my entire social work career journey & why I am not a social worker now 📚👓🧠

[@alvarezgamers]

Becoming a social worker is the worst mistake I ever made. I literally can say I wasted 12 years of my life. Currently in the process of leaving the profession. Beware ! Leadership pushes numbers before people. It will eventually burn you out. And I’m someone with high levels of resiliency.

[@chipstealer.-.]

I know this is a year late but what do u mean by pushing numbers before people?

[@haare2541]

What career change did you choose?

[@babymoon555]

Agreed. We're underpaid and our supervisors are toxic. The degree is expensive for no reason.

[@orangeblossom1712]

I’m a New York social worker and also graduated in 2018. Worked in shelter system for 4 years and there were multiple violent incidents even w/ security on-site, along w/ ethical dilemmas and lack of supervision. Loved the job and so many of my clients but finally left last month for my own well-being. Now in hospital setting and really glad to have union support 👍

[@hi.yeonni]

Yesss to standing up for yourself and finding a place with more support! Rooting for you ❤️

[@divinedennis9736]

Starting from 17:18 is why I hit thumbs up... hearing the reality of difficulties, and your courage to share those hard facts with how you process to overcome obstacles is inspiring.

[@alexlara4424]

so glad that you are on your next steps to your life goals. I wish you the best in your work and PhD program. you might be switching career path to a psychologist but the social worker community will always be here for you and we will always accept you.

[@hi.yeonni]

You are too too kind, thanks so much I appreciate your support greatly 🥺✨

[@laurens7145]

Your new job sounds like such a cool opportunity. It’s amazing that you were able to find a position that fits within your career goals given the challenges this pandemic has presented. Congrats!

[@GlowinNaturally]

whew! I definitely relate to when you said you wanted to see people who look like you! representation is such a huge factor. I love that and it’s truly why I wanted to be a social worker especially sharing the journey on youtube!! I love seeing fellow social workers showing up for their community/population. How do you like research??

[@WrldTravl2]

Hi! I’m an LMSW, working towards that C now! I’ve always felt a pull towards pursuing a PhD in psychology but don’t know if it’s worth the money and going back to school 😭 Please keep us updated on this process!!!

[@hi.yeonni]

Hi there! I'll be sure to keep everyone updated! I feel you , the back and forth has been with me for years! Wish there was a manual for all of this! 😭

[@ChocoKimmie]

Applying for social work jobs without a license is rough. I know I don't want to do therapy and my goals are to do macro level work, but it's so tough trying to get your foot in the door as a relatively new msw grad. I try to remember the younger me in the msw program with big dreams and passion for social work. It's discouraging now, but the right job will come. Congrats on the new job! Just know you can always finish pursuing licensure later on when the timing is better :)

[@koreandramalover19]

Yes it is rough! Looking for jobs with my MSW now too. About to wait to just past the exam than apply cause it’s really tough without it 😬

[@courtneycosby2631]

I am getting my MSW after 28 years :) Thought I wanted to do therapy however, now I'm thinking macro level work too!

[@rekgabilephakoane517]

@@courtneycosby2631 what do you meant by macro level and what made you change your mind about Therapy?

[@sirinaxiong]

Thank you so much for this video. You don't know how much I needed to see/hear this. I've been hating myself for not knowing what I want to do "EXACTLY" after getting my BA in Psych (in 2 years). You showed me that life might not always go as plan and that's ok. I'll learn more about myself throughout the years and have a sense of what I want in life..

[@gigi.xx7]

just graduated with my ba in psych as well & i feel u 🥲

[@Dandreatoyou]

I would love to see a video about how you took the licensing exam while still in grad school! ❤

[@hi.yeonni]

I got you! Definitely will be making that video!

[@cultivatingwellness4028]

@@hi.yeonni You are so articulate and beautiful ☺️💕😊

[@karendangelo5148]

As a social work professor (w a MSW and PhD in social work), I consider social research to be a "social work" job. Congrats!

[@karendangelo5148]

Maybe consider a PhD in social work? UW has a top PhD program in the US and if you're interested in academic track, academic job market is better for social work PhDs than psychology PhDs.

