Exploring Civilian Social Worker Roles in the Military

I'm passionate about social work and intrigued by the idea of working as a civilian social worker for the military. What are the main responsibilities, and how can I potentially pursue this after college?

As a civilian social worker within the military, you'd be tasked with supporting service members and their families through challenges that are unique to military life. Some common issues you might provide counseling or therapeutic services for include combat stress, PTSD, substance abuse, and acclimation after deployment or upon leaving the military. You may also play a role in providing resources and support for family challenges, such as the pressures of frequent moves, long-distance relationships, and the stresses faced by families during deployment.

In an effort to explore this career path, you could consider obtaining your Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) or Master of Social Work (MSW) as a pertinent step. Many positions require a master's degree, so pursuing an MSW post-graduation could provide more opportunities. It's also common for these roles to require licensure, so be aware of your state's specific requirements as well.

While in college, I recommend looking for internships or practicums that provide experience relevant to the military or veteran population. This could be at a Veterans Affairs medical center, a community veteran center, or even a military family support center.

Once you have your degree and licensure, you can apply for civilian positions within the Department of Defense or the Department of Veterans Affairs. Keep an eye out for positions listed as "GS" (General Schedule), as these are often open to civilian applicants.

Remember, it's not only the career knowledge and academic qualifications that are important in this field, but also possessing qualities like empathy, resilience, and good communication skills which will serve you well in these roles.