In this episode, I sit down with Kimberly “Kim” Schuster, ACSW, to discuss the real-world side of social work—education, licensing, specialization, case management, and the overlap between social work and therapy. We talk about building referral networks, navigating Medi-Cal and Medicaid, and where people can go to access support. We also explore therapy approaches for children and adults, healing trauma, building trust with clients, and coping with emotional challenges like vicarious trauma.
Along the way, we address common misconceptions about social workers, the role of lifestyle and social media in mental health, and even touch on the future of the field with artificial intelligence. We close with advice for new social workers and how to maintain balance in a demanding career.
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