So, what is a Mental Health Social Worker anyway?
Most people have heard of social workers. However, they are often thought of as professionals who work in the hospital system or with disadvantaged groups, right? Well, not always—and I’m here to shed some light on what a mental health social worker is.
Social work is a university-level qualification, either at the undergraduate or master’s level. Social work education focuses on enhancing the wellbeing of individuals, families, and groups, while also advocating for social justice. This is achieved through the study of human behaviour, counselling skills, mental health, and overall wellbeing.
Obtaining accreditation as a mental health social worker means a practitioner has demonstrated specialist skills and experience in mental health, as recognised by the Australian Association of Social Workers (AASW)—the profession’s governing body. This accreditation is endorsed by the federal government, which means services provided by accredited mental health social workers are covered under Medicare. In practical terms, this allows clients with a Mental Health Care Plan (MHCP) from their GP to access sessions with a Medicare rebate.
When a client seeks counselling, a mental health social worker views them as part of a broader, interconnected system—one that includes their family, community, and the social norms or pressures they may be experiencing. Their relationships, history, and environment all play a role in shaping their current behaviours and challenges. Recognising these connections is crucial, as is offering unconditional positive regard for all behaviours—whether perceived as positive or negative.
For example, what may be seen as “negative” behaviour in a child is often a form of communication from a dysregulated nervous system. The role of the social worker is to hold a safe, non-judgmental space for this child to learn regulation and to integrate difficult or traumatic experiences.
What Skills Do Mental Health Social Workers Use?
Mental health social workers utilise a wide range of evidence-based approaches for adults, children and whole families, including (but not limited to):
CBT – Cognitive Behaviour Therapy
Relaxation strategies
Skills training
Interpersonal therapy
Narrative therapy
Psychoeducation
EMDR – Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing
Who Can They Help?
Mental health social workers can support adult and child clients experiencing:
Depression
Anxiety
Disruptive behaviour
Neurodiversity-related challenges
Trauma histories
Mood disorders
Adjustment issues
Family conflict