Social Workers, Rise!

Anxiety is one of the most common mental health conditions in the world—and as new social workers, it’s essential to understand how to recognize it, support clients dealing with it, and manage it in ourselves.

In this episode of Social Workers, Rise!, host Catherine Moore, LCSW, breaks down everything you need to know about anxiety from a clinical and practical lens. Whether you’re in supervision, just graduated with your MSW, or supporting high-risk populations, this episode is for you.

🧠 In This Episode, You’ll Learn:

What anxiety is—and what it isn’t

Prevalence stats you should know as a clinician

Who is most at risk for anxiety disorders

Common emotional, physical, and behavioral symptoms

Effective treatment options (including therapy, medication, and holistic supports)

Whether you’re in a hospital, school, or private practice setting, this episode gives you real-world tools to improve your skills as a trauma-informed social worker.

🎧 Hit play and feel more prepared to work with clients experiencing anxiety.

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What’s the difference between mental health and mental illness? As new social workers, understanding this distinction is crucial—not just for our clients, but for our own well-being as we step into emotionally demanding roles.

In this episode of Social Workers, Rise! Podcast, host Catherine Moore, LCSW, breaks down the definition of mental health vs. mental illness, shares current mental health statistics, and explores which populations are at the highest risk. You'll also learn how to recognize signs of a mental health problem, both in your clients and yourself, and explore evidence-based treatment options.

Whether you’re in clinical supervision, preparing for licensure, or starting your first job after earning your MSW, this episode will help you build a strong foundation in mental health literacy.

💬 In This Episode, You’ll Learn:

-The key difference between mental health and mental illness

-Mental health prevalence rates you need to know

-High-risk populations every social worker should understand

-Common symptoms of mental health concerns

-Treatment options and how social workers play a vital role in access and advocacy.

✨ Subscribe, rate, and share with a fellow social worker!

📲 Connect on Instagram @socialworkersrise

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In this episode of Social Workers Rise, we’re diving into a topic that every social worker needs in their toolbox: Trauma-Informed Assessments.

You’ll walk away with a deeper understanding of what trauma is and how it impacts the people we serve. We’ll break down the psychosocial assessment step-by-step and explore how to apply trauma-informed principles to make the process safer, more compassionate, and more effective for clients. Whether you’re a student, new in the field, or a seasoned professional, this episode will help you sharpen your assessment skills and enhance your practice.

I’ll also be sharing some go-to resources you can use right away to support your trauma-informed work. Tune in and let’s grow together!

Want more?

The Social Work Interstate Compact is being promoted as a solution to licensure mobility, but is it right for YOU?

In this episode of Social Worker’s Rise!, we take a critical look at the compact and discuss its potential downsides. From concerns about ethical liability and accessibility to its impact on professional standards, we break down what social workers need to know before supporting this initiative.

In This Episode, We Discuss:

✔️ What the Social Work Interstate Compact is and how it works

✔️ The biggest concerns and challenges social workers may face

About our guest:

Lequita Brooks, LCSW, MSW is the Owner of The Social Work Incubator®️ and Author of the Social Work Career Mapping©️ curriculum. She uses her voice and love for writing editorials, blog posts, and social media content to bring awareness to social work licensing standards, career mapping for social work students, and income diversification for therapists. Lequita’s mantra is you can make money and make a difference.

Links from the show:

In this episode, Catherine Moore, LCSW discusses the impact of social media on mental health, focusing on warning signs to look out for in oneself and clients. She categorizes these signs into behavioral, emotional, and social aspects, providing insights into how social media can affect self-esteem, relationships, and overall well-being. Catherine also offers actionable tips for managing social media use, emphasizing the importance of setting intentions, boundaries, and taking breaks.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Social Media's Impact on Mental Health

03:24 Behavioral Warning Signs of Social Media Use

07:43 Emotional Warning Signs of Social Media Use

10:08 Social Warning Signs of Social Media Use

15:53 Actionable Advice for Managing Social Media Use

In this episode, Catherine discusses the top five high-paying careers in social work, emphasizing the importance of specialized skills, advanced degrees, and strategic career choices to maximize earning potential. She provides insights into various roles, including medical social work, clinical social work, corporate social work, school social work, and travel social work, along with tips for enhancing career prospects and salary.

