How I Make Almost $100K As A Social Worker

Today's video is all about money! I value myself on transparency so I'm sharing my #socialworksalary with you! I hope you find this video encouraging as you navigate or begin your #socialwork career!
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My name is Donzell Lampkins. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker by day, Blogger and KZbinr by night. I love helping others grow as students, professionals, and people they can be proud to look at in the mirror. Most importantly, I love helping people reach their full potential. If you are interested in learning more about what I can offer, I can be reached at [e-mail].

[@DonzellLampkins]

I am running a 50% off sale! Discount code is FIXIT2020 when you checkout at donzelllampkinsservices.bigcartel.com/

[@ZanderKeig]

As a VA and DOD Social Worker (GS-12) I was earning $90k annually 3yrs after earning my MSW degree. My work with Veterans and Servicemembers, in particular transgender veterans/servicemembers, earned me a nomination and selection for NASW 2018 CA Social Worker of the Year and subsequently selection as the NASW 2020 National Social Worker of the Year.

[@DonzellLampkins]

I believe we’re connected on LinkedIn- thank you for your commitment to transgender vets/servicemembers! And nice salary! I believe the VA is the largest social work employer.

[@ZanderKeig]

@@DonzellLampkins We are connected indeed! The VA is also the largest provider of MSW internships!

[@p0urr1]

@@ZanderKeig are they paid internships?

[@ZanderKeig]

@@p0urr1 I was a paid VA social work intern during the second year of my MSW program.

[@LoveMe2Today]

That's awesome

[@XxdimplessXx]

I dont know of any lcsw making less than 70k. In fact, most that I know make about 100k by working either full time or doing private practice, supervision, and teaching test taking strategies. The possibilities are endless. We are in high demand due to what's going on in our world today! Great video.

[@DonzellLampkins]

That's great! I'm glad to hear that you and your colleagues are earning your worth and more! It's something I envision for us all!

[@richardgilbert2610]

Rizen, don’t move to Maine then!

[@Userr224]

I am so passionate about going through with my masters program but terrified of drowning in debt after graduating and not being able to find a job with a liveable wage. Are you willing to speak with me more about the field? :)

[@jozzz222]

Would you also be willing to speak to me as well? :) I graduate in May with my MSW and I would love to make 100k later on down the line but to get a sense of the direction I need to go would be soooo helpful!

[@carpenoctem7307]

That's my impression as well. I plan to join the ranks in due time...

[@WealthySocialWorker82]

I am a LCSW Care Manager with a major hospital in NC. My salary is about $71k, I also work a consulting job 2 days/ month for contractor pay for $2k/ month. I also have a small telehealth private practice. With all three earn about $97k/annually. However, my goal is to grow my private practice to that income alone.

[@DonzellLampkins]

GOALS!!! You'll achieve it!

[@Chafjcdi]

What kind of consulting, if you Don't mind me inquiring?

[@Vinegarissweet]

This is awesome! We need mentors like you! ❤

[@torih792]

This made think in a whole new perspective lol 🤯 thank you!!

[@phiyahfit]

What does your consulting contact entail if I may ask . I’m learning and curious

[@mr6892]

Yes! Thank you for doing this. Let’s normalize having more competitive salaries as social workers. I’m still an ASW and make 86k a year and have amazing benefits. As social workers, we have to hustle more for our worth and the hard work we do.

[@DonzellLampkins]

Well said! Thanks for sharing! And $86K?! I'm here for it!!!

[@miminhunguyen8501]

What job/position do you hold as a ASW making 86k a year? That sounds like such a rarity!

[@JessicaNiles]

Also wondering what position you are in to make 86K!

[@truthskr7127]

Usually veterans affairs, or health care SW pay the most. Best work/life balance is social work in the educational field.

[@tyrekcooper1832]

What is your position??

[@I007Dee]

All MSWs should obtain licensure, it gives credibility to our profession and more and more jobs are requiring the license.

[@DonzellLampkins]

I hear what you're saying. The thing I love about the MSW is that it can take you down so many paths, many of which are non-clinical, hence, no need for licensure. Nonetheless, I'm all for increasing our credibility!

[@blessedandbeautiful8365]

Yes! IL took away the requirement for social workers to take the exam. We just pay for the license. To gain clinician supervision and the test is required still but it was a major win for me. My first job as a licensed social worker pays very well and I got a raise after three months 👏🏽♥️

[@truthskr7127]

Credibility comes from the professionalism of the individual worker. More licensure will drive down wages (meaning no longer rare) and keep people in school much longer when they could be in the field making a difference. So much of the licensure process is unnecessary beaurocray implemented by politicians.

[@ricokxng808]

@@blessedandbeautiful8365 I’m currently in Ohio in school for social work.. can you become a Licensed Independent SW in Illinois by just paying for the license?

