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The difference between human services and social work

April 30, 2018

Human Services and Social Work are related fields that involve helping people through challenging life circumstances, whether in a crisis situation or for the long term.

So what distinguishes these fields from one another? In many cases, the differences have to do with the type of interaction and intervention each professional can offer.

An example of social work and human services at work

A human services professional (HSP) manages a homeless shelter and interacts with individuals and families on a daily basis. Daily interaction allows them to build trusting relationships with clients needing their help.
For example, the HSP might notice that a client is losing weight and showing signs of increased irritability and discomfort. When asked by the HSP, the client says they don’t feel well, can’t eat, and can’t sleep. The HSP acts as a first-responder, helping round up resources to assist. They might make a referral to a medical clinic or connect the client with a social worker to address possible changes in mood. The HSP might advocate for changes to government policies on behalf of his or her homeless clientele.

A social worker would be responsible for assessing the client and then working with them to develop a treatment plan. The social worker would also implement the plan and evaluate its outcomes. Based on outcomes, the social worker would either end services (if goals are met), or change the treatment plan. Social workers intervene in a variety of ways, depending on their level of education and licensure.
In addition to working with individuals, social workers are trained to assess and intervene from an environment perspective. They might engage the client’s family or other support networks to help address any macro level issues that might be impacting the client. Additionally, the social worker might work with HSPs, government agencies, or nonprofit organizations to advocate for new policies to address identified needs of at risk populations.

A comparison of social work and human services

Here’s a quick guide to help you understand the differences between the two areas of study and practice, as well as some career paths within each field.

  • A profession that performs a first-responder role in assessing situations, finding resources, and advocating, both at the personal and governmental levels.
  • Human service professionals serve as a liaison and advocate on behalf of clients experiencing challenging life circumstances.

  • A behavioral health profession that provides a wide range of services for individuals. families, groups. and communities.
  • Social workers use skill building techniques and clinical skills to intervene therapeutically.

  • Degree requirements vary based on level of leadership.
  • Licensure may be required.

  • Degree requirements vary based on level of leadership.
  • Social workers are licensed by the states in which they practice.

All segments of the population, including:

  • Children and families
  • Seniors
  • Homeless
  • Immigrants
  • People with disabilities
  • People with addictions
  • Veterans

All segments of the population. with sub-specialties in:

  • Infants and children
  • Teenagers
  • Adults
  • Elderly
  • LGBTQ
  • People with disabilities

Human services professionals act as first responders, diagnosing situations and searching out services and solutions.

  • Crisis intervention
  • Case management
  • Intake assessment
  • Liaison between clients and other agencies, including social workers
  • Advocate on behalf of clients. or at the governmental level on behalf of the overall community
  • Aware of community resources and community trends

Social workers make assessments, then develop and implement treatment plans, monitor and evaluate outcomes, and work on advocacy programs.

  • Intake assessment
  • Assess, plan, and intervene with clients on issues including addiction, mental health, and child welfare
  • Use knowledge of theory and experience to provide clinical interventions
  • Advocate on behalf of clients
  • Evaluate client outcomes
  • Research in governmental, health care, or educational settings
  • Teach social work or train new social workers

  • Hospital or clinic
  • Community agency
  • Neighborhood community center
  • Group home
  • Employee assistance center
  • Department of criminal justice
  • Government
  • Public interest group
  • Adoption agency
  • Senior center

  • Agencies or nonprofits
  • Hospital or clinic
  • Community college
  • Research organization
  • Military
  • Correctional facility
  • Schools
  • Private practice
  • Corporation
  • Local, state, and federal government


Learn more about Capella’s online social work and human services programs.

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