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In this episode of Social Workers Rise, host Catherine, LCSW discusses the top 10 social work trends for 2024, emphasizing the importance of staying ahead in the field. The conversation covers the integration of technology, trauma-informed practices, the demand for geriatric social work, and the focus on diversity, equity, and inclusion. Catherine also highlights the significance of workforce well-being, hybrid work models, and the ongoing advocacy for social work licensing reform. The episode concludes with actionable recommendations for social workers to enhance their careers and adapt to these trends.

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In this episode of Social Workers RISE!, I sit down with Matt Schaefer to discuss the Social Work Interstate Compact—a game-changer for licensure portability across participating states. We break down how the compact works, its current status, and what advocacy efforts are needed to bring more states on board.

We also dive into the potential impact on mental health care access, telepractice, travel social work, and disaster response. Most importantly, we emphasize how vital it is for social workers to share their experiences and drive the legislative changes that will shape our profession's future.

In this episode of Social Workers RISE! Podcast, I explore the intricate world of hospital social work, covering the diverse roles and responsibilities that social workers hold in medical settings. I dive into the unique challenges faced in intensive care units, discuss the critical ethical considerations in end-of-life care, and share some of the complexities of working in the birthing unit.

I also highlight the importance of cultural sensitivity and provide practical tips for aspiring hospital social workers on building essential skills and standing out in this competitive field.

Takeaways

• Hospital social work is highly sought after and competitive.
• Experience in medical settings can help secure hospital positions.
• Social workers in hospitals deal with high-stress, complex cases.
• Collaboration with interdisciplinary teams is crucial in hospitals.
• Crisis intervention skills are essential for hospital social workers.
• End-of-life care discussions require sensitivity and ethical awareness.
• Cultural competence is vital in diverse hospital environments.
• Documentation and assessment skills are critical for success.
• Networking and building relationships can open job opportunities.
• Continuous learning and training are important for professional growth.

In this episode, I dive into the pervasive issue of burnout among social workers, sharing my personal experiences and insights. I talk about the symptoms of burnout, how it impacts both professional and personal life, and offer some strategies for managing and preventing it.

I emphasize the importance of self-care, setting boundaries, and seeking support from colleagues and supervisors. My hope with this episode is to raise awareness about burnout and encourage social workers to prioritize their well-being.

Takeaways

• 60 to 80% of social workers report experiencing burnout.
• Burnout can lead to emotional exhaustion and reduced sense of accomplishment.
• It's crucial to recognize the symptoms of burnout early.
• Burnout affects not only work but also personal relationships.
• Setting boundaries is essential for maintaining work-life balance.
• Self-care should be enjoyable and not feel like a chore.
• Social support is vital in managing stress and burnout.
• Supervisors can provide support and help lighten workloads.
• Identifying personal values can guide better time management.
• Many social workers are unaware of their burnout until it escalates.

In this episode of Social Workers Rise, host Catherine Moore discusses the versatility of social work careers, particularly focusing on private practice. She addresses common myths and barriers associated with starting a private practice, emphasizing the ease of seeing clients without setting up a full practice.

Catherine shares her experiences with the platform Rula, highlighting its benefits, including client choice and insurance acceptance. She also touches on ethical considerations, client feedback, and managing workload while ensuring fair compensation.

Takeaways

• Social work offers a wide range of career options.
• Private practice can be accessible without full setup.
• Client choice is crucial in therapy settings.
• Platforms like Rula can simplify private practice.
• Ethical considerations are important in therapy.
• Client feedback helps improve therapy quality.
• Managing workload is essential to avoid burnout.
• Fair compensation is vital for therapists.
• Networking can help find the right platforms.
• Exploring multiple states can maximize practice opportunities.

In this episode, Catherine shares her personal journey into private practice and therapy, discussing her initial reluctance to become a therapist, her experiences with burnout in teletherapy, and the challenges of imposter syndrome. She highlights the importance of finding the right platforms for therapy and shares her positive experience with Rula, a platform that connects therapists with clients.

Catherine encourages listeners to explore their options in private practice and reassures them that their fears and doubts are normal.

TAKEAWAYS

• Catherine initially preferred macro social work over therapy.

