There are many job options for a social worker. Social workers are found in hospitals, jails, schools, nonprofit agencies, and many other locations. One experience that has taught me tremendously is being a therapist in a residential program for adolescents. My clients were placed in residential care for one of two reasons: they were removed from their home by child protective services or they were placed by a probation officer after legal issues.
Working in a residential setting with teenagers Brough both good and bad moments, but I learned from all of it. It was the first time I had an opportunity to really get to know my clients because my office was in the home. I saw them 5 out of 7 days of the week for multiple hours a day. We had our regally scheduled appointments, but I also saw them when I was sitting at the table eating, turning the TV on to check the score of a game, and so on. I was also there when a fight broke out or someone was upset.
If you have an opportunity to become a residential therapist, I would encourage you to consider the offer because this is a unique environment to work in. There is a closeness that takes place with working in someone’s home and seeing your clients through all different moods and situations.
I must say though, this environment is not for everyone and that’s okay. I have met other therapist that do not want a close experience. Some people prefer much more structure and that’s okay too. However, if you’re up for the challenge, I would say it does provide a rich experience that is difficult to find anywhere else.
Please watch this YouTube video for more in-depth information about my experience.
Carissa 
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