Pathways to Passion: A Social Worker's Journey

Social Worker Interview

I interviewed Paul Dymock, LCSW. He is employed by Alpine School District and works at Lone Peak High School. Paul graduated with bachelor’s degree in human development and a dual master’s degree in direct clinical work and business administration. He received his LCSW immediately after graduating. He worked in hospice and with substance abusers as an LCSW. Paul opened a private practice and worked in business administration for a time. He came to realize that his passion was in social work. He wasn’t passionate for the business life therefore becoming a successful businessman didn’t appeal to him anymore. Paul applied for a job with Alpine School District because this opportunity matched closely with his goals and

There is never a dull moment and his job is anything but monotonous. Paul also takes time to make policy changes and to work in the community on boards and committees, where he promotes positive changes and is a voice for Utah County’s children and adolescents. He has been a lobbyist for children’s issues and he is on the local suicide task force. I love the variety of Paul’s job with Alpine School District. I have been interested in teaching, public speaking and counseling throughout my life. I am intrigued by the prospect of continuing my learning and research as a social worker. I love that social work is an avenue for me to develop and express these

As a young boy Paul was in tune with his talents and abilities, he realized that he enjoyed talking with people, getting to know them, helping and building relationships with them. Paul knew he would help and serve others in both big and small ways. It is fascinating to me that Paul knew at a young age what his talents and abilities were. I was much, much older before I figured this out about myself.

Over all Paul loves everything about his career as an LCSW. He loves the variety and the multiple ways he can reach out, connect and help people, particularly adolescents. He thrives in the many opportunities he has to stretch himself and grow. His career has exceeded his expectations in many positive ways.

Paul identified the most challenging aspect of his work is the stigma of mental health. He worries about the increasing number of claims of depression that are being made. He believes that the mental health stigma is getting better, but the progress is slow. He hopes that people will stop telling one another to “pull up your boot straps and you’ll be okay” but rather, he hopes that we’ll learn how to strengthen instead of undermine those with depression.

Paul most enjoys working with adolescents. He loves his job with Alpine School District and his private practice hobby. If he had to change jobs and work in a different population of social work he would consider the college