• Transitioning to teletherapy led to burnout for Catherine.
• Imposter syndrome is a common challenge for new therapists.
• Finding the right platform can significantly impact a therapist's practice.
• Rula helped Catherine quickly fill her client roster.
• It's normal to question readiness for private practice.
• Therapists can specify their client demographics on platforms.
• Catherine emphasizes the importance of support systems in therapy.
• The experience of working in a private practice can vary greatly.
• Catherine encourages others to explore private practice opportunities.

In this episode of the Social Workers RISE! Podcast, Catherine Moore LCSW interviews Roopa Cantu LCSW, a South Asian therapist who shares her journey into private practice and her experiences with mental health within the South Asian community.

Roopa discusses the cultural dynamics, stigma, and challenges faced by individuals seeking therapy, as well as the importance of community support and understanding in overcoming these barriers.

The conversation highlights the need for accessible mental health resources and the role of faith and family in addressing mental health issues.

Financial Social Work. Tomika Flowers is a renowned speaker and seasoned mental health professional with over a decade of experience as a Senior Social Worker with the Department of Veteran's Affairs, Adjunct professor and group facilitator.

In this episode of Social Workers RISE!, host Catherine speaks with Jessica J. Mitchell about the critical intersection of social work and politics. They discuss the importance of political engagement for social workers, the various ways to get involved in political action, and the steps necessary for those interested in running for office.

Jessica emphasizes the need for social workers to advocate for policy changes that affect their clients and communities, and she provides practical advice for getting started in political activism and running for office.

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This epsiode with Jennifer Travers, MSW of CHEP talks about versatile the MSW degree is (even without a clinical license), who benefits from tansitional housing, and simple ways you can gain valuable experience if you are interested in pursuing this as a career path.

Jennifer has been in the field for 16 years and during this time has done several different jobs from case management, to program management to run court ordered education groups. Currently she is the director of Operations for CHEP overseeing the program and case managers that run the transitional housing programs.

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In this episode, Catherine Moore, LCSW, speaks with Lana, an associate clinical counselor, about identifying when clients may be lying in therapy. Lana shares cues like anxiety responses, changes in speech patterns, and vagueness in details. She emphasizes the importance of understanding a client's baseline behavior and using empathy and curiosity when addressing potential dishonesty, creating a safe space for clients to open up.

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Interested in pursuing Medical Social Work? Listen into this episode to hear about the different opportunities available to you outside of hospital social work. This is the episode for you if you are wanting to work in medical, but aren’t quite sure where to get started. This episode will definitely give you some ideas on where to start, your medicalsocial work journey.

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If you are new to your internship this semester, listen in to this episode to make this transition go smoother for time management, what happens when you aren't with your dream population, and more.

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If you identify as a "geek" or work with clients who are geeky, then listen up!

Geek therapy is an evidenced-based therapy modality that can help you build rapport with your clients in a way no one has before. It helps you meet then where they are at and relate to them in a fun way.

This epsiode is with Dawn Davis, LMFT who is also a certified geek therapist. She will share her secrets on how to use video games to connect with teens, how a doll can facilitate conversations on generational trauma, and how you can set up your space to help your clients be engaged during sessions.

Links Mentioned for More Information... https://geektherapeutics.com/ https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/therapists/dawn-davis-therapy-and-supervision-willow-grove-pa/799879 https://www.risedirectory.com/willow-grove/clinical-supervisors/dawn-davis

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In this episode, Catherine interviews Daushae Preciado, an MSW who works in community mental health. Daushae shares her experiences and insights into the field, discussing topics such as the variety of work in community mental health, the importance of advocating for oneself in terms of salary, and the challenges of crisis intervention in a remote setting.

She emphasizes the need for client-centered care and the rewarding aspects of helping clients find their voice and improve their mental health.

Listen now!

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In this episode, Catherine interviews Ilana Marcucci-Morris, a licensed clinical social worker, about her involvement in a 10-week strike at Kaiser.

The strike resulted in significant gains, including better wages, improved benefits, and expanded mental health programming. Ilana encourages other mental health professionals to join a union and provides resources for organizing.

This episode is all about innovative applications of AI (Artifical Intelligence) in social work. This intersection offers a fascinating glimpse into how technology can enhance our social work practice as trainers, community organizers, program directors, researchers, grant writers, and board members etc.

We are delving into how AI can revolutionize social work practices and discussing practical applications but also ethical concerns for the future of our profession.

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This episode with Milvon Wright, MSW is all about her journey from CPS worker to Pediatric Medical Social Worker.

