Mental Health

Mental Health Social Worker

SOC 21-1023.00 · ESCO 2635 · OSCA 441332

Role snapshot

Overview

Supports clients with mental health conditions by conducting psychosocial assessments, developing care plans, and connecting them to community resources. Provides crisis intervention, advocates for their needs, and coordinates care across various agencies while managing diverse caseloads.

Improves the well-being and functioning of individuals experiencing mental health challenges by providing direct support, facilitating access to critical resources, and advocating for their rights within healthcare and community systems.

On the job

Conduct psychosocial assessments to identify client strengths, needs, and mental health challenges.
Provide individual and group counseling, psychoeducation, and crisis intervention services.
Develop and implement individualized care plans, connecting clients to community resources, housing, and support groups.
Advocate for clients' rights and access to appropriate mental health services and entitlements.
Collaborate with interdisciplinary teams, including psychiatrists, therapists, and medical staff, to ensure holistic care.

Tools & technology

Electronic Health Records (EHR) systemsCase management softwareTeletherapy platformsDiagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5)Crisis intervention protocols

Average salary

$75K

MEDIAN SALARY Annual · USD

$55K Bottom 10%

$95K Top 10%

Job outlook

Growing

Job growth is expected to be above average over the next five years.

Education & training

Bachelor's or Master's degree in Social Work (MSW) required, often with clinical specialization for advanced roles.

Career pathways

WHERE YOU COULD GO

Clinical Supervisor (Social Work)

Program Manager (Mental Health Services)

Licensed Clinical Social Worker (Private Practice)

CURRENT ROLE

Mental Health Social Worker

Mental Health

ADJACENT MOVES

Medical Social Worker

Social Work Intern

Case Manager

Community Support Worker

STARTING POINTS

Who thrives here

Interest profile

social · SIC

Individuals who are empathetic, enjoy helping others, are skilled at analyzing complex situations, and appreciate structured problem-solving will thrive in this role.

Personality characteristics

Empathetic

Deeply understands and shares the feelings of clients, building trust and rapport to foster healing and progress.

Organized

Manages complex caseloads, detailed documentation, and intricate care plans efficiently to ensure client needs are met.

Open-minded

Willing to consider diverse perspectives, cultural backgrounds, and adapt therapeutic approaches to individual client needs.

Resilient

Maintains composure and effectiveness when dealing with emotionally challenging situations, client crises, and systemic pressures.

Collaborative

Works effectively with interdisciplinary teams and external agencies to ensure comprehensive, holistic care for clients.

Best for

People driven by a strong desire to help others and make a tangible difference in their community.
Individuals who excel at problem-solving, clinical assessment, and developing tailored support plans.
Professionals who are empathetic, resilient, and capable of working effectively within multidisciplinary teams.

Watch out for

The role can be emotionally demanding, requiring strong coping mechanisms and self-care.
Managing high caseloads and navigating complex bureaucratic systems can be challenging.
Exposure to crisis situations and trauma requires resilience and professional boundaries.