Repositioning occupational social work in the new millennium

Volatile global market conditions dictate to companies the necessity to exp and and contract in response to the changing market needs, forcing layoffs on the one hand, and rapid hiring on the other hand. In order to provide se rvices to populations in need, it may be time for occupational social work to redefine its parameters and include all aspects of work, regardless of t he auspices under which occupational social work is practiced A model for r epositioning occupational social work is presented here, proposing a contin uum of practice for occupational social work under public, private, or non- profit organizational auspices. The proposed practice continuum spans the g amut from practice in corporate and union settings to service provision at transition points vis-a-vis the world of work to populations such as domest ic violence survivors, the mentally ill, or welfare recipients. The model's implications are discussed.