[@meganmitchell2846]

please make a video getting into the benefits of LCSW thank you

[@82890blad]

I am currently getting my MSW to get into the policy and research field. So this was really cool to hear!

[@ninistareri4691]

policy and research field sounds cool, may you give me some advice through any social medias of yours? do you have insta? thank you.

[@carlys6466]

I graduated with my MSW in April (around when the pandemic started), now 7 months later I'm still unemployed. It's been really difficult finding a job and I've been so incredibly depressed about it. I saw that you posted this video but it took me almost a month to watch because the topic of careers has been upsetting for me. It's a little comforting knowing that someone that has had more experience in the field, was also struggling at one point to find employment.

[@samanthab6642]

Where do you live?

[@itsbritt9155]

That’s really interesting , I’d say with a Msw only takes me about 3 months to find another job.

[@younyeji]

I’d love to know more about the test & about your experience with the social work field in Seattle/WA! Thank you for this video ♥️ It was very helpful and encouraging to watch especially as someone who is Asian American, currently in an MSW program, AND living near Seattle!! Well all your videos have been helpful for my Social Work journey but I really loved hearing about your deeper vision with your passion (they hit very close to my heart and what I am passionate about) & the things you’ve bravely overcome.

[@hi.yeonni]

Hi there! Im so glad you were able to relate! It makes making these videos so worthwhile! 🥺 I'll note making video regarding the social work field in Seattle! I definitely don't know as much since I'm not working as a social worker here though unfortunately but I'll try!

[@elizabetht.moreno6209]

@@hi.yeonni Hi! I'm also in an MSW program. I can relate to the passion to work with Asian Americans. I live in the greater Seattle area and work in the field. I experienced a similar journey (with the Seattle job market) when I moved not too far from SF. If I can be of help to the subscribers let me know. Yes, would also love to see a video on the combo LCSW and PhD Clinical Psychology. I'm glad I found your video.

[@colleen_99]

Sounds like some self-deprecatory statement I'd make unfortunately when you were kind of questioning why we all subscribed to your channel. Why? You and your channel are amazingly helpful and interesting!

[@hi.yeonni]

Awh thank you for your support 🥺 also I love your pusheen icon hahaha

[@CharissaexplainsitallXD]

I graduated in 2018 with my MSW as well!!! Thank you for sharing your experience! I am trying to get into more macro social work because I am ready for something different. I thought about getting a phd in research but whew! The cost and the time is what is telling me not to.

[@jellycheah]

Hi! I'm an Asian American LMSW whoever I'm not working toward that C at this stage as I am working as a social worker in child protection in New Zealand! Just found your video and your channel and look forward to hearing more about your journey!

[@Lilacandviolets]

Your journey is so inspiring! 💖 I just started going to school for social work and have been wanting to dabble into therapy as well. This video has given a light of insight on the pros, cons, and what to look out for. Thanks so much! Subscribed, and I hope to hear more about your journey in therapy and research!:)

[@ariadnerodrigues5464]

I'm a brazilian social worker and it is so nice to hear about your experience with Social Work in the US. 💕

[@carolinabastos2408]

Oi! Acabei de me formar como assistente social tb. Vc trabalha nos eua?

[@kristiemiller4752]

I really can appreciate your explanation on your time frame within your first job offer. Especially the way you could see the good in you’re supervisor.

[@kristiemiller4752]

I also realize I have so much to learn, I love your honesty about wanting someone to represent you.

[@bekind8264]

I am so touched by this video. I am in a similar journey and appreciate your honesty and genuineness. Best wishes in your next chapter!

[@Phanobi980]

Hey Yeonni! I'm a college senior who's beginning the process of applying to grad schools to get my MSW, and it would be dope if you made a video explaining how you got ur license and the process. I love your work and you and my instructors helped to inspire me to continue into this career field, so I just wanted to say thanks it means alot 🙏💛

[@tuka24a]

Thanks for sharing your social work experience.It is incredible that in London we need social workers and there is job offers every week.I am quite shocked that in this pandemic period you were struggling to find a job as social workers are needed to tackle the social issues arising.

