SOCIAL WORK WEEK 2016 IN CANADA

A profession that has been around for over 100 years and even the concept for 100s of years. Champlain hosted such an event of inclusion. Early 1800s in places like York, now called Toronto offered support to new immigrants. My education at the University of Toronto, where Social Work education is now over 100 years old since I celebrated with the Faculty in October 2014 to celebrate the 100th anniversary. Social Work can be found in Child Welfare, Hospitals, Child and Youth Clinics, Family Therapy, many Social Service Agencies that deal with a variety of issues and of course many government services. Health, Mental Heath, Child Abuse, Elder Abuse, Domestic Violence, Families, Individuals, Communities, are just a few of the many areas where Social Workers can be found. Private Practice has become another wonderful opportunity for many. A variety of therapy modalities can be used. My favourite as many know is Narrative Therapy. With children, play, art and music can be conducted by a skilled and knowledgeable Social Worker. Each province in Canada has legislation on how to practice. Social Workers are accountable to the Public. In Ontario, we report to the College of Registered Social Workers and Social Services Workers. Those with a university degree and continued competency activities can use the designation RSW. So this writer can use MSW, RSW after her name. And with pride. It is a good profession, often misunderstood by many- no I do no have a bucket of money under my desk nor am I trying to change the world. Just doing a skilled and knowledgeable job one  patient, one family, one issue at at time with care and compassion!  Here's to my fellow Social Workers coast to coast! Enjoy your week!