Commitment + Clinical Leadership = Better Outcomes

Social workers in the healthcare industry help residents and their families by providing guidance, resources, and information on services throughout the resident’s stay. In addition to the healthcare industry, social workers can also take roles as a health educator, research assistant, case manager, and outreach worker.

March is Social Work Month, and to celebrate, we interviewed Myesha Cunningham from Oaks of Brecksville, Jasmine Brooks from Clarksville Health and Rehab, and Emma Stokes from Autumn Care of Raeford about their backgrounds and experience as social workers in the healthcare industry.

Tell Us About Your Background.

Brooks earned her bachelor’s degree in social work from Liberty University and is currently in the process of getting a master’s degree in social work.

“I interned at South Boston Health and Rehab and was later offered a job at Clarksville Health and Rehab, where I have been the Social Services Director for two years,” Brooks told us.

Cunningham started her career in the home healthcare setting and said, “I later transitioned to the skilled nursing facility setting in my career. Throughout the years, I have been part of every department and worked my way up to the Social Services Director position, where I have been for five years.”

“I previously worked as a daycare teacher and an assistant director of KinderCare. Later on, I made the transition to the skilled nursing field. I felt a calling to serve residents, “Stokes said.

What Made You Decide to Go Into the Social Services Field?

“I wanted to make a difference and make a positive impact in the lives of others,” Stokes said.

Brooks added, “I have always had a compassion for helping others.”

Cunningham stated, “I liked helping people, and I have always known that I wanted to care for people and make a big change. I like how you interact with the residents and their families, which helps you better serve your residents’ needs.”

Tell Us About Your Typical Day.

“At the beginning of the day, I will go over my emails and prepare for my morning standup meeting, which is where we go over the needs of our residents and the tasks we need to complete for the day.”

Stokes said on her day, “After the morning meeting, I will check on our residents and ask if they need anything. Later on, I meet the new residents and their families and answer any questions they may have.”

Cunningham added, “I also make sure that the residents who are discharging have everything they need to return home. I walk the residents and the families through the discharge process, and provide them with the necessary resources.”

What Qualifications Do You Need to Work in Social Services?

The social workers we interviewed told us that you need to have a bachelor’s degree with a Human Resources concentration.

Saber’s affiliated communities also require two to three years of experience in the social work field.

Tell Us The Skills or Traits You Need to Have to Work in Social Services.

Stokes said that communication is one of the most important traits you need to have. “It is important to know how to effectively communicate with the residents and their families.”

Brooks agreed and added, “Active listening and having empathy for others is also crucial.”

Cunningham stated, “You also need to read the residents’ behaviors and learn their personalities. This helps you better connect and serve the residents.”

What Opportunities Are Available For Those in the Social Services Field?

“You can work as a social services director, counselor, therapy assistant, case manager, or discharge planner,” said Brooks.

Cunningham stated, “You can work in a hospital, a nursing home community, or a school setting.”

Stokes mentioned Saber’s mentorship program “You can also become a social services mentor for Saber.”

What is Your Favorite Part About Your Job?

“There are a lot of rewards,” said Cunningham. I love teaching the residents and their families about their rights and hearing stories from residents.”

Stokes shared a similar sentiment. “My favorite part is getting to form relationships and connections with the residents and their families.”

Brooks added, “I love being able to see how I am making a positive impact in the lives of the residents, families, and my coworkers.”

Do You Have Any Advice for Aspiring Social Workers?

Stokes suggested making a to-do list. “I find it very beneficial to make a to-do list and write down everything you need to complete during the day.”

Cunningham said, “Having compassion and a heart is a big part.” Brooks added, “It is important to remember that one of the most important aspects of our job is to serve others.”

About the Social Services Department Mentor Program

The Social Services Department Mentor Program is designed to provide guidance, professional development, and support to affiliated staff members within the nursing home. The goal is to enhance the quality of care, improve teamwork, and foster personal and professional growth. By pairing experienced professionals with newer staff, we aim to create a nurturing environment where skills, knowledge, and best practices can be shared to improve service delivery and resident care.

Saber Healthcare:

Saber Healthcare is an organization that provides consulting services to more than 130 buildings across the states of Ohio, Pennsylvania, Virginia, North Carolina, Indiana, and Delaware. To learn more about our company and services, click here.

Saber Healthcare is an organization dedicated to providing consultant services to long-term care providers. This article is for informational purposes and is not meant to be seen as professional advice. Please consult with a medical expert before relying on the information provided.