The Many Facets of Social Work: A Conversation with Shevonte Lewis

by Dr. Kirkpatrick Williams

Social work is a profession often misunderstood, reduced in the public eye to child welfare services and government agencies. But as Shevonte Lewis, a Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW), explains, the field is much more expansive, deeply impacting individuals and communities in many ways. In an enlightening discussion, Lewis shared insights into her work, the importance of mental health, and the essential skills required to thrive in the helping profession.

Lewis, who holds a Bachelor’s degree from Northwestern State University and a Master’s from Grambling State University, currently works at Fresenius Medical Care. Her role involves both medical social work and part-time counseling, highlighting the vast scope of social work. “A lot of times when people hear ‘social worker,’ they immediately think, ‘Oh, this person is going to take my child away.’ That’s just one aspect,” she explains. “We work in medical settings, hospitals, hospice, home health, and as case managers, ensuring people have the resources they need to succeed.”

When working with clients, Lewis primarily uses Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), an evidence-based practice that focuses on changing negative thought patterns to improve behavior and emotional well-being. CBT is a structured, goal-oriented therapy that focuses on the present and helps individuals identify and challenge unhelpful thoughts and behaviors. “If someone thinks negatively about themselves, they will act in ways that reflect those thoughts. CBT helps change those thought patterns so they can interact with their environment in a healthier way,” Lewis explains.

According to Lewis, mental health is a crucial factor in shaping communities, often setting the foundation for generational behaviors. “If you’re in a family or an environment where mental health is not prioritized, those negative thought patterns and behaviors are passed down. Then, those individuals take those struggles into the community, creating a cycle,” she says.

Her approach aims to break that cycle, equipping individuals with coping skills and self-awareness to foster positive change—not only in themselves but in their surroundings.

Like many in the helping professions, Lewis acknowledges the emotional toll that comes with her work. “One of the biggest challenges is feeling too much—taking on a lot emotionally,” she admits. “As social workers, we’re human, and when we act from emotion instead of reason, we may not always make the best decisions for our clients.” To maintain professional integrity, Lewis practices self-care and emphasizes the importance of setting emotional boundaries.

Maintaining a healthy work-life balance is essential in the social work profession. For Lewis, coping strategies are just as crucial for social workers as they are for clients. “I practice what I preach—self-care, being outside, feeling the sun on my body, spending time with friends, and making sure I’m not isolating,” she shares. “You can’t pour from an empty cup.”

Despite the demanding nature of her work, Lewis makes an effort to stay informed about new developments in social work. “It’s hard, especially being busy, but I try to keep up with the field through social media platforms like TikTok, Instagram, and Facebook, as well as reading industry news articles,” she says.

For those interested in pursuing a career in social work or counseling, Lewis emphasizes education, mentorship, and versatility. “Learn everything you can. Find at least one mentor, but ideally two or three—someone well-versed in social work, someone similar to you, and someone with a blend of those qualities,” she advises. “And know that you don’t have to stick with just one career path. There’s always room to grow.”

Through her work, Lewis continues to serve individuals and communities by providing resources, guidance, and emotional support. Her passion for helping others and breaking cycles of negative mental health patterns speaks to the transformative power of social work.
At the heart of it all, Lewis remains committed to the field, believing that every individual deserves the opportunity to heal, grow, and thrive.