[@jackems0181]

I’m so excited for you, Yeonni! It’s wonderful seeing you pursue your long term goals. Best of luck in your new job!!!!

[@elichan7]

For the story about your interactions about feeling safe. That sucks that you didn't get any security or backup for violtile and acute patients. I worked in mental health security for years and now i want to pursue social work. And it seems awful to me that most people going into social work will be unequipped to deal with patients like that

[@rivh1399]

Sounds like we all share the same struggles. Thanks for sharing 😊This definitely helped

[@frankfrank4656]

Appreciated the honesty you provided, the bossy women who are picking on your words on reports and must view emails before sending out ,are really micro managing.

[@angiem7725]

Sounds like community psychology is a right fit for you! Just thought I would mention this because I took a community psychology class during undergrad and my professor used to be an MFT then became a community psychologist since she also wanted to be more involved with the community/society. They help communities and try to change the laws that basically change peoples lives, its hard to explain but its more law based... you should look into it!

[@hi.yeonni]

Hmm thank you for the suggestion! Honestly sounds so interesting I'm definitely going to look if up!

[@johanamedina491]

Your voice is very calming

[@tarakwantk]

Thank you so much for the videos and content you make! I stumbled across your channel recently and it's been eye-opening 🤗 it's so inspiring to see a fellow AAPI woman in social work! I'm currently working at a nonprofit and interested in going back for a MSW. I really appreciate you and all your advice 💕 you're amazing!

[@khloediamantis5542]

watching this 2 hrs after I got accepted to NYU Silver School of Social Work! Love your channel

[@isaniart]

Congrats!

[@allierose8500]

Congrats! Must be nice to be smart!

[@dontaskhazel]

This sounds so in line with my goals! I will be graduating this coming spring semester as a psychology student, and my end goal is to get my PhD in Psychology, mainly either counseling or clinical. In the middle, however, I am looking into developmental psychology, social work, and counseling masters programs because I want more experience. I'm so glad you made this video :)

[@ninistareri4691]

hi i am looking for friends who are psychology majors and have been in that path, may i ask for some advice, may i have your insta? please thank you im just lost with in what direction to move . thank you.

[@p0urr1]

Clinical social work! You can provide therapy. Get your bsw so you can get your msw in a year and start your licensing hours.

[@rozesntea]

Thank you so so so much! We are literally on a similar path and I am so grateful for your channel and words of advice and encouragement. I would love to hear more that grad school process that you mentioned with interviewing in your last semester. So happy for you and your new position!! :D

[@ShelIy456]

hi yeonni! thanks for all your videos and i love your transparency and honesty ❤️

[@SM-dp8di]

I love this video, it was very interesting to hear about all of your social work experiences! Being a research coordinator sounds very cool, I’ve been looking at jobs at universities. I was wondering if you can do a video about overcoming imposter syndrome in the field of social work and talk about your work as a research coordinator at a university?

[@rachel-in]

Thank you for this video! I'm in undergrad still and I want to pursue a MSW and your video really encouraged me!!

[@colleen_99]

I'd love to learn about how to take the licensing exam while still in school!

[@hi.yeonni]

Noted!

[@JulyBay]

So sorry to hear that kind of stuff happened to you. Iv worked in community mental health work too and Iv had a few stalking situations happen. I felt the same with the organization about protection. I appreciate your openness and vulnerability.

[@koreandramalover19]

Thank you for an awesome video! I am with you with how rough finding a job during the pandemic after graduation. Working on passing my LMSW exam then will try to apply again. I wanted to go for my PHD but I just want to do therapy and not research. Plus I can get my LCSW after two years without drowning myself in student loans once more. A lot of treatment based jobs take the LCSW or PHD interchangeably so I don’t see the point of invest 5 more years of my life plus debt to just treat.

[@marjoriebrown9816]

Thank you so much for this video. It really helped me. You are an excellent communicator.!

[@imyourfascination]

WOW! I went to NYU for social work as well... I just started watching the video so I'm still watching.

[@lorelaim3294]

Thank you for sharing this story it was great to hear about your experiences!

[@belle208]

yes yes I would be interested in figuring out how to rest for the license even before having your MSW!!

