Frequently Asked Questions

Lived experience! I have always known the career I wanted since before I was even 16 years old. Social Work was the answer for me - I knew that becoming a social worker would provide the knowledge, skills, and values necessary to help others and create a REAL IMPACT on the oppressive laws and systems that destroy so many opportunities for others.

Yes! I am a CSW (Certified Social Worker) in Kentucky. The CSW is most commonly referred to as the Licensed Master Social Worker in other states. Kentucky utilizes a different language, but a CSW is a Licensed Master-level Social Worker. 

I've practiced critical social work skills in multiple settings and developed my professional identity. They are: 

- SUD (Inpatient/Outpatient)

- Nursing Home(s)

- CPS / Permanency and Protection

- Schools 

- Community Mental Health

This is not a simple question or response. I highly recommend students to engage in deep self-reflection to determine their goals, interests, and passions - I encourage students to participate in career inventories. Career inventories should not be used as "decision makers". They are simply tools that can help us identify strengths and interests, and then provide a list of relevant careers, which can then be used as a starting point for the EXTENSIVE research that I recommend students engage in. 

You should be choosing a career that inspires, motivates, and excites you. However, what I will recommend is that students in undergraduate programs (Associate & Bachelor Degrees) - enroll in your university/college's Intro to Social Work course (Course title varies by your school - Ex, Intro to Human Services, Intro to Social Services, Intro to Social Work, etc.). This course provides an overview or introduction to Social Work and can help students make their decision. Even if you decide SW is not for you, the course will usually still count as some form of elective or GEN ED requirement, so there's no time or money wasted. 

Let me be clear - Social Work is NOT an EASY major and can be one of the most challenging professions an individual can pursue. Do NOT rush into any major or educational program without conducting adequate research to competently make an informed decision. 

This is a common question that I often receive. In the United States, many states have professional title protection, which is a safeguard for the public and the profession itself. Title protection states that an individual may NOT hold themselves out to the public or identify themselves as a Social Worker, Nurse, Doctor, etc., without having the proper educational background and state-associated credential or license. In fact, doing so could result in charges, prison time, and/or steep fines depending on your local jurisdiction. 

I'm currently undergoing supervision to obtain my LCSW.  I do NOT provide clinical services via this website or independently in any way. If you need a mental health professional, consult your PCP, call your insurance company to request an email list of local mental health therapists, or contact 911 or your local emergency services (ER) for assistance. 

I like to say I have "areas of focus". These are: 

- Addiction Treatment

- Animal Assisted Therapy / Interventions

- LGBTQ+ population

- Spirituality

- Grief