Inside the walls of Texas Children’s The Woodlands, a team of dedicated social workers is transforming the way patients and families experience healthcare. Through advocacy, emotional support and crisis intervention, they ensure families are not only medically cared for but also empowered to navigate life’s challenges. The work is demanding, but for these social workers, the reward is in the lives they touch.
“Compassion is the heart of social work—the ability to hear pain, struggles and offer hope without judgment,” said Rayonia Burkett. “Working in the Social Work department offers the opportunity to provide emotional support and advocacy for children and their families during vulnerable times. I find fulfillment in building trusting relationships while empowering families with resources and tools that address emotional and psychosocial needs.”
A culture of collaboration and learning
The department thrives on teamwork, shared knowledge and interdisciplinary collaboration. Through regular case staffing, team meetings and open communication, social workers ensure families receive well-rounded and coordinated care.
“The biggest impact in this experience has been the learning opportunities,” reflected Adam Thomas. “Sometimes I am learning something from the medical team I was not aware of. Other times, I am staffing cases and learn something new within the social work field. And then the humbleness that comes from learning from patients and their families.”
The team also works closely with healthcare providers, educators, law enforcement and community organizations to advocate for patients.
“What I enjoy most about working in the Social Work department is the opportunity to provide support and compassion to families during some of their most vulnerable moments,” said Nicole Daglis. “Being able to bridge the gap between health disparities and addressing patient socioeconomic barriers is what stands out to me in the work I do. If ever faced with challenges, I would want a compassionate social worker by my side, and that is what I strive to give my patients and families.”
Embracing resilience and empathy
Social work can be emotionally demanding, but the team at The Woodlands finds strength in their shared purpose and powerful impact moments.
“Each day I am driven by the opportunity to make a meaningful difference in someone’s life,” said Michelle Byrd. “As a social worker, I find motivation in being a source of support, hope and empowerment for those facing challenging circumstances. The work may be tough, but the impact is a reminder what we do matters, and it’s worth showing up for.”
For Katrina Llaneza, the key to social work is simple yet profound: “Empathy is the only human superpower.” She added, “What I enjoy most is knowing I am making at least a little bit of a positive difference with every patient and family I work with.”
Innovative initiatives
Recognizing the growing mental health crisis, the department has implemented innovative programs to better serve patients. The EC Virtual Consult System, in partnership with Behavioral Health Clinicians, allows social workers to provide real-time mental health support to youth experiencing crises in the emergency center.
Another initiative, the Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP), offers comprehensive support to adolescents 12 to 17-years-old struggling with suicidal thoughts, self-harm, anxiety and family conflict. This program provides six to eight weeks of therapy for both patients and their families, ensuring youth receive ongoing care.
Additionally, the department engages with our Child Abuse Protective Team—a group of board-certified medical professionals—available 24/7 to address cases of abuse and neglect, ensuring children in unsafe environments receive the help they need.
Social Work in action
As part of Social Work Appreciation Month, the team is hosting “Social Work in Action” on Thursday, March 27 from 10 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. at the Woodlands campus. This event will feature a group of mental health professionals that serve youth working through mental health and substance usage strategies.
As the team continues its mission, one thing is clear: their work is not just about providing services—it’s about changing lives, one small act of kindness at a time.