Baltimore Social Worker Finds Work With Children and Adolescents Fulfilling
In a CDC report, which studied children in the years 2005-2011, those with mental disorders also frequently had other chronic health conditions such as asthma, diabetes, and epilepsy. These are known as co-occurring disorders and tend to be carried into adulthood unless properly treated.
Katie Bowen is a licensed graduate social worker on Sheppard Pratt Health System's Child and Adolescent Neuropsychiatric Unit, an inpatient unit for those with co-occurring developmental and psychiatric disorders including autism spectrum disorders.
Bowen graduated cum laude from James Madison University with a B.A. in psychology and obtained an M.S.W. from the University of Maryland School of Social Work. She expects to become a licensed certified social worker clinical this summer.
What inspired you to become a social worker?
"I never knew exactly what I wanted to be when I grew up, but my mother always taught me to follow my heart; that it would lead me to the right place. She also placed great emphasis on hard work, compassion, helping others, and standing up for what you believe in. Given those lessons, it seems only fitting, I ended up a social worker."
How does your educational background relate to your current role?
"My psychology studies at James Madison University served as the foundation for my role as a social worker; the theory, best practices, career opportunities, etc. In graduate school, I learned more about how to apply knowledge to practice."
How has your education helped to further your career and contributed to your success?
"I couldn't be where I am today without the education and training I received in college and graduate school. The experiences I had during my advanced year placement prepared me for my current role. The first was at an elementary school in Baltimore City and the other was on the unit on which I now work. I fell in love with the work itself and the patient population we serve, and I also honed my clinical skills, established professional relationships, and learned how to work within a treatment team."
What is some advice you can offer others looking to go into social work?
"Social work is strenuous, but it is also immensely fulfilling. Work hard, be humble, believe in the best of people, and listen."
Susan Brown originally spent many years in banking/finance before confronting her addictions. She has now been in recovery for 20 years.
Primary interests include metaphysics and energy healing in which she has several certifications. She has written for Examiner.com since 2009 and also writes for Om Times. Sue lives in Baltimore.
