Mentoring Programs

 Purpose of the Mentor Program

The purpose of the Mentor Program is to provide a link between a Mentor, who is an established member of the profession, with a graduating social work student, a recent graduate, a social worker re-entering the field or one new to the area. The program is open to all GWSCSW Members no matter what area of concentration or special interest he or she has in the field of social work.

The Mentee is assigned to an individual Mentor upon receipt of the application. Additional services offered are support groups and other workshops. Mentoring might be a one-time meeting or an ongoing relationship. Contact may be by phone or email, but face-to-face meetings are encouraged, when possible.

Mentor: a wise and trusted counselor and teacher

Recent MSW graduates and social workers resuming practice, new to the Washington Metro area or contemplating changing an area of clinical focus after years of practice may want to talk with a Mentor.

These are some of the common issues a new or returning social worker might like assistance with as a Mentee:

• Job search strategies
  
• Advice on how to handle tough situations with co-workers or boss in a new job
  
• Information about licensure
  
• Group support alongside other new or transitioning social workers
  
• Assistance with strategies for starting a private psychotherapy practice
  
• Continuing professional development
  

Note: The role of the Mentor is not to provide psychotherapy or supervision to the Mentee.  If these are your needs, the Therapist Finder System is the appropriate resource.

The Mentoring Program (directed through the Professional Development Committee) also recruits anyone interested in becoming a Mentor: experienced clinical social workers willing to help someone consider his/her goals and act as a sounding board, providing guidance and advice. You can determine the extent of your own time commitment.

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