Psychology vs Social work

Psychology vs. Social Work

I’m currently majoring in psychology, but I’m considering switching my major to social work because I aspire to become a therapist or counselor. I’m realizing that psychology isn’t aligning with my expectations.

Would social work be a more suitable path for pursuing a counseling career? Additionally, I will be starting my classes for a drug and alcohol recovery counselor certification this fall. I would love to hear any thoughts or advice on this! Thank you!

One Reply to “Psychology vs Social work”

  1. It sounds like you’re at an important crossroads in your academic and career journey! Both psychology and social work can lead to careers as a therapist or counselor, but they have different focuses and approaches.

    Psychology: This major typically emphasizes understanding human behavior through research and theory. If you’re interested in the science behind mental processes and behavior, a psychology degree may provide a solid foundation. However, traditional psychology programs may have less direct training in counseling techniques, and you might need to pursue additional education (like a master’s degree in counseling or clinical psychology) to become licensed.

    Social Work: On the other hand, social work programs often have a more hands-on approach, emphasizing practical skills and fieldwork. They cover not only individual and group counseling but also broader social issues, community resources, and advocacy. A degree in social work can lead to licensure as a counselor or therapist more directly, especially if you’re interested in working in community or clinical settings.

    Given that you’re also pursuing a certification in drug and alcohol recovery counseling, social work might align better with your goals, particularly if you’re passionate about working within communities and addressing systemic issues.

    Ultimately, think about what aspects of each field resonate with you more. If you’re driven by a desire to help people in a direct, community-oriented way, social work could be the right choice. If you’re more interested in the theoretical aspects or research, sticking with psychology might serve you well. It could also be useful to speak with academic advisors or professionals in each field to gain further insight. Good luck!

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *


Related Post

minoring in something unrelated to major

Considering a minor in a different field Is it unusual to minor in theatre while studying animal science? I’m a bit hesitant because the two subjects are quite different, but I have a deep passion for theatre and really enjoy participating in it.

Possible majors I can do in with associates in Science?

What are some possible majors I can pursue with an Associate of Science degree? I’m currently studying for my AS in Science, but I’m feeling uncertain about what my next steps should be regarding my major. Any advice would be greatly appreciated! Thank you!

to that one person constantly asking questions

To the person who just can’t stop asking questions, please consider attending office hours or enrolling in a more basic course. There’s usually one in every class, but this situation has escalated to a whole new level. I understand that everyone wants to learn, but when the professor has to repeatedly say they need to […]