Pursuing a career in the helping <span title="professions....counseling,">professions....counseling...</span> social work, special ed?

Question

I'll be graduating in December with a B.A. in Human Development and Family studies. I know what interests me but am unsure of what graduate degree to pursue.

I want to work with younger children that have special needs. Mostly interested in social/emotional or developmental delays, with a focus on mental health. I'd ideally prefer a job related to the school setting, but as a therapist or someone who provides children with emotional support so they can meet their goals. I prefer small groups or one to one interaction.

I've considered Special Education, School Social Work, and Elementary School Counselor. They each seem to have their benefits and set backs...I'm not sure what would best meet my interests. Any advice?

Answer 1

There is always a need for special edu. teachers and social workers. They will be the best bet at finding a position and getting paid well.

Answer 2

From what you describe it sounds like school social work.  School social workers - work first and formost with special education providing pychosocial support to the special ed students (particularly with emotional and behavioral student issues).  Very rare to have elementary school counselors (don&#039;t usually see this until middle school).  Special ed teachers tend to focus more on the educational side - which you seem less interested in.

DA

Answer 3

why don&#039;t you try out all three...you can easily get experience doing all three...my friend started assistant teaching special ed long before she graduate...their are several companies that hire people to work with developmental difficulties without a degree on a one on one basis...and i know you can volunteer or get an internship as a social worker....

keep up the good work

oh and could you check out my blog

mytabularrasa.com

Answer 4

sorry for the flippant short answer-

but it seems to me you&#039;re asking a more theoretical question when you need concrete answers.  The details of  ajob are always going to be somewhat different the the schooling for it, so instead of reading or asking about what jobs will fit you best, I would take the (significant) amount of time to shadow people who are in each job.  Talk to them face to face, see them in there workplace.