Bo is The Difference – easing frustrations for struggling families.

During tough times, some people become beacons of hope, showing others how to find comfort and help.

Bo Majors is one of those people. He is the first and only clinical social worker dedicated to Texas Children’s nineteen Austin pediatric practices and works to connect our Austin patients with medical, mental and behavioral health services.

Bo, who is originally from Texas, was working in New Orleans when Hurricane Katrina devastated the Gulf Coast causing trauma and upheaval. Bo’s compassionate spirit was stirred as he witnessed the dire need for mental health services in the aftermath of the disaster.

 “I saw the plight of mental health and that mental health services were really needed,” he recalls. This pivotal moment inspired him to pursue a career in social work, a decision that would eventually lead him to become a pillar of support for countless children and families in the Austin area.

Fueled by a desire to make a difference, Bo pursued an opportunity to study social work in New York, honing his skills to provide care and guidance to diverse populations. He returned to his home state just a few years ago, moving to Austin to be closer to his family.

As a bilingual licensed therapist, Bo caught the attention of Texas Children’s and was hired as part of our growing expansion in the city. He quickly made connections with local clinics, schools and community groups, aiming to build effective and long-lasting relationships that would benefit our patients.

Building bridges to better care

Bo often helps refugee families from Cuba, Guatemala and Nicaragua navigate unfamiliar systems to get the care they need for their children. He also mediates for patients with incredibly complex or special needs.

Bo recounts many rewarding moments during the two years he has worked at Texas Children’s. One in particular occurred during the most difficult months of last year’s nationwide infant formula shortage. Bo encountered a patient dependent on a prohibitively expensive formula due to allergy. A few administrative missteps by a previous provider had resulted in a life-threatening situation for this child. A testament to his dedication, Bo’s tenacity prevailed as he collaborated with healthcare providers and the formula company to secure a supply of formula for the child’s caregivers.

“If I can make a difference for one child and empower them to be the person they are meant to be, then my job is done.”

Finding support as a whole person

A life-long learner, Bo finds inspiration in various pursuits. He enjoys cooking and music. He learned to the play piano when he was very young. Walking his bull terrier, Crispy, gives him an opportunity to get outdoors in Austin, where the weather is sunny the majority of the year.

Bo’s passion for languages has led him to become fluent in Spanish and Italian, enriching his ability to connect with a broader range of patients. Delving into literature on behavioral and mental health and psychology is not merely a professional obligation for Bo — it’s a genuine source of pleasure. This inherent curiosity drove him to pursue an MBA, drawn by the opportunity for personal growth and development offered by Texas Children’s.

Establishing resources for our patients and families in a new city has not been easy. Bo experienced a learning curve in the transition from providing support for adults. His early partnership with one of our behavioral health psychologists in Houston proved essential guidance as he began to work with children and adolescents.

Collaborative spirit is a cornerstone of our culture at Texas Children’s. Bo acknowledges this exceptional environment, noting how it aligns with the best practices he encountered during his MBA studies.

“We have a very healthy culture in terms of communication, teamwork and collaboration. Texas Children’s really stands apart,” says Bo.

Meeting a growing need

As Bo reflects on his journey, he takes pride in tending to his “own little garden” of families in the Austin area, giving them somewhere to turn for help. His dedication to meeting their unique needs, challenges and frustrations has earned him a well-deserved reputation as a compassionate advocate.

Looking ahead, Bo eagerly anticipates our forthcoming hospital in North Austin, recognizing the potential it holds to amplify the impact on our patients. He underscores the significance of Texas Children’s expansion throughout the state, emphasizing the institution’s unparalleled philosophy, work ethic, and unwavering commitment to patient care.

 “It’s important we expand throughout Texas,” he says. “Our response is to the whole person. We try our best to meet more than just medical or physical needs.”

Bo’s journey is an inspiring testament to his compassion, empathy, and dedication in the field of behavioral and mental health. We are looking for like-minded individuals to join the ranks of those, like Bo, who make Texas Children’s special.

To embark on this meaningful journey and join Bo Majors in creating a healthier future for families in the Austin area, take the first step by exploring our array of careers at TexasChildrensPeople.org. Your calling awaits — seize the opportunity to Be the Difference today.

Pediatric Social Worker FAQ

Social workers in Texas Children’s Social Work department are professionals who have earned a master’s degree in social work and are licensed by the state of Texas. They are vital components of the multidisciplinary health care team.

What services does a pediatric social worker provide?

Social workers help families locate community resources, assist in crisis interventions, provide counseling, educate families on their child’s diagnosis and respond to the unique needs of families who come to Texas Children’s Hospital. Medical groups, information centers, support groups, nonprofit agencies, home care services, special schools and federal, state and city programs are available to assist families in need. Social workers help patients’ families find the resources they need whether the child is still in the hospital or has returned home.

How do I know if social work is the right career for me?

Social work is more than a job. Professionals who work in this field often feel called to help and empower people, often in the face of difficult situations. You could be meant for a social work career if you have great compassion and empathy for others and are determined to help or relieve the suffering of people who are struggling. Social workers are typically people who are perceptive, embrace cultural differences and excel at connecting with individuals or small groups. They are creative problem solvers who enjoy learning over a lifetime, desire personal growth, and have an interest in making a difference in society. If these qualities describe you, you may find a career in social work very rewarding.

How can I become a clinical social worker in Texas?

• Obtain a bachelor’s degree in social work or a related field.
• Pursue a master’s or doctoral degree in social work from an accredited program.
• Gain supervised clinical experience, typically around 3,000 hours.
• Pass the Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW) exam.
• Complete additional supervised clinical hours and pass the LCSW exam.
• Consider obtaining board certification or specialization in areas like mental health and psychology.