School social workers are like counselors or therapists whose primary job is to help students and their families when there is a problem that gets in the way of school success.  We assist students with all kinds of issues: academic, social, personal, family-based, addiction, mental health, anything at all.  Many students need or want help even though they are doing fine in school and we assist them, too. 

How do we help?  School social workers meet confidentially with students at their request or at the request of a parent, teacher or friend.  Typically, we meet one-on-one with students but we also work with groups, families and even classrooms.  Our job is to LISTEN and to understand a student's experience and then to try and help the student cope, brainstorm, problem-solve, and do this in a way that is comfortable for the student. 

Sometimes, we mediate conflicts between or among students, only if each or all students agree to this.  and sometimes, we will have family meetings and mediate conflicts between students and their parents.  Sometimes, parents call us and sometimes, we call them!

We also work with teachers and school staff because they have the most contact with students.  Teachers may request our assistance when trying to understand and help their students who are struggling.

School social workers also help students and families by referring them to therapists and services in the community.