How to find a job at 56 years old, out of work for several years, health not good.?

[Tricia]

I have a BS in Human Services, but there does not seem to be much of a demand for individuals in this field w/o a Masters in Social Work/Counseling. My circumstances are causing me anxiety and stress.

[MavistheMaven]

There are plenty of human services jobs, but the pay can be rock bottom with only a bachelor's degree.

Have you looked at your state government job listings? States have jobs such as caseworker and parole officer that you might qualify for with your BS or maybe just by taking a Civil Service test.

It's a tight job market now, what with the economic crisis. Your age, lack of recent work and health all make it even harder. Have you checked with the Office of Vocational Rehabilitation? They may be able to help with job training and placement.

Every state has Career One Stop offices that offer career assessment testing, job search skills and some job leads. The services are free. The offices vary in quality and helpfulness, but some are very good. You can find the ones in your area here: http://www.careeronestop.org/findos/default.aspx

Have you considered teaching or tutoring? Substitute teaching mught work, as you could opt to work when you're feeling well and not to work when your health problems flare up. Tutoring can be done part-time and can pay quite well.

Have you thought about starting a small business? Free entrepreneurship training exists and the programs can connect you to microloans for starting it. Find out more from one of the nationwide Small Business Development Centers, usually on college campuses. To find one near you, click on the link in the left column. http://sbdcnet.org/

Finally, you sound like you could use some support for the anxiety and stress. There are job hunting networking and support groups for this. You'd have to search for one in your area. Or consider starting one of your own.