Clinical social workers are top professionals who specialize in treating individuals overwhelmed with drug abuse and/or mental health conditions. While all social workers can offer therapeutic help in the form of group and individual therapy, there are some who are also licensed to diagnose and prescribe medication to further the recovery of the patient. These are usually employed by hospitals and treatment centers.
Both psychiatric social workers and mental health social workers are often employed at mental health facilities where their services can be entreated at a moments notice. They are frequently called upon to council and supervise those who are undergoing detoxification. Social workers may also oversee group therapy sessions or activities.
Social workers who specialize in drug or alcohol abuse are often employed by residential treatment centers and outpatient clinics. At residential treatment centers, they can build up a large network and form relationships with the clients more freely than at outpatient facilities. Often, many of social workers continue to administer help to patients even after they have completed their treatment and detoxification.
The work environment of a social worker is not limited to hospitals or treatment centers. Indeed, both psychiatric and drug abuse social workers will pay house calls to their clients and check up on them to ensure that they are maintaining stability in their lives after treatment. These house calls may also consist of counseling for both the individual and his or her spouse and family.