How to Start a Private Social Work Business
Starting a private social work business can be an extremely difficult undertaking. You must have a certain amount of social work education (Master's degree or higher, in some states) to even apply for the permits to open a business of this kind. You'll also need to hire qualified staff. Specific requirements vary by state, but you'll also need starting capital and appropriate building space.
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Instructions
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Decide on the type of social work business you'd like to start.
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Find all licensing requirements for your business. For certain, you will need a business permit. However, some types of business are required to have other permits. To open a counseling service in California, for instance, you must have had at least two years of post-Masters education with a specified number of hours supervised by a certified mental health or social work professional. Meanwhile, clinical social work businesses have special licenses and permits that must be signed off on by government officials. The Better Business Bureau will be able to direct you to all the necessary forms and to answer questions for your specific state.
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Get all necessary permits. You'll need to have your building selected, your special qualifications in order, and your business plan approved by the end of this process.
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Purchase necessary equipment and hire your staff. At this point, your private social work business is ready to open its doors.
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Tips & Warnings
Make sure that you go straight to the source for necessary permits. The better business bureau and the local or county courthouse in your area will have the necessary forms and permits on hand for your business. If you have a completed business plan it will make it easier for the clerks to assist you in filling out the right forms as well.
References
- Photo Credit Team work image by Ricardo Verde Costa from Fotolia.com
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Comments
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msmbamsw
Dec 06, 2010
Alabama's requirements are very similar to those of California. Please remember to purchase liability insurance before you ever see your first client! You could risk losing your license in pursuit of this endeavor and should only consider it after much real-world work experience and with knowledgable mentors available to guide you through tough situations.
