Allyson Roudybush, MSW, LCSW, CCTP, is the Clinical Supervisor of Gaudenzia’s Erie County Outpatient programming. Prior to joining Gaudenzia, she began her career as a Therapeutic Staff Support (TSS) before transitioning to a full-time position working with youth and adolescents, teaching independent living skills. After working with this population for several years, she gained experience within the scope of ADA waivers before accepting a position with Gaudenzia.
Initially starting as a Case Manager with Warm Hand-Off Services in Erie and Mercer counties, she became the Program Supervisor. Currently, Allyson is transitioning into her new role as Clinical Supervisor of one of Gaudenzia’s many outpatient programs. She received her bachelor’s degree in psychology from Mercyhurst University in 2010, and her master’s degree in social work from Pennsylvania Western University in Edinboro in 2020.
We’re so grateful to Allyson for taking the time to answer our questions and for providing her insights on the field of social work. Keep reading to learn more about her journey as a social worker.
If you or someone you love needs help with substance use and co-occurring disorders, please call Gaudenzia’s 24-hour Treatment and Referral HelpLine at 833.976.HELP (4357) or email helpline@gaudenzia.org today.
How Do You Interpret the 2023 National Social Work Month Theme of “Social Work Breaks Barriers?”
This year’s theme, to me, is a fantastic way to summarize the extremely wide and varied field of social work in four simple words. Social workers work with their client bases, the public, and various systems to break countless barriers that people face. We strive to make our society a better place to live in, and be a part of, for everyone — regardless of their socioeconomic class, gender, orientation, race, ethnicity, religion, etc. To do that, we need to be active advocates and allies.
What Are the Biggest Challenges Social Workers Face Today?
I think the public, at large, not knowing who social workers are — and who they are not. I also believe that there is a growing need for more social workers, both in the public and non-profit sector, as well as in private practice.
How Do You Take Care of Yourself to Prevent Burnout?
I am a certified and registered yoga instructor, so my yoga practice is instrumental in my self-care practice. I also enjoy spending time with those in my life who I love and help cultivate joy. And, when the weather in northwestern Pennsylvania cooperates, I enjoy spending as much time outside as possible.
Where Do You Think the Field of Social Work is Headed in the Next Five to Ten Years?
I am hopeful that the field will see a boom in the number of social workers, who come with a fresh and open mindset, as I expect that the need for social workers will only increase over the coming years.
Can You Describe a “Day in the Life” of Your Current Position?
I am currently transitioning between roles and programs, so a “day in the life” is beautifully chaotic, and I am taking every experience during this time as a learning opportunity. The most important thing for me each day, being in a leadership position, is to do my best to make sure that our teams feel supported and valued, so they can provide the best client care they are capable of.
What is Your Advice for Social Workers Entering the Field Right Now?
I would want them to know there’s no shame in “shopping around” while seeking out various employment and volunteer opportunities. This makes it possible to learn what you like and what you are passionate about. The happier you are within your respective field, the better you’ll be able to serve your client base. At the end of the day, that is what the field of social work is all about.
If you or someone you love needs help with substance use and co-occurring disorders, please call Gaudenzia’s 24-hour Treatment and Referral HelpLine at 833.976.HELP (4357) or email helpline@gaudenzia.org today.
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