[@arisewitharika]

Great video! I work for the VA as a Military Sexual Trauma Coordinator. I'm a GS12 and currently at about $84k. If I relocate to a location w/ a higher locality pay I can make $97-104k+. W/ my MSW, and working towards my LCSW, I worked as a Unlicensed MH Clinician and earned about $72k prior to leaving for the VA, which was after I got my license. My goal is to start my own business and leverage my skills to be happier and earn more. I totally agree! negotiate your salary. Closed mouth don't get fed! Ask for what you desire.

[@jozzz222]

What state is this in if you don’t mind me asking? I live in GA and will be graduating with my MSW this May

[@arisewitharika]

@@jozzz222 I'm currently in CA

[@jozzz222]

@@arisewitharika thank you!!

[@DonzellLampkins]

Thank you for your service to our veterans. The VA is a great payer but I hear concerns about work life balance. I'd love to interview you if you're open to it.

[@queenmindsetcoach4983]

Hey Arise- I am almost done with my MSW, and I’m wondering how you were able to work for the VA, while going for your LCSW. Is the VA providing your supervision? If so, how long does it generally take for you to get your LCSW with the VA ?

[@jillbill227]

Knowledge is wealth, and you're just out here being Robin Hood! Definitely need a webinar or something so we can get all the tips.

[@DonzellLampkins]

Awe! Thank you! And you’re so smart! I had to look up Robin Hood!

[@tashannastevenson4876]

i was just accepted into grad school for social work i am leaning towards medical side i am so excited

[@DonzellLampkins]

Congrats! Medical Social Work is very fascinating! I enjoyed my time in Medical Social Work! Best of luck!

[@microfarmers]

95k no school very little stress if any. Free trade school. Yep I'm a trucker! Just an option.

[@DonzellLampkins]

Agreed!! This is something that should be discussed more among our youth! I've def. recommended this to adolescents that aren't sure of their next steps or maybe take a path less traveled.

[@TheGreattGatsby]

What’s your trade? and how long? Union?

[@jozzz222]

Thanks for sharing! This was so insightful. :) I graduate with my MSW in May and I’m looking forward to making the best out of my career especially monetarily wise so this video definitely helped me understand how. Thanks again!

[@DonzellLampkins]

Glad it was helpful! Thanks for watching. Wishing you all the best!!!

[@monespeaks626]

I was JUST talking about this with my friend. They set you up in the program to lowball yourself.

[@DonzellLampkins]

It's sad but true!

[@corinaballesteros881]

This is incredibly helpful and I appreciate the transparency! I am looking into pursuing this fields and have so many questions, just subscribed :)

[@DonzellLampkins]

I'm so glad! Thanks for subscribing and joining this community! Wishing you all the best!

[@Kalilwash]

As a future social worker thank you 🙏🏿

[@DonzellLampkins]

You're welcome! You all keep me going so thank you for the support and for tuning in. The field is getting better. If you don't see yourself doing anything else, please keep going. You're needed! PS enjoy the holiday season!

[@DiversionCenter]

You can make 6 figures easy by providing court mandated classes and evaluations in private practice. All of my clients are all self-pay and I don't bill insuance.

[@DonzellLampkins]

Private practice opens a lot of doors. I have my private practice now, which I'm enjoying!

[@christopherkeeling6831]

Excellent information. I always learn from watching your videos.

[@DonzellLampkins]

Thanks so much! I appreciate your feedback and your time!

[@Alexisnguyen24]

Thanks for the info! I'm in Florida and most are between 40-50k for MSW jobs.

[@DonzellLampkins]

Florida is not a social work friendly state. I hear nurses have trouble being paid their worth, too.

[@alfonzo9289]

Thank you so much for this info. I am getting my msw done right now

[@DonzellLampkins]

You're most welcome! I'm so happy for you! Cheering you on every step of the way!

[@kellynegordon5633]

Thanks for the information 😃 it’s appreciated and helpful

[@DonzellLampkins]

Glad it was helpful!

[@rachelg2152]

This was really helpful. I’m studying for my lcsw soon and I work at a nonprofit. Seeing that it is possible to make more makes me a little more open to exploring new jobs and positions.

[@hollywood101ism]

Very cool perspective and inspiring to see a social worker advocate for themself. What state are you in?

[@DonzellLampkins]

Thanks! Love your videos as well! I am in Illinois!

[@Omarsharif2.0]

VA social workers start out as GS-9/11 DOD starts at a GS 12 but DOD does not have the growth potential the VA has, in the VA you can go up to a GS 14 leadership.

[@DonzellLampkins]

Thanks for sharing! Many people are interested in the VA so this is useful information!

