Social workers at Lahey Clinic play an important role in assuring that the emotional and social concerns of patients are addressed. They help patients access resources and learn coping skills, while considering the impact of illness on patients' unique life situations.
By collaborating as a team with doctors, nurses and other caregivers, social workers provide patients with comprehensive, individualized and optimal care.
Social workers at Lahey Clinic are all masters-level clinicians licensed to practice by the state of Massachusetts. They are trained in psychology, sociology, human growth and behavior, and cultural diversity. Members of the social work team also participate in special ongoing training for work in a hospital setting.
Meeting with a Social Worker
Social workers are available by appointment Monday through Friday, and after hours for emergencies. To make an appointment, please call 781-744-3496 and leave your name, Lahey Clinic number, Lahey physician's name, and the best way to be reached. A social worker will return your call and arrange the appointment.
During your initial appointment, you and the social worker will review your concerns and assess your needs. The evaluation may also include a discussion of your medical and personal history, supports and lifestyle. You and the social worker will develop a plan of action, including helping you to access any necessary resources, and will continue to work together as needed to meet your needs. You can expect to meet for up to one hour, depending upon the request.
Lahey Clinic’s Social Work Team:
What to Expect from Social Work
Social workers empower patients through “interventions,” which are actions taken to help patients identify their priorities and make changes, if necessary.
Examples of interventions include:
- Counseling for patients and their families
- Connecting patients to appropriate community and hospital resources
- Assisting with practical concerns (insurance, transportation, medication, disability benefits)
- Addressing emotional and social concerns related to a patient's illness
Hospital social workers see patients individually, but also facilitate support groups for patients with similar illnesses and concerns. For frequently asked questions about social work, please click here.
Support Groups
Lahey Clinic offers a wide variety of support groups for patients and, in some cases, their families. These range from a support group for patients coping with a cancer diagnosis to a support group for families of Alzheimer's patients. For more information, please see our support groups page, our event calendar or call 781-744-3496 for more information.
Social Worker Lecture Series
The Social Worker Lecture Series at Lahey Clinic is open to members of the general public, free of charge. Persons interested in exploring health care-related social issues are encouraged to attend. For further information on lecture offerings, please click here.
