Jessica Murray, LCSW / Masters in Social Work 20214 / I have the privilege of being able to divide my professional time in various lanes of social work as a clinician, consultant, adjunct professor, and supervisor for social workers working towards earning their clinical licensure. I also hold the titles of wife and mother to two very cute and very energetic toddlers.
Where do you call home today?
Pittsburgh, PA
Who inspires you in your work?
Professionally, I have never stopped learning and being challenged by Dr. Yodit Betru. Personally, my clients inspire me by their vulnerability, my students inspire me to continue advancing my knowledge, and my children inspire me to never give up.
What is your biggest professional accomplishment?
I have had the privilege of being part of executive teams, collaborating and innovating with brilliant minds in the field, and receiving various awards for my efforts. That being said, I feel most proud of the moments when my clients come into session and have been able to cultivate healthy relationships and when my students show up excited to engage in critical thinking to further their own growth and learning. It is the small moments that let me know I am right where I am supposed to be.
How has the social work education you received at Pitt helped you in your career?
My social work education has been foundational in my work in the field since graduation. I think in the midst of receiving the education it can be hard to fully appreciate everything that you are learning at the time, but there have been countless times since graduation where I look back with gratitude on the strong foundation that I received during my education in the program.
What is the most significant thing you learned at the Pitt SSW?
Empower others. I never want to create dependence in my work. I want to provide support, knowledge, education, and resources so that others can thrive.
What motivated you to pursue a degree in social work?
I have always been driven by a clinical focus, but I remember attending an information session about the school of social work and sitting there inspired, feeling convinced that these people really "get it" and were very aligned with my approach to working with others.
What's your favorite memory of the Pitt SSW?
I loved every class in the Cathedral with the beautiful view of the city, especially my Couples Therapy course. That being said, so many of my favorite memories connected to the program have happened post graduation through continued involvement with the school through the Alumni Council and various other engagement and growth opportunities offered for alum.
How much do you rely upon your Pitt SSW network in your work today?
I often reach out to connections from the Pitt SSW whether I am looking to connect clients to other resources or simply to bounce ideas off of other respected professionals.
What advice would you have for young Pitt SSW alumni?
Stay connected! The school has an endless offering of growth and learning opportunities well past graduation if you only seek them out.