She shares how to transition into Medical Social Work even if you have "only worked in CPS", Advocacy in Medical Social Work, How to not take home heavy emotions, average salary, and what they are looking for in interviews.

If you want to learn more about this role or are preparing for an interview in this role, you MUST listen to this episode.

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In this episode, Catherine discusses the importance of understanding the social determinants of health in the context of social work and mental health care.

She also provides a personal update and encourages listeners to sign up for the email resource list. Catherine then delves into the concept of social determinants of health, explaining the non-medical factors that influence health outcomes and the impact of different systems on communities.

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In this episode, Catherine interviews Justin Gillespie, a therapist specializing in working with adults with ADHD.

They discuss the key indicators of ADHD, how it shows up in people's lives, and the misconceptions surrounding the disorder.

Justin shares his insights on how to work with individuals with ADHD, including using a person-centered and strength-based approach. He also provides advice for those interested in working with this population and highlights the importance of formalized accommodations.

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In this podcast episode, Catherine Moore, Jake Moore, and Kat Miranda discuss the topic of burnout from a research perspective.

They explore the definition of burnout, its causes, and its impact on mental health professionals. The conversation highlights the need for a culture shift in the mental health industry to prioritize self-care and well-being.

They emphasize the importance of rest ethic, celebrating small wins, and creating a supportive community within the workplace. The episode concludes with a discussion on the concept of vigor as the opposite of burnout and the need for a balance between giving and receiving in the work of mental health professionals.

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Lauren Chandler, an MSW and social work crisis clinician, discusses her work in acute crisis intervention and keeping individuals at risk for suicide or homicide stable at home.

She explains the role of a crisis clinician and the daily tasks involved, such as home visits, assessments, therapy sessions, and discharge planning. Lauren highlights the importance of safety and self-care in this line of work and shares strategies for setting emotional boundaries and maintaining personal well-being.

She also discusses the rewarding aspects of her job, including witnessing clients receive the support they need and seeing their transformation from a state of distress to a state of peace.

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In this episode, Catherine interviews Anjani and LaDonna about betrayal trauma. They discuss the definition of betrayal trauma, the emotions that come up for those experiencing it, and the consequences of inexperienced therapists taking on this type of therapy.

They also introduce the Aloha Summits, a series of clinical trainings that focus on practical tools and building connections within the therapist community.

To learn more visit :

http://www.betrayalrecoverycenter.com/betrayalvideo

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Are you the first in your family to go to college? To be a Social Worker? To live in a new country? If yes, then this episode is for you. We talk with Sara Diaz, LCSW about challenges faced, strategies to overcome imposter syndrome, and ways you can access more support and resources for success in your career. Connect with Sara Diaz, LCSW here: LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/sara-diaz-lcsw Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thefirstgenmadrina/ Website: http://thefirstgenmadrina.com/

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In this episode of the Social Workers, Rise! Podcast, Catherine shares invaluable tips for new social work graduates, drawing from her own experiences navigating the job market.

She provides actionable advice to kickstart your job search, from getting specific about job preferences to updating your resume and LinkedIn profile. Catherine emphasizes the importance of networking and self-compassion throughout the process.

Plus, she offers insights into job coaching and provides a comprehensive list of over 100 job options for MSW graduates. Don't miss out on this empowering episode—click the link in the show notes to explore all the opportunities waiting for you!

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Do you say "Yes" to things you do not want to do to make others happy?

Do you struggle with knowing what your strengths are?

Are you unsure about what makes YOU happy?

Do you compromise your values to make others comfortable?

If you answered "Yes", then I invite you to listen to this episode and join me on my journey of finding your sense of self. This is powerful and life-transforming when you are get to a place of feeling empowered to understanding your own wants and need and to confidently ask for them. Yes, even when this makes others uncomfortable.

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Join Catherine Moore on this episode of Social Workers, Rise! Podcast as she sheds light on the often overlooked topic of money in social work.

With refreshing honesty and practical insights, Catherine explores the highest-paying social work jobs, from clinical and medical social work to school social work and beyond.

Discover how licensure, negotiation skills, and creative career paths can lead to financial success while making a meaningful impact. Whether you're a seasoned professional or a fresh graduate, this episode offers invaluable guidance to help you navigate the financial landscape of social work with confidence and purpose.

