June 23, 2025

Have you ever felt called to help others, support those in need, and create real change in your community? If so, you may be destined for a career in social services. But where do you begin? How do you turn that passion into a profession? In this blog, we’ll walk you through how to work in social services including what it takes to enter the field, what kind of training you need, and how CDI College’s Social Services Worker – Professional Diploma in British Columbia can launch your journey. 

What Is Social Services Work? 

Social services involve providing support and resources to individuals, families, and communities who are experiencing personal or systemic challenges. These may include:  

• Mental health concerns 
• Substance use and addiction 
• Homelessness 
• Domestic violence 
• Family conflict 
• Poverty and unemployment
• Youth at risk 

The goal of social services is to promote wellbeing, empower individuals, and foster equity. Professionals in this field are often on the front lines of care and advocacy. 

How to Work in Social Services 

Step 1: Understand the Work Environment 

Before entering the field, it’s important to know where social service professionals work and what they do on a daily basis. Roles exist in a wide variety of settings: 
 

• Non-profit and government agencies 
• Homeless shelters and group homes 
• Youth outreach programs 
• Mental health and addiction treatment centres 
• Correctional facilities and courts 
• Indigenous community organizations 
   

Typical responsibilities include:
 

• Interviewing and assessing clients
• Connecting people with housing, food, healthcare, or counselling
• Facilitating group sessions and educational programs
• Providing crisis intervention
• Maintaining client records and case files 
   

CDI College’s program is designed to prepare you for all these tasks through real-world practicum placements and career-specific training. 

Step 2: Get the Right Education 

While volunteering is a great way to gain exposure, a diploma is often required to begin a career in social services. One of the most respected options in British Columbia is the Social Services Worker – Professional Diploma at CDI College. 

What you’ll learn:
 

• Psychology, ethics, and communication
• Poverty, addiction, and mental health
• Case management and report writing
• Youth advocacy and justice
• Cultural diversity and social justice
• Community networking and professional development 
   

The program includes 59 weeks of in-depth training, 260 hours of practicum experience, and five key certifications: - First Aid & CPR - WHMIS for Employees - FoodSafe Level I - Applied Suicide Intervention Skills Training (ASIST) - Non-Violent Crisis Intervention (NVCI) 

Step 3: Meet the Basic Requirements 

To work in social services in BC, you typically need to: 
 

• Be a high school graduate or mature student (19+) 
• Complete a diploma or degree program in social services or a related field 
• Pass a criminal record check (required for practicums and jobs) 
• Have current immunizations (required for some placements) 
• Demonstrate English language proficiency (IELTS, TOEFL, CELPIP, etc.) 

 
CDI College helps you through the admissions process and ensures you’re equipped to meet these standards. 

Step 4: Gain Hands-On Experience 

Education is only part of the equation. The best way to prepare for the realities of social services work is through field experience. CDI College students complete two practicum placements:

1. Recovery Worker Practicum (130 hours): Work with clients dealing with addiction and recovery

2. Youth Worker Practicum (130 hours): Work in schools, shelters, or youth outreach programs 
 

These hands-on opportunities allow you to apply what you’ve learned in real workplace settings, build confidence, and make connections that can lead to employment. 

Step 5: Develop Core Skills 

To be successful in social services, you need more than just technical knowledge. You also need: 

• Empathy: To genuinely care and connect with others 
• Communication: To listen actively and respond effectively 
• Boundaries: To maintain professionalism and avoid burnout 
• Cultural competence: To respect diverse backgrounds and experiences 
• Problem-solving: To think quickly in crisis situations 
• Organization: To manage multiple clients, appointments, and files 

CDI College emphasizes soft skill development through group projects, scenario training, and career coaching. 

Step 6: Find the Right Job Fit 

With a diploma in hand and practicum experience under your belt, you’ll be ready to explore a range of job options, such as:
 

• Youth Worker
• Addictions Support Worker
• Crisis Intervention Worker
• Community Mental Health Support
• Family Service Worker
• Shelter or Group Home Worker
• Outreach Coordinator 

Whether you want to work directly with clients or behind the scenes coordinating services, there’s a place for you in social services. 

Why Choose CDI College? 

When it comes to entering the social services field, CDI College offers everything you need to succeed: -

• 59-week diploma program tailored to real workforce needs 
• Expert instructors with field experience
• Two practicum placements to boost your resume
• Multiple certifications to enhance your skillset

Witrh Canada’s growing demand for qualified social service workers, now is the perfect time to start. 

Final Thoughts: Your Path Starts Here 

Learning how to work in social services starts with a decision a decision to serve, to support, and to step up for your community. With the right education, hands-on training, and a heart for helping others, you can make a real difference. CDI College’s Social Services Worker – Professional Diploma provides the foundation you need to succeed. Whether you’re just starting out or looking for a career change, this program will help you gain the knowledge, skills, and experience to thrive in social services.