[@whatsyourwhycoaching6758]

This video was so informative, thank you for sharing so honestly and I can’t wait to see more of your content and follow your journey. I’m just getting started as a older adult. You got this future PHD!

[@47kumiko]

Hi Yeonni, Thank you so much for sharing your story! I'm trying to do some research on what you can do with a MSW and stumbled across your videos. I always enjoy hearing about people's life journies, and I'm grateful for hearing about your journey. I work in administrative support currently for local government, but I am looking to work in a job where I can interact with people more and be a source of support. I really appreciate you sharing about yourself so that others who are curious about the field can learn from someone who has gone through it first hand! I wish you the best in your new position!

[@Ravenccs1]

Loved watching the video! If you decide to get your LCSW, you really don't need your phD... because you are right - LCSW opens a lot of doors! You also could offer cultural competency Training, etc. You are a very good speaker and have a lot of good info. :)

[@333pinkelephant333]

Can't you still do therapy as a social worker if you get your LCSW? What's the difference between psychologist and LCSW?

[@socialworker8307]

Hello there, a psychologist requires one to get a Ph.D or a Psy. D (both are doctoral degrees). Getting a doctoral degree is psychology makes one a psychologist and one is able to teach at a university, partake in research, and do therapy. An LCSW requires one to get an MSW and 3,000 hours of clinical supervised hours. LCSW social workers are able to partake in therapy. Hopefully this helps a bit!

[@samanthab6642]

I think with a PhD you can do therapy right away without supervision but much more schooling. To get an lcsw you need to get an Msw which is less school but hours of supervision needed before taking the exam for licensure to do therapy without supervision.

[@samanthab6642]

@@socialworker8307 I have seen lcsw's at universities as well....

[@Ayachii220]

@@socialworker8307 Also the supervised hours you need varies depending on the state you live in! In CA you need 104 weeks of supervision and 3,000 hours of professional experience

[@christianhart2159]

Quick question… how did you afford to move to San Francisco?

[@ViriditasCollective]

How come are you pursuing a psychology phd and not a social work phd? Especially when the social work PhD is so much shorter? I also would love to hear more about how you took your licensing exam in your last semester!

[@YoungSeoul]

This is a good question. I graduate in a month with my MSW but want to definitely pursue a PhD.

[@samanthab6642]

Maybe it means more on paper? No idea

[@rekgabilephakoane517]

How Long is a Social Work Phd? Would really love to pursue it in Employee Wellness. But of course i need to get my MSW first.

[@rekgabilephakoane517]

@@YoungSeoul Congratulations on getting your MSW, and what was it focused on if i may ask?

[@Eduardo_Music8560]

Hello my dear friend "Psychdarling", good morning!, how are you doing today? This is the first time I posted in any video of yours. Yesterday I found this video and I liked it much for its content, even I found it two years later. I don't know what is your native language/ country, but I could understand your English level, about 80%. I'm learning this language on my own for the last five years on my own. I always look for videos similar to yours, besides you have a nice voice. Well,😅 that's all for now, take care. Greetings from Sonora, México 🇲🇽 .. 👍.

[@maggiebosankoe9892]

such a beautiful human being. love y

[@cherryontop1137]

Yes, could you please do a video on how to plan for taking the LSW! I looked through your videos to see if you had done a video on this topic yet, but didn't see it.

[@karilovesbees]

I've seen Pachinko on your bookshelf for a while and I loved that novel! I read it during quarantine and it was a beautifull book!! I love your social work/new career videos but if you have time to share your favorite books, I would truly enjoy that!

[@kaylatrausch1394]

Coffee & old Halloween school. Yup, this is my girl. 😂

[@emilycesar299]

I'm an LMSW that graduated in May still looking for my first job. I'm looking to earn my C in a few years as well, but i'm feeling the need to just kind of get whatever experience I can at this point rather than focusing on a clinical job.

[@samanthab6642]

Where do you live? Just wondering if location is an issue?