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Dive into the essential skills of clinical social work with Catherine on today's episode of Social Workers Rise! Podcast.

Learn how to conduct a thorough assessment of your clients' areas of functioning, a critical aspect of direct practice in various mental health settings. Catherine, a licensed clinical social worker with extensive experience, breaks down the key components of this assessment and why it's crucial for social workers to master.

Whether you're a seasoned professional or just starting out in the field, this episode offers valuable insights and practical tips to enhance your clinical skills. Don't miss out!

Listen in to this episode focused on Clinical Skills for Social Workers.

Dive into the world of teletherapy with Catherine on Social Workers, Rise! Podcast. In this episode, she shares her firsthand experience as a private practice telehealth therapist, offering crucial insights into the profession.

Discover the pros, cons, and financial considerations of teletherapy, and learn how to determine if it's the right fit for you.

Don't miss out—listen now!

ARE YOU A LCSW WHO IS INTERESTED IN WORKING TELEHEALTH? Email me for details on how to get started Catherine@SocialWorkersRise.com

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In this episode of Social Workers Arise, Catherine delves into the transformative power of mindfulness. Discover how this practice can enhance mental well-being and combat anxiety in everyday life.

Catherine shares personal insights and practical tips for integrating mindfulness into your routine.

Tune in for an episode filled with self-compassion and valuable tools for stress reduction.

Listen in to this episode focused on Clinical Skills for Social Workers.

This episode discusses the brand new program in California that will train you with an Associate or Bachelors degree to become a Certified Wellness Coach.

I break down the mental health needs, what this program is, requirements, tasks you can expect to do with youth, and questions that remain unanswered about this new program.

Join Catherine as she delves into Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). Learn how CBT focuses on the relationship between thoughts, feelings, and actions to reduce emotional distress and improve well-being.

Discover key principles and applications of CBT in therapy sessions. Ready to enhance your clinical skills? Check out Catherine's course, 'The Clinical Essentials for the Future Therapist.' Don't miss out on valuable insights to elevate your practice! Tune in to the latest episode of Social Workers, Rise!

When interviewing for social work or therapy based jobs, you will likely be asked, "What is your primary therapeutic orientation?"

If you're anything like me, this question brought up all kinds of feelings, self-doubt, imposter syndrome, and anxiety. If this is you too, listen in for more on how to handle this question and more importantly, how to discover your own therapeutic orientation.

Listen in to this episode focused on Clinical Skills for Social Workers.

Feeling overwhelmed at work?

Join Katherine on Social Workers Rise as she dives into stress management strategies tailored for social workers.

From setting boundaries to seeking support, learn how to prioritize your well-being while juggling a demanding career. Listen now for actionable tips to reclaim your peace and balance.

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Are you looking to advance your career but are being held back by self-doubt or fear?

Then this episode is for you! Danielle Cobo is an international female speaker for organizations, associations, and the public sector. She works with audiences to harness the grit and resilience to lead through change. Danielle is the author of “Unstoppable Grit: Breakthrough the 7 Roadblocks Standing Between You and Achieving Your Goals” and hosts the globally top-rated podcast "Unstoppable Grit Podcast with Danielle Cobo.” ____________________________________

This episode will expose what you risk when not doing your documentation on time. Listen in to avoid these career pitfalls.

Listen in to this episode focused on Clinical Skills for Social Workers.

What do you do when your goals or dreams feel so far away? When the fear of failure is overwhelming. When it seems like you will never get there and you start to talk yourself out of it? This episode will share how to overcome our fears when pursuing our dreams.

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This episode discusses the crucial role of documentation in social work, inspired by a recent tragic school shooting case. Learn the importance of 'documenting to CYA' and discover practical insights for effective documentation and clinical skills. Catherine introduces her course, 'Clinical Essentials for the Future Therapist,' designed to empower social workers. Don't miss this episode for valuable tips and a new focus on clinical skills.

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The people we keep around us can make or break our chances of success. If you have high goals and big dreams then listen in to this episode!

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In this episode of the Social Workers Rise podcast, host Catherine shares valuable documentation hacks, focusing on narrative notes. Catherine, a therapist and social worker since 2009, emphasizes the importance of effective documentation for showcasing client progress, ensuring legal compliance, and preventing miscommunication.

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Do you ever feel like the odds are against you when thinking about your goals? This episode breaks down the mindset you need when accomplishing big goals.

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