I am writing in response to your printed position, published in the Jan. 18 edition, on the need for more mental health services in Sussex County. I could not agree more; however, I would like to advocate for the profession of social work. (Self-disclosure: This author will graduate from The Catholic  University of America in May 2013 with her master's in social work.)

Licensed social workers are in our schools, hospitals, nursing homes, hospices, federal agencies and nonprofits. We are everywhere, and we work with our most vulnerable populations, and advocate for social and environmental justice. We work with children, families, couples, groups and communities to help alleviate and eliminate personal and societal suffering.

Our unique systems-based perspective of viewing the person in his or her environment, and promoting the dignity and worth of every human being, self-determination, social support, and providing referrals to available community resources make us perfect candidates for hire in Sussex County. We work alongside and collaborate with psychologists and psychiatrists, doctors, and nurses, teachers and families to provide the best and most appropriate mental health care for each individual. We are trained to provide mental health assessments and counseling.

With true interdisciplinary collaboration and state funding, we can help individuals and our communities reach their full potential. I graduate in May!

Heather A. Hill
Rehoboth Beach