Who are individuals called that assist patients dealing with various problems and refer them to community resources?

Individuals who assist patients in dealing with various problems and refer them to community resources are known as social workers. Social workers are trained professionals who focus on helping individuals, families, and communities to enhance their well-being and address challenges through support services. They are adept at identifying the needs of their clients and connecting them with appropriate community resources, whether it’s for mental health support, housing assistance, or financial aid.

This role is crucial in healthcare settings, as social workers often coordinate care plans that encompass psychological, social, and economic factors affecting a patient's health. They also provide emotional support and advocacy, helping patients navigate complex systems that can be overwhelming when dealing with personal or medical crises.

In contrast, therapists, sociologists, and psychologists primarily focus on different aspects of human behavior and mental health, often working directly with individuals in a clinical or research setting without the same emphasis on community resource navigation that is characteristic of social work.