[@keniabowen7974]

Hi there! Loved your video. I am currently obtaining BA and plan on getting MSW in social work. Can you still get a Phd that focuses on psychology with a social work background? I love the fact that you’re able to switch from the usual social work jobs to something a little different. Gives me hope on the variety of opportunities in this field :)

[@michellebaptista739]

I would LOVE to see a whole video about you taking the test and your preparation for that! I am currently in my MSW program and graduate in May. I have considered taking my exam right before graduation or right after so that I do not have to wait to get hired because of a lack of a LCSW where I live.

[@1otterclan]

Yes, it’s hard work.

[@Maria-kg1nh]

thanks for the insight. wish you all the best. God's love and blessings!!!

[@merylnb13]

You should go for your phd and let us know !!! Whatever you do in your career, we will always believe in you. & U should always feel accomplished and valued and it's ok to take pride in your career! You have done so much already... Good luck !

[@the_earth_mystic]

It's unfortunate that you had unsafe encounters at work, but glad you stepped away...welcome to Seattle, that's where I am. I'm planning on becoming an LICSW. Also Asian American :)

[@bookishwithji]

It would be amazing if you could talk more about licensing before getting your MSW! I am going to be getting my masters in about 2 years so im super nervous about it lol

[@povertyisapolicyfailure6130]

Is there more macro social work positions in Seattle? I live in New York and am looking for more work in research. I find that New York has a good balance of direct and indirect jobs that a social worker can apply to.

[@blahblah941]

I am graduating with my BSW and I start my MSW program in January. I am starting my SWK490 internship with CPS in August and graduate in December. Any helpful advice for me?? I'd really appreciate some perspective! I don't have social work friends or colleagues to turn to.

[@caraalii]

I also want to learn more about the test! Love your videos :)

[@hi.yeonni]

Ok! I'll be sure to make that! And thank you 😊❤️

[@shaw197jay3]

I am now unsure whether to take the master of social worker or not, a bit entangled.

[@samanthaluna7325]

Hey! I am seattlight about to start my MSW, the social worker market is sooooo difficult!

[@miss.behave]

Wow I relate to this sm. Thanks for sharing, 👍🏽💗

[@irishlav9984]

Wow! This is one of my recommended video and I am a first year college taking up Social Work! 🥰🥰

[@CEOpaschal]

If you may, create a vlog on the process of obtaining a license as a practicing Social Worker.. and whether this is similar to Canada too..

[@j.c.1871]

Congrats on the job! I wish you the best.

[@rye1396]

Yes, please make a video on taking the licensing exam during school!

[@cassywhisonant626]

Can you post a video about you getting your LMSW in different states?

[@hopewrld1_]

Hi! I am early and I hope you are having a good day. I am excited to watch this video. :)

[@hi.yeonni]

Hi there! I hope you enjoyed it ☺️✨

[@amanjotkaur4753]

This is so helpful. I m also interested in SW n psychology....but im scared as social work isn't that secure....especially in Washington. I hope it grows over some years. Its quite obvious to all that we wont get any jobs here in Washington. Do u think a degree in Psychology is more secure? Thanks alot.

[@rava6931]

OMG. I think we have a very similar background in someway. I am currently pursuing my MSW degree, and I am in the bay area. I am planning to move back to Seattle after I finish school in California. I always have awarded that Wahington qualification is higher than many other states. However, I am so nervous, I never aware that WA has less job opportunities as social workers. I would love to know how SW license works in different states, especially in WA state. thank you so much!

[@TayThames]

Hope you enjoy your new job and City!

[@miamiggwilson4849]

Could you do the video on social work as well as psychology if you do not mind. Love your videos!

[@hi.yeonni]

Thanks so much! I do have a playlist of social work videos and mental health/psychology videos, if I haven't made a specific topic let me know and I'll be sure to note it! 😋✨

[@miamiggwilson4849]

@@hi.yeonni There is a playlist on social work, mental health, and different mental health disorders, but I do not see any videos particularly on psychology and the different degrees/requirements in the field. I do not know if this it helped or not, but I hope it did.

[@newyorkgrlz]

Please make a video about taking the exam before graduation! Thank you!

[@daesdigital]

Do you think you can talk about what you know of International Social Workers? When watching your videos, I realized how much I want to major in Social working, but like you said, social working looks different depending on where you live. I want to be able to understand different areas and how I can help and assist all around the world! :)) I love your videos and your style! Thank you!!