[@ricopine303]

Just got my BSW and similarly accepted the first offer that came my way for $35k/yr which in translation became 26k/yr. It's in community health job at a community health/doctor/resident office that accepts anyone off the street. It's been a month I'm miserable there already as I'm literally just a relator and food bank for homeless people none of which was in the job description. I love geriatrics & interned at AAA DHS. I'm honestly thinking about just moving across the country to west coast Oregon/Northern Cal where I want to live and going back for my MSW there after a yr to get in state tuition while being a caseworker in geriatrics. I love this field, but you really have to know who & what organization you want to work with. Now I have to contemplate staying at this miserable job for a yr or just packing my bags & moving lol.

[@ronniellewilliams2306]

@@Marina.saravia whyy

[@DonzellLampkins]

That was a troll lol! I deleted their comment. SW isn't perfect but the biggest thing I've learned is you have to ask for what you want. This is sad but until things change, we have to be okay with naming our price.

[@DonzellLampkins]

Hey! It's such a challenging position to be in and you have your BA- that was a better position than me with my MSW lol! If you want to move, move. Don't overcomplicate it. Negotiating is your friend. Not just for money, but caseload, PTO, PD, etc. Wishing you all the best!

[@chayahisrael1072]

Thanks for this info currently getting my BSW

[@DonzellLampkins]

You're welcome! Wishing you all the best!

[@jboss729]

I am at about 75k in New Orleans but once I start my practice it w go up .

[@keanalampkins5839]

Great video! You have been my number inspiration in this field! And of course to get paid what I'm deserved! lol

[@DonzellLampkins]

❤️❤️❤️

[@donnam.5578]

When working with your clients, do you ever run into a situation where the client has to move, but has limited means of getting the resources and help they need? How would you recommend someone that may need help to move but doesn't have any resources?

[@DonzellLampkins]

Hey! This is a great question. Depending on their demographic (not just race but citizenship status, military status, medical condition, etc), there are resources available to assist. It also depends on where they're moving to and where they currently live. Best of luck! Keep supporting and making a difference!

[@stephaniesimms4662]

These companies always try to play us. They too much. They try to pay us nothing then get upset when I say that’s too low. I got my LSW two years ago and they want to pay me $50,000. Like no not happening. We have to negotiate and let them pay us our worth. This is the only way the low pay is going to change.

[@DonzellLampkins]

Words of Wisdom from a Queen! You're right! I'm glad you know your worth and demand it! Enjoy this Fall/Winter season!

[@JNetters]

VA salaries depend on where you live. I’m an LCSW and I only make 66K. There’s a lot of hype behind working at the VA so do your research. I’m also a Veteran.

[@itsbritt9155]

Do you live down south ? Southern states pay social workers terrible !

[@DonzellLampkins]

Thank you for your service and insight! I have a friend at the VA making around that amount without a license in Chicago, IL.

[@Tryshroom]

@@itsbritt9155 I think Virginia and North Carolina pay decent for social workers

[@gemgutierrez7647]

Can you make a video on negotiation salary ? If not already uploaded. I love your content and how open it is in terms of money

[@DonzellLampkins]

I have one uploaded under playlist all things social work. And I've learned that the only people who don't discuss money are those without it. It really made me think about how I can be more intentional about maximizing my earning potential and what I'm doing with my finances. Since then, I've also drawn wealthier people towards me, which I've learned a lot from them.

[@ItsResiayall]

Here just binge-watching because these next few weeks are moving quickly

[@DonzellLampkins]

Congrats!!! I saw your IG photos!!! So happy for you!

[@turbo4038]

I really felt this video was informative. I will be graduating with my MSW in May and I am interested in certificates but I am not sure where I can get these training for the certificates . I would like your advice in this matter

[@Nikki_andthecity]

Does your school offer them? For example im doing a trauma certificate in addition to my MSW. Some schools also offer post-grad certificate programs

[@turbo4038]

@@Nikki_andthecity I will check . But I would have thought someone from the school would have mentioned that the have certifications at the school . Thank you for the advice

[@DonzellLampkins]

@@turbo4038 schools may mention it after graduation. But NYU has a lot of post-MSW certificate programs.

[@gachalifestudios2228]

Hey I’m a social worker based in the uk what is some advise you have in relocating to the states as a social worker?

[@payton8920]

Hi donzell! I am a junior in highschool looking towards working in this field, I still have time but not a lot! I was wondering, (if you don’t mind sharing) are there any ways I can start preparing myself now so that I am secure later.

[@DonzellLampkins]

Hi Payton! That's awesome to hear! Volunteering is a great way to gain exposure to the various fields of social work! I volunteered at a cancer center in high school. I'm not working as an oncology social worker at a cancer center lol. Wishing you all the best!

[@amaniallen96]

Hello! Thank you so much for making this video! Very informative! Just to be clear, what is your position now? Or the position you had last to get the 100k salary?

