Understanding Healthcare

Clinical Social Worker

Choose a preferred language


What is a clinical social worker?

A clinical social worker is a professional who helps to assess and solve problems related to personal, family, or social situations. They are a key part of the multidisciplinary rehab team. They help provide support for the patient and family, coordinate discharge planning and insurance benefits, and help with money problems and family conflicts.

These professionals typically have at least a master's degree in social work (MSW). They also must complete supervised training and experience. The length of clinical training varies by state but may take several years. Clinical social workers must pass a state license exam to practice. A doctorate in social work is also available (DSW, PhD).

Clinical social workers work in many settings, such as:

  • Hospitals.
  • Psychiatric care settings.
  • Community organizations.
  • Industrial health centers.
  • Schools.
  • Home health settings.
  • Private practice.
  • Private social service agencies.

They qualify as approved providers in most managed care and insurance plans.

© 2000-2026 The StayWell Company, LLC. All rights reserved. This information is not intended as a substitute for professional medical care. Always follow your healthcare professional's instructions.
stethoscope icon

Personalized care starts with the right provider

Search by specialty, location, and more.

FIND A DOCTOR
Related Articles
Read article
Ear, Nose, and Throat
Audiologist

Audiologists measure and evaluate a person's ability to hear sounds. They focus on treating people with hearing disorders.

Read article
Wellness
Vital Signs (Body Temperature, Pulse Rate, Respiration Rate, Blood Pressure)

Vital signs are useful in detecting or monitoring medical problems. Vital signs can be measured in a medical setting, at home, at the site of a medical emergency, or elsewhere.

Read article
Wellness
Penicillin Allergy: General Info

What's the difference between a penicillin allergy and a side effect?A penicillin allergy means that the ...

Read article
Urgent Care
Burns

Detailed information on burns, burn types, classification of burns, burn treatment, and burn rehabilitation