[@JennellBarrett]

I have a interview for a research coordinator position, currently social work. Any tips?

[@r_ns7150]

the system is broken

[@colleen_99]

Would you be able to talk about online master's programs and possibly online doctoral programs? I've heard that non-profits are more accepted by employers, and of course accreditation is a must. For my future and how it looks as of now, my living situation would make it much more simple to work full-time and not commute crazy hours each week to live with my S/O or be apart from him very often, impeding my relationship.

[@pcpcpc873]

In order to become a therapist and potentially pursue a PhD in Counselling Psychology is it necessary to get an MSW that’s clinically focused? I am struggling between a clinically focused program a critically reflexive and social justice focused program. In your experience are small cohort of 11 people vs 35 people better or worse?

[@natlove2099]

omg I can’t believe you were attacked!!!

[@LTGONZ0]

how did you take the exam? and what study material do you recommend? thanks

[@treehuggerdude4]

Research... kind of macro level social work you could say? Congrats on this new phase in your career. I hope all is well.

[@Candycane-y3n]

Why are students pursuing extra degrees and transferring to many jobs ?? I’m so confused , I’m referring too psychology students

[@hi.yeonni]

I cant speak foe everyone, but certain career routes in psychology do require a lot of jumping through hoops to get to the desired destination! Also, many work environments that deal with mental health unfortunately do not treat their employees well, which leads to burn out and potential job transfers. Hope this helps!

[@Anonymous-gw4tm]

I'm at silver school rn!! Definetely watching all ur videos rn 😁

[@nancymoyers844]

do you have any advice for someone who wants to get into doing youtube? what kind of camera do you use?

[@hi.yeonni]

I have a video all about it! It's super informative so I hope it can help you out! I use the canon eos m6!

[@nancymoyers844]

@@hi.yeonni ugh i dont know if i just cannot find it but could you reply with a link to it?? I've looked through your page 200x :)

[@Mariah203]

Hi Yeonni! It sounds like what you are doing now falls under macro social work, so you are still doing social work just not on the micro level.

[@hi.yeonni]

Hi, actually I'm no longer a social worker. My title and Job is a research coordinator :)

[@adamlewis3729]

hello, I have a quick question as a patient of an LCSW. I suffer depression, anxiety and possible a personality disorder (BPD perhaps). Do you think an LCSW is capable of diagnosing and helping me or should I go to a Psychologist because they have a deeper understanding of the mind? THANK YOU!

[@thisgirlisoverit]

psychologist

[@jesssss352]

If you connect with the provider and feel like your making progress that is the most important factor. A second opinion on a diagnosis like BPD also doesn’t hurt though.

[@cjo4210]

I love your Vivienne Westwood necklace!

[@hi.yeonni]

Thank you! 🥰💕

[@Create301]

I’m glad you did what’s best for you and by chance can you still go back to psychology after leaving the study in uni? It’s because I heard one can’t go back because one needs to be in school non stop for that major? Because I’m going for psych too with undergraduate with social work and I’m glad I found you cause I need tips 👏🏼✨

[@shanflores7543]

Shout out from Philippines 🇵🇭 also a RSW ❤️

[@itsbrihanna9219]

Off topic but I want to know if I’am a social worker in the uk but want to move to Korea would I still be able to be a social worker in the Korea

[@hi.yeonni]

I think the requirements to be a social worker is probably different in korea so you may have to take additional courses or exams or obtain a Korean social worker license to practice

[@_sarita_4003]

Your so pretty?!😭🥺❤️❤️

[@hi.yeonni]

Oh my goodness thank you 🥺

[@luru1544]

During your career did you come across any foreign social workers? I am studying in masters degree in Finland and I have wondered how common are foreign social workers in the USA.

[@hi.yeonni]

I haven't actually!

[@apollo13blue]

In 2020, Texas Social Work tried making it ethical to discriminate against the LGBT community. Oklahoma Social Work board follows legality on discriminatory practices against people living with HIV. Social workers put the profession over the marginalized populations.