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Careers

Burn Care Psychologists and Social Workers

Burn care psychologists and social workers help survivors and families navigate the emotional and social challenges of recovery. Through counseling, advocacy, and resource connection, they guide patients beyond the injury toward resilience and reintegration.


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Find Careers in Burn Care Psychology and Social Work

Explore roles in hospital burn units, rehabilitation centers, and community-based organizations. These professionals address trauma, support families, plan discharges, and advocate for survivors to rebuild their lives.


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What Do They Do?

Burn Care Psychologists: Provide mental health support, conduct assessments, offer therapy, and moderate support groups. 

Burn Care Social Workers: Manage discharge planning, connect patients with community resources, counsel and support patients and families, moderate support groups, and advocate within the healthcare system. 

Typical Work Environments

  • Hospital burn units (often ABA-verified) and trauma centers 

  • Rehabilitation hospitals 

  • Community-based nonprofits supporting burn survivors 

  • Academic or research institutions focusing on burn care and trauma

Key Responsibilities

  • Conduct psychosocial and psychological assessments 

  • Provide individual, family, or group counseling 

  • Coordinate discharge planning and aftercare resources 

  • Advocate for patient needs with hospital teams and community agencies 

  • Educate patients and families about coping strategies and recovery

Education and Training Path

  • Psychologists: Doctoral degree (Ph.D. or Psy.D.) and state licensure 

  • Social Workers: Master of Social Work (MSW) and state licensure (e.g., LCSW) 

  • Continuing education in trauma-informed care, burn injury recovery, and crisis intervention

What Makes a Successful Burn Care Psychologist and Social Worker? 

Burn injuries affect more than the body—they deeply impact emotional health and family life. Psychologists and social workers help survivors process trauma, manage pain, and find strength to move forward.

ABA Membership Benefits

  • Access to burn care educational resources and research updates 

  • Collaboration with interdisciplinary burn care professionals 

  • Discounts on specialized training like Advanced Burn Life Support® (ABLS) 

  • Opportunities to participate in burn prevention, advocacy, and peer support initiatives


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Every patient carries invisible scars. Being there to help them rediscover hope and purpose is why this work matters.

Kelly McElligott, AM, LCSW
Burn Care Licensed Clinical Social Worker

Make a Difference Beyond the Injury

Burn care psychologists and social workers transform patient journeys through emotional support, counseling, and advocacy. Join the ABA community to access tools, networks, and continuing education that amplify your impact. 


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