Covid 19 Impact: Social Workers in Private Practice

Covid 19 has put the whole world in a state of panic. The economic structure has been gravely affected by this pandemic and most businesses are drowning. This is challenge is no stranger to us too as Social Workers in private practice. As much as we are recognized as essential services, the many challenges facing our practices are limitless. None of us were prepared for what we are going through now. It becomes so challenging both personally and professionally to decide on what course of action to take. We want to be in the front line as the pandemic has stirred a mental health crisis; while at the same time we ought to protect ourselves. Additionally, we have to generate income in the process. The prospects of earning an income are sometimes overwhelmed by the need to assist those in need of our services, resulting in us volunteering our services more that profiting from them. Here are some pointers on how I have coped through during the pandemic and manage to keep the business afloat:

1. Reduced rates - I offered my services to clients at reduced rates. Most people have been home and unable to work, while others have already been laid off. The reduced rates offers them an ease in financial burden but ensures that they receive the mental health support they need. This is better than not having paying clients at all.

2. Free weekly check-ins for regular clients.

3. Mental health coping tips for existing clients through email.

4. Sharing the benefits of virtual counseling with clients - Most of my clients were reluctant on using Zoom for sessions. I had to make an extra effort of sharing the benefits of virtual counseling and the importance to continue their recovery plan. Only 5% of my clientele responded positively to this but once again, it is better than nothing.

5. Pro bono sessions - These did not necessarily assist the business but helped my clients whom have been very loyal however hit the hardest by the pandemic. It gave me such satisfaction to assist them.

6. Health Care Workers Pro bono sessions - Finally, I provided pro bono sessions to health care workers to promote the help them as front liners. This also helped me to show that Social Workers are also essential service providers in their own professional right, specifically for us in private practice as we are sometimes forgotten.

In a nutshell, the impact of Covid 19 on Social Work private practices has been a bitter one but I can count more positive outcomes out of the pandemic than the negative ones, the most important being the fact that I was able to continue providing emotional support for my clients.

Looking at the greatest Social Workers in private practice advocates such as Ayesha Malagas from Stars Wellness, one is always motivated to take the plunge forth in ensuring that the profession of Social Work is noticed and appreciated. It is for great Social advocacy soldiers such as herself that we keep raising the Social Work flag.