Interview Questions

What degree(s) do you have and where did you earn it (them)?
I have a B.A. in International Relations from Westminster College and my MSW from the University of Southern California.

What is your title?
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the Palliative Care Program at St. Peter’s Health in Helena, MT.

How did you come to work at your organization?
I have always had a strong interest in healthcare, but never wanted to be an RN or a medical doctor (I don’t always do well with blood...and I definitely don’t do well with needles!). While obtaining my graduate degree, I concentrated in the role of social workers and health. The opportunity arose to work as a Social Work Case Manager initially at the hospital. Shortly after, I was approached by an NP to help develop the Palliative Care Program to which I accepted.

What do you appreciate most about supervising practicum students?
I appreciate the enthusiasm and different perspectives students bring. I think it’s a breath of fresh air. It can sometimes be easy to get into a routine and not really change. With students, you have to slow down and process. Sometimes I end up learning something new along the way.

What does being a social worker mean to you?
I see myself as a guiding light along this journey we call life. As a social worker, I get to have the honor of joining others during some of the most vulnerable times in their lives. It’s not about giving advice or telling people what they should do. It’s about being present with our patients and lending a non-judgmental ear. Social Work also means being an advocate and acting ethically both in practice and personally.

How does your role as a social worker relate to your role as a supervisor?
I feel that as both a social worker and as a supervisor you have to be an active listener as well as a good communicator. These two skills are vital in both roles.

What is the most important thing you hope your practicum students take with them into their careers?
Self-care and self-compassion. It’s so easy to focus on our role of helping others that we sometimes can forget about ourselves. It’s not selfish to take time off. And we all make mistakes, so it’s important to practice kindness to ourselves when those mistakes happen.

What is your favorite quote that exemplifies social work?
“I define connection as the energy that exists between people when they feel seen, heard, and valued; when they can give and receive without judgment; and when they derive sustenance and strength from the relationship” --Brene Brown, PhD

Any final words of wisdom?
It’s going to be hard. There are days that it may feel overwhelming to hear other people’s stories. Know your triggers. Compassion fatigue, burnout-it’s a real thing. Recognize when you need a break and take that break.