What Do Social Workers Do?
Many people are unsure what a social worker does or how they can help. Social workers play a crucial role in supporting individuals and families through life’s challenges, especially when navigating health concerns, ageing, bereavement, or major life transitions.
Whether you or a loved one are dealing with a new diagnosis, adjusting after a hospital stay, or simply feeling overwhelmed by care decisions, a social worker can help you find the right support, resources, and strategies to move forward with confidence.
As a social worker, I assist clients and families by helping them navigate these services, access other useful supports, and adjust emotionally to life after any major event or through change. Whether you need help understanding the health system or simply someone to talk to about your concerns, I am here to help.
Why Do Health Professionals Refer to a Social Worker?
Doctors, nurses, and allied health professionals often refer patients to a social worker because health challenges don’t just affect the body—they impact emotions, relationships, and daily life. Some key reasons healthcare professionals might recommend social work support include:
- Managing emotional distress after a diagnosis or hospital stay.
- Help with complex discharge planning, especially when additional support is needed at home.
- Counselling for anxiety, depression, grief, or adjustment difficulties.
- Support for family carers who are feeling overwhelmed, stressed, or unsure about the future.
- Guidance on accessing community services, home care, or financial assistance.
If you or someone you care about is struggling with health, care, or life changes, you don’t have to navigate it alone. Social work support can help you find clarity, feel heard, and access the right resources for your unique situation.
If you cannot afford private support, I will help you to find a local social work service you can access.
How social workers can help
Every person’s journey is different, and my role as a social worker is to listen, support, and guide you in a way that meets your specific needs.
Whether you need short-term help to adjust after an illness or long-term support with grief, mental health, or life transitions, I offer a safe and welcoming space where you can explore your options and feel empowered moving forward. I use a bio-psycho-social model – so I just try to get to know you in the context of the various aspects of your life.