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!
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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!