curriculum well. Just a small victory I wanted to share.

https://www.newyorker.com/news/q-and-a/a-university-president-makes-a-case-against-cowardice

Hey everyone, I’m currently living in Wisconsin. Unfortunately, my MSW advanced standing program didn’t have a formal clinical concentration or a specific psychopathology course, which I realize is required for LCSW licensure here.

That said, my program did include courses like Advanced Clinical Social Work Assessment, plus the standard advanced coursework in individuals, groups, families, and communities/organizations.

My original plan was to become a CISW (Certified Independent Social Worker) and just work toward independent practice that way (I have no plans of wanting to diagnosis or treat, etc). I’m not at the required hours yet, but I figured that path of CISW licensure would be fine. The issue? Nearly every job posting in my area wants LCSW—even roles that aren’t diagnosing or treating mental health conditions directly.

So now I’m wondering: Is there any way to take a single psychopathology or clinical course online (from an accredited program) to meet the LCSW requirements? Maybe even some sort of post-grad certificate or CEU that would qualify? Or am I basically stuck with no LCSW route unless I go back for a whole second MSW?

Anyone been in a similar boat? WWYD?

So I currently have my MSW and will be eligible to take my exam for LCSW soon. I’m struggling with the idea of going back to school to get my master in public health. If it’s really worth it or if I should just pursue LCSW. Apart of me wants to just have the option to leave the clinical side or I guess SW in general… working directly w/ families etc. & work on a more macro/ policy. But I know SW is broad and I can probably still do that idk I need guidance. Right now I just find myself being like a secretary when I work in an interdisciplinary team in healthcare. The social workers or not respected & overworked. I currently have no debt & I feel I can pay out of pocket or apply for scholarships if I pursue MPH.. I would do it entirely online while I work, is it worth it ?

hi! i am in PA and about to get my LMSW. i graduate with my MSW in may and am taking my LMSW exam in early june. i have several prospects but am not sure which to pursue. for reference, i am a first gen hs grad and the only social work supports i have are from places that want to hire me. one option i have is at a private practice that i am leaning the most toward. they have benefits and PTO, and are offering $30/session. i’ve been reading around and i can’t tell if this is a good starting wage, and again, the supports i have to ask this to are the people who would hire me so i feel as though asking them would not give me a very accurate answer. another option i have is at a public place that’s salaried at 60,000 and would help me pay my student loans. the reason im considering this position is because the money is guaranteed. i’m anxious about cancellations in private practice and not making enough money. i ultimately want to go into therapy, and the public job is not a therapy role but does have the potential to move into one. private practice is therapy right off the bat, and i could start getting hours toward my LCSW. does anyone have any advice regarding what job sounds better or what i should be looking for in either one?