Greetings!
My name is Dr. Julie Lance, and I am a School Social Worker for the Cobb County School District. I currently work in four different schools in the county, and am part of a wonderful team of professional school social workers who work in each of our schools. I have the privilege to serve Dickerson Middle, Sedalia Park Elementary, Sope Creek Elementary and Powers Ferry Elementary.
The purpose of this site is to allow me to connect with you and provide you with information and resources. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the the state of Georgia and as a Registered Play Therapist, the focus of my professional training is child and adolescent mental health. Social/emotional learning is so important to the well being of our students, but it doesn't stop with them! Parents, faculty and staff also need to take care of their physical and mental well-being.
Periodically, I will be updating the information posted here. I am including informational links that are child specific as well as information and support for adults. I hope that what you will currently find here will be helpful. During this time of uncertainty surrounding COVID-19 and social isolation, we need to find ways to keep our brains active, make safe connections with others and keep some semblance of a routine. I look forward to being an additional support to you and your child.
Sincerely,
Julie Lance, PhD, LCSW, RPT-S
School Social Worker
Who is a school social worker and what do they do?
Did you know that every school in Cobb County has a Social Worker? The School Social Work Association of America (SSWAA.org)
explains School Social Work as:
explains School Social Work as:
- School social work is a specialized area of practice within the broad field of the social work profession.
- School social workers bring unique knowledge and skills to the school system and the student services team.
- School Social Workers are trained mental health professionals who can assist with mental health concerns, behavioral concerns, positive behavioral support, academic and classroom support, consultation with teachers, parents and administrators as well as provide individual and group counseling/therapy.
- School social workers are instrumental in furthering the mission of the schools which is to provide a setting for teaching, learning, and for the attainment of competence and confidence.
- School social workers are hired by school districts to enhance the district's ability to meet its academic mission,especially where home, school and community collaboration is the key to achieving student success.