Chattahoochee Technical College will launch a new Social Work Assistant program in Spring 2026, giving students a fast, affordable pathway into in-demand careers in social and human services across the local community. Designed to serve a wide range of students, including recent high school graduates, adult learners, career changers, and first-generation college students, this program will prepare students for immediate entry-level roles in one of Georgia’s fastest-growing fields.
Leading the program is Lorraine C. Stokes, LCSW, who brings more than a decade of real-world social work experience to the classroom. Stokes has worked in oncology, renal, and school social work settings, and most recently served as Field Director for Master of Social Work (MSW) students at Kennesaw State University under a federal Mental Health Demonstration Grant. She is also a published writer and currently serves as a part-time instructor in social work and human services at KSU.
“I am so excited to be selected for this role that allows me the opportunity to serve and support students who seek entry-level positions in the social work field, assisting social workers and other human services professionals to meet the needs of their clients and communities,” said Stokes. “I truly love being a part of the helping profession and I am excited about the purpose and promise of this program.”
Stokes holds a Bachelor of Science in Mass Communications from Norfolk State University and a Master of Social Work from Clark Atlanta University. She is a licensed clinical social worker.
The new Social Work Assistant program at Chattahoochee Tech offers three educational paths:
• Associate of Applied Science (AAS) in Social Work Assistant
• Diploma in Social Work Assistant
• Certificates in Domestic and Family Violence and Addictions Specialist
No prerequisite coursework is required. Students will complete foundational courses in human behavior, interviewing techniques, group intervention, and case management. Applied learning through practicums and internships with community-based organizations will be a cornerstone of the program. This program is structured to prepare students for immediate employment in support roles or further their social work education.
“The launch of the new Social Work Assistant Diploma and Associate of Applied Science degree is grounded in our commitment to workforce development and community well-being,” said Gina Barthelemy-Morton, Associate Dean of Health Sciences. “This program is designed to meet the growing demand for entry-level skilled support professionals in the areas of social services and human services.”
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, community and social service occupations are projected to grow up to 9 percent through 2032, with especially high demand in behavioral health, child welfare, elder care, and community support services. Georgia is facing a particular shortage of trained social work paraprofessionals. Chattahoochee Tech’s new Social Work Assistant program is designed to help close this local workforce gap.
The Spring 2026 semester at Chattahoochee Tech begins on Monday, Jan. 12, with final registration closing on Jan. 7. Interested students are encouraged to apply early in order to secure their spot in the college’s new Social Work Assistant program.
For more information, visit: www.ChattahoocheeTech.edu/Social-Work-Assistant