What type of social work do you practice? Why did you choose this area?
I have had the opportunity to work in many different environments. Inpatient, various agency, administration as well as private practice. In each environment the chance to learn new and different social work skills. The chance to work with children, adolescents and adults. One of the most gratifying was working with the returning veterans.
Who has had the biggest impact on your social work career? Why?
I was fortunate in my first internship to have as a supervisor, Jane Cash. Ms Cash was generous with her knowledge and was well known for her compassion and skills. As I watched her work I wanted to have the caring she had for whomever she worked with, be it client or co-worker. I gained confidence under her leadership by the respect she gave me as a new Social Worker.
What is your favorite part of the profession?
On rare occasions it is possible to make changes in others lives. However the challenges are at times overwhelming by the lack of resources and the overwhelming work.
How do you think your generation has impacted the profession?
One of the greatest impact my generation had on the profession is fighting for and getting licensure for the profession. This was a long hard fight that involved many. This meant fighting for the respect and acknowledgement of the important and needed work we provide.