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Service Occupation Glossary

Art therapists are mental health professionals who use a combination of psychotherapy and visual arts (drawing, painting, sculpture, and other media) to improve the physical and mental well-being of patients. They assess and treat people of all ages who are diagnosed with anxiety, depression, or other emotional disorders, are battling substance abuse or other addictions, are victims of sexual abuse or domestic violence, and have physical, mental, and/or neurological problems related to medical conditions. Art therapists work in a variety of settings, including hospitals, clinics, wellness centers, schools, businesses, and private practices. To practice art therapy, some states require a degree in art therapy or a related field.

Case managers
support individuals and families facing challenging life circumstances by providing access to the care they require. They work closely with clients to assess individual needs, arrange services, monitor use of services, and advocate for their rights. Case managers work in a variety of settings. They specialize in healthcare, occupational services, child welfare, immigrant/refugee services, and other areas of practice in the public, nonprofit, or for-profit sector. Depending on state licensing requirements, some workplaces require a case management certificate.

Child welfare social workers ensure the well-being of children. They may provide services for single parents, arrange adoptions, and locate foster homes for neglected or abused children. Child welfare social workers work for private practices, government agencies, and schools.

Healthcare case managers coordinate health services for outpatient individuals with severe physical and/or mental disorders. Case managers may refer clients to services or provide intensive clinical or rehabilitative services. To practice healthcare case management, some states require a bachelor’s or master’s degree in healthcare and a social work license.

High school coaches instruct sports to students. They typically teach academic subjects during school hours, and supervise sports practices after school. They may run fitness drills, instruct techniques, and develop game strategies. Coaches in public schools must have a bachelor’s degree, expertise in the sport, and state teaching certification.

Librarians collect and classify books, periodicals, manuscripts, articles, audio-visual materials, and electronic resources. They work in public libraries, school libraries, and special collection libraries owned by government agencies, corporations, museums, hospitals, professional associations, and other organizations. Librarians specialize in various fields. Reference librarians work closely with visitors to retrieve user information and instruct how to search databases and locate resources. Librarians in technical services acquire, classify, and catalogue materials. Librarians in administrative services manage staff, raise funds, promote services, and coordinate programs for visitors. To be a librarian, most states require a master’s degree in library science (MLS) or a master’s in education with an emphasis on library media.


Marriage and family counselors provide psychotherapy to families struggling with mental health issues, domestic violence, martial difficulties, substance abuse, and behavioral and emotional problems. They moderate group counseling sessions and observe family interactions to determine the source of the conflicts and establish a plan of resolution. Most work places require a master’s degree in marriage and family counseling.

Medical health social workers support individuals and families coping with chronic, acute, and terminal illnesses, such as cancer and AIDS. They may provide individual or group therapy, locate healthcare services, evaluate patient progress, and arrange for in-home care. Medical health social workers are employed by hospitals, personal care facilities, private practices, and government agencies.

Mental health social workers assess and treat individuals and families coping with substance addiction or severe mental, behavioral, and/or emotional disorders. They may provide individual and group therapy, crisis intervention, social rehabilitation, and other mental health services. They practice in a variety of settings, including private practices, hospitals, mental health clinics, substance abuse treatment centers, government agencies, and schools.

School guidance counselors provide academic support and life guidance to young people. They help students overcome personal challenges, mediate conflict resolution, and provide drug and alcohol abuse rehabilitation. They also advise students  academically, prepare them for life beyond school, and offer guidance for post graduate plans. School counselors work in public and private schools, often in collaboration with school psychologists, nurses, teachers, and parents. All public school counselors must be certified in school counseling and pass the Praxis I and II exams. Some states require teaching certification and/or a master’s degree in education or psychology.

School nurses ensure the health and safety of students and staff. They may treat injuries and illnesses, provide case management services for children with chronic health problems, monitor administration of prescribed medication, and teach classes on health and nutrition. All states require school nurses to have a registered nursing license (RN). In addition, some states require a bachelor’s or master’s degree in education, public health, or counseling.

Social policymakers develop and maintain public policies and programs. They analyze social problems (such as unemployment, homelessness, domestic violence, and substance abuse), regulate policies, propose legislation, and develop programs that promote public health and well-being. Most policy jobs in private and public agencies require a master’s degree in public policy, social administration, or a related field.

Social workers support individuals and families coping with substance addiction, domestic abuse, unemployment, homelessness, and other life issues. They may provide direct client care, advocate for services, or assist with policy development. Social workers must have a master’s or doctorate degree in social work and specialize in medical or mental healthcare, child welfare, immigration/refugee services, or another field.