[@DonzellLampkins]

Thanks so much for watching and supporting the channel. In that video, I was a school social worker at a charter school in Chicago. I also had my own private practice. I currently work as an LCSW at a cancer center while managing my private practice and teaching an MSW course. I currently exceed $100k.

[@amaniallen96]

@@DonzellLampkins oh wow! That’s so commendable! Thank you so much for the insight and all you do!!!

[@Tryshroom]

That is 🔥🔥🔥 I just became interested in social work, if I can make money and help people that is the goal in any profession I’m in

[@NEWOKA]

New subscriber from Chesterfield, Missouri.

[@DonzellLampkins]

Welcome to such an awesome community! I'm so glad you're here. Thank you for the support!

[@NEWOKA]

Thank you for sharing!

[@DonzellLampkins]

Thank you for watching! Your support means the world to me!

[@Silasanyali]

I am a social worker with a BSc degree. Please can I get a remote or work from home social work job? If yes how do I get the job.

[@DonzellLampkins]

Excellent question. What country are you located in? It may be different. In general, it's based on the company. You can use job search engines such as Indeed and LinkedIn to search remote social work positions that you may be eligible for. Best of luck!!!

[@aquamarinedream8304]

What kind of consulting work were you doing?

[@dianazuniga4822]

i’m a second year undergrad student wanting to go into social work, i apply ina couple of weeks, how can i start preparing now to see what kind of social work i want to do?

[@DonzellLampkins]

How exciting?! The possibilities are endless!

[@fimja]

Are you still a school social worker or did you change jobs?? I just received a school social work position offer!

[@DonzellLampkins]

Congrats! So happy for you! School Social Work is amazing! My apologies for the late reply! When do you start?!

[@fimja]

@@DonzellLampkins thank you for replying! I will be starting on July 28! I’m not sure which grades yet. Do you have any recommendations or words of wisdom?

[@darkforce7387]

Congratulations

[@DonzellLampkins]

Thank you.

[@asnmusiclover]

What advice do you have for negotiating salary when you are new to the field? I feel like this is where most people get screwed over

[@DonzellLampkins]

Biggest advice is to leverage your skillset and worth and vocalize it. Wishing you all the best!

[@WealthySocialWorker82]

I agree with @Donzell. I want to add that you probably had internships and you should leverage those skills confidently. Most employers have a range, and can be flexible within that range.

[@jessro3579]

Donzell I've noticed that alot of SW are getting MBA's. What can they SW do with MBA?

[@DonzellLampkins]

Hey! SW's can do a lot with an MBA. Many transition to administration and leadership within their current place of employment while others have a complete career change, especially if they attended a top 10 MBA program. An MBA helps you lead outside of social work departments. For instance, there's a social worker with their MBA who is a director of a cancer center (even over physicians). It's really what you make it.

[@MidKnight4139]

Were you paid in the private practice you interned in?

[@DonzellLampkins]

I never interned at a private practice, I worked in private practice as a licensed provider. I was paid for every position I ever had.

[@sruthimatta9915]

I'm Sruthi from India.. i completed my MSW with medical and psychiatry specialization... As I'm new to this field please help me to find a better job..

[@DonzellLampkins]

Congrats on obtaining your MSW. We're in similar fields. I wish I had more information about social work in India. Nonetheless, I googled social work in India. You may want to contact some from INDIA NETWORK OF PROFESSIONAL SOCIAL WORKERS ASSOCIATIONS. Click Here: www.ifsw.org/member-organisation/india/ I hope this helps. Wishing you all the best.

[@holisticpathwaystoyourheal679]

shouldnt we advocate for our pay when they offer us the job... and if it is not right walk away ... Whenever I say 70k they act like that's a lot .. I been working as a social worker for 30yrs ... and they still make the stank face...

[@DonzellLampkins]

Yup! I'm making a video on this soon. Sometimes we have to walk away!

[@mariabessette3282]

Are you a school social worker making this salary? What is your specific title? :)

[@DonzellLampkins]

I was and it was LCSW

[@nandinimarathe8531]

Hey help me am social work student

[@DonzellLampkins]

What do you need help with?

[@laurafluieraru52]

Love this video!! Very helpful information but man's gotta change his fire alarm batteries it kept beeping during all the video :D

[@DonzellLampkins]

Haha! I hated that it kept beeping but it's my parent's home so I let them change it at their leisure lol! Glad you enjoyed it. PS, they've since changed it lol!

[@flocreation6498]

What country are you in?

[@DonzellLampkins]

US

[@Naturalworldbuti]

Please urdu is mentioned in video

[@Lizziesouth]

Which county is this?

[@DonzellLampkins]

USA

[@agaemar]

What’s your IG handle?

[@DonzellLampkins]

@DonzellPost