So, I got this psychology degree a while back, right? Always been fascinated by how people tick, you know? But after graduating, I started thinking about how I could use this to actually help folks out in a more hands-on way. That’s when social work started popping up on my radar. I mean, both fields deal with people and their struggles, so it seemed like a natural fit, but I wasn’t sure if my psych degree was enough.
First thing I did was hit up the internet, just browsing around to see what the general consensus was. Turns out, a lot of people were saying you could totally get into social work with a psychology background. It wasn’t a straight shot, obviously, but it was doable. I found out that some places actually like it when you have a psych degree because it gives you a good foundation in understanding human behavior.
Next, I started digging into what specific steps I’d need to take. It became clear that most social work jobs, especially the ones where you’re doing therapy or counseling, require a Master’s in Social Work (MSW). My psychology degree was a bachelor’s, so that meant more school. But hey, I figured it would be worth it to do something I’m passionate about.
I also discovered that even without the MSW, there were entry-level positions I could get with my psychology degree. Stuff like working as a case manager or in mental health services. These roles wouldn’t involve therapy, but they’d still give me experience in the field and let me help people. It seemed like a good way to get my foot in the door while I considered going back to school.
So, I started applying for some of these entry-level positions. I tweaked my resume to highlight the relevant parts of my psychology degree, like the courses on human development, abnormal psychology, and research methods. I also made sure to emphasize any volunteer experience or internships I had that involved working with people.
The job search took a bit of time, but I eventually landed a position as a case worker at a local non-profit. It wasn’t glamorous, but it was a start. I got to work directly with clients, helping them navigate social services, connect with resources, and advocate for their needs. It was challenging but also incredibly rewarding.
Here’s a quick rundown of what I learned:
- Psychology degree CAN be a stepping stone to social work.
- MSW is usually needed for clinical/therapy roles.
- Entry-level positions are attainable with just a psych degree.
- Highlight relevant skills and experience on your resume.
- Be persistent in your job search!
I’m still working as a case worker, and I’m actually starting to look into MSW programs now. I’m excited about the possibility of eventually becoming a licensed social worker and doing therapy. It’s been a journey, but I’m glad I took that first step. It all started with wondering if my psychology degree could be used for something more, and now I’m on a path that feels really meaningful.
