Social workers support patients and families through difficult times
Social workers are important pieces of every patient’s care team puzzle
At Mary Bridge Children’s, our team of 36 social workers support multiple service areas, such as acute care, ambulatory teams, and gender health, as well as Mary Bridge Children’s programs like Parenting Partnership, Bridges Center for Grieving Children, and Kids’ Mental Health Pierce County.
Before visiting with patients, social workers begin their day reviewing charts or rounding with doctors, nurses, navigators and pharmacists. They work tirelessly to balance chaos with support and provide advocacy with kindness. No two days are the same, but the endless challenges and experiences provide social workers with never-ending learning experiences.
Several Mary Bridge Children’s social workers shared about their work, as well as what it means to them to serve our patients in this capacity every day.
What is something about social work at Mary Bridge that makes you proud?
“I feel honored to support patients and families who have to deal with chronic illness on a daily basis. I appreciate how they trust me and come to me when they have questions or support needs.” – Jessica Pabst, hematology/oncology clinic
“Making active change in youth lives.” – Aytch, gender health clinic
What’s one tip you’d share with any parent or patient who is struggling right now?
“A lot of people are going through similar challenges. Keep talking to others about your struggles and challenges as sharing your thoughts and feelings are so important versus holding them in.” – Julie Johnson, emergency department
“Breathe … deep breaths are so therapeutic in almost every situation.” – Jesica Lester-Hayes, endocrinology
What is something you’d like people to know about social work?
“It is a profession filled with so much support, love, advocacy, kindness and change-making.” – Vanessa Adams, emergency department
“We are here to support you and your family. We are advocates for children, but also for the whole family.” – Barbara Guerrero, inpatient and outpatient services
March is Social Worker Appreciation Month and we couldn’t provide the well-rounded care that we do without them.