Understanding Social Work -Matt McGillvray
An interview with Matt McGillvray with Nipissing Counselling Solutions Inc.
A Look at the Profession That Supports Mental Health and Well-Being
March marks Social Work Month, a time to recognize and celebrate the essential work that social workers do in our communities. In Ontario, Social Work Week (March 3–9) further highlights the dedication of these professionals who help individuals, families, and organizations navigate life’s challenges.
Despite their critical role, many people still aren’t entirely sure what social work is—or how it might impact their lives.
As a master’s level social worker and psychotherapist, McGillvray provides counselling and therapy to individuals, couples, and families. In addition to his private practice, he teaches social work at the university level and has supported the wellbeing of youth in schools.
To shed light on this profession, we spoke with Matt McGillvray, owner of Nipissing Counselling Solutions.
Our Interview with Matt:
Report North Bay: What Is Social Work?
Matt McGillvray: Fundamentally, social work is about helping people improve their wellbeing by understanding the person, their surroundings – whether at home, work, or in their community – and how those environments impact them. Social workers are equipped with specialized knowledge that allows them to support wellbeing on both an individual and systemic level – from one-on-one therapy to shaping international policy. With this, social workers’ broad professional scope often involves working with individuals, couples, families, and communities to address challenges related to mental health, relationships, trauma, and systemic barriers. As well, because social work is a regulated profession, social workers must adhere to strict ethical guidelines and evidence-based practices.
Report North Bay: Where Do Social Workers Make a Difference?
Matt McGillvray: Social workers work in a variety of settings, including healthcare, education, justice, child welfare, and private practice, playing a crucial role in many areas of society. Some key settings where social workers are found are:
· Healthcare & Mental Health Services – Providing therapy, crisis intervention, and support for patients facing medical and psychological challenges.
· Schools & Education – Helping students navigate emotional, social, and behavioural issues that impact learning and development.
· Justice & Corrections – Supporting individuals in correctional facilities, probation and parole services, and victim advocacy programs.
· Community & Government Services – Working in child welfare, housing support, disability services, and social assistance programs.
· Private Practice – Offering professional counselling, therapy, and support for individuals, couples, and families outside of institutional settings.
Report North Bay: What does social work look like in private practice?
Matt McGillvray: While many social workers work within public institutions, private practice is a growing field that provides greater accessibility and personalized care.
In private practice, we can work more directly with individuals, couples, and families, offering therapy tailored to their specific needs. This is especially valuable for people facing challenges like trauma, occupational stress, ADHD, relationship difficulties, or life transitions because everyone is unique and deserves individualized care.
While private practice offers an opportunity for specialized care, the profession continues to face demographic challenges. Gender norms and societal expectations often discourage men when it comes to emotional vulnerability. This trend is reflected in the field of social work where we continue to see fewer men entering the profession. In 2024, the Ontario Association of Social Workers reported only 12.1% of social workers identify as men, highlighting a significant gender disparity in this helping profession. It is my hope that this will change over time, leading to greater diversity in mental healthcare and an increase in male representation in the field.
Social workers are shaped by their individual experiences and often use these experiences to benefit those they work with; for me, my background in military and law enforcement offers quite the unique perspective. In my social work career, I’ve had the privilege of supporting students in school settings, teaching future social workers at the university level, and providing individual, couples, and family support in my private practice. Each of these roles has given me a unique perspective on how social work can make a meaningful impact.
Report North Bay: Why does social work matter?
Matt McGillvray: Social workers are often on the front lines, helping people through life’s most difficult moments. From supporting first responders with PTSD to helping families navigate loss or relationship challenges, social workers provide essential services that strengthen communities. But beyond crisis intervention, social work is about prevention, education, and advocacy.
Social workers provide support for everyday challenges, not just in times of crisis. Many people don’t realize that, in Ontario, registered social workers can also practice psychotherapy and use the title “psychotherapist,” allowing us to support clients in managing stress, improving relationships, and achieving their goals.
Report North Bay: What is a message you’d like to share with the community?
Matt McGillvray: As we recognize Social Work Week and Social Work Month, it’s important to highlight the valuable services this profession provides. For those seeking support, I recommend people reach out to a registered social worker – whether through schools, hospitals, community organizations, or private practice.
If you or someone you know is struggling, reaching out to a registered social worker can be the first step toward meaningful change. Support is available and no one should have to face these challenges alone.
For more information about Matt McGillvray’s work and services, visit Nipissing Counselling Solutions.
