This paper uses CiteSpace software to conduct a visual analysis of 119 papers included in CNKI to summarize the current context, overview, and hotspots of empirical research on school social work. It can be seen that the empirical research on school social work in China is still at a developmental stage, with the number of studies on the rise and the breadth and depth of research further developing. The hotspots of research focus on practical issues such as sex education, bullying in schools, and interventions for left-behind and migrant children. However, the existing research has some limitations. Most of the existing studies are qualitative studies based on case analysis, lacking evidence-based intervention studies, and the collaboration between researchers is rather loose. It is suggested that future empirical research on school social work should use quantitative research methods to enhance the scientific nature of research, conduct evidence-based intervention studies, and focus on the cultivation and formation of interdisciplinary research teams.