March 25th 2024.
As March approaches, we celebrate National Social Workers Month, a time to honor the tireless efforts and invaluable contributions of social workers across the country. This year's theme, "Empowering Social Workers," holds special significance for professionals like Whitney Coleman, who have dedicated their careers to advocating for better recognition, compensation, and support for their fellow social workers. As the owner of Jade Clinical Services and the Breaking Boundaries Therapist Academy, based in Washington, DC, Coleman is a champion for patients, social workers, and in particular, Black women.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, there were over 715,000 social workers in the US in 2020, and this number is expected to grow by 12% by 2030, making social work one of the fastest-growing professions in the country. Coleman's journey to becoming a licensed clinical social worker has not been an easy one. After completing her undergraduate degree in Sociology from the University of Pittsburgh, she went on to obtain her Master of Social Work degree from the University of South Carolina. She is licensed in four states and the District of Columbia, and has navigated the complexities and challenges that many social workers face, such as fair compensation and recognition for their important work.
Coleman recently shared her experiences as a social worker and entrepreneur with BLACK ENTERPRISE, providing valuable insight into the challenges, opportunities, and rewards of being a social worker. She highlighted the often overlooked but vital role that social workers play in our society, and how their work can go unnoticed and unappreciated. Social workers can be found in various settings, from schools to hospitals, and at all levels of government and in social service agencies. Yet, their contributions are often disregarded, despite being the ones we turn to in times of crisis, such as the opioid addiction epidemic and the increasing rates of suicide and homelessness.
In her practice, Coleman specializes in supporting women, particularly women of color, through life transitions, anxiety, and trauma. She understands that these three issues often go hand in hand and can have a profound impact on one's mental health. Coleman stresses the importance of understanding trauma beyond traditional definitions, stating that it can affect individuals differently. As a black woman, Coleman is also aware of the damaging effects of the "Black Superwoman Syndrome," which places unrealistic expectations on black women to be strong, resilient, and independent, often at the expense of their own well-being.
As a therapist and social worker, Coleman recognizes the daily struggles and pressures that individuals face in trying to meet societal expectations while also taking care of themselves. Through her work, she aims to empower women of color to navigate these challenges and reclaim their narratives. She stresses the importance of continuous education and networking for mental health professionals, particularly those from BIPOC communities.
Coleman is a true advocate for her profession and the communities she serves. Through her Breaking Boundaries Therapist Academy, she provides BIPOC mental health professionals with the necessary tools and support to build successful private practices. She believes that by acknowledging our worth and advocating for change, we can create a brighter future for social workers and the communities they serve. By addressing systemic challenges and offering education and support, Coleman is paving the way for a more equitable and empowered future within the social work field.
In conclusion, as we celebrate National Social Workers Month, let us not forget the vital role that social workers play in our society. Coleman's dedication to empowering her fellow social workers and patients is a reminder of the incredible impact that social workers have on our communities. Together, we can create a better future for all.
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