TRUST YOUR HEART by Kate Usaj, LISW

04/17/2026

A place for better career conversations.

Over time, I realized many social workers didn’t need more information. They needed a place to have better conversations.

So, I created the Intentional Career by Design ~ Social Worker Collective.

This is a private Facebook group for social workers who are ready to think more intentionally about their careers.

It’s a space for:

👉Independently licensed and clinical social workers
👉Those exploring private practice while still working
👉Professionals who want to earn more, without burning out
👉and those who value thoughtful conversation and shared growth

Inside, you’re welcome to:

🫶Ask questions
🫶Share ideas
🫶Learn from others
🫶And begin thinking more strategically about your next steps

Because building a meaningful career doesn’t have to happen in isolation.

And often, the right conversation can change everything.

If this sounds like something you’ve been looking for, feel free to send me a message, and I’ll share the invite.

04/15/2026

At some point in our careers, we begin asking questions.

These are not simple questions, and they’re not always easy to ask in traditional professional settings. Not because they’re wrong but because they require a different kind of conversation.

One that includes:

👉strategy
👉real-world experience
👉and honest dialogue with others navigating similar decisions

Career growth at this stage is not just about knowledge. It’s about having the right environment to think clearly.

That’s why spaces designed for open, thoughtful discussion can be so valuable.

Which of these questions have you been thinking about lately?

04/14/2026

Maddie Troyer is a musician who specializes in guitar, with almost 10 years experience in playing. With her musical education focused in music therapy, she focuses on creating meaningful connections through music. Inspired by soft rock and the timeless sounds of the 1970s, Maddie’s style is mellow, nostalgic, to provide a relaxed and enjoyable experience.

Join us as she will be playing this Wednesday April 15th from 6:00-8:00PM.

04/14/2026

Most people leave school with years of knowledge, yet still feel unprepared for everyday life.

While traditional education focuses on academic subjects, many of the skills we actually use as adults are rarely taught in a classroom.

Understanding taxes, insurance, and personal finance is essential, yet many people learn these through trial and error.

Knowing how to manage money, avoid debt, and plan for the future can make a significant difference in long-term stability and peace of mind.

These are not advanced topics. They are basic life skills that affect nearly every decision we make.

Practical abilities like basic home repair and simple survival skills are equally important.

Knowing how to fix small problems, handle unexpected situations, or take care of your environment builds confidence and independence.

These skills reduce reliance on others and help people feel more capable in their daily lives.

Communication is another area that deserves more attention. Social etiquette and public speaking are not just about being polite or confident in front of a crowd.

They shape how we build relationships, navigate opportunities, and express ourselves clearly. Strong communication skills can open doors that technical knowledge alone cannot.

Equally important is learning how to manage stress and protect personal well-being. Life brings pressure, uncertainty, and challenges that no textbook can fully prepare you for.

Teaching people how to cope with stress, regulate emotions, and maintain balance is just as valuable as any academic subject.

Self-defense is another overlooked skill that can improve awareness, confidence, and personal safety. It is not about fear, but about being prepared and knowing how to respond if needed.

Education should not only prepare people to pass exams. It should prepare them to live.

When schools include practical, real-world skills alongside traditional subjects, they help create individuals who are not only knowledgeable, but also capable, confident, and ready for the realities of everyday life.

04/13/2026

For many social workers, there’s this quiet pressure: “I should have figured this out sooner.”

But here’s the truth I’ve seen over 25 years in this profession:

The most meaningful career choices aren’t made in haste. They’re not the ones you make just because you think the timing is right. They’re made when you’re ready to think differently, with clarity and intention.

When you pause, reflect, and ask yourself:

What kind of work actually energizes me?

How can I structure my practice to support my life, not take over it?

What kind of impact do I truly want to make?

…that’s when the transformation begins.

It’s not too late to rethink your path.
It’s not about starting over.
It’s about starting consciously, from experience.

Whether it’s exploring private practice, shifting focus in your current role, or building the income and lifestyle you deserve, your next step doesn’t need to be rushed; it needs to be intentional.

Take this as a reminder and start thinking differently about your career.

04/11/2026

What is your workday looking like ?

04/11/2026

Most People Won’t Grind for 3 Years…
But They’ll Work 40 Without Question

04/11/2026

04/11/2026

This bill is a great sign for the future of paid internships in Ohio! By creating a pilot program, we have the opportunity to show the impact social workers have on their communities and the effectiveness of ensuring their internships are paid. Stay tuned for updates on this bill and how you can get involved!

04/11/2026